Do you find that sometimes there’s too much choice when it comes to buying light bulbs and fittings?
We wouldn’t blame you. The development of LED technology has unlocked the potential for what lighting can do, but it also means that finding the right light bulb can be a bit like navigating a maze.
Don’t worry, help is at hand.
We already have a bunch of guides available that can help you pick the right lighting, whichever room it’s for, and some that can tell you exactly what to look for in the perfect light bulb.
Here we’ve gone one step further and picked out the 10 best light bulbs and fittings you can buy so far in 2023.
Some have been picked for their superior performance, while there are others that we’ve highlighted for their value for money.
Best LED Range
Crompton LED Filament Range
When they first appeared on the market, LED light bulbs were bulky, inelegant looking things that had to be well-hidden behind a light shade. Sure, they were revolutionary, but they didn’t look good. These days, that’s not a problem. Ranges like Crompton Lamps’ Filament LED light bulbs offer all the performance of LED technology with the familiar look of incandescent filament light bulbs. Attractive and super-versatile, these light bulbs are the best all-rounders out there.
Best Performance
Ultra Efficient A-Class
Using the latest in LED filament technology, Crompton Lamps have released one of the UK’s most energy efficient light bulb ranges yet. Designed to surpass all requirements of the new ERP energy requirements; these A-rated bulbs achieve the best rating possible with an amazing performance of over 210lm/W – meaning these energy saving light bulbs are 60% more efficient than regular LED light bulbs. With a vastly superior lifetime of 50,000 hours – these energy efficient bulbs have the potential to last for many years to come and can reduce your lighting bills by up to 92%.
Best Value for Money
Thermal Plastic LED GLS
The Thermal Plastic range of LED lighting was released in 2012, designed to offer the same performance as rival LED light bulbs, but at lower prices. The range of light bulbs are one of the best examples of the range. From GLS, to candles and golf balls, and with a newly added GU10 spotlight; they have a lifespan of over 10 years (based on 4 hours per day), providing incredible value for money.
Best Smart Fitting
Phoebe LED Spectrum Downlight
Smart technology has revolutionised lighting, but getting started with smart lights can be a bit complicated. The excellent Phoebe LED Spectrum downlight makes things easier by allowing you to connect your smartphone directly to the light fitting via Bluetooth or WIFI, foregoing the need for a central wireless hub. It has all the best features of smart lighting, including colour control, dimming, scheduling, and much more. Oh, and you can even sync its unique halo-light rim to your favourite music – which simply looks amazing.
Best Floodlight
Phoebe LED Atlas High Output LED Floodlight
They don’t come much more powerful than this. The 200w Atlas floodlight emits an incredible 22,000 lumens, roughly 50-60 times brighter than a standard household light bulb. LED technology means that it’s guaranteed to last for years too, saving plenty of money in the long run. It’s perfect for illuminating larger spaces like car parks and outdoor industrial areas, and it’s IP65 rated, so will perform in even the worst weather.
Best Solar Light
Ledvance Solar LED Garden Lights
Leading the way in outdoor solar lighting, this is one of the best products in Ledvance’s Solar LED range. These modern-style lights are more attractive than most solar lamps out there, and their build quality is excellent. These path lights are easy to install, with no wiring required.
Best Decorative Bulb
Crompton Antique LED Squirrel Cage
The LED filaments in this beautiful light bulb give it a vintage style that is difficult to replicate with any other type of light bulb. This light bulb looks perfect when paired with a copper lamp, and will stand out just as well when hung without a shade. These light bulbs replace the incandescent Edison light bulbs that are now no longer be available in the UK due to the EU ban on non-directional high-energy lamps.
Best Spotlight
Crompton Glass LED GU10
This glass bodied GU10 spotlight from Crompton Lamps replicates a halogen GU10 perfectly. It emits a warm white 2700K light, while using the same body as a standard GU10 it fits perfectly into most fittings.
Best Design
Osram LED Filament Giant GLS Vintage 1906 Smoke
For us, this Osram giant GLS with its smoke-effect glass is a beautifully designed energy-saver is a real eye-pleaser. Featuring a decorative smoked glass finish which gives an subtle and warm, feel-good light that works equally as well at home as in commercial settings such as restaurants and bars. Also don’t forget it’s stunning size – measuring 16cm in width!