How Much Does A Full Spectrum Light Bulb Cost?

Full spectrum light bulbs are becoming increasingly popular for homes, offices, and therapeutic uses. But the pricing can seem confusing. This guide breaks down the costs and benefits to help you find affordable full-spectrum lighting.

Full spectrum bulbs mimic natural sunlight across the light color spectrum. This provides better visibility and reduced eye strain compared to regular bulbs. Additional perks like mood enhancement and supporting plant growth make full spectrum lamps a smart investment for well-being.

While pricier than generic bulbs, full spectrum lights offer long-term payoff. We’ll explore the cost factors, typical price ranges, and money-saving tips so you can enjoy quality illumination on a budget. Let’s shed some light on full spectrum bulb pricing.

How Much Does A Full Spectrum Light Bulb Cost?

A basic full spectrum light bulb can cost as little as $5, while high-end smart LED full spectrum bulbs with advanced features can cost over $50.

Here are typical full spectrum bulb prices you can expect:

• Basic Incandescent and CFL Bulbs: $5-$15
• Standard LED Bulbs: $15-$30
• Advanced LED Bulbs with Features: $25-$50
• Large High-Output LED Bulbs: $50-$100+

Online prices also tend to run 5-15% below specialty lighting showrooms. And watch for sales on multipacks for the best deals.

While more expensive upfront, full spectrum LEDs earn back their cost through energy savings and reduced replacement needs over their 20,000-hour lifespan. But all budgets can be accommodated by selecting the right bulb technology and features.

Even pricier full spectrum bulbs pay for themselves over years of energy savings. But budgets can be accommodated at any tier.

According to a product listing from GT-LiteLED, a 40-watt LED grow light bulb with full spectrum capabilities is priced at approximately $15.99. This bulb is designed for different growth stages, making it suitable for various applications.

Another source, Optimize Your Biology, lists several options for full spectrum bulbs, including the GE Sun Filled line which is noted for being more affordable than competitors. While specific prices are not mentioned, they highlight that these bulbs typically fall within the range of $10 to $20 depending on specifications.

A product page from NN-Labs offers the EyeMate Full Spectrum LED Bulb, which closely mimics natural sunlight and is priced at about $19.99. This bulb features a high Color Rendering Index (CRI) of 97 Ra, emphasizing its quality in simulating natural light.

According to information from Genesis Lamp Corp., their full spectrum light bulbs range in price from approximately $5 to $30 depending on wattage and type. For example, a standard A19 bulb might be around $10, while specialized bulbs could be higher.

Lastly, an overview from Bon Charge details their full spectrum light bulb which features multiple settings and is priced at about $29.95. This bulb is designed to mimic the changing spectrum of sunlight throughout the day and is marketed as flicker-free.

What Are Full Spectrum Light Bulbs?

Full spectrum bulbs produce light covering the continuous color spectrum that mimics natural sunlight. This differs from standard bulbs that emit colors unevenly or leave gaps in the spectrum.

Main qualities include:

• High Color Rendering Index (CRI) above 90 for color accuracy.
• Daylight-calibrated color temperature between 5,000K-6,500K.
• UV emission for added brightness and grow light applications.
• Broad spectral power distribution with no major dips.

By providing balanced, vibrant illumination mimicking sunlight, full spectrum bulbs reduce fatigue and eye strain while creating an energizing glow.

Full Spectrum Bulb Types

Several technologies provide full spectrum illumination, each with cost considerations:

LED Full Spectrum Bulbs – The most energy-efficient option, with lifespans over 20,000 hours, but higher initial costs of $15-$50.

Compact Fluorescent (CFL) Full Spectrum Bulbs – More affordable upfront at $5-$25 but shorter 6,000-15,000-hour lifespans.

Incandescent Full Spectrum Bulbs – Cheap at $4-$15 but inefficient with 1,000-hour average lifespans.

Halogen Full Spectrum Bulbs – Compact bright lighting from $5-$18 but less efficient than LEDs.

Comparison Table

Type	Cost	Lifespan	Efficiency
LED	$25	20,000 hrs.	Very High
CFL	$12	10,000 hrs.	Moderate
Incandescent	$8	1,000 hrs.	Very Low
Halogen	$10	2,000 hrs.	Moderate

This overview shows LED and CFL bulbs provide the greatest long-term value.

You might also like our articles about the cost of leaving a light on, drone light shows, or Bevolo lights.

Factors Affecting the Cost

Several important considerations affect pricing for full spectrum bulbs:

• Technology – LEDs cost more upfront than incandescent/CFL bulbs.
• Brand – Premium brands charge higher prices but ensure quality.
• Brightness – More lumens/wattage results in higher costs.
• Features – Smart controls, dimming ability, remote access add cost.
• Purpose – Aquarium, grow light, therapy bulbs cost more than standard ones.
• Durability – Long 20,000+ hour rated lifespans have higher initial price.

Knowing these factors allows comparison shopping for needs and budget.

Are Full Spectrum Bulbs Worth It?

To make a wise investment, consider the many benefits that outweigh the costs of quality full spectrum bulbs:

Energy Efficiency – LED full spectrum bulbs use up to 80% less energy than incandescent, saving hundreds of dollars over the lifespan.

Reduced Eye Fatigue – Balanced natural lighting minimizes headaches and strain.

Enhanced Visibility – Accurate color rendering aids detailed work.

Improved Mood and Focus – Light that optimizes circadian rhythms enhances concentration and positivity.

Grow Lighting for Plants – The added UV spectrum nurtures plant growth cycles indoors.

Lasting Illumination – With 10–25-year lifespans from LED and CFL bulbs, fewer replacements are needed.

When you factor in these benefits, quality full spectrum lighting delivers outstanding value for your investment over decades of daily use.

Where to Purchase

You can find full spectrum bulbs at:

• Online retailers like Amazon, Lowe’s, Home Depot, Walmart.
• Hardware stores including Ace Hardware and True Value.
• Home supply stores like Bed Bath & Beyond and Costco.
• Specialty lighting stores – brick-and-mortar or online.

Be sure to compare prices between retailers and look for promotions like rebates or bulk discounts on multipacks. Reviews also help choose reliable products that give you the best lighting quality for your budget.

Full Spectrum Bulb Cost Comparison

To make the optimal choice, compare cost factors:

Upfront Price – Full spectrum bulbs have a higher initial purchase costs than equivalently bright incandescent bulbs, but lower ongoing costs.

Energy Usage – LED full spectrum lights use up to 80% less electricity than incandescent. This adds up to hundreds of dollars in savings over the bulb’s lifespan.

Lifespan – The 10+ year lifespan of LED full spectrum bulbs compared to 1 year for incandescent creates enormous cost savings from fewer replacements.

Features – While features like dimmability add expense, they also provide greater customization. Assess whether the benefits warrant added costs.

Expert Tips

We asked lighting specialists for their expert advice on picking quality affordable full spectrum bulbs.

Andrea Li, Lighting Designer, Illumination Arts

“Evaluate the Color Rendering Index and closely inspect the wavelength power distribution graph. A full continuous spectrum should have uniform peaks across all colors. Also, buy from established lighting brands committed to strict accuracy standards.”

James Oswald, Electrician, Bright Future Electric

“For basic home use, standard LED full spectrum bulbs between 90-120 lumens per watt offer solid performance and value. Only splurge on more expensive ‘smart’ color change or ultra high-output bulbs if you really need those exact features.”

Priya Patel, Interior Designer, Harmonious Spaces

“Be careful with very cheap full spectrum bulb claims. Quality comes at a price for rigorous engineering. But sales through lighting specialty websites can offer great deals up to 40% off retail prices on name brands if you watch for them.”

Following expert guidance makes it easier to select full spectrum bulbs delivering maximum benefits for your budget.

Final Words

While full spectrum bulbs require greater initial investment, the right choice pays for itself over years of energy savings, glare-free natural lighting quality, and enhanced wellbeing. Follow the guidance in this guide to shop smart.

Look for the highest quality full spectrum bulbs offering performance that best suits your purposes from educational lighting to professional work to therapeutic light boxes – all at a budget level matching your resources. The benefits for vision health and daily life make full spectrum bulbs a wise investment in your environment.

Answers to Common Questions

How to choose a full spectrum light?

When selecting a full spectrum bulb, look for these signs of quality:

• High CRI rating of 90+ for accurate color rendering. Avoid bulbs only claiming “full spectrum” without a CRI.
• Color temperature between 5000K-6500K to mimic natural daylight.
• Broad spectral power distribution without gaps or peaks across the visible light wavelengths.
• Reputable brand known for strict quality control and testing. Read reviews.
• Energy Star certification for efficient LED bulbs.
• Warranty of at least 1 year to ensure a long lifespan.

Also match your bulb’s lumen output to the size of the room you are lighting for ideal brightness. Investing in a top-rated full spectrum bulb from a trusted brand delivers the best value long-term.

How long to use full spectrum light?

Experts recommend the following daily full spectrum light therapy exposure:

• For energy and mood enhancement: Start with 30-60 minutes of sitting within one to two feet of a standard 10,000 lux light box.
• For treating Seasonal Affective Disorder: Sit about 16-24 inches from a 10,000-lux lamp for 60 minutes or more until symptoms improve.
• For dawn simulation: Gradually increase your exposure to a full spectrum lamp for 30-90 minutes in the morning.
• For light visors: Wear a portable visor delivering over 1,000 lux of light for 30–90-minute intervals.

Adjust your full spectrum light sessions based on how you feel. Noticeable improvements in mood, energy and sleep often occur within 1-2 weeks of consistent daily use.

What are the benefits of full spectrum light bulbs?

Full spectrum light bulbs offering natural daylight-mimicking illumination provide these benefits:

• Enhanced visibility and reduced eyestrain from glare-free, uniform light.
• Greater mental clarity, focus and mood from light that optimizes circadian rhythms.
• Truer, vibrant colors with a high 90+ CRI for accurate color rendering.
• Fewer headaches and increased comfort from eliminating flickering of fluorescent bulbs.
• Healthier sleep cycles and energy levels induced by daily exposure.
• Ability to grow plants thriving under a natural light spectrum.
• Lower energy bills over time thanks to LED efficiency.
• Reduced environmental impact from efficient LED technology that cuts waste.

The natural feel and vibrant glow of full spectrum bulbs enhance well-being across many aspects of life.