7 Of The Best Can Recessed Light Bulbs
Introduction
Hi and welcome to the this article about the best can LED light bulbs.
Firstly Can is not actually a type of light bulb. Rather, it is the socket that is recessed into the ceiling. As shown below in the illustration.
In general can sockets come in three sizes. Namely 4 inch, 5 inch and 6 inch. By the same token there are three bulb sizes that fit in them. Due to the fact that the bulb sits mainly in the can there is little point using standard bulbs, where the light would comes out the side. Can bulbs need to have the light directed downwards.
On the whole bulged reflectors (BR) bulbs are used. As such we have reviewed a selection of BR bulbs. As BR30 is the most popular size we have included three bulbs. Also two each for BR20 and BR40.
One thing to note is that sometimes BR20s are referred to as simply R20. Occasionally articles suggest that R20 is for halogens and BR20 is for LEDs. But I have seen LEDs that the manufactures have labelled R20. So for this articles lets just use the terms interchangeably.
Our selections for the best can recessed light bulbs are based on a number of criteria:
- Online reviews from a number of light bulb retailers
- Price, we are always looking for the best value
- Energy Star qualified, whether the bulbs has met strict energy efficiency criteria set by the EPA
- Lifetime and length of warranty, as these provide a measure of quality
- Dimmable, having a bulb that can be used with a dimmer switch makes it more versatile
BR20 – GE Relax 45 Watt Equivalent
Not only have GE been in business since 1892 they are also the most popular brand here in the U.S. Here at Light Bulb AtoZ we are big fans of their bulbs, They tend to be good quality, have long lifetimes and good warranties.
Accordingly, this bulb from their relax range comes with a 15,000 hour lifetime rating and a 5 year warranty. Not bad for $5.50 a bulb.
Also it produces 450 lumens of soft white light, has very good online reviews and is Energy Star certified.
Fact sheet
- Rating: 4.8 stars out of 5
- Price: Around $5.50 a bulb if bought in a 2-pack
- Wattage: 45 watt equivalent / 7 watts actual
- Lumens: 450
- Light Range: Soft White (2700k)
- Lifetime: Rated to last 15,000 hour (13 years based on 3 hours per day use)
- Warranty: 5 years
- Dimmable: Yes
- Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor use only
BR20 – Sylvania 45 Watt Equivalent
After GE, Sylvania is the next most popular brand of light bulbs in the U.S.
Though slightly cheaper than the GE light bulb at only $4, this bulb has a the shorter lifetime and warranty. Also, it gives out less light at only 325 lumens.
In summary, a reasonably priced bulb with a good lifetime, fair warranty and good reviews.
Fact sheet
- Rating: 4.6 stars out of 5
- Price: Around $4 a bulb if bought in a 2-pack
- Wattage: 45 watt equivalent / 5 watts actual
- Lumens: 325
- Light Range: Soft White (2700k)
- Lifetime: Rated to last 11,000 hour (10 years based on 3 hours per day use)
- Warranty: 3 years
- Dimmable: Yes
- Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor and outdoor
BR30 – Luxrite 65 Watt Equivalent
Firstly a few facts about Luxrite. They are part of All Start Lighting, who were founded in 2005. Also, they are a family-owned company who based out of New Jersey.
Secondly, there is a lot to like about this bulb. It comes in in a wide variety of whites including warm, soft, natural, cool, bright and daylight. Additionally it is capable of dimming from 100 down to 10%.
Finally it has great reviews, produces a solid 650 lumens. And has a lifetime of 25,000 hours and a 3 year warranty.
Fact sheet
- Rating: 4.8 stars out of 5
- Price: Around $8 a bulb if bought in a 6-pack
- Wattage: 65 watt equivalent / 9 watts actual
- Lumens: 650
- Light Range: Soft White (2700k), Warm White (3000k) Daylight (5000k) and Bright Daylight (6000k)
- Lifetime: Rated to last 25,000 hour (22 years based on 3 hours per day use)
- Warranty: 3 years
- Dimmable: Yes and compatible with a wide range of switches
- Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor use only
Feit 65-Watt Equivalent BR30
Feit are a family owned and operated company based in Los Angeles, California. According to their website they keep a stock of over 100,000,000 bulbs. So as to reduce order waiting time.
Firstly we were impressed by the price of this bulb. $3.75 or lower is really good value. Additionally it has a lifetime of 25,000 hours with a five year warranty behind it.
Add to that good reviews, a range of light temperatures and California Title 20 compliance. In summary there is a lot to like here.
Fact sheet
- Rating: 4.7 stars out of 5
- Price: Around $3.75 a bulb if bought in a 3-pack (or $3 in a 48-pack)
- Wattage: 65 watt equivalent / 7.2 watts actual
- Lumens: 650
- Light Range: Soft White (2700k), Daylight (5000k) and Bright Daylight (6000k)
- Lifetime: Rated to last 25,000 hour (22 years based on 3 hours per day use)
- Warranty: 5 years
- Dimmable: Yes
- Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor and damp rated fixtures
Philips 65W BR30
Philips are the number one supplier of light bulbs in Europe and are known for their reliable if somewhat expensive bulbs. Although, this bulb is pretty reasonably prices. While the lifetime of 15,000 hours and 3 year warranty are very positive too.
For the purpose of lighting up a laundry room, garage or kitchen this is a good choice. The 650 lumens of daylight temperature light will illuminate those dark corners. Also the bulb is fully dimmable and is Energy Star compliant.
Finally, a quick point to note. Amazon have a very similar bulb rated to last 25,000 hours, at a price of $15. So make sure you are buying the correct version.
Fact sheet
- Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
- Price: Around $5 a bulb if bought in a 3-pack
- Wattage: 65 watt equivalent / 7.2 watts actual
- Lumens: 650
- Light Range: Daylight (5000k)
- Lifetime: Rated to last 15,000 hour (13 years based on 3 hours per day use)
- Warranty: 3 years
- Dimmable: Yes
- Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor use only
GE Basic BR40
Finally the R40, which is the largest bulb in our review with a 5 inch diameter.
This one is from GE’s basic range. For that reason it has a shorter lifetime and warranty. Though they are still pretty reasonable.
In brief it produces 1100 lumens (which is a lot) of soft white light. It has excellent reviews and is fairly priced at $6.75.
Fact sheet
- Rating: 4.9 stars out of 5
- Price: Around $6.75 a bulb if bought in a 3-pack
- Wattage: 85watt equivalent / 13 watts actual
- Lumens: 1100
- Light Range: Soft White (2700k)
- Lifetime: Rated to last 7,500 hour (7 years based on 3 hours per day use)
- Warranty: 2 years
- Dimmable: Yes
- Indoor/Outdoor: For indoor or enclosed outdoor use only
Sylvania BR40
So, to the last offering in the list. A distinctly shaped 85 watt equivalent LED from Sylvania.
While it costs a quarter more than the GE bulbs it has a longer lifetime and warranty. On the other hand it produces less light.
In summary a good bulb from a good manufacturer. A solid choice if you are looking for a 900 lumen reflector.
Fact sheet
- Rating: 4.6 stars out of 5
- Price: Around $7 a bulb if bought in a 2-pack
- Wattage: 85 watt equivalent / 13 watts actual
- Lumens: 900
- Light Range: Soft White (2700k)
- Lifetime: Rated to last 11,000 hour (10 years based on 3 hours per day use)
- Warranty: 3 years
- Dimmable: Yes
- Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor use only