Tough Choice: How to Choose LED vs. Halogen Lights

You’ve found the perfect lamp—now comes the question: should you use an LED bulb or a halogen bulb? While halogens have a long history in lighting design, LEDs have quickly become the standard for efficiency, longevity, and versatility. Here’s what you need to know to make the right choice for your space.

1. Lifespan and Efficiency

Halogen bulbs last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, but their lifespan is still relatively short—typically up to 2,000 hours. LEDs, by contrast, are engineered for endurance. LED bulbs can last up to 25,000 hours, and LED tubes often reach up to 50,000 hours of use.

This difference in lifespan also connects directly to energy consumption. LEDs use up to 80% less energy than halogen bulbs, which means they not only last longer but also significantly reduce electricity costs over time. While LED bulbs usually cost more upfront, they quickly repay that investment through lower energy use and far fewer replacements.

2. Heat and Safety

Halogen bulbs operate at extremely high temperatures. They require careful handling and can contribute unwanted heat to a room, forcing air-conditioning systems to compensate. Their filaments are also delicate, making them vulnerable to vibration and impact—especially when used near fans, compressors, or other sources of movement.

LED bulbs offer a safer alternative. They remain much cooler to the touch, reducing burn risk and heat buildup, and they are generally shatter-resistant, making them more durable in everyday use.

3. Light Quality and Color Options

Both halogen and LED bulbs are available in a range of colors and color temperatures, but LEDs offer far more flexibility. LEDs span a wider spectrum of color temperatures, from warm ambient tones to crisp, cool whites—and even tunable or customizable options. Halogens, meanwhile, produce consistently warm light but lack variety and adjustability.

Halogens also emit infrared light, which can fade artwork, fabrics, and delicate materials over time. Additionally, because halogen bulbs are sensitive to skin oils, they must be handled with gloves to prevent damage.

4. Environmental and Material Considerations

LEDs have the added benefit of being free of harmful chemicals or gases, making them a safer and more environmentally responsible choice. Their long lifespan also means fewer replacements and reduced waste.

5. So… Which Should You Choose?

For most applications today, LEDs are the preferred choise. They are more efficient, longer-lasting, safer to handle, and much more versatile in terms of color and control. Halogen bulbs still offer a distinctly warm, classic light quality, but their shorter lifespan, heat output, and regulatory restrictions make them less practical for everyday use.

If you're looking for performance, sustainability, and flexibility, LEDs are the clear winner.