PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — When it comes to light bulbs, nearly 75 percent of Americans are using CFL’s (Compact Fluorescent Lightbulbs), according to a consumer survey.

However, deciding which light bulb to buy has gotten a lot tougher.

Consumer Reports have tested both LED and CFL lightbulbs and say LED’s have some real advantages.

Researchers tested both types of lightbulbs by turning them on and off every two minutes. Some CFL’s burnt out, but all of the LED’s were still going strong after 200-thousand cycles.

In the test, researchers found that unlike CFL’s, some LED’s can be dimmed as low as an incandescent bulb. Another plus– they come to full brightness instantly.

Consumer Reports also test light bulbs’ brightness and color temperature in this sphere.

“We found that some LED’s have the same warm glow as incandescents,” says Dan DiClerico of Consumer Reports.

Not all LED bulbs are stellar, though.

The “Miracle” LED claims to be equivalent to a 60-watt incandescent but it is not as bright as a 40-watt bulb.

While the “Miracle” LED does last long, it gives off a strange bluish-white light.

With all LED’s, the big disadvantage is the price. Many can cost 20 dollars or more per bulb.

“LED’s are more expensive, but they’re designed to last so long – 23 years or more – that you’ll likely save about 130 dollars over their lifetime,” DiClerico says.

So, which LED’s are the best?

Among 60-watt equivalents, Consumer Reports gave EcoSmart from Home Depot and the 12.5-watt Philips, the top ratings.

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