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Discover our in-depth lab tests of the Feit Electric EcoBulb Plus 100W CFL. With 1600 lumens brightness, 2700K warm light, and dimmable design, it delivers fair performance but lags in energy efficiency and lifespan. Get pros, cons, costs, and tips to decide if it's right for your home.
If you're shopping for budget-friendly lighting that mimics traditional incandescent warmth, the Feit Electric EcoBulb Plus 100W CFL is a common choice in home and garden setups. This spiral compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) promises 1600 lumens of light equivalent to a 100W incandescent, with a cozy 2700K color temperature. But does it deliver on energy savings and longevity? We put it through rigorous lab tests measuring brightness output, color accuracy, power draw, and estimated runtime to give you data-backed insights.
In our evaluation, the Feit EcoBulb scores an overall 68/100—solidly average for CFLs. It's dimmable with a standard medium (E26) base, reaches full brightness in just 1.6 seconds, and boasts a Color Rendering Index (CRI) of 82 for decent color reproduction. However, high energy consumption and shorter lifespan make it less ideal compared to modern LEDs. Read on for detailed results, a comparison table, pros/cons, and advice on whether to buy.
Quick Pick
Top Lighting Upgrade Recommendation: For better efficiency and longevity in home setups, skip older CFLs like this and go with LED options. Honeywell 10400LM LED Floor Lamp delivers 10,400 lumens of eye-friendly 4000K light—perfect for living rooms or studies. Check current price
Here's a quick rundown of the Feit's core specs:
These make it suitable for table lamps, floor lamps, or garage lighting in your home or garden shed.
We compared the Feit 100W CFL equivalent to a typical LED counterpart and a premium CFL for context. Scores are out of 100 based on lab metrics like lumens per watt, CRI, and runtime estimates.
| Feature | Feit EcoBulb Plus 100W CFL | Typical 100W LED Equivalent | Premium CFL Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brightness (Lumens) | 1600 (68/100) | 1600 (90/100) | 1600 (75/100) |
| Color Quality (CRI) | 82 (61/100) | 90+ (95/100) | 85 (70/100) |
| Energy Efficiency (Lumens/Watt) | 65 lm/W (61/100) | 120+ lm/W (95/100) | 75 lm/W (75/100) |
| Lifespan (Hours) | 8,000 (72/100) | 25,000+ (98/100) | 10,000 (85/100) |
| Annual Cost ($) | 7.80 (61/100) | 3.50 (95/100) | 6.50 (75/100) |
| Overall Score | 68/100 | 92/100 | 78/100 |
Key Takeaway: LEDs crush CFLs in efficiency and cost savings—potentially saving $50+ over 5 years per bulb.
See on our lighting recommendations for superior options.
At 1600 lumens, this bulb hits its claim spot-on, earning a fair 68/100. It's bright enough for reading nooks or kitchen counters (illuminating 150-200 sq ft effectively). However, light distribution is spiral-typical: somewhat uneven with minor hot spots. In real-world tests, it matched a 100W incandescent for general ambiance.
With a CRI of 82 and 2700K warm white, colors look natural for wood tones in garden tools or food prep areas (61/100 fair). Skin tones and fabrics render okay, but blues/greens appear slightly muted compared to high-CRI LEDs (90+). No noticeable flicker during 30-minute burns.
Drawing ~25W, efficiency is middling at 65 lumens/watt (61/100). At national average rates, expect $7.80 yearly for 3 hours daily use. Over 8,000 hours, total cost (bulb + energy) nears $25—not bad upfront ($5-7 retail) but pricier long-term vs. LEDs at half the energy.
Pro Tip: Calculate your savings: (Bulb Watts × Hours/Year × $0.13/kWh) = Annual Cost. Switch to LED? Cut bills 50-70%.
Estimated 8,000 hours (72/100 fair)—decent for CFLs but half of LEDs. In accelerated aging tests (high-temp cycling), it held up without early failures. Dimmable design adds versatility, but avoid cheap dimmers to prevent buzzing.
Feit claims hold up:
No false advertising here—it's as promised, just average in a LED-dominated market.
Ideal for:
Skip if:
Actionable Advice: Test in your fixture first. Pair with energy monitors like a Fluke 323 Clamp Meter to verify draw. For full setups, explore Best Home Office Setups Under $1000.
CFLs save energy (reducing CO2 vs. incandescents) but contain 4-5mg mercury. Dispose at recycling centers—never trash. LEDs are mercury-free and last longer, minimizing waste.
Upgrade Tip: Replacing 10 CFLs with LEDs? Save 500kWh/year, ~$65.
Ready to Light Up Your Space? Modern alternatives outperform this CFL. View Honeywell LED Floor Lamp for eye-caring illumination.
Yes, it's compatible with most leading/trailing-edge dimmers. Test for humming; adjust if needed.
About $7.80 per year at 3 hours/day and 13¢/kWh. Varies by local rates—use our formula above.
LEDs win on efficiency (120+ lm/W vs. 65), lifespan (25,000+ hours), and cost. CFLs are cheaper initially.
Yes, trace amounts. Recycle at hardware stores or events—follow EPA cleanup for breaks.
Perfect for cozy feel, matching incandescents. Cooler 4000K+ for tasks.
Feit offers 2-year warranty; retailer policies vary (e.g., 30 days).
Enhance your lighting with these guides:
Total word count: ~1520. Data-driven verdict: Fine for basics, but LEDs are the future.
