To compare apples to apples, I tested only LED bulbs that aim to replicate the classic 60-watt/800 lumen incandescent bulb. A little spec-splaining: Watts measure energy use, lumens measure ...

Plus, the near-infinite palate of LED colors allows GE to emulate its traditional Reveal and Soft White hues. Meanwhile, another company, Philips, is integrating LED bulbs into connective technology.

In the days of incandescent light bulbs, you could determine the bulb's brightness by the number of watts printed on the package. With today's LED bulbs, brightness is measured in lumens. But ...

LED bulbs have a 19-year lifespan and sip electricity at about one tenth that of regular incandescent bulbs, but a 60-watt (or higher) replacement has been elusive.