Do all CFL's = ugly light?

mandms08

CFL's are one thing that I keep trying to use but always end up back with regular incandescents. I usually use GE's Reveal bulbs which are supposed to mimic natural light. It isn't yellow but it also isn't a very stark blue like some fluorescent light. In the past, I've chosen CFL's with a higher color temperature but it was just too stark.

I did a bunch of research last night and ended up purchasing Ecosmart's soft white CFL's. I realized they would be more yellow but holy moly. They are awful looking. Yellow but not a warm yellow like incandescent. I think ambient lighting can really add to the feel of the room and I hate these bulbs. Even my D&R clueless FI noticed and mentioned how ugly it was.

Has anyone tried the GE Reveal CFL's? Or have another suggestion?

emjacobs13

I've used both with great results, is it possible you are using the wrong wattage? You don't need a very high wattage with CFL's, I have noticed that the high wattage ones look a little funky.

mandms08

Nope, I'm just replacing regular 60 watt bulbs with the equivalent in CFL.

emjacobs13

Maybe try a lower watt, I had some "60" CFL's that were way bright, but I usually think that 60W in incandescent is too bright.

*blue*flower*

We have been replacing lights in our new house with the $9 LED lights they have at Home Depot and have been very happy with the light they give off.  They use significantly less energy than incandescents and will last even longer than CFLs.

Pamela05

Yes, all the CFL lights I have experienced in any setting suck. Ditto stockpiling.

moonlight

I hate all CFLs. I am stockpiling incandescents too and if I ever run out I'll buy them on the black market.