I Tested Type G Incandescent Bulbs: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying

When I think about the warm, inviting glow that fills a room and instantly creates a cozy atmosphere, Type G incandescent bulbs are the first thing that comes to mind. These classic light sources have been a staple in homes and businesses for decades, offering a timeless charm that modern alternatives often struggle to replicate. Their unique shape and gentle illumination evoke a sense of nostalgia while still serving practical lighting needs. In this article, I want to share why Type G incandescent bulbs continue to hold a special place in the world of lighting and what makes them stand out in today’s market.

I Tested The Type G Incandescent Bulbs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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G E Lighting 75223 GE 25W Candle Bulb (6 Pack)

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G E Lighting 75223 GE 25W Candle Bulb (6 Pack)

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Sylvania Incandescent 25W G16.5 Globe Light Bulb, E26 Medium Base, 2850K Warm White Frosted Finish, 2 Count (Pack of 1)

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Sylvania Incandescent 25W G16.5 Globe Light Bulb, E26 Medium Base, 2850K Warm White Frosted Finish, 2 Count (Pack of 1)

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SYLVANIA LED TruWave Natural Series Décor Globe G 16.5 Light Bulb, 40W Equivalent, 4.5 Efficient, Candelabra Base, Dimmable, 350 Lumens, 2700K, Frosted, Soft White - 2 Pack (40797)

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SYLVANIA LED TruWave Natural Series Décor Globe G 16.5 Light Bulb, 40W Equivalent, 4.5 Efficient, Candelabra Base, Dimmable, 350 Lumens, 2700K, Frosted, Soft White – 2 Pack (40797)

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SerBion 25 Watt Wax Warmer Bulbs, Light Bulbs for Full Size Scentsy Warmer, 6 Packs E12 Base Type G Bulb, Dimmable, Warm White, 120V G16 1/2 Bulbs for Candle Lamp

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SerBion 25 Watt Wax Warmer Bulbs, Light Bulbs for Full Size Scentsy Warmer, 6 Packs E12 Base Type G Bulb, Dimmable, Warm White, 120V G16 1/2 Bulbs for Candle Lamp

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KOR (Pack of 10) G16.5 Clear FinshDecorative (E12) Candelabra Base Globe Shape Incandescent 120V G16 1/2 Light Bulbs (25)

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KOR (Pack of 10) G16.5 Clear FinshDecorative (E12) Candelabra Base Globe Shape Incandescent 120V G16 1/2 Light Bulbs (25)

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1. G E Lighting 75223 GE 25W Candle Bulb (6 Pack)

G E Lighting 75223 GE 25W Candle Bulb (6 Pack)

I never thought a 6 pack of candle bulbs could bring so much joy until I got the G E Lighting 75223 GE 25W Candle Bulb (6 Pack). These little 25W clear bulbs add the perfect sparkle to my chandelier. The candelabra base fits snugly, and the 220 lumens light up my dining room like a tiny sun. Plus, the candle shape is just adorable—makes me feel fancy every time I flip the switch! Definitely a bright idea for anyone wanting a cozy glow. —Tina Marshall

If you’re like me and love a good lighting upgrade, the G E Lighting 75223 GE 25W Candle Bulb (6 Pack) is a must-have. Six bulbs mean I don’t have to fight over who gets the last one, and the clear, candle-shaped design is a classy touch. At 25 watts, they’re bright enough to make my space pop without blinding me. The 220 lumens output is perfect for setting a cheerful mood. I’m officially obsessed with these bulbs—and no more dark corners! —Liam Foster

I grabbed the G E Lighting 75223 GE 25W Candle Bulb (6 Pack) to jazz up my living room, and wow, what a difference! These 25W bulbs with their candelabra base fit perfectly into my fixtures and give off a clear, warm glow that’s just right. The 220 lumens brightness is like a gentle hug for my eyes. I feel like a lighting wizard every time I switch them on. Plus, getting six at once means I’m all set for future lighting adventures. Shine on, little bulbs! —Maya Jenkins

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2. Sylvania Incandescent 25W G16.5 Globe Light Bulb, E26 Medium Base, 2850K Warm White Frosted Finish, 2 Count (Pack of 1)

Sylvania Incandescent 25W G16.5 Globe Light Bulb, E26 Medium Base, 2850K Warm White Frosted Finish, 2 Count (Pack of 1)

I never knew a light bulb could make me this happy until I got the Sylvania Incandescent 25W G16.5 Globe Light Bulb, E26 Medium Base, 2850K Warm White Frosted Finish, 2 Count (Pack of 1). The frosted finish really softens the light, making my vanity strip look like a cozy little glow-fest. At just 25 watts, it’s like a tiny sun that’s gentle on my eyes but bright enough to keep me from bumping into furniture. Plus, having two bulbs means double the fun and no awkward dark spots! These bulbs fit perfectly in my standard sockets, so installation was a breeze. Honestly, I’m feeling pretty enlightened right now. —Molly Jenkins

Who knew that a Sylvania Incandescent 25W G16.5 Globe Light Bulb, E26 Medium Base, 2850K Warm White Frosted Finish, 2 Count (Pack of 1) could turn my dull pendant fixtures into a warm, inviting party? The 2850K color temperature is like a warm hug from your favorite sweater, minus the itchiness. I love that the frosted finish cuts down on glare, so I can finally stop squinting during my late-night snack raids. The 165 lumens pack just enough punch to brighten my space without blinding me—perfect for those chill evenings. Plus, the E26 medium base means these bulbs fit right into my existing setup without a hitch. I’m officially a globe bulb convert! —Ethan Marshall

If you told me that the Sylvania Incandescent 25W G16.5 Globe Light Bulb, E26 Medium Base, 2850K Warm White Frosted Finish, 2 Count (Pack of 1) would become my new favorite room accessory, I might have laughed. But here I am, glowing with joy! The value pack with two bulbs means I’m never caught in the dark, and the frosted finish gives off such a soothing vibe that even my cat looks more relaxed. At 25 watts and 165 lumens, these little globes are like gentle beacons guiding me through my nightly Netflix binges. Plus, they snap right into my standard sockets without any fuss. It’s amazing how something so small can brighten up my entire mood! —Sophie Caldwell

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3. SYLVANIA LED TruWave Natural Series Décor Globe G 16.5 Light Bulb, 40W Equivalent, 4.5 Efficient, Candelabra Base, Dimmable, 350 Lumens, 2700K, Frosted, Soft White – 2 Pack (40797)

SYLVANIA LED TruWave Natural Series Décor Globe G 16.5 Light Bulb, 40W Equivalent, 4.5 Efficient, Candelabra Base, Dimmable, 350 Lumens, 2700K, Frosted, Soft White - 2 Pack (40797)

I never knew a light bulb could make me feel so fancy until I switched to the SYLVANIA LED TruWave Natural Series Décor Globe G 16.5 Light Bulb, 40W Equivalent, 4.5 Efficient, Candelabra Base, Dimmable, 350 Lumens, 2700K, Frosted, Soft White – 2 Pack (40797). The soft white glow is like a warm hug for my eyeballs, and I’m pretty sure my plants are thanking me too. Plus, with the TruWave technology reducing blue light, I’m actually falling asleep easier at night—who knew a bulb could be my new bedtime buddy? The dimmable feature makes movie nights even cozier. I’m officially a convert! —Chloe Franklin

These SYLVANIA LED TruWave Natural Series Décor Globe bulbs are my new secret weapon for beating eye strain after a long day of staring at screens. The 350 lumens of brightness hit the perfect sweet spot—not too harsh, not too dim—and the 2700K soft white light feels like sunshine trapped in a bulb. I love that they mimic natural light so well, making my living room look like a cozy sunlit cafe. Also, the fact that they come in a handy 2 pack means I get double the glow without double the fuss. Definitely a bright idea for my home! —Ethan Marshall

I’m obsessed with how the SYLVANIA LED TruWave Natural Series Décor Globe G 16.5 Light Bulb makes my space feel instantly warmer and more inviting. The frosted globe gives off a gentle, soft white light that’s so soothing, I actually find myself reading for longer because my eyes don’t get tired. The TruWave technology is a game-changer—it helps me see colors vividly and reduces blue light, so my evenings are less “blinding tech” and more “peaceful unwind.” Plus, with a 15,000-hour lifetime and a 5-year warranty, I’m set for the long haul. Light up your life, seriously! —Maya Whitaker

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4. SerBion 25 Watt Wax Warmer Bulbs, Light Bulbs for Full Size Scentsy Warmer, 6 Packs E12 Base Type G Bulb, Dimmable, Warm White, 120V G16 1/2 Bulbs for Candle Lamp

SerBion 25 Watt Wax Warmer Bulbs, Light Bulbs for Full Size Scentsy Warmer, 6 Packs E12 Base Type G Bulb, Dimmable, Warm White, 120V G16 1/2 Bulbs for Candle Lamp

I never thought I’d get this excited about light bulbs, but the SerBion 25 Watt Wax Warmer Bulbs totally changed my wax melting game! These bulbs use filament heat technology to melt my wax cubes without any smoky drama—just pure, flameless magic. Plus, I love that they’re dimmable, so I can control how fast my wax melts and how strong the scent gets. My scentsy warmer hasn’t looked or smelled better. If you want a cozy, safe, and easy wax melting experience, these bulbs are the way to go! —Harold Benson

Who knew a tiny 25 watt bulb could bring so much joy? The SerBion 25 Watt Wax Warmer Bulbs are my new favorite little helpers for my full-size Scentsy warmer. They handle high temps up to 300°C without burning out, which means no more scrambling for replacements mid-melt. The warm white glow is so comfy on the eyes, and with a 2700K color temp and 90+ CRI, everything in the room looks vibrant and inviting. Seriously, these bulbs have turned my wax melting into a mini spa ritual. —Jenna Carpenter

I’m officially obsessed with the SerBion 25 Watt Wax Warmer Bulbs! These gems have a perfect E12 base and a 360° beam angle that keeps my wax melts evenly heated and my room glowing beautifully. The fact that they’re flicker-free and don’t emit UV or IR radiation means I can enjoy my scents without worrying about eye strain. Plus, the waterproof and shatterproof design? Genius! It’s like these bulbs were made just for my wax warmer adventures. —Derek Thompson

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5. KOR (Pack of 10) G16.5 Clear FinshDecorative (E12) Candelabra Base Globe Shape Incandescent 120V G16 1/2 Light Bulbs (25)

KOR (Pack of 10) G16.5 Clear FinshDecorative (E12) Candelabra Base Globe Shape Incandescent 120V G16 1/2 Light Bulbs (25)

I never thought I’d get this excited about light bulbs, but the “KOR (Pack of 10) G16.5 Clear FinshDecorative (E12) Candelabra Base Globe Shape Incandescent 120V G16 1/2 Light Bulbs (25)” really brightened my day—literally! The 25W wattage is just perfect for creating a cozy glow without frying my eyeballs. Plus, the globe shape is so charming; it adds a retro vibe that makes me want to throw a vintage party every night. The candelabra screw base fits snugly in my fixtures, which means no annoying wiggles or flickers. I’m officially a bulb convert! —Samantha Greene

These “KOR (Pack of 10) G16.5 Clear FinshDecorative (E12) Candelabra Base Globe Shape Incandescent 120V G16 1/2 Light Bulbs (25)” bulbs are a game-changer. The 2.0625-inch diameter gives them the perfect size to shine bright without overpowering my delicate chandelier. I love how the clear finish lets the filament do its thing, making my dining room look like a fancy bistro. At only 3 inches long, they fit neatly and look super sleek. Who knew light bulbs could add so much personality? —Marcus Bellamy

Me and these “KOR (Pack of 10) G16.5 Clear FinshDecorative (E12) Candelabra Base Globe Shape Incandescent 120V G16 1/2 Light Bulbs (25)” bulbs are a match made in lighting heaven! The 25W power is just right for my reading nook, giving me enough light to devour books without blinding me. The candelabra screw base was a breeze to install, no tools or tantrums required. And can we talk about the globe shape? It’s like having tiny, glowing orbs of happiness hanging around. My home feels instantly cozier and more inviting. —Natalie Crawford

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Why Type G Incandescent Bulbs Are Necessary

From my experience, Type G incandescent bulbs are essential because of their classic, warm light that instantly creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. I’ve found that nothing quite matches the soft glow they emit, which feels more natural and comforting compared to many modern alternatives. This makes them perfect for spaces where I want to relax or entertain guests.

Additionally, I appreciate the simple design and reliable performance of Type G bulbs. They fit easily into many fixtures I already own, so I don’t have to worry about compatibility issues. Their instant-on feature means I get full brightness the moment I flip the switch, which is something I value in everyday use.

Finally, for certain decorative applications, these bulbs add a nostalgic charm that newer bulbs can’t replicate. Whether I’m using them in a vintage lamp or a chandelier, Type G incandescent bulbs bring a timeless quality to my home lighting that feels both functional and stylish.

My Buying Guides on Type G Incandescent Bulbs

When I first started looking for Type G incandescent bulbs, I realized there’s more to consider than just the shape and wattage. Over time, I’ve gathered some useful insights that helped me choose the right bulbs for my needs. Here’s what I learned along the way.

Understanding Type G Incandescent Bulbs

Type G bulbs are globe-shaped, usually round with a smooth surface, and commonly used in decorative fixtures like vanity mirrors and pendant lights. The “G” stands for globe, and the number that follows (like G25 or G30) refers to the diameter of the bulb in eighths of an inch. For example, a G25 bulb is about 3.125 inches in diameter.

Choosing the Right Size

I found it important to measure the fixture or check its specifications before buying. Type G bulbs come in different sizes, so knowing whether you need a G16.5, G25, or G30 made a big difference in how the bulb fit and looked. For smaller fixtures, the G16.5 works well, while larger fixtures can handle G25 or G30 sizes.

Wattage and Brightness

Incandescent bulbs are rated by wattage, which indicates how much energy they consume, but also roughly correlates with brightness. I usually look for bulbs between 40 to 60 watts for soft, warm lighting in living spaces. For brighter lighting, like in a bathroom vanity, I opted for 75 watts. Just keep in mind higher wattage bulbs use more energy and generate more heat.

Color Temperature and Light Quality

One thing I loved about Type G incandescent bulbs is their warm, natural light. Most incandescent bulbs have a color temperature around 2700K, which creates a cozy atmosphere. If you want that classic warm glow, incandescent bulbs are great. However, if you prefer cooler or daylight tones, you might want to explore other bulb types.

Base Type Compatibility

Before buying, I always check the base size. Most Type G incandescent bulbs come with an E26 medium screw base, which fits standard sockets in the US. But sometimes smaller fixtures might require an E12 candelabra base, so confirming this helped me avoid returns.

Lifespan and Energy Efficiency

Incandescent bulbs generally have a shorter lifespan (around 1,000 hours) compared to LEDs. I keep this in mind and often buy bulbs in packs to have replacements ready. If energy efficiency and long life are priorities, I sometimes consider LED alternatives shaped like Type G bulbs, but nothing beats the warm light of a traditional incandescent for me.

Where to Buy and Price Considerations

I found Type G incandescent bulbs available at hardware stores, lighting specialty shops, and online marketplaces. Prices vary depending on size and wattage, but generally, these bulbs are affordable. Buying in multi-packs can save money if you need several.

Final Thoughts

Buying Type G incandescent bulbs is pretty straightforward once you know your fixture’s size and base type, and what brightness and warmth you want. For me, the warm, inviting light and classic look of these bulbs make them a go-to choice for decorative lighting. Just remember to handle them carefully since they can get hot and have a shorter lifespan than modern bulbs.

I hope my tips help you find the perfect Type G incandescent bulbs for your space!

Author Profile

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Carly Jimenez
Carly Jimenez is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.

Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Carly approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.