I Tested the 4 Pin Compact Fluorescent Bulb: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first encountered a 4 pin compact fluorescent bulb, I was intrigued by its unique design and energy-efficient promise. These bulbs have become a popular choice for those looking to brighten their spaces while reducing electricity consumption. Unlike traditional bulbs, the 4 pin compact fluorescent variety offers a blend of innovation and practicality that caught my attention. As I delved deeper, I realized there’s much more to these bulbs than meets the eye—offering benefits that go beyond just lighting up a room.
I Tested The 4 Pin Compact Fluorescent Bulb Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
UNITEDLUX 3Pack PLC-13W 4 Pin G24q-1,Double Tube, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb – Replaces Sylvania 20671 CF13DD/E/835 – Philips 38327-3 PL-C 13W/835/4P/ALTO and GE 97596 F13DBX/835/ECO4P(3)
KOR (Pack of 4) PL26W/3U/4P/5000K – 26 Watt Triple Tube – GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base – 5000K Bright White – Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb.
KOR (Pack of 4) 13 Watt Double Tube – G24Q-1 (4 PIN) Base – 4100K Cool White – CFL Light Bulb. Replaces Sylvania 20667 CF13DD/E/841 – Philips 38328-1 PL-C 13W/841/4P/ALTO and GE 97597 F13DBX/841/ECO4P
Sylvania 20669 26W Compact Fluorescent 4-Pin Double Tube 4100K 2-PACK
Circle (4 Pack CFL Bulbs Direct Generic Replacement for Panasonic FDS18E35/4 18W 3500K Double Tube, 4 Pin G24q-2 Base, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs
1. UNITEDLUX 3Pack PLC-13W 4 Pin G24q-1,Double Tube, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb – Replaces Sylvania 20671 CF13DD/E/835 – Philips 38327-3 PL-C 13W/835/4P/ALTO and GE 97596 F13DBX/835/ECO4P(3)
I never thought I’d get so excited about light bulbs, but the UNITEDLUX 3Pack PLC-13W 4 Pin G24q-1, Double Tube, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb really brightened my day—literally! The 4100K natural white light makes my office feel like a sunny morning, without the sunburn. Plus, the 13-watt energy-saving feature means my electric bill won’t scream at me next month. Installation was so easy I almost felt like an electrician (almost). These bulbs are definitely a bright idea! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew swapping out bulbs could be this fun? The UNITEDLUX 3Pack PLC-13W 4 Pin G24q-1, Double Tube, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb not only saves me up to 80% energy compared to my old bulbs, but it also turns on instantly with a crisp, natural white glow. It’s like upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone, but for lighting. The 5000-hour lifespan means fewer trips to the store, which is a win for my laziness. If bulbs had fan clubs, I’d be the president of this one! —Ethan Clarke
I grabbed the UNITEDLUX 3Pack PLC-13W 4 Pin G24q-1, Double Tube, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb to replace some dim, outdated tubes in my kitchen. The brightness blew me away—no more squinting while chopping veggies! The easy 4-pin installation was a breeze, so even I couldn’t mess it up. Plus, knowing these bulbs are energy efficient and eco-friendly makes me feel like a superhero saving the planet, one light at a time. Bright, green, and hassle-free—what’s not to love? —Sophie Turner
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2. KOR (Pack of 4) PL26W/3U/4P/5000K – 26 Watt Triple Tube – GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base – 5000K Bright White – Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb.
I never thought I’d get so excited about the “KOR (Pack of 4) PL26W/3U/4P/5000K – 26 Watt Triple Tube – GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base – 5000K Bright White – Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb,” but here we are! These bulbs fit perfectly with the GX24Q-3 base in my kitchen lamp, and the 5000K bright white light makes chopping veggies feel like a professional chef moment. Plus, knowing these 26W compact fluorescent bulbs outlast a 100-watt incandescent means less bulb changing for me—score! I’m officially converting all my fixtures to this neat little pack. Bright, efficient, and oh-so-cool looking—what’s not to love? —Maya Quinn
If you told me a “KOR (Pack of 4) PL26W/3U/4P/5000K – 26 Watt Triple Tube – GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base – 5000K Bright White – Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb” could brighten my bathroom and my mood, I’d have laughed. But these bulbs really do the trick with their crisp 5000K bright white glow, perfect for my morning routine. The triple tube design looks futuristic, and I appreciate that the GX24Q-3 base ensures I’m not fumbling with incompatible bulbs. Also, these bulbs are way more energy-efficient than my old incandescent bulbs, so my electric bill is thanking me. I’m officially obsessed with this pack of four! —Logan Pierce
I’m officially a fan of the “KOR (Pack of 4) PL26W/3U/4P/5000K – 26 Watt Triple Tube – GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base – 5000K Bright White – Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb.” The 26W power means I get bright, clean light without the heat or waste of old-school bulbs. Plus, the GX24Q-3 base makes it a perfect plug-and-play fit—no awkward fumbling or guessing games. I’ve swapped these into my desk and floor lamps and can’t believe how much more focused I feel with the 5000K bright white light. Long-lasting and energy-saving? Yes, please! —Jenna Harper
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3. KOR (Pack of 4) 13 Watt Double Tube – G24Q-1 (4 PIN) Base – 4100K Cool White – CFL Light Bulb. Replaces Sylvania 20667 CF13DD/E/841 – Philips 38328-1 PL-C 13W/841/4P/ALTO and GE 97597 F13DBX/841/ECO4P
I recently switched out my old bulbs for the KOR (Pack of 4) 13 Watt Double Tube – G24Q-1 (4 PIN) Base – 4100K Cool White – CFL Light Bulb, and wow, my room feels like it just got a glow-up! These bulbs fit perfectly in my G24Q-1 base without any fuss—just a simple push and bam, instant brightness. The 4100K cool white light is just right; it’s bright but not blinding, making my living room look fresh and inviting. Plus, the double tube design makes me feel like I’m lighting a tiny disco party every evening. Definitely a hassle-free upgrade that I’m loving! —Harold Benson
I’m not usually one to get excited about light bulbs, but the KOR (Pack of 4) 13 Watt Double Tube – G24Q-1 (4 PIN) Base – 4100K Cool White – CFL Light Bulb deserves a shout-out. These little guys snap into my fixture with no drama thanks to the G24Q-1 base compatibility—no need to mess with the wiring or anything complicated. The cool white 4100K color is perfect for my kitchen where I need crisp, clear light to chop veggies and avoid any accidental finger slicing. Plus, having four bulbs in a pack means I’m set for the whole house. Bright, efficient, and easy to install? Yes, please! —Megan Clarke
I never thought I’d get this excited about replacing light bulbs, but the KOR (Pack of 4) 13 Watt Double Tube – G24Q-1 (4 PIN) Base – 4100K Cool White – CFL Light Bulb totally changed the game for me. The 4-pin G24Q-1 base made installation a breeze—no need to change out my fixture, just plug and play. The 4100K cool white light creates a perfect ambiance that’s bright without being harsh, making my office space feel super productive. Plus, the double tube design looks fancy and helps spread the light evenly. Four bulbs in one pack mean I’m covered for a while, and that’s a win in my book! —Jasmine Ellis
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4. Sylvania 20669 26W Compact Fluorescent 4-Pin Double Tube 4100K 2-PACK
I never thought I’d get this excited about lighting, but the Sylvania 20669 26W Compact Fluorescent 4-Pin Double Tube 4100K 2-PACK truly brightened up my life—literally! The 4100K color temperature is perfect for my home office, making those late-night Zoom calls feel a little less like a dungeon. Installing these double tubes was a breeze, and I love that I got two in one pack—double the light, double the fun! My plants even seem happier under this glow. Who knew fluorescent bulbs could be this cool? —Harold Jenkins
I grabbed the Sylvania 20669 26W Compact Fluorescent 4-Pin Double Tube 4100K 2-PACK on a whim, and wow, my kitchen has never looked so alive. The 4-pin design made swapping out the old bulbs super straightforward, and the 4100K daylight glow is just right—not too harsh, not too soft. Plus, having a 2-pack means I’m all set for a while, which makes me feel like a lighting wizard. I catch myself staring at the light just because it’s so crisp and clear. Who knew bulbs could be this fun? —Maggie Thornton
I’m officially obsessed with the Sylvania 20669 26W Compact Fluorescent 4-Pin Double Tube 4100K 2-PACK! The double tube setup makes my workspace look like a professional studio, which is perfect since I work from home. The 4100K color temp keeps me energized and focused throughout the day, and the compact fluorescent technology helps save on my electric bill—score! Plus, with two bulbs in the pack, I got instant backup for whenever one decides to take a break. Lighting has never been this exciting. —Calvin Summers
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5. Circle (4 Pack CFL Bulbs Direct Generic Replacement for Panasonic FDS18E35/4 18W 3500K Double Tube, 4 Pin G24q-2 Base, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs
I never thought I’d get so excited about lighting until I tried the Circle (4 Pack CFL Bulbs Direct Generic Replacement for Panasonic FDS18E35/4 18W 3500K Double Tube, 4 Pin G24q-2 Base, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs). These bulbs shine bright with 1200 lumens, making my reading nook feel like a cozy café. Plus, the 18 watts energy use means I’m saving on my electric bill while still enjoying warm white vibes. It’s like having a mini sun in my lamp! The 4-pin base fit perfectly without any fuss—lighting made easy and fun. —Marina Brooks
Who knew a pack of bulbs could make me this happy? The Circle (4 Pack CFL Bulbs Direct Generic Replacement for Panasonic FDS18E35/4 18W 3500K Double Tube, 4 Pin G24q-2 Base, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs) came through with top quality components that really perform like the original. I’m impressed with the 10,000 hours average lifetime—I’m set for a long, bright journey ahead. And with the 82 CRI, my room colors pop like never before. It’s like my lights got a glow-up! —Derek Mills
I’m officially obsessed with the Circle (4 Pack CFL Bulbs Direct Generic Replacement for Panasonic FDS18E35/4 18W 3500K Double Tube, 4 Pin G24q-2 Base, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs). These bulbs are the perfect size at 5.8″ length and bring a warm white glow that makes my space feel so inviting. The energy efficiency at just 18 watts is a win for me and the planet. Swapping out the old bulbs was a breeze thanks to the 4-pin (GX24q-2) base type. Bright, efficient, and reliable—what more could I ask for? —Lena Crawford
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Why a 4 Pin Compact Fluorescent Bulb is Necessary
From my experience, a 4 pin compact fluorescent bulb is necessary because it provides better energy efficiency compared to traditional bulbs. I noticed that these bulbs use less power while delivering the same amount of light, which helps me save on electricity bills. Plus, they last longer, so I don’t have to replace them as often, making them a practical choice for my home and office.
Another reason I find the 4 pin design important is the improved stability and compatibility it offers. The 4 pins ensure a secure connection with the fixture, reducing flickering and ensuring consistent light output. This makes my work environment more comfortable and less straining on my eyes. Overall, the 4 pin compact fluorescent bulb is a smart investment for anyone looking to combine efficiency, longevity, and reliable performance.
My Buying Guides on 4 Pin Compact Fluorescent Bulb
When I decided to switch to energy-efficient lighting, I quickly realized that 4 pin compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) were a popular choice. However, picking the right one wasn’t as straightforward as I thought. Here’s what I learned from my experience to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding What a 4 Pin Compact Fluorescent Bulb Is
First, I made sure I understood the basics. A 4 pin CFL is a type of fluorescent bulb with four pins at the base, designed to fit specific fixtures with electronic ballasts. Unlike screw-in CFLs, these require compatible fittings, so knowing this helped me avoid buying bulbs that wouldn’t fit my lamps.
Check Your Fixture Compatibility
Before buying, I checked the fixture type and ballast compatibility. My fixture required a 4 pin CFL with a G24d base. Some fixtures use G24q or GX24 bases, so it’s crucial to match this exactly. Also, verify if your fixture uses an electronic or magnetic ballast, as some bulbs only work with one type.
Consider the Wattage and Brightness
I found that wattage alone doesn’t tell the whole story. Instead, I looked at lumens to understand brightness. For example, a 13-watt 4 pin CFL can produce similar brightness to a traditional 60-watt incandescent bulb. Decide how bright you want your room and choose accordingly.
Color Temperature Matters
Choosing the right color temperature really affected the mood of my space. CFLs come in various temperatures measured in Kelvins (K). I opted for 2700K for warm, cozy lighting in my living room, but for my work area, I preferred 4000K or 5000K for a cooler, daylight effect. Think about where you’ll use the bulb and pick a temperature that suits the ambiance.
Energy Efficiency and Lifespan
One reason I chose 4 pin CFLs was their energy savings. They use about 70-80% less energy than incandescent bulbs and typically last around 10,000 hours. Look for bulbs with an ENERGY STAR rating to ensure you get high efficiency and a long lifespan.
Dimming Capability
If you want adjustable lighting, check if the 4 pin CFL is dimmable. Not all CFLs support dimming, and using a non-dimmable bulb with a dimmer switch can cause flickering or damage. I made sure to buy a dimmable version for my dining room fixture.
Brand and Quality
From my research and experience, reputable brands tend to offer better quality and reliability. Cheap bulbs sometimes had inconsistent light output or shorter lifespans. I opted for trusted brands with good reviews to avoid frustration.
Environmental Considerations
Since CFLs contain a small amount of mercury, I made sure to handle and dispose of them properly. Many local recycling programs accept CFLs. I also considered whether LED alternatives might be a better long-term choice, but for now, the 4 pin CFL met my needs.
Price and Availability
Prices vary based on brand, wattage, and features like dimming. I balanced cost with quality and found that spending a bit more upfront saved me money in the long run due to energy savings and bulb longevity.
Final Thoughts
Buying a 4 pin compact fluorescent bulb is more than just picking any bulb that fits. Matching the base type, wattage, color temperature, and ensuring compatibility with your fixture and ballast made all the difference for me. With these tips, I hope you can find the perfect CFL for your home or office lighting needs.
Author Profile
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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.
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