LED Holiday Lights vs. Incandescent: Which One Shines Brighter for Your Home?

You finally pull out the Christmas lights, shake the dust off the box, and start untangling the mess. Then it hits you. Should you upgrade this year? Are LED lights actually better? Or should you stick with your old-school incandescent bulbs because, well, they still work?

This is one of the most common questions we get at SD SociaLights. And with good reason. The lights you choose don’t just change how your home looks — they affect your energy bill, the vibe of your display, and how long your setup lasts.

We’ve been lighting up San Diego homes, venues, and backyards since 2009. So if you’re stuck deciding between LED holiday lights and traditional incandescents, we’ve got you covered. Let’s break it all down so you can make the best decision for your space, your style, and your holiday cheer.

What’s the Difference Between LED and Incandescent Holiday Lights?

A Quick Breakdown of How Each One Works

Let’s start with the basics. Incandescent lights have been around forever. They work by heating a tiny wire filament until it glows. It’s simple, nostalgic, and beautiful — but not very efficient.

LED (light-emitting diode) lights use a completely different technology. Instead of heat, they use electrical current passed through a semiconductor to create light. This makes them cooler, longer-lasting, and much more energy-efficient.

The Look and Feel of Each Lighting Type

Incandescent lights have that soft, warm glow that makes people feel cozy. They’ve been the go-to for generations, especially if you want a vintage or classic holiday feel.

LEDs, on the other hand, are bright, crisp, and available in just about every color under the sun. Some people say LEDs feel “too white” or “too modern” — but newer LED holiday lights now come in warm tones that mimic the glow of traditional bulbs almost perfectly.

We worked with a family in Mission Hills who had used the same incandescent lights for 10 years. When we swapped them out for warm white LEDs, they were shocked at how much better their home looked. Brighter, cleaner, and way easier on their electric bill.

Energy Efficiency & Cost: LEDs Save More Than You Think

The Power Bill Difference You’ll Actually Notice

Here’s where LEDs really shine. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LED lights use at least 75% less energy than incandescents. That adds up fast — especially if your house is lit up from roof to walkway.

If you decorate with 20 strands of lights for 6 hours a night through December, you could save $50 to $100 or more depending on your setup. That’s money better spent on holiday snacks, gifts, or even a trip to Julian for hot cider.

Long-Term Value vs. Short-Term Spending

Yes, LED holiday lights cost more upfront. But they last longer — often up to 25,000 hours, compared to just 1,000 hours for incandescent bulbs. That means you won’t be replacing strands year after year.

At SD SociaLights, we use commercial-grade LEDs that are built to last. So when we install your lights, you’re getting beauty and value in one package. Fewer replacements. Fewer blown fuses. More time enjoying the glow.

Want help upgrading your setup without the guesswork? Check out our holiday lighting services and let our team handle it all.

Brightness, Color, and Customization: The LED Advantage

Crisp Colors, Better Glow, and More Control

One thing most people notice right away with LED holiday lights is how vivid they are. Reds look redder. Blues pop. Greens are rich and bold.

LEDs also offer better consistency. With incandescent bulbs, you often get a strand where one bulb looks brighter or duller than the others. With LEDs, the color stays even across the entire setup.

Some LED setups even let you control color, dimming, and timers with your smartphone. Want to switch from red and green to all-white for New Year’s Eve? Easy.

But What If You Love That Classic Look?

If you’re someone who says, “But I love that soft incandescent glow,” we hear you. There’s something nostalgic about it. That’s why we offer warm white LED options that mimic that same cozy vibe.

When we lit up a courtyard in La Jolla for a December wedding, the couple wanted an old-Hollywood feel. We used warm LED globe lights strung overhead and guests couldn’t stop taking pictures. The look was timeless — and the lights stayed cool all night long.

Safety and Durability: Why LEDs Last Longer

Less Heat, More Life

Traditional bulbs get hot. Like, really hot. That’s not ideal when you’re wrapping them around trees, dry wreaths, or wooden fences. LEDs stay cool to the touch, even after hours of use. That makes them safer for kids, pets, and dry SoCal landscaping.

Fewer Replacements, Fewer Headaches

Because LEDs don’t rely on a delicate filament, they’re more durable. They’re less likely to break in storage or during setup, and they handle outdoor conditions better too.

We’ve worked with clients near the coast where salt air tends to corrode metal faster. LED holiday lights hold up better in that environment, which is one reason we recommend them for homes in areas like Point Loma and Coronado.

At SD SociaLights, we only use weatherproof, commercial-grade materials. Your safety matters — and so does keeping your lights looking great all season long.

When Incandescent Lights Still Make Sense

A Touch of Nostalgia or Warmth? We Get It

If you’re someone who loves the feel of old-fashioned bulbs, we won’t argue. There’s a charm to incandescent lights that takes you right back to your childhood. That soft, golden glow can be hard to replicate.

We’ve had clients request vintage C9 bulbs or Edison-style strings for events or themed parties. And honestly, they look beautiful — especially when the rest of the design supports that nostalgic feel.

Mixing and Matching with Care

You don’t have to go all-in on one or the other. It’s totally possible to use LED lights for your main home setup and mix in a few incandescent touches for that extra warmth.

Want your tree to glow with soft light but your roofline to shine bright and energy-efficient? We can make that happen. Our team will help you design a custom setup that works with your style and your budget.

The Bottom Line: Which Holiday Lights Are Right for You?

So, LED holiday lights or incandescent? Here’s the truth.

If you want brighter colors, longer life, lower energy bills, and a safer setup, LEDs are the better choice for most San Diego homes. They’re efficient, versatile, and built for the long haul.

But if you still love that nostalgic twinkle and want to add some vintage flair, incandescents still have their place. It all depends on your style and how much maintenance you’re willing to handle.

At SD SociaLights, we’ve been helping San Diego homeowners get their lighting right since 2009. Whether you want bold, colorful LEDs or a warm and cozy holiday vibe, we’ll design a setup that fits you perfectly.

Ready to see your home or event light up beautifully? Contact SD SociaLights today for your free quote.

And if you’re just starting to plan, be sure to read our full guide:

👉 The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Lighting in San Diego: Design, Safety & Stress-Free Setup

FAQs

Are LED holiday lights really that much cheaper to run?

Yes! On average, LEDs use 75% less energy than incandescent lights. That means real savings on your December power bill — especially for larger displays.

Can LED lights be warm white instead of cool white?

Absolutely. New LED options offer soft, warm white tones that look just like traditional bulbs. You get the same cozy feel with all the benefits of LED technology.

How long do LED holiday lights actually last?

High-quality LED holiday lights can last 10 to 20 times longer than incandescent bulbs. That means fewer replacements and more years of holiday cheer.