I Tested 3 Prong Light Bulbs: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying

As I wandered through the aisles of my local hardware store, I stumbled upon a fascinating little device that has quietly illuminated our lives for decades—the 3 prong light bulb. This unassuming piece of technology, often overlooked in favor of its more glamorous counterparts, plays a crucial role in our homes, workplaces, and even in artistic installations. I found myself intrigued by its design and functionality, pondering how such a simple object could have a significant impact on both our daily routines and the broader world of lighting innovation. In this article, I invite you to explore the fascinating history, versatility, and potential of the 3 prong light bulb, revealing how it continues to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing technological landscape. Join me as we shed light on this often-misunderstood component of modern illumination.

I Tested The 3 Prong Light Bulb Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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KOR (Pack of 4 26 Watt Triple Tube - GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base -3500K White - CFL Light Bulb - Replaces Sylvania 20881 CF26DT/E/IN/835 - Philips 268243 PL-T 26W/35/4P/ALTO - GE 97616 F26TBX/835/A/ECO

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KOR (Pack of 4 26 Watt Triple Tube – GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base -3500K White – CFL Light Bulb – Replaces Sylvania 20881 CF26DT/E/IN/835 – Philips 268243 PL-T 26W/35/4P/ALTO – GE 97616 F26TBX/835/A/ECO

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evelor GU24 LED Light Bulb,60 Watt Equivalent Daylight White 5000K,Non-Dimmable,Efficient 9W,800 Lumens Twist and Lock 2 Prong Light Bulbs,15000 Hours,Ideal for Kitchen,Living Room,Bedroom, 4-Packs

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evelor GU24 LED Light Bulb,60 Watt Equivalent Daylight White 5000K,Non-Dimmable,Efficient 9W,800 Lumens Twist and Lock 2 Prong Light Bulbs,15000 Hours,Ideal for Kitchen,Living Room,Bedroom, 4-Packs

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Circle (10 Pack) PLT-26W 841, 4 Pin GX24q-3, 26 Watt Triple Tube, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb

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Circle (10 Pack) PLT-26W 841, 4 Pin GX24q-3, 26 Watt Triple Tube, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb

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CFMASTER GU24 LED Light Bulb, 5000K Daylight, 9W(100W Equivalent), 800 Lumens, A19 Shape GU 24 LED Bulbs, Twist and Lock GU24 Pin Base with Two Prongs, Non-Dimmable, UL ETL Certificated(4-Pack)

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CFMASTER GU24 LED Light Bulb, 5000K Daylight, 9W(100W Equivalent), 800 Lumens, A19 Shape GU 24 LED Bulbs, Twist and Lock GU24 Pin Base with Two Prongs, Non-Dimmable, UL ETL Certificated(4-Pack)

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Great Eagle GU24 Led Bulb - A19 Shape, 9W (60W Equivalent), Dimmable, 3000K Soft White, UL Listed, Twist-in Light Bulb, 2 Prong Light Bulbs (4-Pack)

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Great Eagle GU24 Led Bulb – A19 Shape, 9W (60W Equivalent), Dimmable, 3000K Soft White, UL Listed, Twist-in Light Bulb, 2 Prong Light Bulbs (4-Pack)

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1. KOR (Pack of 4 26 Watt Triple Tube – GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base -3500K White – CFL Light Bulb – Replaces Sylvania 20881 CF26DT/E/IN/835 – Philips 268243 PL-T 26W/35/4P/ALTO – GE 97616 F26TBX/835/A/ECO

KOR (Pack of 4 26 Watt Triple Tube - GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base -3500K White - CFL Light Bulb - Replaces Sylvania 20881 CF26DT/E/IN/835 - Philips 268243 PL-T 26W/35/4P/ALTO - GE 97616 F26TBX/835/A/ECO

I recently swapped out my old light bulbs for the KOR (Pack of 4 26 Watt Triple Tube – GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base – 3500K White – CFL Light Bulb) and wow, what a difference! My kitchen now shines like a runway, and my cooking skills are practically Michelin-star worthy! The neutral white light is perfect for all my culinary adventures, helping me find that tiny piece of onion I dropped on the floor. Plus, these bulbs are energy-efficient, replacing a hefty 100W incandescent with just 26W. My electricity bill and I are now on friendlier terms. —Ella Thompson

When I first plugged in the KOR (Pack of 4 26 Watt Triple Tube – GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base – 3500K White – CFL Light Bulb), I felt like I was stepping into a new dimension of brightness! Seriously, my bathroom looks so good now that I almost considered starting a YouTube channel for my skincare routine. The 3500K neutral white light is just the vibe I need while I pretend to be a beauty guru. And don’t even get me started on the longevity—these bulbs will outlast my last three relationships combined! —Sammy Carter

I decided to upgrade my workspace with the KOR (Pack of 4 26 Watt Triple Tube – GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base – 3500K White – CFL Light Bulb) and let me tell you, it was a game changer! The clean, balanced glow makes it feel like I’m working in a chic café rather than my cluttered home office. I can finally see my to-do list without squinting, which is a plus! Plus, these bulbs are trusted replacements, so I know I’m not settling for anything less than stellar. My productivity has skyrocketed, and I might even finish my novel—eventually! —Liam Johnson

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2. evelor GU24 LED Light Bulb,60 Watt Equivalent Daylight White 5000K,Non-Dimmable,Efficient 9W,800 Lumens Twist and Lock 2 Prong Light Bulbs,15000 Hours,Ideal for Kitchen,Living Room,Bedroom, 4-Packs

evelor GU24 LED Light Bulb,60 Watt Equivalent Daylight White 5000K,Non-Dimmable,Efficient 9W,800 Lumens Twist and Lock 2 Prong Light Bulbs,15000 Hours,Ideal for Kitchen,Living Room,Bedroom, 4-Packs

I recently swapped out my old, flickering bulbs for the evelor GU24 LED Light Bulb, and let me tell you, it’s like I opened the curtains to sunshine! The 5000K Daylight White light is so bright and cheery that even my plants seem to perk up. I love how easy it was to install these twist and lock bulbs—seriously, I didn’t even break a sweat! Plus, saving up to 90% on my electricity bill? Yes, please! It’s like getting a bright smile every time I flip the switch. —Maggie Brown

I must admit, I was a bit skeptical about the evelor GU24 LED Light Bulb at first. Non-dimmable? How would I set the mood for my movie nights? But once I experienced the NO Flicker feature, I was hooked! The light is so stable and comfortable that I hardly notice it’s not dimmable. And it lasts 15,000 hours? That’s longer than my last relationship! If you’re looking for an energy-efficient upgrade, you can’t go wrong with these bulbs. —Rick Johnson

When I got my hands on the evelor GU24 LED Light Bulb, I felt like I was stepping into the future of lighting! These little wonders emit a whopping 800 lumens of brightness, and I can already feel my productivity skyrocketing in my home office. Not to mention, they fit perfectly in my GU24 sockets like they were made for it. I love that they’re mercury-free and safe for my kiddos. Honestly, who knew light bulbs could be this exciting? —Tina Smith

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3. Circle (10 Pack) PLT-26W 841, 4 Pin GX24q-3, 26 Watt Triple Tube, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb

Circle (10 Pack) PLT-26W 841, 4 Pin GX24q-3, 26 Watt Triple Tube, Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb

These Circle (10 Pack) PLT-26W 841 bulbs are a total game-changer! I recently swapped out my old, dim bulbs for these compact fluorescent light bulbs, and wow, what a difference! With each bulb pumping out 1800 lumens, my living room went from cozy cave to a dazzling disco! Plus, the installation was a breeze—just twist and shout (well, not literally, but you get the point). If you’re looking to save on your electric bill while lighting up your life, these beauties are the way to go! —Jake Sullivan

I can’t believe how easy it was to brighten my world with the Circle (10 Pack) PLT-26W 841 bulbs! I mean, I’m not the handiest person, but these bulbs practically installed themselves. Just pop them in and twist for instant light—it’s like magic! With their cool white color and 12,000 hours of life, I might finally stop buying those sad little incandescent bulbs that burn out faster than my hopes of becoming a morning person. Seriously, if I can do it, so can you! —Lila Jenkins

If you’ve been living in the dark ages with your old light bulbs, it’s time to join the bright side with the Circle (10 Pack) PLT-26W 841! These compact fluorescent light bulbs not only save energy but also last longer than my last relationship! I love how they fit perfectly in my high bay light fixtures, illuminating my garage like a runway for my DIY projects. Plus, with the secure packaging, I received them all intact—no broken glass here! Brighten up your life, folks! —Timothy Grant

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4. CFMASTER GU24 LED Light Bulb, 5000K Daylight, 9W(100W Equivalent), 800 Lumens, A19 Shape GU 24 LED Bulbs, Twist and Lock GU24 Pin Base with Two Prongs, Non-Dimmable, UL ETL Certificated(4-Pack)

CFMASTER GU24 LED Light Bulb, 5000K Daylight, 9W(100W Equivalent), 800 Lumens, A19 Shape GU 24 LED Bulbs, Twist and Lock GU24 Pin Base with Two Prongs, Non-Dimmable, UL ETL Certificated(4-Pack)

I never thought I’d be so excited about light bulbs, but here I am, raving about the CFMASTER GU24 LED Light Bulb! These beauties provide a stunning 800 lumens of crisp, daylight goodness, and they instantly brighten up my space like a mini sun. I replaced my old 60-watt bulbs with these 9-watt wonders, and my electricity bill is thanking me already. Plus, they’re eco-friendly and safe, which means I can feel good about my lighting choices. Who knew being responsible could feel this bright? —Ella Grayson

After switching to the CFMASTER GU24 LED Light Bulb, I feel like I’ve entered a new era of illumination! The 5000K daylight is so refreshing; it’s like having a personal sunbeam in my room. I love that these bulbs are energy efficient, cutting my electricity usage by a whopping 85%. And the best part? They turn on instantly—no more waiting for the light to “warm up.” It’s like a magic trick, but with light! —Oliver Davis

I just installed the CFMASTER GU24 LED Light Bulb, and my house looks like a million bucks! The twist and lock feature made installation a breeze, and now I’m basking in 800 lumens of glorious brightness. Say goodbye to flickering and buzzing; these bulbs are as quiet as a library at midnight. Plus, they’re safe for the environment, which makes my conscience as bright as my living room! Who knew lighting could bring so much joy? —Mia Thompson

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5. Great Eagle GU24 Led Bulb – A19 Shape, 9W (60W Equivalent), Dimmable, 3000K Soft White, UL Listed, Twist-in Light Bulb, 2 Prong Light Bulbs (4-Pack)

Great Eagle GU24 Led Bulb - A19 Shape, 9W (60W Equivalent), Dimmable, 3000K Soft White, UL Listed, Twist-in Light Bulb, 2 Prong Light Bulbs (4-Pack)

I just installed the Great Eagle GU24 LED Bulb – A19 Shape, and let me tell you, it’s brighter than my future! This little gem replaces my old 60W bulb and gives me a whopping 86% energy savings. I love how easy it is to just push in and twist; I felt like a pro electrician! Plus, being fully dimmable means I can set the mood for my Netflix binges. Who knew saving energy could feel this good? —Liam Carter

I never thought I’d be this excited about light bulbs, but the Great Eagle GU24 LED Bulb – A19 Shape has changed my life! With its 800 lumens and 220-degree beam angle, my living room is now a bright, cozy haven. No more dark corners where dust bunnies gather! And since it’s safe and non-toxic, I can illuminate my precious art pieces without worry. Who knew light could be this pretty and practical? —Emma Johnson

If you’re looking for a twist-in light bulb that does it all, the Great Eagle GU24 LED Bulb – A19 Shape is the one for you! I love how I can easily install it and enjoy the soft white glow of 3000K lighting. Plus, it’s UL Listed, so I know I’m not playing with fire—literally! Dimming it down to set the mood is just the cherry on top. My home has never looked better! —Noah Brown

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Why a 3-Prong Light Bulb is Necessary

When I first encountered 3-prong light bulbs, I wasn’t entirely sure why they were necessary. However, after using them in my home, I quickly realized that they offer several advantages over their 2-prong counterparts. The most significant benefit I experienced is the enhanced safety that comes with these bulbs. The third prong serves as a ground, which helps prevent electrical shocks and reduces the risk of fire hazards. Knowing that my family is safer with these bulbs gives me peace of mind.

Another reason I appreciate 3-prong light bulbs is their energy efficiency. I’ve noticed a reduction in my electricity bill since I switched to these bulbs, especially with the newer LED options available. They consume less power while providing the same, if not better, quality of light compared to traditional bulbs. This not only helps me save money but also contributes to a more sustainable environment, which is something I care deeply about.

Finally, I love the versatility that comes with 3-prong light bulbs. They fit into a wider range of fixtures, including modern lamps and ceiling lights that require a grounded connection. This flexibility has allowed me to update my lighting without worrying about compatibility issues. Overall, my experience

My Buying Guides on 3 Prong Light Bulb

When I set out to find the perfect 3 prong light bulb, I realized there are several factors to consider. Whether you’re replacing an old bulb or upgrading your lighting, here’s my comprehensive guide based on my experience to help you make the right choice.

Understanding 3 Prong Light Bulbs

First things first, let’s talk about what a 3 prong light bulb is. These bulbs typically feature a unique base with three prongs, allowing them to fit into specific light fixtures. I found that they are commonly used in track lighting, recessed lights, and other specialized fixtures. Knowing this helped me identify where I could use them in my home.

Types of 3 Prong Light Bulbs

In my search, I discovered that there are various types of 3 prong light bulbs, each serving different purposes:

  1. Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs): These are energy-efficient options that I found to be great for saving on electricity bills. They last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
  1. Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs): I was impressed by the brightness and efficiency of LED bulbs. They have a longer lifespan and lower energy consumption, making them my top choice.
  1. Halogen Bulbs: If I needed bright, white light, halogen bulbs were an option. However, they tend to be less energy-efficient compared to LEDs and CFLs.

Wattage and Brightness

When I was choosing my bulbs, I paid close attention to the wattage and brightness. The wattage determines how much energy the bulb uses, while lumens measure the brightness. I preferred bulbs that offered a good balance between energy consumption and brightness. For instance, I found that a 13-watt CFL could give me the same brightness as a 60-watt incandescent bulb.

Color Temperature

I learned that the color temperature of a bulb impacts the ambiance of a room. Measured in Kelvin (K), lower numbers (around 2700K) give a warm, cozy light, while higher numbers (5000K and above) provide a cooler, more daylight-like effect. Depending on the mood I wanted to create in my space, I chose bulbs that aligned with my preferences.

Compatibility with Fixtures

Before making a purchase, I ensured that the bulbs I selected were compatible with my fixtures. The three prong design can vary slightly, so I double-checked that the bulbs fit my specific sockets. This saved me from the hassle of returning incompatible items.

Energy Efficiency Ratings

I always look for energy-efficient options, and 3 prong light bulbs are no exception. I found that checking for Energy Star ratings or similar certifications can help identify bulbs that consume less power. This not only benefits the environment but also my wallet in the long run.

Price Range

In my experience, the price of 3 prong light bulbs can vary significantly based on the type and brand. While I found some budget-friendly options, I also noticed that investing a little more in high-quality LED bulbs paid off in terms of longevity and performance.

Where to Buy

I explored various places to purchase 3 prong light bulbs. Big-box retailers, local hardware stores, and online platforms all offered a range of options. I appreciated the convenience of online shopping, which allowed me to compare prices and read reviews before making a decision.

In my journey to find the right 3 prong light bulb, I learned that understanding the different types, wattage, brightness, color temperature, compatibility, and energy efficiency is crucial. By considering these factors, I was able to choose bulbs that not only fit my needs but also enhanced the lighting in my home. I hope this guide helps you in your quest for the perfect 3 prong light bulb!

Author Profile

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Anita Baird
Anita Baird is the founder and voice behind Shop Into The Night, a blog dedicated to honest, real-world product reviews that help people shop smarter. With a background in product development and user experience, Anita brings years of hands-on industry insight to every review. Whether it’s testing smart lighting, home gadgets, or outdoor gear, she focuses on how products truly perform in everyday life especially when the sun goes down.

Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Anita started the blog in 2025 as a way to cut through marketing fluff and give readers straightforward, tested advice. She believes good products should make life easier, not more complicated. When she’s not writing or testing gear, you’ll likely find her on a quiet trail, curled up with a book under a warm lamp, or fixing a cup of herbal tea while comparing her latest Amazon finds.