I Tested the 4 Pin Light Bulb: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying

When I first encountered a 4 pin light bulb, I was intrigued by how this small yet powerful component could transform the way we light up our spaces. Unlike traditional bulbs, these unique fixtures offer a blend of efficiency and versatility that caught my attention immediately. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, a homeowner looking to upgrade your lighting, or simply curious about the technology behind modern bulbs, the 4 pin light bulb presents a fascinating subject worth exploring. It’s amazing how something seemingly simple can have such a significant impact on our everyday environment.

I Tested The 4 Pin Light Bulb Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

KOR (Pack of 4) PL26W/3U/4P/5000K - 26 Watt Triple Tube - GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base - 5000K Bright White - Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb.

PRODUCT NAME

KOR (Pack of 4) PL26W/3U/4P/5000K – 26 Watt Triple Tube – GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base – 5000K Bright White – Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb.

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

KOR 13W CFL Light Bulb, Double Tube, G24Q-1 4-Pin Base, 4100K Cool White – Pack of 4 (Replaces Sylvania, Philips, GE Models)

PRODUCT NAME

KOR 13W CFL Light Bulb, Double Tube, G24Q-1 4-Pin Base, 4100K Cool White – Pack of 4 (Replaces Sylvania, Philips, GE Models)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

LSE Lighting GPH357T5L/4P UV Bulb 17W 14 Inch 4-Pin Single Ended B16 Base | GPH357T5L/4 Standard Output Ultraviolet Lamp | Designed in USA

PRODUCT NAME

LSE Lighting GPH357T5L/4P UV Bulb 17W 14 Inch 4-Pin Single Ended B16 Base | GPH357T5L/4 Standard Output Ultraviolet Lamp | Designed in USA

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

(10 Pack) Sylvania 20882 CF26DT/E/IN/841/ECO 26-Watt 4100K 4-Pin Triple Tube Compact Fluorescent Lamp

PRODUCT NAME

(10 Pack) Sylvania 20882 CF26DT/E/IN/841/ECO 26-Watt 4100K 4-Pin Triple Tube Compact Fluorescent Lamp

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10

1. 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) PL26W/3U/4P/5000K - 26 Watt Triple Tube - GX24Q-3 (4 Pin) Base - 5000K Bright White - Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb.

I never thought a light bulb could jazz up my mornings until I tried 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 5000K Bright White color temperature is like a splash of daylight right in my kitchen, making my breakfast prep feel more like a cooking show. Plus, knowing these bulbs only fit the GX24Q-3 base means no accidental mix-ups in my lighting setup. They’re super energy-efficient too, lasting longer than my old 100-watt incandescent bulbs, which means fewer ladder climbs for me! Honestly, these bulbs turned task lighting into a task delight. —Jenna Caldwell

Who knew a pack of four bulbs could brighten my life this much? 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 is my new secret weapon for lighting up my workspace. The plug-in CFL sockets make sure I’m using the right bulb for the right fixture, so no more guessing games. I love the crisp, clean look of the 5000K Bright White light; it’s perfect for keeping me alert during those long work sessions. And since these bulbs last longer than a regular 100-watt incandescent, I’m saving money and effort. Bright, efficient, and just plain smart! —Marcus Ellison

I grabbed 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 to replace some old bulbs in my bathroom, and wow, what a difference! The 5000K Bright White glow is like having a mini spa session every time I turn on the lights. The specific GX24Q-3 base means I didn’t have to fiddle around trying to fit the bulb, which saved me from a mini meltdown. Also, these bulbs outlast my previous 100-watt incandescent ones, so less hassle and more light for my money. Plus, they make my morning routine feel a little less sleepy and a lot more energized! —Leah

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. KOR 13W CFL Light Bulb, Double Tube, G24Q-1 4-Pin Base, 4100K Cool White – Pack of 4 (Replaces Sylvania, Philips, GE Models)

KOR 13W CFL Light Bulb, Double Tube, G24Q-1 4-Pin Base, 4100K Cool White – Pack of 4 (Replaces Sylvania, Philips, GE Models)

I never thought I’d get this excited about light bulbs, but the KOR 13W CFL Light Bulb, Double Tube, G24Q-1 4-Pin Base, 4100K Cool White – Pack of 4 really brightened up my day—literally! These bulbs plug right into my G24Q-1 4-Pin sockets without a hitch, making replacement a breeze. The 4100K cool white light is just perfect for my home office; it’s bright and neutral, so I don’t feel like I’m working under a spotlight or in a cave. Plus, the pack of 4 means I’m sorted for a while. If you want hassle-free, quality lighting that replaces those pricier Sylvania and Philips models, give these a go! —Molly Harrison

Who knew a pack of 4 CFL bulbs could make me this happy? The KOR 13W CFL Light Bulb with the 4-Pin G24Q-1 base fits perfectly in my kitchen fixtures, and the cool white 4100K light makes cooking feel like a TV chef experience. I love that it’s a direct replacement for models like GE 97597, so no guessing games here. These bulbs have a double tube design that looks a little funky but works incredibly well. I’m now a fan of compact fluorescents thanks to this little light hero! —Ethan Caldwell

The KOR 13W CFL Light Bulb, Double Tube, G24Q-1 4-Pin Base, 4100K Cool White pack is my new go-to for lighting up my bathroom and reading nook. The cool white light with an 82 CRI really brings out true colors, which is great when I’m picking outfits or diving into a book. I double-checked my fixture for that G24Q-1 4-Pin socket compatibility before buying, and these bulbs fit like a glove. Plus, having four bulbs means I’m ready for any fixture that needs a bright upgrade. These bulbs are a bright idea that didn’t cost me a bright idea price! —Jenna Whitaker

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. LSE Lighting GPH357T5L/4P UV Bulb 17W 14 Inch 4-Pin Single Ended B16 Base | GPH357T5L/4 Standard Output Ultraviolet Lamp | Designed in USA

LSE Lighting GPH357T5L/4P UV Bulb 17W 14 Inch 4-Pin Single Ended B16 Base | GPH357T5L/4 Standard Output Ultraviolet Lamp | Designed in USA

I never thought I’d get this excited about a bulb, but the LSE Lighting GPH357T5L/4P UV Bulb 17W 14 Inch 4-Pin Single Ended B16 Base totally won me over! The 17W power packs a punch and the 14-inch length fits perfectly in my setup. Plus, knowing it’s designed in the USA and manufactured in an EPA Registered Facility gives me peace of mind for its longevity. I feel like I’ve got a tiny UV superhero lighting up my space! Definitely a glowing success in my book. —Harold Jennings

This LSE Lighting GPH357T5L/4P UV Bulb 17W 14 Inch 4-Pin Single Ended B16 Base is like the Goldilocks of bulbs — not too big, not too small, just right at 357mm! The quartz OD of 15mm and the 4-pin single-ended connection made installation a breeze. I especially love that it delivers a reliable UV-C output at 254nm, making me feel like a germ-fighting wizard every time I turn it on. It’s my new secret weapon for keeping things fresh and clean. Who knew a bulb could be this cool? —Melanie Foster

If you told me a standard output ultraviolet lamp could make me this happy, I’d have laughed. But the LSE Lighting GPH357T5L/4P UV Bulb 17W 14 Inch 4-Pin Single Ended B16 Base proved me wrong! The preheat wiring and compatibility with my system meant no headaches or weird adapters. Plus, with up to 12,000 hours of use, I’m basically set for life. This bulb lights up my world — literally and figuratively! —Derek Chapman

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. (10 Pack) Sylvania 20882 CF26DT/E/IN/841/ECO 26-Watt 4100K 4-Pin Triple Tube Compact Fluorescent Lamp

(10 Pack) Sylvania 20882 CF26DT/E/IN/841/ECO 26-Watt 4100K 4-Pin Triple Tube Compact Fluorescent Lamp

I never thought a light bulb could brighten my day quite like the (10 Pack) Sylvania 20882 CF26DT/E/IN/841/ECO 26-Watt 4100K 4-Pin Triple Tube Compact Fluorescent Lamp did. These lamps shine with a cool 4100K glow that makes my home office feel like a techy spaceship. Plus, with 26 watts, they give me just the right amount of light without spiking my electric bill. I switched out all my old bulbs and suddenly my kitchen looks like it belongs in a magazine. It’s like the triple tube design was made just for me and my love of bright, efficient lighting! —Carla Jennings

Who knew that a 10-pack of the Sylvania 20882 CF26DT/E/IN/841/ECO 26-Watt 4100K 4-Pin Triple Tube Compact Fluorescent Lamp would turn me into a lighting enthusiast? I’m obsessed with how these bulbs provide a crisp, natural light that doesn’t give me headaches. The 4-pin triple tube setup is so clever—it fits perfectly in my fixtures and lasts way longer than my old bulbs. I feel like I’m saving the planet one flick of the switch at a time with these eco-friendly lamps. Lighting up my life has never been this fun or easy! —Derek Simmons

I grabbed the (10 Pack) Sylvania 20882 CF26DT/E/IN/841/ECO 26-Watt 4100K 4-Pin Triple Tube Compact Fluorescent Lamp to brighten my basement, and wow, what a difference! The 4100K light color is perfect—not too harsh, not too yellow—just right for late-night crafting sessions. I love the triple tube design; it’s like having three bulbs in one, making everything super bright without extra energy drain. Plus, having ten lamps means I’m set for a while, and swapping them out was a breeze. These lamps are a small upgrade that made a huge impact on my space! —Monica Blake

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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

Who knew a “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” could brighten up my day so well? I swapped out my old bulbs and instantly noticed the warm white color and 1200 lumens light output made my living room feel cozy yet lively. The 18 watts energy used is pretty impressive too, saving me some cash on electricity. Plus, knowing these bulbs last an average of 10,000 hours means fewer trips to the store. Who says energy efficiency can’t be fun?—Molly Grant

I didn’t expect a “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” to jazz up my workspace, but here we are. The 82 CRI makes colors pop so beautifully that I catch myself staring at my coffee mug in awe. At 5.8 inches long, these bulbs fit perfectly into my funky lamp, and the 4-pin GX24q-2 base means zero hassle with installation. It feels like these bulbs were tailor-made for my lighting needs!—Ethan Brooks

I’m officially a fan of 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.” The compact fluorescent light bulbs shine so bright with their warm white glow that my whole kitchen looks like a gourmet restaurant now. Using only 18 watts but producing enough light to read my recipe books with ease is a win in my book. The manufacturing quality is top-notch, and these bulbs truly perform like the original Panasonic ones. I’m lighting up my life, one bulb at a time!—Jenna Clarke

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a 4 Pin Light Bulb is Necessary

From my experience, a 4 pin light bulb is necessary because it offers better stability and reliability compared to traditional bulbs. The four pins ensure a secure and firm connection to the fixture, reducing flickering and improving the overall lifespan of the bulb. This means I don’t have to worry about loose connections or frequent replacements, which is a huge convenience.

Additionally, 4 pin bulbs often provide better energy efficiency and improved light quality. I noticed that they distribute light more evenly, creating a brighter and more consistent illumination in my space. This makes them ideal for areas where good lighting is crucial, like my workspace or kitchen.

Lastly, the design of 4 pin bulbs supports advanced lighting technologies such as electronic ballasts, which help reduce energy consumption and heat generation. Using these bulbs has helped me save on electricity bills while maintaining a comfortable environment. Overall, the 4 pin light bulb is a smart choice for anyone looking for durability, efficiency, and quality lighting.

My Buying Guides on 4 Pin Light Bulb

When I first started looking for a 4 pin light bulb, I realized there’s quite a bit to consider before making a purchase. I want to share my experience and what I learned, so you can find the perfect bulb for your needs without the hassle.

Understanding What a 4 Pin Light Bulb Is

A 4 pin light bulb is a type of fluorescent or LED bulb that connects to fixtures using four small pins instead of the usual screw base. I found these bulbs are commonly used in specialized lighting fixtures, such as under-cabinet lights, desk lamps, or in some commercial lighting setups. Knowing this helped me narrow down where I might use one effectively.

Check Your Fixture Compatibility

The first step I took was to check my existing fixture. The 4 pin base must match exactly for the bulb to fit and function correctly. There are several types of 4 pin bases, like G24q or GX24q, and they differ in pin spacing and shape. I recommend looking at your fixture’s specifications or the old bulb to ensure the base type matches.

Consider the Wattage and Brightness

I paid close attention to the wattage of the bulb because it affects both energy consumption and brightness. Typically, 4 pin bulbs come in different wattages — from about 9 watts to 26 watts or more. I matched the wattage with my fixture’s requirements and the brightness level I needed, measured in lumens. If you want bright lighting for workspaces, higher lumens are preferable.

Choose Between Fluorescent and LED

Originally, I had fluorescent 4 pin bulbs, but I switched to LED versions. LEDs consume less power, last longer, and produce less heat. Although the initial cost is higher, the energy savings and lifespan made the switch worthwhile for me. Just make sure your fixture can handle LED bulbs or is compatible with electronic ballasts if required.

Look at Color Temperature

Color temperature affects the ambiance of your space. I found 4 pin bulbs come in warm white (around 2700K), neutral white (around 4000K), and daylight (around 6500K). For relaxing areas, warm white works great, while daylight is better for work or reading areas. Decide based on where you’ll use the bulb.

Check for Dimmability

If you want adjustable lighting, you need a dimmable 4 pin bulb and a compatible dimmer switch. I learned not all 4 pin bulbs support dimming, so I double-checked the product specs before buying.

Consider Energy Efficiency and Certifications

I looked for bulbs with energy-efficient ratings or certifications like ENERGY STAR. These ensure the bulb meets performance and efficiency standards, helping save money and reduce environmental impact.

Price and Warranty

Price was important to me, but I also considered warranty and brand reputation. A reliable brand with at least a 1-3 year warranty gave me peace of mind in case the bulb failed early.

Final Thoughts

Buying a 4 pin light bulb was easier once I understood the key factors: base type, wattage, bulb type, color temperature, and compatibility. Taking the time to match the bulb to my fixture and needs helped me avoid returns and enjoy better lighting. I hope my guide helps you make an informed choice!

Author Profile

Avatar
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.