Cost

When choosing between compact fluorescent bulbs, traditional bulbs and LED options, you'll often find LED lights to be quite cost effective if you consider the longer life, size and reliability. LED's can be big money savers over time.

Size

LED's offer a similar amount of brightness in a much, much smaller size than other types of lights. LED's can be quite tiny and fit in many places that a traditional bulb or CFL simply cannot. If much more brightness is required for a certain use, then multiple LED's can be put together to offer as much brightness as needed.

This is the case with many LED flashlights. You often see a 6, 9 or 12 LED flashlight, with multiple lights clustered together to offer a huge amount of concentrated light.

Reliability & Life

LED's last several times longer than other types of lights. This can save a significant amount in maintenance costs as well as save time, not to mention the lesser upfront costs and cost over time. Also, LED's are noted for their reliability.

Energy

LED's use far less energy to produce the same amount of brightness as other lighting options. Using less energy is of paramount importance for anyone concerned about costs and the environment.

Brightness

LED's offer increased brightness in comparison to other types of bulbs. This means you can use less LED lights to provide the same amount of lighting for different applications. In addition, increased brightness means better safety whether it's a hall light, closet light or outdoor light.

Materials

One of the best ways that LED's are eco-friendly is that the materials contained in the lights are not as dangerous for people and the earth as the other main eco-friendly lighting option, CFL's or compact fluorescent light bulbs. CFL's contain a small amount of mercury, which is a highly toxic and dangerous substance. When a compact fluorescent light bulb breaks or wears out, it must be disposed of very carefully to avoid contact with the mercury inside. Also, the bulb should not simply be thrown out with your normal trash as this can lead to mercury contamination of the environment. It is important to check with your local recycling center or dump to see what options they offer. Also, you can often check with the store you purchased the bulbs from to see if they have a recycling or take back program.