A Smart Buyer’s Guide to Light Bulbs

If Thomas Edison were to walk down the light-bulb aisle of a modern home-improvement store, he’d be shocked to see what’s become of his brainchild. Long gone are the days of simply choosing a light bulb based on its wattage. Today, light bulbs are available in a dizzying array of types, sizes, and shapes. Pity the poor shopper who enters the light-bulb aisle ignorant of the evolutionary changes to Ole’ Tom’s electric arc lamp, as it was originally called. Here are the five light bulbs you’re likely to encounter, and how to pick the best bulb for you.