No, daylight bulbs are not yellow; they produce light that is perceived as bright white.
Understanding Light Color Temperature
The color of light produced by a bulb is measured on a scale called color temperature, expressed in Kelvin (K). This scale helps us describe how "warm" or "cool" the light appears. A lower Kelvin number indicates a warmer, more yellow or orange light, while a higher Kelvin number indicates a cooler, more white or blue light. The main difference between different types of white bulbs is this color temperature.
Daylight vs. Soft White Bulbs: The Key Difference
According to the reference provided, the distinction in color appearance is directly tied to their Kelvin rating:
- Daylight bulbs have a color temperature that measures between 5,000K and 6,000K. This high Kelvin range results in light that is perceived as bright white, closely mimicking natural daylight conditions around noon.
- Soft white bulbs, in contrast, have a much lower color temperature, measuring 2,700K to 3,000K. This lower range produces a light that casts a warm, yellowish glow.
This means that while soft white bulbs give off a yellowish light, daylight bulbs are specifically designed to emit a bright white light, distinguishing them from yellow-toned options.
Here's a simple comparison based on the reference:
| Bulb Type | Color Temperature | Perceived Light Color |
|---|---|---|
| Daylight | 5,000K - 6,000K | Bright white |
| Soft White | 2,700K - 3,000K | Warm, yellowish glow |
Understanding color temperature helps in choosing the right light bulb for different purposes or moods in a space. For task lighting or areas where a crisp, clear light is desired, the bright white of a daylight bulb (5,000K-6,000K) is often preferred. For creating a cozy or traditional ambiance, the warm, yellowish light of a soft white bulb (2,700K-3,000K) is typically chosen.
