Lighting Color Temperature - Overview

Color temperature refers to how warm or cool a bulb’s color appears. The lower the Kelvin rating, the warmer the bulb will appear; the higher the rating, the cooler, and seemingly brighter, the bulb will appear.

Warm white lighting will have a Kelvin temperature of 2700K. This temperature promotes a warm and cozy environment and is best utilized in restaurants, hotel lobbies and homes.

Soft white lighting will have a Kelvin temperature of 3000K. Is best used in homes, retail settings and restaurants to create an intimate and personal space.

Neutral white lighting will have a Kelvin temperature of 3500K. It is ideal for reception areas, retail settings and homes where you want it to feel friendly, inviting and non-threatening.

Cool white lighting will have a Kelvin temperature between 4000K-4200K. It is commonly used in conference rooms, classrooms and hospitals. It has the appearance of pure white and will make a room feel neat, clean and efficient.

Finally, daylight lighting will have a Kelvin temperature of 5000K and higher. It is best used in warehouses, medical exam rooms, museums and print shops. It is very bright, which promotes alertness and is exceptional at representing colors correctly.