To identify if Christmas lights are LED, look for these signs:


Criterion | LED Lights | Incandescent Lights |
---|---|---|
Label or Packaging
|
'LED' will be marked on packaging
|
Not marked as 'LED'
|
Energy Efficiency
|
Low power consumption
|
Higher power consumption
|
Temperature
|
Stays cool to the touch
|
Can get hot
|
Bulb Size
|
Smaller and more compact
|
Larger, bulkier bulbs
|
Durability
|
More durable and less prone to breaking
|
Less durable, more prone to breaking
|
Look at the Bulb Shape and Size
- LED bulbs are often smaller, more compact, and have a plastic lens rather than glass.
- They may have a slightly squared or faceted look (to help with light diffusion).
Check the Label or Packaging
- Look for terms like “LED”, “light-emitting diode”, or “energy-saving”.
- Wattage listed will usually be much lower than incandescent lights (e.g. 4W for a long LED strand vs 40W+ for traditional).
Plug Them In and Observe
- LED lights are usually brighter and have a more focused, pinpoint glow.
- Colors might appear crisper and cooler, especially white LEDs which often have a bluish tint (unless they’re “warm white”).
- Feel the Heat
- After being on for 10–15 minutes, LEDs stay cool, while incandescent bulbs get hot to the touch.
Check the Wiring and Build
- LED sets often have rectifiers or resistors in the wiring.
- The light may also flicker slightly to the naked eye (especially in cheaper models), due to the way the power is regulated.