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2700k Vs 3000k Light Color Temperature – The Differences And Choosing Between 2700k And 3000k

May 4, 2023

When choosing lighting equipment, you must have wondered at least once between a color temperature of 2700K or 3000K. Both color temperatures provide a warm white feel. However, if you look closely, you may notice a slight difference.

If you need clarification on the most suitable type of lamp, refer to the information below.

2700k light

Brighten up your space with cozy ambiance of 2700k lights
Brighten up your space with cozy ambiance of 2700k lights

Incandescent bulbs are one of the typical 2700K light bulbs. What does 2700k mean in lighting? This number represents the heat the lamp emits when it reaches maximum brightness.

Currently, in addition to incandescent lamps, you can also find some 2700 kelvin lights. Its light output is similar to that of a traditional incandescent bulb.

The 2700K incandescent lamp emits a rather pleasant light. In addition to white, the lamp also emits yellow and orange, creating a relaxing and cozy space.

This color is quite a suitable choice for the living room and bedroom. However, installation in an area where you need to perform many tasks, such as the kitchen, will not be ideal.

2700K light is often used in residential settings, such as homes because it creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

It is also commonly used in restaurants, hotels, and other hospitality settings to create a cozy and relaxing ambiance. Additionally, it is often used in retail locations to highlight specific products or create a particular mood.

One of the benefits of 2700K light is that it can help to create a warm and comfortable environment.

It is because the color of the light is similar to that of a traditional incandescent light bulb, which is often associated with a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Additionally, 2700K light can create a sense of relaxation, making it a good choice for bedrooms, living rooms, and other areas where people want to unwind.

3000k light

Get comfy with 3000k warm white light
Get comfy with 3000k warm white light

Most halogen bulbs today emit light with a minimum temperature of 3000K.

On the Kelvin scale, 3000K is still considered warm light. However, it still needs to be warmer than a 2700K bulb.

In return, the bulb has a relatively neutral light. The yellow, orange glow of the lower lamp. As a result, it looks sharper and cleaner.

This property allows the 3000k color temperature to meet the needs of the professional environment. It is very suitable for kitchen, bathroom, and home office installation.

If you’re looking for a warm, comfortable light, the 3000K may not be the best choice.

Lumens or lux units are used to measure light intensity. Lumens quantify the total quantity of visible light output by a light source, whereas lux measures the amount of light that falls on a surface per unit area.

The human eye can see a wide range of light intensities, from a single photon to intense sunshine.

There are several different ways that light interacts with materials, such as reflection, refraction, and absorption.

When light reflects off a surface, such as a mirror or a glossy item, reflection takes place. Refraction happens when light bends through a transparent object like a prism or lens. Absorption occurs when a substance, such as a black surface or colorful pigment, absorbs light.

Different between 2700k and 3000k

The two main criteria distinguishing 2700K and 3000K are the Kelvin scale and blue light.

Based on the Kelvin scale

You can differ 2700k and 3000k color temperature based on Kelvin Scale

There is no considerable temperature change between 2700K and 3000K. If you look closely, it is easier for you to spot this difference.

Only by placing them side by side can you see that the 3000K lamp has a more pure and neutral white.

You can combine these two lights in the same space and get the desired effect. For example, you install a 2700K light in your classic kitchen.

To ensure aesthetics and practicality, you must install more than 3000K lights in the kitchen area or under the cabinets.

Blue light

The blue light produced between the two might be different from each other
The blue light produced between the two might be different from each other

Difference between 2700k and 3000k in the amount of blue light.

Most lighting sources today including LED produce blue light. This type of light can reduce melatonin, a hormone that affects the quality of sleep and the state of relaxation of humans.

The higher the color temperature, the more blue light it emits. Therefore, a 3000k light temperature typically produces more light than a 2700K lamp.

You should remove all lights with a color temperature above 3000K, so sleep is not affected. You shouldn’t because the difference between lamps with 2700K and 3000K color temperatures is negligible.

The amount of blue light of 3000K is still acceptable, especially compared to the light from phone and tablet screens.

These devices you use daily have a maximum color temperature of up to 6500K, meaning a large amount of blue light is produced.

The adverse effects of blue light are also affected by the brightness, the proximity of the bulb to your eyes, and the length of time you are exposed to the light source.

If you keep the proper distance and don’t expose yourself to blue light for a long time, you don’t need to worry too much about sleep or vision problems.

Using color rendering index (CRI)

Choose the correct color temperature with CRI
Choose the correct color temperature with CRI

You can use the CRI, the color rendering index, to select an accurate color temperature.

The CRI scale takes sunlight as a landmark. The maximum score is 100—the higher the CRI index, the more pronounced the difference in a light color.

Specifically, a CRI that is too low can cause a 2700K bulb to emit a slightly yellowish light. At this time, all objects under the light source will be blurred.

You get the desired color accuracy with the high CRI option 3000K bulbs. This light will help you see all colors and details when applying makeup in the bathroom.

In general, with high-quality lighting equipment with a good CRI index, the colors of objects under the light source are enhanced.

For example, under a light with a CRI of 90, apples at the store will have an eye-catching bright red color.

A high-quality bulb will have a CRI of at least 80. For the best user experience, you should look for a bulb with a CRI of 90 to 92 or higher.

When choosing a light bulb, you should pay extra attention to the CRI criteria on the product packaging. Two bulbs can have the same color temperature but differ in their CRI.

Which color temperature is suitable for your space?

2700K and 3000K lighting are pretty much the same. However, in some cases, the 2700K bulb gives a better user experience and vice versa.

So 2700 vs 3000 kelvin, which is better for your room? Choosing to install any light bulb depends on your preference. But it would help if you referred to some of the guidelines below to make the best choice.

3000k shall be a perfect option for modern bathrooms
3000k shall be a perfect option for modern bathrooms

Bright, clean, and fresh are the requirements of the majority of bathroom users. Lighting must be honest and sharp so that the skin and objects in the room are natural.

So 2700k vs 3000k bathroom, which is the best choice?

Color temperature from 3000K will meet the requirements of users well. This type of light is quite similar to the color of sunlight. When relaxing in the bathroom, every object before you is precise and natural.

In contrast, light with a color temperature of 2700K would not be ideal for mirroring. The orange and yellow hues of the lights make it difficult to see clearly. This problem will make you uncomfortable, especially when shaving or wearing makeup.

However, the suggestions above are our suggestions. Your final choice depends on personal preference.

2700k light or 3000k light for kitchens

Why not combining both 2700k and 3000k creating a stunning kitchen
Why not combining both 2700k and 3000k creating a stunning kitchen

The kitchen is a multi-purpose area that plays a vital role in the apartment. When choosing lights for this room, you will have more considerations than the lights in the bathroom.

For limited-size kitchens, warm white light with a temperature of 3000K will be worth considering.

All objects under the light are realistic, inspiring works. This type is also quite suitable for traditional kitchens with dark wood cabinets.

With a large kitchen, the 2700K lamp will create warmth. Your kitchen will always feel inviting instead of too cold.

You should not use 2700K lights for kitchens with white cabinets. Accordingly, warm sunshine can make cabinets look dull, not as white as you would like.

Interestingly, you can use both types of light bulbs in the kitchen.

The 2700K LED is very suitable to be the leading light of the kitchen, used for ambient lighting.

Meanwhile, in the area under the cabinet and the tabletop, you should use 3000K lights. This type will provide enough brightness to complete the critical task.

2700k light or 3000k light for bedrooms

both 2700k and 3000k can be perfect for bedroom but beware of blue light!
both 2700k and 3000k can be perfect for bedroom but beware of blue light!

The bedroom is a private area, a place to relax and rest. And both 2700K and 3000K lamps can meet these requirements. Because both emit soft white, and warm white light, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Choosing 2700K or 3000K depends a lot on individual needs. The 2700K lamp will suit those looking for a slightly warmer atmosphere.

Meanwhile, 3000K color temperature lamps will provide softer light. This color will sometimes be bright, keeping you awake and ready. It will be the perfect reading light for the whole room instead of general light.

When choosing bedroom lights, you must pay special attention to blue light. The blue light from 2700K – 3000K lamps is much smaller than that of ordinary 4000K light and 5000K.

However, prolonged exposure to blue light bulbs can reduce melatonin levels, causing sleep disturbances.

If you habitually read books or do some personal things before going to bed, you should not leave the 3000K lamp too close. It can make it difficult to fall asleep.

2700k light or 3000k light for living rooms

Transforming your living to the coziest hoven with 3000k color temperature
Transforming your living to the coziest hoven with 3000k color temperature

Both 2700K and 3000K lights are suitable for installation in the living room.

The 2700K lamp has a yellow-orange light that will warm the feeling. When the whole family gathers in the living room, the feeling that this lamp brings is definitely what you are always looking for.

This bulb is also very suitable for use when participating in recreational activities. The relaxing feeling it brings will make you more interested in watching TV and playing video games.

There are many advantages, but the 2700K bulb would not be suitable for installation in a living room that does not receive a lot of natural light. Instead, it would help if you used 3000K lights to keep the living room bright and fresh.

You may want to change the lighting in your living room to match better the atmosphere you want to have.

At this point, you can combine using both types of lights. A dimmer switch will help you adjust the lighting in the living room.

2700k light or 3000k light for closet

Perfect lighting source for closet for a perfect vibe the whole day
Perfect lighting source for closet for a perfect vibe the whole day

In a dressing room, a lamp with a higher brightness, like 3000K, is the smartest choice.

Under the lights, your clothes always have the brightest, most realistic colors. You also have enough brightness to accurately distinguish the type of clothing, thereby making the right choice.

Let’s now think about the variables that might affect a restaurant closet’s decision about the light temperature. The closet’s intended use is one crucial element.

A lower temperature of 2700K can be OK if it’s a storage space that isn’t used regularly. It would give the closet a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for areas that are not frequently utilized.

A higher temperature of 3000K is preferable if the closet keeps food or supplies that must be accessed often.

The light is brighter and more brilliant at this temperature, making viewing and locating objects in the closet simpler.

2700k light or 3000k light for restaurant

2700k suits really well with a restaurant chasing a romance vibe

You’ll want your restaurant to have a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

In this area, what is better 2700k or 3000k?

Lamps with 2700K light, like incandescent bulbs, will meet your requirements.

This type increases the brightness of the environment but is not too bright. It is a suitable choice for a space with a warm primary color.

Using 2700k lighting has the advantage of enhancing the color and appeal of food.

Customers may find the meal to be more appetizing because of how the warm tones of the light might accentuate the dish’s colors. Additionally, 2700k lighting may produce a tranquil atmosphere that tempts patrons to linger longer, increasing the restaurant’s income.

Some restaurants have a modern style. In this case, you can choose a 3000K lamp.

Enough brightness to light up the entire restaurant is one advantage of employing 3000k light. Customers may find it simpler to read menus, view their food clearly, and even snap pictures of their meals under this lighting.

Furthermore, 3000k light may produce a more welcoming environment that entices visitors to enter and remain longer.

However, employing 3000k light at a restaurant could have some adverse effects.

This lighting style might not be appropriate for restaurants that wish to create a more private or romantic atmosphere.

These are just some of our recommendations. It would help if you considered the architectural style of the restaurant and the food type you serve,

2700k light or 3000k light for landscape lighting

have you ever though of a dreamy landscape with 2700k torch light
Have you ever though of a dreamy landscape with 2700k torch lights :p

Each type of light can bring a different atmosphere to the port.

If you want your landscape to have a cozy, relaxing atmosphere, illuminate your landscape with 2700K lights. Conversely, 3000k lighting temperature will give the space a modern and sleek feel.

It will highlight walls, walkways, and other complex scenes. Every object illuminated under the 3000K lamp has a brilliant and impressive effect.

3000K light is a slightly cooler white light that has a neutral or soft white hue. This color temperature is often associated with halogen bulbs and is commonly used in commercial and outdoor lighting applications.

Also, 3000K light creates a bright and vibrant atmosphere and is often used in outdoor landscapes to illuminate pathways, driveways, and other high-traffic areas.

And if you are having trouble with annoying bugs in your landscape, then 2700k and 3000k would be perfect options for your landscape due to the fact that insects are normally got attracted by cold rays of light while 2700k to 3000k offers a cozy one. Find out more at: Do LEDs attract bugs

In conclusion

The two biggest differences between 2700K and 3000K lamps are color temperature and blue light.

The 2700K lamp has a warmer color temperature, producing lower blue light. In contrast, 3000K produces more blue light and has bright, vibrant colors.

In some cases, the 2700K and 3000K lamps are interchangeable. There is not much difference in the light and atmosphere the lamp brings.

The 2700K lamp is recommended to create a warm, relaxing atmosphere. The 3000K lamp will be a perfect choice if you pursue a fresh, modern style.

The suggestions Emberlight made above are indicative only. Depending on your preferences and usage needs, you must make your own decision.

Lexii is a marketing creative with 6 years in Event, Product, and Social media marketing. She has assisted with coordinating and managing marketing campaigns for Procter & Gamble, and assisted with growth of smaller CPG brands on a national level.

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