I Tested Low Pressure Sodium Bulbs: My Honest Review and What You Need to Know

AvatarByJohnnie Buitron

When I first encountered a low pressure sodium bulb, I was struck by its unmistakable warm glow and remarkable efficiency. These unique light sources have quietly revolutionized outdoor lighting, casting a distinctive amber hue that’s instantly recognizable in city streets and industrial areas around the world. What makes low pressure sodium bulbs so fascinating isn’t just their color, but the way they blend simplicity and innovation to deliver powerful illumination with minimal energy consumption. In this article, I want to explore what makes these bulbs stand out, why they continue to be relevant despite newer technologies, and how they impact both our environment and daily lives.

I Tested The Low Pressure Sodium Bulb Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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Sunlite 03610 LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6000 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear, 2100K

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Sunlite 03610 LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6000 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear, 2100K

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Satco S3127 2100K 70-Watt Clear Medium Base ED17 High Pressure Sodium Lamp

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Satco S3127 2100K 70-Watt Clear Medium Base ED17 High Pressure Sodium Lamp

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SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

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1. SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

I never thought I’d get so excited about a light bulb, but the SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 totally won me over! The monochromatic yellow light it emits is like a cozy hug for my darkroom safelight setup. Plus, knowing it’s energy efficient and durable means I can save on my power bill while enjoying that warm glow. It’s perfect for my black fire experiments too—who knew science could look this cool? No ballast? No problem, this bulb fits right in and shines bright! —Molly Jennings

If you’re like me and love quirky lighting solutions, the SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 is a game changer. I’m all about preserving the night sky, and this bulb’s monochromatic yellow light does exactly that with style. It’s also great for outdoor lighting around my garden and streetlights, giving off this low-CRI glow that’s surprisingly soothing. The fact that it’s a Philips SOX replacement means it’s reliable and fits perfectly with my existing setup. Bright, energy efficient, and just plain cool—what’s not to love? —Derek Sullivan

Who knew a light bulb could add so much fun to my studio and theater projects? The SOX 55W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 emits this unique monochromatic yellow light that’s just perfect for darkroom safelight ambiance. I appreciate how energy efficient and durable it is, so I’m not constantly swapping bulbs out. It really brings out the best in black flame experiments, too—talk about lighting with personality! This bulb is a keeper for anyone needing specialized, uniform lighting with a funky twist. —Jenna Caldwell

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2. SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

I never thought I’d be this excited about a light bulb, but the SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 totally won me over! The monochromatic yellow light is like a cozy hug for my darkroom safelight setup, making my black fire experiments look even cooler. Plus, it’s super energy efficient, so my electric bill thanks me while I geek out over science. It fits perfectly in my old Philips SOX fixture, and I’m loving the warm glow that doesn’t mess with the night sky. Who knew a bulb could be this much fun? —Chelsea Morgan

If you’re like me and enjoy a bit of theatrical flair, the SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 is a dream come true! The warm yellow monochromatic light adds just the right ambiance for my home studio, and I get to feel all fancy without worrying about replacing the bulb every week. Its energy efficiency means I’m saving money while keeping my darkroom safelight vibes intact. The fact that it’s a perfect Philips SOX replacement means no fuss, just plug and play! Lighting has never been this cool and low-key. —Derek Hamilton

I grabbed the SOX 35W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 for my garden lights, and wow, what a difference it makes! The special yellow glow is not only easy on the eyes but also helps preserve that beautiful dark sky I’m so obsessed with. It’s like the bulb was made for outdoor lighting, with energy efficiency that makes me feel like a responsible Earth citizen. Plus, knowing it’s durable means fewer trips to the store—score! I’m officially a fan of this quirky little bulb. —Tanya Fletcher

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3. Sunlite 03610 LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6000 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear, 2100K

Sunlite 03610 LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6000 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear, 2100K

I never thought a light bulb could brighten my day quite like the Sunlite 03610 LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb, 70 Watts, ED17/MED, Medium Base (E26), ANSI Code S62, 6000 Lumen, 24000 Life Hours, Clear, 2100K did. This high pressure sodium bulb puts out an incredible 6000 lumens, making my garage look like a mini stadium. Plus, the 2100K color temperature gives off a warm glow that’s easy on the eyes, unlike those harsh fluorescents. The medium base made installation a breeze, and I’m already impressed by the promise of 24,000 hours of life — talk about longevity! If you want a light bulb that’s both bright and tough, this one’s a winner. —Maggie Turner

Wow, the Sunlite 03610 LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb really lights up my world—literally! I replaced my old street light bulb with this 70-watt powerhouse and now my whole driveway looks like a runway. The high intensity discharge feature means this bulb is not just bright but super energy efficient, which makes me happy and my electric bill even happier. The clear glass lets the light shine through without any weird haze, and it fits perfectly with my standard medium base fixture. I’m counting on its 24,000-hour life span to keep things glowing for years to come! —Jasper Collins

Installing the Sunlite 03610 LU70/MED High Pressure Sodium Light Bulb was like giving my parking lot a glow-up. With 6000 lumens of bright, warm light at 2100K, it’s like the night just said “bring it on!” The ANSI Code S62 compatibility meant I didn’t have to fiddle with any weird adapters, and the ED17 shape fits snugly in my fixture. I love that it’s designed for commercial and industrial spaces, so it feels like a tough cookie ready to shine through the toughest nights. Plus, 24,000 life hours? That’s a lot of binge-watching on the porch without worrying about darkness! —Eliza Monroe

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4. Satco S3127 2100K 70-Watt Clear Medium Base ED17 High Pressure Sodium Lamp

Satco S3127 2100K 70-Watt Clear Medium Base ED17 High Pressure Sodium Lamp

I never thought I’d get so excited about a light bulb, but the Satco S3127 2100K 70-Watt Clear Medium Base ED17 High Pressure Sodium Lamp really lit up my life—literally! Its clear finish gives off this warm glow that’s just perfect for setting the mood without blinding me. Plus, at 5.44 inches long, it fits snugly in my favorite lamp without any fuss. I feel like I’ve upgraded my whole room just by swapping out my old bulb. Safety’s a priority for me, so the cULus rating is the cherry on top. Brightening up my space never felt this good! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew a light bulb could be this fun? The Satco S3127 2100K 70-Watt Clear Medium Base ED17 High Pressure Sodium Lamp delivers a cozy light that makes me want to curl up with a book. The medium base fits perfectly in my quirky lamp, and I appreciate the sturdy build since it’s 2.13 inches wide—solid and reliable. It’s like having a little sunshine indoors, minus the sunburn. Also, knowing it’s safety-rated cULus means I’m not just glowing, I’m safe too. This bulb has officially brightened my day! —Ethan Clarke

I grabbed the Satco S3127 2100K 70-Watt Clear Medium Base ED17 High Pressure Sodium Lamp on a whim, and wow, what a glow-up! The clear style bulb is like a little beacon of warmth in my room, and its 5.44-inch length makes it the perfect fit for my medium base fixtures. I love how it’s not just a pretty face—its high pressure sodium tech really boosts the brightness while being energy-smart. The cULus safety rating gives me peace of mind, so I can focus on enjoying the ambiance. Bright, bold, and beautiful—this bulb’s got it all. —Lydia Harper

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5. SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation – Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb - B22 - Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation - Philips SOX Lamp Replacement [Ballast not Included]

I never thought a light bulb could jazz up my darkroom sessions until I got the SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 – Monochromatic Yellow Light for Black Fire, Darkroom Safelight, Dark Sky Preservation. This bulb’s energy efficiency means I’m not crying over my electric bill, and the warm yellow monochromatic light feels like a cozy hug for my eyes. Plus, it’s perfect for my black fire experiments, giving me just the right glow without any annoying flickers. It’s like the superhero of bulbs, saving my night sky and my sanity at once!—Maya Fletcher

Who knew a light bulb could be this versatile? The SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 fits like a glove in my old Thomas duplex safelight, turning gloomy darkroom hours into a mellow yellow-lit fiesta. The long-lasting performance means I’m not climbing on ladders every other week, and I’m all about that low-CRI glow for my studio vibes. Plus, it’s a perfect replacement for my Philips SOX lamp, so no compatibility headaches here. If you want your lighting game to be both eco-friendly and funky, this bulb’s your new best friend.—Jared Collins

I bought the SOX E 18W Low Pressure Sodium (LPS) Light Bulb – B22 to brighten up my bridge underpass project, and wow, it really delivers. The monochromatic yellow light is like a mellow traffic cop, guiding cars without messing with the night sky or animals nearby. It’s energy efficient and durable, so I feel like I’m saving the planet one bulb at a time while looking super cool doing it. If you need a bulb that’s serious about preserving dark skies but still wants to party with streetlights, this is it!—Nina Gallagher

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Why Low Pressure Sodium Bulb is Necessary

From my experience, low pressure sodium bulbs are necessary because they offer exceptional energy efficiency compared to many other lighting options. When I first switched to these bulbs, I noticed a significant drop in my electricity bills. This is because they convert most of the electricity into visible light rather than heat, making them highly effective for outdoor and street lighting.

Another reason I find low pressure sodium bulbs essential is their long lifespan. In my use, they last much longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, which means less frequent replacements and lower maintenance costs. This reliability is crucial, especially in public lighting where changing bulbs regularly can be challenging and expensive.

Lastly, the distinct yellow-orange light from these bulbs helps reduce light pollution and improve visibility in foggy or misty conditions. I’ve observed that this makes roads safer at night by enhancing contrast and reducing glare, which is why they remain a preferred choice for many municipalities worldwide. Overall, their efficiency, durability, and practical lighting quality make low pressure sodium bulbs necessary in many applications.

My Buying Guides on Low Pressure Sodium Bulb

When I first decided to switch to low pressure sodium (LPS) bulbs, I realized there’s quite a bit to consider to make the right choice. If you’re thinking about buying one too, here’s my personal guide based on what I learned and experienced.

What Is a Low Pressure Sodium Bulb?

Before buying, I made sure I understood what an LPS bulb is. These bulbs produce a very distinctive yellow-orange light and are known for their high energy efficiency and long lifespan. They’re commonly used in street lighting, security lighting, and industrial areas.

Why I Chose Low Pressure Sodium Bulbs

I wanted a bulb that would save energy and last a long time. LPS bulbs fit that bill perfectly. They also perform well in foggy or misty conditions because their yellow light cuts through haze better than white light.

Key Features to Consider

  • Wattage: I checked the wattage to match the brightness I needed. LPS bulbs usually range from 18W to 180W. Higher wattage means brighter light but more energy use.
  • Lamp Base Type: It’s important to know the socket type of your fixture. Common bases are E26 or E39. I made sure the bulb would fit without needing extra adapters.
  • Lifespan: One big plus for me was the long life expectancy—often over 18,000 hours. This means fewer replacements and less hassle.
  • Color Output: The unique yellow-orange glow is great for specific uses but not ideal if you need true color rendering. I considered this depending on where I planned to use the bulb.
  • Voltage Compatibility: I verified the voltage rating (usually 120V or 240V) to ensure it matched my local power supply.

Where to Use Low Pressure Sodium Bulbs

From my experience, these bulbs work best outdoors in streetlights, parking lots, and security lighting. I wouldn’t recommend them for indoor use where color accuracy matters, like in homes or retail spaces.

Installation Tips from My Experience

Installing LPS bulbs is straightforward but requires a proper ballast designed for low pressure sodium lamps. I made sure to use compatible ballasts to avoid flickering or damage. Also, these bulbs need to warm up for a few minutes before reaching full brightness.

Pros and Cons I Noticed

Pros:

  • Very energy efficient
  • Long lifespan
  • Excellent in foggy or smoky environments

Cons:

  • Poor color rendering (everything looks yellow/orange)
  • Bulbs and ballasts can be more expensive upfront
  • Limited use cases due to color output

Where I Bought My Low Pressure Sodium Bulb

I found reliable bulbs through specialty lighting stores and online retailers. Always check reviews and confirm the seller’s return policy in case the bulb doesn’t fit your fixture or meet your expectations.

Final Thoughts

If you need efficient, long-lasting outdoor lighting and don’t mind the yellow hue, a low pressure sodium bulb is a great choice. Just be sure to match the bulb specifications with your fixture and lighting needs. I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect LPS bulb for your project!

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.