If Christmas feels incomplete without that warm, golden glow twinkling around your home, you’re in the right place. While LEDs get most of the hype these days, incandescent Christmas Lights still have a loyal fan base—and for good reason. They’re cozy, nostalgic, and scream classic holiday vibes.
In this Incandescent Christmas Lights Buying Guide 2025, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know before clicking Buy Now: types, prices, energy costs, safety tips, and how to get the best deal without regretting it later. Grab a cup of hot cocoa—let’s do this.
Why Choose Incandescent Christmas Lights in 2025?
Let’s be honest. If you grew up in the ’90s or early 2000s, this is probably the kind of light you picture when someone says Christmas decorations.
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Here’s why people still prefer incandescent Christmas lights:
- Warm, soft glow that LEDs still struggle to replicate
- Smooth dimming, especially with light controllers
- Classic holiday look for trees, wreaths, and mantels
- Often cheaper upfront than premium LED sets
Yes, they’re less energy‑efficient—but for indoor décor or short holiday use, many people are totally okay with the trade‑off.
Types of Incandescent Christmas Lights
Before checking prices, you need to know what type you’re actually buying. Size and bulb shape matter a lot.
1. Mini Incandescent Lights
These are the most popular and versatile.
- Bulb size: Small (classic string lights)
- Best for: Christmas trees, garlands, railings
- Typical length: 50–150 lights per string
- Price (2025): $8–$18 per string
Best choice if: You want traditional tree lighting without overpowering the ornaments.
2. C7 Incandescent Christmas Lights
These bulbs are chunky and bold.
- Bulb size: Medium
- Best for: Outdoor rooflines, windows
- Price range: $15–$35 per set (bulbs often sold separately)
Pro tip: Double‑check if the package includes bulbs. Many C7 sets are cord‑only.
3. C9 Incandescent Christmas Lights
If you want big, bright, and unapologetically festive—this is it.
- Bulb size: Large
- Best for: Outdoor displays, commercial décor
- Average price: $25–$50 (plus bulb cost)
These use more electricity, so plan your layout wisely.
Incandescent Christmas Lights vs LED: A Quick Reality Check
Let’s address the elephant in the room.
| Feature | Incandescent | LED |
|---|---|---|
| Glow | Warm & nostalgic | Bright & crisp |
| Energy use | High | Very low |
| Price | Lower upfront | Higher upfront |
| Heat | Gets warm | Cool to touch |
| Lifespan | Shorter | Longer |
If you’re decorating indoors or for a short time, incandescent still makes sense. For long outdoor displays? LED might be the smarter call.
How Much Do Incandescent Christmas Lights Cost in 2025?
Prices have increased slightly due to manufacturing and energy costs, but they’re still affordable.
Average Prices (2025)
- Mini incandescent lights: $8–$18
- C7 strings: $15–$35
- C9 light sets: $25–$50
- Replacement bulbs: $4–$12 per pack
You’ll usually find the best prices in early November or during Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales.
Energy Cost: What Will They Add to Your Bill?
This is where people hesitate—and understandably so.
- A 100‑count mini incandescent string uses ~40 watts
- Run 5 strings for 6 hours/day = noticeable power usage
Estimated Cost
Expect an extra $5–$15 for the season for modest indoor use. Outdoor setups can cost more.
Bottom line: Not outrageous, but not energy‑friendly either.
Indoor vs Outdoor Incandescent Christmas Lights
Not all strings are created equal.
Indoor‑Only Lights
- Cheaper
- Thinner wires
- Not weatherproof
Outdoor‑Rated Lights
- Thicker insulation
- Moisture‑resistant sockets
- Slightly higher price
⚠️ Never use indoor incandescent lights outside. It’s a safety risk—and not worth it.
Safety Tips You Shouldn’t Ignore
Incandescent lights get warm. That’s part of their charm—but also their biggest risk.
- Don’t overload outlets
- Give bulbs space (especially on trees)
- Turn them off when sleeping or leaving home
- Replace broken bulbs immediately
- Avoid mixing old and new strings
If safety worries you, use incandescent lights only as accent lighting, not full-room coverage.
What to Look for Before Buying
Here’s your quick buying checklist:
✅ UL‑listed or safety certified
✅ Clear labeling for indoor/outdoor use
✅ Spare bulbs included
✅ Proper wire gauge
✅ Return or warranty policy
Don’t just chase the cheapest price—cheap wiring causes most holiday accidents.
Best Places to Buy Incandescent Christmas Lights in 2025
You’ll still find them, but inventory is shrinking each year.
- Amazon (largest selection)
- Walmart & Target (seasonal)
- Home Depot & Lowe’s
- Local hardware stores (surprisingly good quality)
Online tip: Read recent reviews—quality varies year to year.
Are Incandescent Christmas Lights Worth It in 2025?
Short answer: Yes—if you value atmosphere over efficiency.
Choose incandescent Christmas lights if:
- You love warm, vintage holiday décor
- You decorate indoors or for limited hours
- You don’t mind slightly higher energy costs
Skip them if:
- You leave lights on all night
- You decorate large outdoor areas
- Energy savings matter more than aesthetic
For many households, a mix of incandescent and LED lights is the perfect balance.
Final Thoughts
Incandescent Christmas lights may feel old‑school, but that’s exactly their charm. In 2025, they’re less about practicality and more about creating a feeling—a cozy, nostalgic Christmas that just feels right.
If that warm glow makes you smile every time you walk into the room, then honestly? They’re still worth it.
Happy decorating 🎄
