On the low end are those at 2,000 Kelvin and below, which are closest to warm, yellow candlelight. Between 2,000 and 3,000 Kelvin appears similar, though provides a more washed out, less yellow look.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the color temperature range for four of the most common types of light bulbs: Soft white light bulbs register between 2,700 and 3,000 Kelvin. They emit a soft yellow ...