I bought these knowing they were brighter than standard halogen bulbs and they were fine. I also saw that the CRI rating was listed as 80. I think that should have been my red flag. These lamps can render colors so poorly that they remind me of old CF lamps in third world countries. Luckily I only bought four of these and was able to mix them in a halogen fixture (yes, looks a little weird looking straight at it) but at least I get a slightly more balanced light. I would return if I kept the packaging.