Osram and Sylvania Silverstars

[Dave Sherman]

Is there a difference between Osram and Sylvania Silverstars? I'm just curious. I've been using the Sylvania Silverstars for a while now, and despite their reputation for being short lived, I've been using them for more than a year. Since Sylvania is a division of Osram I assume they are the same bulbs.

 

[Bottom_Feeder]

From what I've read on the subject, they are two different bulbs. Osram owns Sylvania (or vice-versa), and the genuine European-made Osram Silverstars are a fantastic bulb. They have a clear coating but produce a blue/white light (if that's what you're looking for).

The Sylvania-made and branded ones are basically an Xtravision bulb with a blue coating on them. Not the same thing and not even close to the same quality.

Go to www.danielsternlighting.com for more in-depth info.

 

[Hokiefyd]

Correct, the OSRAM Silverstar is generally available in Europe and is a non-coated bulb. It doesn't specifically produce a white light, but due to the nature of its increased output, the light color is whiter than a standard halogen bulb. Sylvania's Silverstar has a blue coating, and is the one to avoid if you can help it.

 

[dparm]

Silverstars marketed in America are a bit of a scam. They're merely overdriven bulbs; elsewhere, it's a more efficient design that's brighter on the same input wattage.

The best bang for your buck in the US is the Sylvania XtraVision or Philips VisionPlus. These use different filaments that put out 20% more light.

 

[BobFout]

I've been very happy with my Osram Silverstars from PowerBulbs in the UK.

 

[Ken2]

Originally Posted By: BobFout
I've been very happy with my Osram Silverstars from PowerBulbs in the UK.

10% discount from PowerBulbs with the code RLKHQ1883