Fluorescent light bulbs, 4100k 5000k or 6500k?

[LoiG37]

I just got four 48" dual fluorescent light fixtures that takes T-12 bulbs.

What light temperature should I go with that will be best for detailing? 4100K, 5000K 6500K?

What do you guys have?


thanks

[dschribs]

I just put 6 light strips in my garage. I put one set in each of three strips. Ended up going with the 6500k. Bright, very day light like light. My wife has dubbed it "The Operating Room".

[paintxpert]

Almost 90 percent of the cars I do are done OUTSIDE. The Sun is the boss when it comes to detailing. If I do it inside , I always move it out if the Sun is out. The car must reflect optically perfect with no webbing or clues that the surfaces were machine polished. That is key here. Typically if you get the car looking good under flourescent lighting, which can be difficult, it will look even better outside. The brighter you have your garage the more perfect you can make your detail. At least presumably...always check it outside after completion.

[josephclemente]

I've had 6500K lights in the garage for a few years and I've never liked them. I look forward to replacing them but they'll probably last many more years. I just don't find the color to be comfortable or natural at all. They suck.

[jaynick808]

5000k is the best, and also the most expensive. 3500,4300,6500 are considerably cheaper usually.
if you go to the phillips website it explains the color rating index(CRI)

[rdorman]

For a natural daylight type of appearence I would suggest 5000k with a CRI > 90. You can't have to much light!