YES, integrated LED is definitely a better design! The bulb and bulb socket is a common failure point in traditional drop-in style fixtures. With integrated LEDs, the components used can be larger and more robust in the same size footprint as drop-in fixtures because you do not have to leave space for the bulb and accommodating bulb replacement.
Do you have to replace the entire fixture if it malfunctions? This depends on the manufacturer, but in many cases the fixtures are actually field serviceable and the LED board or driver can be replaced instead of having to replace the entire fixture.
Another benefit of integrated LEDs is that several manufacturers are adding dimming capabilities to the fixtures which can be accomplished through a remote control. This means the installer doesn't have to open the fixture at all to adjust brightness, and no additional inventory of lightbulbs is necessary to fine-tune the final appearance!
Another installer-favorite benefit of integrated LEDs is that the installer doesn't have to allow for time opening every fixture and installing the lightbulb on the jobsite. Simply mount the light, connect to the wire, and it's done!
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