What do you need to know about the bean angles before buying any kind of lights?
Beam angle is associated with the light coverage. It refers to the angle of light distribution from a light source. Beam angles are measured in degrees. Depending upon the beam angle how narrow or wide the light beam, and how far or close it can reach.
What is the difference between narrow and wide beam angles?
Understanding Beam Angles for Lighting Design
- Narrow Beam Angles (10°–29°):
These are concentrated beams that create sharp, focused light.
Common in spotlights or directional downlights, these beams emphasize small areas or objects (like sculptures or plants). Narrow beams also reduce light spillage, making them energy-efficient for targeted lighting applications.
- Medium Beam Angles (29°–70°):
Striking a balance between focused and diffuse lighting, medium beam angles are often used in workspaces, conference rooms, or restaurants. They offer more coverage than narrow beams but still maintain enough focus for task-specific applications like reading or working.
- Wide Beam Angles (70°–130°+):
These beams distribute light broadly and are best for ambient or general lighting. A wide beam minimizes shadows and provides even illumination across large
How to choose the right beam angles when purchasing the lights?
Choosing the appropriate beam angle ensures effective, comfortable, and energy-efficient lighting. Here is a detailed overview of how different beam angles are used.
1. Spotlighting: Narrow Beam Angles (10°–29°)**
Narrow beam angles produce sharp, focused light ideal for accenting specific objects or features.
Applications:
- Retail Displays: Highlight featured products.
- Museums & Galleries: Illuminate sculptures, paintings, or artifacts.
Benefits:
- Minimizes light spill, focusing only on the target.
- Reduces energy waste by directing light precisely.
2. Task Lighting: Medium Narrow Beam Angles (29°–46°)
This beam angle provides more focused coverage than ambient lighting, ensuring sufficient illumination for specific tasks.
Applications:
- Workstations: Desks in offices or study rooms.
- Kitchens: Illuminating countertops for food preparation.
- Vanity Mirrors: Even lighting for grooming or makeup.
- Workshops: Sufficient light for crafts or detailed work.
Benefits:
- Improves visibility and reduces eye strain.
- Provides focused, glare-free lighting for tasks.
3. General Lighting: Medium to Wide Beam Angles (46°–100°)
These angles ensure comfortable, even illumination across larger spaces for general use.
Applications:
- Living Rooms & Bedrooms: Soft lighting for daily activities.
- Offices:Uniform light distribution across open spaces.
- Classrooms: Comfortable illumination to support learning.
Benefits:
- Reduces harsh contrasts with even light spread.
- Covers large areas efficiently.
- Complements accent or task lighting for layered illumination.
4. Outdoor & Security Lighting: Very Wide Beam Angles (100°–130°+)
Floodlights and outdoor fixtures use very wide angles to maximize coverage and visibility.
Applications:
- Parking Lots: Ensure safety for pedestrians and vehicles.
- Building Façades: Highlight architecture or branding.
- Sports Fields:Provide broad illumination during events.
Benefits:
- Reduces shadows and blind spots.
- Covers large areas with fewer fixtures.
- Enhances security and safety.
