PAR30 vs BR30 Bulbs: What’s the Difference & How to Choose?

When you are in the market looking to buy a bulb, the two options that will confuse you the most are PAR30 and BR30.

The bulbs may appear the same; however, the key features, i.e., beam angle and applications of these bulbs, are entirely different.

This guide will help you understand the difference between PAR30 and BR30 bulbs and will guide you in choosing the right one. So read on:

What Does PAR and BR Stand For?

PAR stands for parabolic aluminized reflector, and BR stands for bulged reflector. These terms explain the shape and function of the bulb’s internal reflector.

An internal reflector directs and focuses light in a specific direction, helping to guide the lightpath.

The parabolic shape of PAR bulbs offers a narrow and focused light beam. This light beam makes these bulbs ideal for spotlighting and focused lighting.

Alternatively, the bulged shape of the BR LED bulbs produces a wide and soft light beam, making them an ideal source of lighting for your residential and commercial property.

The reflector defines the light path and its intensity. Thus, it is important to choose a reflector that matches your lighting requirements.

What’s the difference between PAR and BR Bulbs?

The main differences between these two types of light bulbs are explained below. Read them to make an informed lighting decision:

1. Size and Numbering – Explained

The main difference between these bulbs is in terms of their size. The numeric digits that follow the PAR or BR in light bulb codes define the size of bulbs.

For example, in PAR30 and BR30, 30 represents the bulb’s diameter, measured in eighths of an inch, i.e., 30/8 = 3.75”.

Both the PAR30 and BR30 bulbs share the same diameter, but differ from one another based on the light beams they offer. PAR38 LED bulbs, however, are wider as compared to BR30 LED lamps, as their diameter is measured as 38/8 = 4.75”.

A BR30 vs BR40 vs PAR38 bulb size comparison table with diameter in inches is given below to help readers quickly figure out the right choice:

2. Beam Angle & Light Output Comparison

The PAR38 vs BR40 bulbs also differentiate from one another based on their light distribution. PAR30 or PAR38 bulbs generate a narrow and focused beam, normally around 40°. This is the reason why these bulbs are ideal for spotlighting and focus lighting. 

On the other hand, the reflector type used in BR light bulbs produces a wider and softer light beam. The wider light distribution makes BR30 ideal for flood lighting.

So, if you need to highlight something, opt for PAR, and if you want to light up the entire space, choose BR. The table below will further help you in understanding the difference between these two types:

3. Uses

The other main difference between BR30 and PAR38 bulbs is in their intended uses. Parabolic aluminized reflector bulbs are typically used in outdoor lighting fixtures, security lighting, and track lights.

PAR38 bulbs are often wet-rated and thus are safe for outdoor use. BR LED lamps are ideally used indoors.

4. Energy & Features

Par30 vs PAR38 vs BR30 bulbs, all are available in LED versions. The LED version consumes less energy and delivers better lighting compared to the incandescent light bulbs.

We can say that advancements in LED technology have contributed to making PAR and BR even more popular.

Also, the smart LED bulbs offer dimmable options, are compatible with smart home systems, and offer a high colour rendering index. Higher CRI light bulbs display vibrant and natural colours, and are thus preferred over the low CRI light bulbs.

5. Colour Temperature

Colour temperature refers to how cool or warm the light appears to the human eye. PAR and BR light bulbs come in a wide range of color temperatures (i.e., from 2200K–6500K).

• Warm White (2700K–3000K): Offers a soft and cozy glow that’s perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere in living rooms, bedrooms, and other lounge spaces.

• Cool White (3500K–4100K): Offers a clean, bright light that produces enough visibility without being harsh. Best for use in the kitchen and bathroom lighting, where clarity and focus are important.

• Daylight (5000K–6500K): Close to natural sunlight, ideal for task lighting, garages, and areas that require high lumens and color accuracy.

Both PAR and BR bulbs come in different colour temperature ranges; you need to choose the one with the color temperature that best suits your requirements.

BR30 vs PAR38: Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing the right bulb type is a simple task, but a crucial one. With BR30, PAR38, A19, and more options available, choosing the right bulb can be tricky.

To make the right decision, one needs to consider multiple factors, including the lighting need, base type, voltage requirement, and fixture compatibility.

PAR30 and BR LED lamps are both excellent sources of light. The following points will help you in identifying the right type of bulb for your needs:

1. Recessed or Outdoor Fixture

For recessed or indoor fixtures, BR light bulbs are ideal as they offer a wide beam that illuminates the whole area softly. BR light bulbs work well in living rooms, some chandeliers, and recessed lighting. 

In case you want a light bulb for your outdoor lighting fixtures, then PAR30 bulbs are your go-to choice. PAR bulbs are often water-resistant, durable, and can function well in outdoor settings. The narrow light beam produced by these bulbs is great for security lighting.

2. Brightness Requirements

In case you need brighter light or want to highlight any artwork using light, then parabolic aluminised reflector bulbs are the best option. These bulbs offer more brightness as compared to BR light bulbs.

In case you need moderate or soft lighting, then you should choose BR bulbs. These bulbs typically offer wide and uniform light to illuminate the whole place.

3. Beam Type

As discussed before, choose PAR light bulbs for focused lighting, whereas if you need soft lighting, then you should opt for a BR light bulb.

4. Ceiling Height

If your ceiling height is less than 9 feet, then you should choose the BR30 bulb, as the wide beam produced by the bulged reflector lights up the whole area softly.

However, if your ceiling height is more than 9 feet, then you cannot choose BR light bulbs. The PAR bulbs offer narrower spot lighting, thus function well in areas where the ceiling is higher than 9 ft.

Conclusion

Both the PAR30 and BR30 light bulbs are ideal sources of light. Though the same in size, these bulbs differentiate from one another based on the beam they produce. PAR bulbs produce a narrow beam, whereas BR LED bulbs produce a wider beam.

Both these bulbs have LED versions available, which are more energy efficient as compared to incandescent lights and halogen bulbs.

While comparing different bulbs, including E26 vs BR30 vs PAR 38, we can say that all these bulbs have special features and are a great source of light, but they suit different requirements.

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FAQS

Q1. What is the difference between PAR38 and BR30?

The main difference between these two bulb types is in terms of their light beam and diameter. The PAR38 bulb has a diameter of 4.75 inches, and it produces a narrow and intense light beam. 

The BR30 bulb, however, produces a wider and softer light beam and has a diameter of 3.75 inches. PAR38 suits a high ceiling, while BR30 is ideal for standard recessed fixtures.

Q2. Can I use a BR30 bulb in a PAR30 fixture?

Even though the bulbs are the same in size, it is not advised to use a BR30 bulb in a PAR30 fixture. It is always recommended to match the light bulb with the fixture type, i.e., to use BR30 bulbs only in BR30 fixtures.

Q3. What does PAR38 mean on a light bulb?

PAR38 is a bulb code that explains the size and shape of the bulb. The PAR on light bulbs indicates that the shape of the bulb is a parabolic aluminised reflector, whereas the 38 refers to the diameter of the bulb in eighths of an inch.