BR LED Bulbs

BR and PAR Light Bulbs Explained: Choosing the Right Reflector Bulb

BR and PAR light bulbs are reflector-style bulbs designed to control beam spread and light direction. Commonly used in recessed lighting, track lighting, and outdoor fixtures, these bulbs serve different lighting purposes depending on beam angle, light distribution, and application.

Understanding the difference between BR (Bulged Reflector) and PAR (Parabolic Aluminized Reflector) bulbs helps ensure proper light coverage, efficiency, and visual comfort in residential and commercial spaces.

What Is a BR (Bulged Reflector) Light Bulb?

A BR bulb is a Bulged Reflector bulb designed to produce a wide, soft beam of diffused light. BR bulbs evolved from older R (Reflector) bulbs and are now the preferred standard due to improved efficiency and better light control.

The defining feature of a BR bulb is the bulged neck, which extends the internal reflective surface. This design redirects more light forward instead of allowing it to escape toward the base, resulting in improved brightness and lumen efficiency compared to traditional R bulbs.

Key Characteristics of BR Bulbs

• Wide beam spread for general illumination
  
  
• Soft, even light distribution
  
  
• Ideal for recessed can lighting and ambient lighting
  
  
• Lightweight glass construction
  
  
• Commonly used indoors
  
  

BR bulbs are designed to fill larger areas with uniform light rather than concentrate illumination in a specific spot.

BR20, BR30, and BR40 Bulbs Explained

The bulb code consists of a number after letters R or BR such as 20, 30, 40, etc. This is a measurement of the widest part of the bulb, broken down into eighths of an inch. 

The number in a BR bulb code refers to the bulb’s diameter, measured in eighths of an inch.

• BR20: 20/8 inches (2.5") diameter – small recessed fixtures
  
  
• BR30: 30/8 inches (3.75") diameter – standard residential recessed lighting
  
  
• BR40: 40/8 inches (5") diameter – large fixtures and high ceilings
  
  

The size affects fixture compatibility and beam coverage, not the screw base. Most BR bulbs use a medium E26 base and are interchangeable if the fixture opening allows the diameter.The code does not refer to the screw type or size. Both BR30 and BR40 bulbs are interchangeable into the same slot, provided the width fits in the available fixture.

LED BR Bulbs and Energy Efficiency

As with all LED technology versus the traditional filament bulbs, LED BR bulbs are much more energy-efficient and long-lasting.A 65–90 watt BR type incandescent or halogen bulb is designed to replace a 15–18 watt BR type LED bulb, with the latter having a life span of more than 20 years if used three hours per day.

As a general idea, a BR40 bulb usually has a higher wattage. It should be used in higher ceilings and bigger fixtures for a more filled-out light, while a BR30 is designed for a standard height ceiling.

Choosing Between BR and PAR Bulbs

Choose a BR bulb if you need:

• Even illumination across a room
  
  
• Soft, comfortable ambient lighting
  
  
• Recessed ceiling lighting for living spaces
  
  

Choose a PAR bulb if you need:

• Directional or accent lighting
  
  
• Highlighting objects or architectural features
  
  
• Outdoor or wet-location-rated performance
  
  

PAR bulbs use a parabolic aluminized reflector to produce a more focused, controlled beam, making them ideal for spotlighting and exterior applications.

LED BR and PAR Bulbs from Lighting and Supplies

Lighting and Supplies offers a comprehensive selection of LED BR and PAR bulbs.
Our LED reflector bulbs are selected for:

• High lumen efficiency
  
  
• Consistent beam control
  
  
• Long service life
  
  
• Compatibility with U.S. fixtures and standards

Explore our BR and PAR LED bulb selection to find the right reflector bulb for your lighting application.