MR16 bulbs and beam angles

Some bulbs have specifications concerning the reflection angle. The bulb reflector determinates the beam angle. For example, MR16 bulb is available with different beam angle: 25, 35 etc.

Higher is the beam angle, wider is the light reflection (less focused). On a contrary, lower is the beam angle, narrower is the light reflection (more focused spot light). Note: ceiling height also has an impact on perception of lighting.

Abbreviations fo beam angles:

  • VNSP : Very narrow spot
  • NSP : Narrow spot (7 to 10 degrees)
  • SP : Spot
  • NFL : Narrow flood
  • FL : Flood (general lighting, 38 to 42 degrees)
  • WFL : Wide flood
  • VWFL : Very wide flood