LED spotlight have become increasingly popular in recent years as an energy-efficient lighting solution. One important aspect to consider when choosing the right spotlight is the beam angle, which refers to the angle of the light beam emitted by the LED light. Here, we’ll dive into the details of beam angle for LED spotlights, including its significance, types, calculation, and relationship with brightness.
What is beam angle?
The beam angle is the measurement of the light’s distribution. The value for beam angle is actually the point at which the light output from the fitting has reduced to 50 percent of the value of the total light output from the fitting. What this basically means is that the space within the beam angle is where the light output is the most intense knowing this means that you can use specific spotlights for specific purposes. And Beam angles are measured in degrees.
Why is Beam Angle Significant for LED Spotlight?
The beam angle is an important factor in determining the coverage area and intensity of the light emitted by the LED spotlight. A narrow beam angle of 15-30 degrees provides focused light, ideal for highlighting specific objects or areas. In contrast, a wide beam angle of 45-120 degrees provides broader coverage, perfect for ambient lighting. Choosing the right beam angle is crucial as it can impact the functionality and ambiance of your space.
How Many Types of Beam Angles Does LED Spotlight Have?
LED spotlight come in different beam angles, ranging from narrow to wide.
Narrow beam angle <20°, which is suitable for highlighting specific objects.
Medium beam angle from 20°-40°, which is ideal for general or task lighting.
Wide beam angle >40°, which is perfect for ambient lighting in large areas.
Different beam angles produce different effects on the illuminated object: the illuminated surface is different, and the shadow on the back is also different.
The distance between the lamp and the wall should be between 20-40cm, and 30-40cm is the best. The size of the beam angle has little effect on the wall washing effect. It is recommended not to use lamps with a beam angle of less than 24° to wash the wall in the home environment, and the distance between the lamps is recommended to be 1-1.5 meters. It is especially reminded that the wall washing allows the light to be refracted through the wall to turn direct lighting into indirect lighting, which relieves visual fatigue and protects eyesight.
Beam angle formula
If you already know below data, you can calculate the beam angle yourself without much effort.
Description of variables:
α: Beam angle
Ø: Diameter of the object or surface to be illuminated
d: Distance between lamp and object or surface
arctan: Inverse function of the tangent for angle calculation
There are also some online calculator can help you calculate the beam angle.
Relationship Between Beam Angle and Brightness
The beam angle also affects the brightness of the LED spotlight. A narrow beam angle provides more concentrated light and appears brighter than a wider beam angle, which spreads the light across a broader area. However, the brightness also depends on the lumen output, color temperature, and other factors.
Here’s a picture to help you understand the relationship among distance, brightness and beam angle more clearly.
LED Spotlights for Residential Use
LED spotlights are ideal for residential use, providing energy-efficient lighting solutions that help lower energy consumption and reduce electricity bills. They’re perfect for illuminating specific areas in the home, such as artworks, bookshelves, or kitchen counter-tops. Choosing the right beam angle can enhance the ambiance and functionality of your home.
LED Spotlights for Commercial Settings
LED spotlights are also suitable for commercial settings, such as retail stores, museums, and galleries. They provide bright, energy-efficient lighting solutions that enhance the visual appeal of products and exhibits. Choosing the right beam angle can create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for customers and visitors.
Conclusion
Beam angle for LED spotlight is an essential factor to consider when selecting the right lighting solution for your space. It determines the coverage area and intensity of the light emitted by the LED spotlight, impacting functionality and ambiance. Select the right beam angle based on your lighting requirements, distance, and desired brightness level. LED spotlights are an excellent energy-efficient lighting solution for residential and commercial settings, providing bright and focused lighting that enhances the visual appeal of any space.