Beam Angles in Outdoor Lighting: What 25°, 38°, 60°, and 120° Really Mean

Why Beam Angle Is Just as Important as Brightness

Many homeowners focus on wattage or lumens when choosing outdoor lights, but beam angle plays an equally important role in how your landscape looks at night.

At Sun Bright Lighting, we help customers understand beam angles so they can choose fixtures that deliver the right coverage without glare or wasted light.

What Is a Beam Angle?

Beam angle refers to the spread of light emitted from a fixture. A smaller angle concentrates light in one direction, while a larger angle spreads light across a wider area.

Choosing the correct beam angle helps:

  • Improve curb appeal

  • Reduce harsh lighting

  • Maximize efficiency

25° Beam Angle – Narrow and Powerful

A 25° beam creates a tight, focused spotlight.

Ideal For:

  • Tall trees

  • Vertical accents

  • Features you want to stand out

This beam angle is great for dramatic highlights but is not meant for general lighting.

38° Beam Angle – Balanced and Flexible

The 38° beam angle is one of the most popular choices for residential landscape lighting.

Ideal For:

  • Trees and shrubs

  • Architectural features

  • Entryway accents

It provides enough spread to cover features evenly while maintaining focus.

60° Beam Angle – Wider Coverage

A 60° beam angle offers broader illumination without fully becoming a floodlight.

Ideal For:

  • Garden beds

  • Medium-width trees

  • Soft accent lighting

This beam helps blend lighting elements together naturally.

120° Beam Angle – Wide Floodlighting

A 120° beam angle delivers wide, even coverage.

Ideal For:

  • Exterior walls

  • House façades

  • Walkways and open areas

This beam angle improves visibility and creates a warm, welcoming appearance.

Which Beam Angle Should You Choose?

Most outdoor lighting systems benefit from a combination of beam angles:

  • Narrow beams for accents

  • Medium beams for balance

  • Wide beams for coverage

Using only one beam angle often leads to flat or uneven lighting.

Final Tip

If your lighting looks too harsh or uneven, the issue is often beam angle — not brightness. Choosing the right spread ensures your lighting works with your home, not against it.

☀️ Browse SunBrightLighting.com for spotlights and floodlights available in multiple beam angles to build the perfect outdoor lighting setup.

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