Difference between a Flood Light and a Regular Bulb?

by Vipul Singh
Posted: Aug 13, 2024

Lighting is an important aspect for any space. It can set the atmosphere, the vibe and enhance the functionality of the space. But, not all light bulbs are made equal. There are various types of light bulbs that differ in shape, size, wattage, brightness and function. With the technological advancements in this industry we can have a debate between floodlights and regular bulbs. While both stand as an excellent lighting option; however, both serve different purposes and efficiency. Through this blog, we’ll discuss the difference between a flood light and a regular bulb.

What is a floodlight and a regular bulb?

Floodlights emit a broad beam of light that can spread over a large area.

These lights are usually the right fit for lighting outdoors like landscape, security, and architectural lighting.

For indoors, these lights are perfect as track lighting or recessed lights to create an extraordinary or accent lighting.

Flood light bulbs are available in various shapes and sizes like PAR, BR, or R. They also come in various wattages and luminosities, for example 50W LED Flood light that gives desired brightness and the coverage.

Regular light bulbs create an extremely narrow light that illuminates a limited space.

They usually work well as table lamps or chandeliers to light indoor areas.

Regular light bulbs come in a variety of sizes and shapes.

They also come in various wattages and brightness levels depending on the brightness level you want.

How is flood light different from a regular bulb?The major difference between a floodlight and a regular bulb lies in the fact that floodlights were designed to brighten large areas, usually outdoors, or commercial areas. They are larger with more beam angles, and produce more light.

Key Differences

Size – flood lights are bigger

Shape – flood lights have a wider beam

Wattage – flood lights draw more power

Luminosity – floodlights generate much more light

Purpose – flood lights are great for commercial or outdoor setting

Voltage – flood lights tend to use mains voltage, while regular bulbs (but not all) are low voltage.

Flood Light Vs Regular Bulb

StructureThe fundamental operation or method that they create light differs from one another. A regular bulb is simple that creates light by transferring electricity to the bulb, resulting in an illuminating glow inside a filament made of tungsten. Flood lights produce light by charging electrons inside the gas inside an arc tube. The arc tube is in the sealed vacuum.

LifespanFor longevity, there is no debate between these two kinds of lighting. LED Flood Lights are way more efficient than regular bulbs. The original standard bulb from the 19th century lasted around 1,000 hours.

Nowadays, bulbs are getting significantly better and improved to 2,000 hours for most efficient ones. However, the lifespan of floodlights is about 24,000 hours depending on the type of gas that they operate on.

UsesRegular bulbs are akin and not rivals to flood lights since both serve different purposes. The regular ones are widely in use indoors or limited areas like in lamps, desks and homes. Flood Lights are very powerful and can shine covering a wider area.

This makes it an excellent pick for outdoor use that is commonly used in stadium, or street lamp lighting and more.

EfficiencyFlood Light technology is among more efficient light styles worldwide. If placed side-by-side with regular bulbs, flood lights operate with up to 90% more effectiveness.

Which is better?

Ambiance and VersatilityThe decision is contingent depending on the ambiance you wish to create. Regular bulbs work well in general light, whereas flood lights are great for creating focal points, and highlighting particular aspects.

Energy Efficiency and LongevityBoth options are energy efficient. LED technology, regardless of type, is a good longer-term purchase.

Task-Oriented LightingIf the task demands focused illumination, flood lighting is the best option. For general tasks for already lit areas, regular bulbs suit better.

Aesthetic ConsiderationsThis decision depends on the vibe you're looking for. Regular bulbs provide good options of colors for ambience and flood lights can be effective in creating focal points for the eye.

BudgetConsider the affordability of both the products in the short-term and long-term benefits. While regular bulbs may appear more affordable at first but the long-term durability and effectiveness of LED flood lights makes them economical over the longer span.

Wrapping Up!

We tried our best to cover everything relatable about how both lighting options are different from each other. We can conclude by saying that flood lights and regular bulbs are two different lighting options with variation in their features, structure, purposes and efficiency.

Your ideal choice depends on your usage purpose and area you like to illuminate. With our above discussion, we’re sure that you will be able to decide better on your lighting pick.

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Vipul Singh

Member since: Aug 09, 2024
Published articles: 1