BR30 vs. BR40: What’s the Difference?

BR30 and BR40 are two popular lighting options on the market today. While they share some similarities, knowing their differences is crucial for selecting the right solution for your space. In this article, we’ll explore the features and distinctions of both, helping you achieve the perfect lighting effect for your project.br30 vs br40

BR30 vs BR40: Differences

1. Shape

BR refers to a bulged reflector. The main difference between BR30 and BR40 is their size and shape. BR30 bulbs have a diameter of 3.75 inches, while BR40 bulbs have a diameter of 5 inches. This size difference affects their brightness, coverage area, and usage. 

When inquiring about recessed cans, the first thing you need to know is the sizes of the recessed cans. The cans on the market are generally 4", 5", or 6". For 4" cans, choose BR 30. For 5" cans, you can see a little space on all sides with BR30, there’s a small gap on all sides, while BR40 fits snugly.

Note: The shapes of LED lights may differ depending on the brand. Most of them have the traditional bell shape with either a slightly rounded head or a flat one. Suitable for indoor, outdoor, and commercial spaces, these bulbs deliver ample illumination while keeping energy costs low.

2. Brightness

Another difference between the BR30 and BR40 bulbs is the brightness.

For a building with a higher ceiling or area that needs better light coverage, the BR40 can meet the requirement much better, because it has a wider lens that spreads light across greater distances. BR30 provides focused, directional lighting, perfect for task areas and spaces where precise illumination is needed. In addition, they work much better than BR40 on dimmer switches.

BR30 bulbs produce a more focused beam, delivering higher brightness (often 40–70% more lumens compared to standard BR30 indoor lamps). Most BR30 LED bulbs stick to indoor or office settings where overly bright light may not be appropriate.

BR30 vs BR40: What They Have in Common

1. Lifespan

LED BR30 and BR40 lighting is longer-lasting than traditional incandescent bulbs. It means that you don’t have to replace them often and save money in the long run.

2. Dimming

Both BR30 and BR40 LED bulbs are dimmable, and you can adjust their brightness to create the perfect ambiance. But BR30 is often celebrated as the better model in this aspect.

3. Durability

Both types of bulbs are long-lasting. Some brands will focus more on BR40 bulbs by making their internal elements more robust and durable than BR30 bulbs. They are larger and have a more substantial build, which makes them more resistant to physical damage and wear and tear. 

4. Color Rendering

Color rendering refers to how a light source can reproduce the colors of objects in a room. Both BR30 and BR40 bulbs have excellent color rendering capabilities, with a color rendering index (CRI) of 90 or above.

BR30 VS BR40: Application

BR30 bulbs are perfect for recessed and track lighting. For some precision outdoor applications, they deliver focused illumination for spotlights, landscapes, and backyard activity areas.

With BR40, you get a more commercial brightness appropriate for offices, retail stores, restaurants, and storage facilities. They are also commonly used for accent lighting for architectural features and some artwork.

The right decision between the two LED options is going to be entirely up to the application. Measure the space and desired brightness to make selecting between the two easier.

Bonus Tip: About SYLVANIA LED High Lumen BR30 Lamp

br30 bulbWith approximately 1,450 lumens, the SYLVANIA LED High Lumen BR30 Lamp delivers bright, reliable illumination, ideal for high-ceiling fixtures, fans, and a variety of living spaces. It offers a 100W replacement that allows full dimmability down to 10% of total luminosity (given a matching switch).

Additionally, the smooth internal heat sink and LED design ensure you don’t have to worry about hot lamps overhead. That helps avoid issues traditional bulbs might cause in vacation homes, barns, and outbuildings.

LEDVANCE offers an instant-on feature that goes from complete black to full light with stable color. With over 11,000 hours of usable light that will transform your living space, the High Lumen option from SYLVANIA is the perfect choice for your next purchase.

Final Words

While BR30 and BR40 LED bulbs may look similar, they differ in several key ways. That is why it's essential to consider factors like lifespan, dimming capabilities, and durability.

If you're looking for a high-quality BR30 bulb with exceptional brightness and energy efficiency, we recommend the LEDVANCE high lumen BR30 bulb. Between the extraordinary lifespan and dimmable luminosity, this is an excellent choice for lighting in your area without significant expense. So why wait? Contact us by clicking the mail icon in the lower right corner!