What do R50, R63, R80 and R95 mean on a LED light bulb?

Reflector bulbs are available in a number of different sizes and this is dictated by their description.  You will see designations such as R50, R63, R80, and R95 when you are looking at a reflector bulb.  This refers to the size and shape of reflector light bulbs.  Reflector bulbs are a type of bulb that directs light forward using an internal reflective surface. The “R” stands for “reflector,” which refers to the type of lamp. The number that follows the “R” refers to the diameter of the bulb in millimetres.  A R50 lamp for example would have a diameter of 50mm.  Choosing the right size lamp will be key to making sure the lamp fits within your fitting and looks how you intend it to.  

Smaller reflector bulbs such as R50 and R63 are often used in compact fittings.  This includes desk lamps, small recessed lights, or under-cabinet installations. The smaller size of these lamps makes them a great choice for applications with a limited space where directional lighting is needed.

Larger bulbs like R80 and R95 will be found more in ceiling fixtures, downlights, and some flood lighting applications. The larger surface area of these bulbs allows them to produce a broader beam of light.  This makes them suitable for lighting up larger spaces such as living rooms, kitchens, or commercial/business environments.

LED reflector bulbs are also available in various brightness levels and colour temperatures.  The lumens are a measure of brightness for this type of bulb and this should be made clear on the packaging or the website you are purchasing the bulb from.  This also applies to the colour temperature which can range from 2700k (very warm white) to 6500k (daylight).  This allows you to choose the right bulb to suit your lighting to your chosen environment.  A warmer light will be suitable for an ambient and relaxing atmosphere and a cooler colour is what you would want to choose for task-orientated/focused spaces.

When switching from traditional halogen or incandescent reflector bulbs to LED versions you should make sure that your replacement bulb has the same base type.  The base type refers to how the bulb connects to the light fitting.  This will be described on the bulb as E14, E27, B22 or B15.  As long as this description matches on both bulbs the replacement should fit into your lighting fixture.

The codes R50, R63, R80 and R95 will help you to choose the correct bulb for your needs.  It lets you know the size of the diameter of the lamp and when you combine this with the code for the base (such as E27 or B22) you can be sure you have chosen the correct bulb to fit.  The lumens and the colour temperature of these bulbs will determine the brightness and the colour given out by the light.