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Where are R80 Light Bulbs Used?

R80 light bulbs are a type of reflector lamp which are commonly used in homes and office situations for directional lighting.

a long hallway with a ceiling made of wood planks
Photo by Ondrej Supitar / Unsplash

What does R80 mean on a light bulb?

The R stands for reflector and the 80 is the diameter of the bulb.  These terms make it easier to differentiate between the other size reflector bulbs such as the R39, R50 and R63.

What is a R80 light bulb?

The R80 bulb is designed to emit light in a forwards direction and were originally made using incandescent or halogen technology, however they are now being replaced by led versions.

R80 lamps used to be in both E27 and BC caps, although the BC version is now discontinued.  The surface of a R80 allows it to be used for lighting up rooms evenly.

Where are R80 light bulbs commonly used?

R80 bulbs are used in various settings where directional/wide spread lighting is required.

clothes store interior
Photo by Clark Street Mercantile / Unsplash

Residential Ceiling Lighting

A common use is in recessing ceiling fitting in kitchen, dining room etc. as they provide a beam angle which covers a large area

Track and spotlight systems

R80 lamps are also used in track lighting systems with adjustable fixtures, these allow the light to be directed in certain areas such as artwork or seating etc.  The wide beam of the R80 allows bright lighting but without shadows.

Retail and commercial spaces

R80 bulbs are often used to illuminate displays in shops and showrooms as their directional nature draws to the products on display.

Hospitality and leisure venues

R80 bulbs are used in restaurants, cafes, hotels etc. to create ambient lighting.

Bathrooms and utility areas

R80 bulbs are used in bathrooms as their directional beam gives good visibility without being harsh.

What is the difference between R80 and R63?

The difference is the size of the bulb and the R80 produces wide beam angles which makes it more suitable for lighting larger areas.

A R63 has a diameter of 63mm and would be used where you need a smaller beam or where precise direction is needed such as lighting specific items.

Modern R80 bulbs and LED Technology

Most of the R80 bulbs sold today are the led version. This is because they use less energy and they do not generate as much heat and you can get them in varying colour temperatures.

The LED R80 also comes in either a dimmable or non dimmable option.

Conclusion

R80 bulbs are generally used when you require wide, directional lighting.  They are mainly  used in domestic ceiling fittings and tracklight systems and in commercial settings such as retail and hospitality venues 

Created by Adonia Watt on 23rd December, 2025

Author

Adonia Watt

Adonia Watt