Understanding Beam Angles in Outdoor Lighting: 25°, 38°, 60°, and 120° Explained

Why Beam Angle Matters in Landscape Lighting

When it comes to professional outdoor lighting design, brightness alone doesn’t determine how good your home looks at night. One of the most important — and often overlooked — factors is beam angle.

At Kings Outdoor Lighting, beam angle selection is what separates a clean, elegant design from lighting that looks harsh or uneven. Choosing the right angle ensures your lighting highlights architectural details, landscaping, and pathways exactly as intended.

What Is a Beam Angle?

A beam angle describes how wide the light spreads as it leaves the fixture. It is measured in degrees (°).

• Narrow beam = focused and dramatic

• Wide beam = soft and evenly distributed

The correct beam angle determines whether a light acts as an accent, a wash, or general illumination.

25° Beam Angle – Ultra-Focused Accent Lighting

A 25° beam angle is very narrow and concentrated.

Best Uses:

• Tall trees and palms

• Flagpoles

• Columns and spires

• Architectural focal points

Design Effect:

• High contrast

• Dramatic shadows

• Strong vertical emphasis

This beam is best when you want a statement piece in your landscape.

38° Beam Angle – The Most Versatile Choice

The 38° beam angle is one of the most commonly used angles in landscape lighting.

Best Uses:

• Medium-sized trees

• Home façade accents

• Stone or brick textures

• Shrubs and landscape groupings

Design Effect:

• Balanced brightness

• Controlled spread

• Natural-looking highlights

If you’re unsure which beam to choose, 38° is often the safest and most flexible option.

60° Beam Angle – Soft Coverage with Control

A 60° beam angle provides a wider spread while still offering some direction.

Best Uses:

• Wider trees and hedges

• Garden beds

• Partial wall washing

• Blended accent lighting

Design Effect:

• Softer transitions

• Reduced hot spots

• More ambient feel

This angle is ideal when you want illumination without harsh contrast.

120° Beam Angle – True Floodlighting

A 120° beam angle is considered a floodlight and is designed for broad coverage.

Best Uses:

• Full wall washing

• House façades

• Wide landscaping areas

• Safety and visibility lighting

Design Effect:

• Even, uniform light

• Minimal shadows

• Welcoming curb appeal

Floodlights are perfect for tying the entire lighting design together.

How Professionals Use Multiple Beam Angles

High-end landscape lighting rarely relies on a single beam angle. Instead, professionals layer light:

• Narrow beams for focal points

• Medium beams for balance

• Wide beams for cohesion

This layered approach creates depth, elegance, and a natural nighttime appearance.

Choose with Confidence

Selecting the right beam angle ensures your outdoor lighting looks intentional, not overlit. The right fixture, paired with the correct beam spread, makes all the difference.

👑 Explore Kings Outdoor Lighting’s spotlights and floodlights in multiple beam angles at KingsOutdoorLighting.com and design like a professional.