Difference Between LED MR16 Vs. GU10 Vs. PAR16 Bulbs
Toni Jarels
As far as MR16 vs. PAR16, the main difference is the size, variety, and heat. Unlike MR16 type halogen bulbs which have dichroic glass reflectors, the PAR bulbs have aluminized glass reflectors which direct the heat generated by the bulb to the front of the bulb. Because of this, PAR16 bulbs are usually not suitable for ceiling installations of 8 feet or lower. PAR16 bulbs also produce more directional yet duller lighting and have a standard, medium screw-in type of base and work in medium sized E26 sockets. MR16, on the other hand, generates heat to the rear of the bulb and produce a lot more light for the wattage because of the multi-faceted reflector (hence, MR).
The difference between the letters is that a PAR bulb is a parabolic aluminized reflector. These bulbs generally have a beam angle of over 45º. The MR stands for multifaceted, and the beam angle is narrower, between 15º and 45º. If you are looking for more focused light, the MR16 is the better option.
A19 and E26 bulbs are not the same, though all A19 lamps and light fittings have an E26 base. However, not all E26 bases must use A19 bulb heads. Be mindful of this difference when shopping for your standard light bulbs!
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