BR30 vs PAR38 Grow Light Bulbs
BR30 and PAR38 grow bulbs both screw into E26 sockets but differ in size and beam. Here is how to pick the right one for your lamp and plant.
By Ethan Cole
Updated November 2, 2026
BR30 and PAR38 are two common flood bulb shapes, and both come as LED grow bulbs with standard E26 bases. The number is the bulb’s diameter in eighths of an inch: a BR30 is 3.75 inches across, a PAR38 is 4.75 inches. The letters describe the reflector: BR is a bulged reflector with a soft, wide beam; PAR is a parabolic reflector with a more focused beam.
Quick Answer
Use a BR30 in floor lamps, recessed cans, and clamp lights close to the plant. Use a PAR38 when the bulb sits farther away, such as a track light or a ceiling fixture, and you want the light concentrated on the plant.
Side by Side
| BR30 | PAR38 | |
|---|---|---|
| Diameter | 3.75 in | 4.75 in |
| Beam | Wide and soft | Narrower, more focused (beam angle varies by model) |
| Typical grow bulb power | 9W to 40W in our picks | 15.5W to 30W in our picks |
| Fits | Most floor lamps, clamp lights, cans | Track heads, outdoor-style flood fixtures, larger shades |
| Example | GE Grow BR30, 9W, 16 umol/s PPF | PHILIPS PAR38, 15.5W, 1,325 lumens, 50-degree beam |
The Two Example Bulbs
GE Grow Lights for Indoor Plants
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GE’s BR30 grow bulb is the most widely rated grow bulb we found (4.6 stars, about 19,400 ratings). GE suggests about 16 inches from plants. Review: GE BR30.
PHILIPS LED Plant Grow Light Bulb PAR38
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The PHILIPS PAR38 grow bulb is 15.5W, 1,325 lumens, 5000K, with a 50-degree beam that Philips says lights the whole plant evenly. It is rated 4.5 stars on about 330 ratings, emits no UV, and is ENERGY STAR certified.
Beam Angle Matters More Than the Name
PAR38 grow bulbs vary: Norb’s PAR38 is listed with a 30-degree beam, Philips 50 degrees. A narrow beam puts more light on a small area from farther away; a wide beam covers more area close up. Check the listed beam angle.
Output
Shape does not set output. SANSI’s 36W BR30 lists 65.6 umol/s PPF, far above many PAR38 grow bulbs. Compare PPF, or PPFD at the same distance, not shape.
Fit and Safety
PAR38 bulbs are larger and heavier; check the shade clearance and socket. Some grow bulbs are not for enclosed fixtures (Norb says so for its PAR38). Always stay within the fixture’s wattage rating.
Ratings checked November 1, 2026; specifications from seller listings. More bulbs: best grow light bulbs.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you need to light a whole shelf or seed tray, neither bulb shape is the right tool; see grow light panels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a PAR38 replace a BR30?
Only if the fixture has room for the larger 4.75 inch bulb and is rated for its wattage.
Which is brighter, BR30 or PAR38?
Neither by shape alone. Compare the listed PPF or lumens.
Are PAR30 grow bulbs different?
PAR30 is 3.75 inches across with a PAR reflector; Soltech’s Vita is a PAR30 with a 60-degree beam.
About the author
Ethan Cole leads research and editing at WikiHomeLED, comparing LED lighting for the home through manufacturer specs, manuals, safety listings and owner feedback. Every product is scored against the criteria on our How We Review page, and picks are updated when models change.