There are a number of things you must consider when buying an LED light bar. This is to ensure that you'll be able to get one that is suitable for your vehicle and is capable of delivering the results that you are expecting. Perhaps one of the most important factors you must take into consideration is the beam pattern as it can help you determine which sort of light bar you should get for the application you have in mind.
Choosing the LED Light Bar Best Beam Pattern
Which beam pattern is the best? The answer to this really depends on what you want to use the light bar for. As such, to help you choose the best beam pattern for you, here are the three options you can choose from and what each of them is good for.
1. Spotlight
Spotlight beam pattern casts a narrow and more focused beam of light, usually at an angle of 30 degrees. This beam pattern is suitable for most driving situations because it can reach a much longer distance, allowing you to see further ahead and spot and avoid potential road hazards before you can even reach them. Although you'll lose a bit of side to side illumination with this beam pattern, you'll get excellent forward distance with it.
When it is very useful: Use it for mounting on a vehicle that you'll primarily drive on paved roads where there isn't much obstruction on the side of the road.
2. Floodlight
This beam pattern is the exact opposite of spotlights. It cast a wide flood of light (hence, the name) that allows you to see more to the sides of your vehicle. LED light bars Australia that have these beam pattern have an illuminating angle of 120 degrees. Although this beam pattern has limited forward distance, it can be useful when spotting low-lying branches and other road hazards that may be coming towards you from the side of the road.
When it is very useful: This beam pattern is ideal for use in off road driving. It is also the preferred choice of light when illuminating a work station, camp site, and other applications where long-distance illumination is less important.
3. Combination
A combination light bar has both spotlight and floodlight beam patterns. As such, it has the capabilities and advantages of both illumination styles. The versatility it provides make it the most popular light bar choice of many people.
When it is very useful: This beam pattern is ideal for both on road and off road driving. It is also highly recommended if you intend on using the light in your vehicle as a work light.
Be sure to take this guide into consideration when shopping for LED light bars so you'll know which beam pattern offers you the best results.