Choosing the right lighting for a commercial or industrial space depends on ceiling height, fixture type, and illumination needs. High bay vs low bay lighting refers to the distinction between fixtures designed for tall ceilings vs lower ones. High bay lights are ideal for warehouses and large facilities, while low bay lights suit retail stores and workshops.
Knowing these differences helps businesses optimize visibility, efficiency, and energy savings. Now, let's break down their key features, applications, and benefits to help you make an informed decision.
Not sure whether to choose high bay or low bay lighting? Contact us today for expert advice and find the perfect lighting solution for your space!
What Is the Difference Between High Bay and Low Bay Lights?
The main difference is ceiling height. High bay lights are used for ceilings 20 feet or higher, making them ideal for warehouses and industrial facilities, while low bay lights are designed for ceilings under 20 feet. Low bay lighting is below 100 watts while high bay lighting can go above 100 watts.
High bay lighting uses reflectors or specialized lenses to focus light downward, ensuring uniform illumination in tall spaces. Low bay lights generally have diffusers to spread light more evenly in lower-ceiling environments. Choosing the right option depends on ceiling height, beam angle needs, and application requirements.
What Is a High Bay Light?
A high bay light is a powerful lighting fixture designed for spaces with ceilings 20 feet or higher. These lights provide bright, uniform illumination for warehouses, factories, and large commercial areas. Their focused beam angles and high lumen output ensure efficient lighting, reducing shadows and improving visibility in expansive environments.
These lights are commonly used in:
- Warehouses: High bay usually provide the best warehouse lighting option, with uniform illumination to meet warehouse lumens per square foot requirements.
- Manufacturing Facilities: Ensure visibility for detailed tasks and worker safety.
- Gymnasiums & Sports Arenas: Deliver high-output lighting for large indoor spaces.
- Aircraft Hangars: Illuminate expansive areas for maintenance and operations.
- Gas Stations: High bay gas station lights provide bright, glare-free illumination for safety and visibility.
- Restaurants & Hospitality Spaces: A talented restaurant lighting company can use low bay lights to create an inviting atmosphere while ensuring proper task lighting.
For more information on what is needed for these types of lights, check out our high bay lighting calculator for more assistance.
What Is a Low Bay Light?
A low bay light is a lighting fixture designed for spaces between 12 and 20 feet high ceilings. Its wider beam angle ensures even illumination without harsh shadows. Low bay lights are installed and commonly used in retail stores, workshops, and smaller warehouses with low ceilings where high bay lights would be too powerful.
These fixtures ensure even lighting while reducing glare, making them suitable for the following applications:
- Retail stores
- Workshops and garages
- Restaurants and cafés
- Supermarkets and grocery stores
- Banks and financial institutions
- Hospitality LED lighting
- Warehouses with lower ceilings
- Gymnasiums and fitness centers
- Conference rooms and office spaces
Are low bay lights best for you? Use our low bay LED lighting calculator to determine if they are best for your space.
High Bay vs Low Bay Lighting: A Deeper Look
Acknowledging the differences between low bay and high bay lighting is necessary for selecting the right lighting for your space. Each type is designed for specific ceiling heights, applications, and performance needs.
Below is a comparison of key features to help determine which option best suits your requirements.
|
Category |
Winner |
|
Technology |
High bay |
|
Ceiling height |
High bay |
|
Light direction |
High bay |
|
Beam angle |
Low Bay |
|
Light distribution |
High Bay |
|
Lumen output |
High Bay |
|
Mounting |
Both |
|
Placement |
High Bay |
|
Material composition |
High Bay |
|
Fixture shape |
Both |
|
Cost |
Low Bay |
Which Has the Best Technology? High Bay vs Low Bay Led Lights or Fluorescent?
When comparing high bay vs low bay LED lights to fluorescent options, LEDs are the superior choice due to their energy efficiency, longevity, and brightness. The difference between high bay and low bay LED lights largely depends on ceiling height and application, but both provide better performance than traditional fluorescent lighting. LEDs consume significantly less power, reducing operating costs over time.
For a detailed comparison, check out our LED vs fluorescent power consumption guide.
Ceiling Height
High bay lighting height is typically designed for ceilings 20 feet or higher, providing a more focused and intense light distribution to cover larger areas.
In contrast, low bay lights are ideal for spaces with ceilings under 20 feet, offering a wider beam angle for even illumination in smaller environments like retail stores, workshops, and offices.
Light Direction
Light direction is a key factor in determining whether high bay or low bay lighting is the best choice for a given space.
High bay light fixtures are designed to direct light downward from greater heights, typically using reflectors or lenses to focus the illumination and prevent light from scattering.
These lights are ideal for warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and other areas with ceilings above 20 feet. In contrast, low bay lights are optimized for spaces with ceilings below 20 feet. They provide a wider light spread, ensuring even illumination without harsh shadows.
Low bay LED lights often use diffusers to soften the light, making them a great option for retail stores, offices, and other commercial spaces that require uniform lighting at lower mounting heights.
Beam Angle
Light direction and beam angle determine how illumination spreads across a space.
High bay lights typically have a narrower beam angle (60°–90°) to focus light downward over greater distances, while low bay lights have a wider beam angle (120°–150°) to ensure even lighting in spaces with lower ceilings.
Light Distribution
High bay lighting requires a more controlled light distribution due to its placement in large, open spaces such as warehouses and manufacturing facilities. These fixtures often use reflectors or specialized optics to ensure even light spread.
Low bay lighting, on the other hand, is designed to distribute light more broadly and evenly across smaller areas, making it ideal convenience store lighting, and best for restaurants, and offices.
Lumen Output
Lumen output measures brightness.
High bay lights need a much higher lumen output (15,000 – 100,000 lumens) to effectively illuminate large spaces with tall ceilings. Higher lumens are best for aircraft hangar lighting, gymnasium lighting, prison lights, and municipal lighting.
Low bay lights, in comparison, typically range between 3,000 – 15,000 lumens, as they do not need to cover as much vertical space. Choosing the correct lumen output ensures proper visibility and reduces energy waste.
Low Bay vs High Bay Lighting Mounting
Mounting options differ depending on the type of fixture and ceiling height.
High bay lights are usually mounted using chains, hooks, pendants, or brackets, as they need to be securely fixed at higher elevations.
Low bay lights can be mounted directly onto ceilings or suspended with minimal hardware, making them easier to install in standard-height buildings. They are often used for things like bank lighting or LED lighting for classrooms.
Placement
Proper placement is important for maximizing light efficiency and ensuring even illumination.
High bay lights should be spaced strategically depending on ceiling height and lumen output to prevent dark spots and ensure uniform brightness. Typically, these fixtures are installed in large industrial spaces, warehouses, and facilities requiring LED sports lighting retrofit solutions for stadiums or gymnasiums.
Low bay lights, on the other hand, can be placed closer together, making them ideal for parking lot lighting upgrades, retail spaces, and workshops. Their broader beam angles help distribute light evenly without excessive brightness, improving visibility and energy efficiency.
Material Composition
The materials used in high bay and low bay lights affect their durability and longevity.
High bay lights often feature heavy-duty aluminum, industrial-grade steel, or reinforced polycarbonate to withstand harsh conditions in warehouses and factories.
Low bay lights are commonly made of lighter materials like aluminum and plastic, suitable for commercial and office environments where extreme durability is not required.
Fixture Shape
The difference between high bay and low bay light fixtures lies in their design and intended use.
High bay lights typically come in round (UFO-style) or linear shapes, optimizing light distribution for tall spaces like warehouses and gymnasiums. The round shape provides a concentrated beam, while the linear design covers wider areas.
Low bay lights, on the other hand, are usually compact and wide, designed to distribute light evenly in spaces with lower ceilings, such as retail stores and workshops. Their broader beam angles reduce shadows and ensure uniform illumination.
Cost
When comparing high or low bay lighting, low bay fixtures are the more cost-effective option. They require fewer lumens, simpler mounting hardware, and are typically easier to install. This results in lower upfront costs and reduced labor expenses.
In contrast, LED high bay lights are more expensive due to their higher lumen output and specialized designs. High bay LED lighting is necessary for large, open spaces with tall ceilings, making them ideal for commercial lighting applications. However, for facilities with lower ceilings, low bay fixtures provide sufficient illumination at a fraction of the cost.
Additionally, linear high bay fixtures tend to be more expensive than traditional round designs, but they provide even light distribution for warehouse and retail spaces. Businesses looking for high and low bay lighting solutions should consider their ceiling height and overall lighting needs before making a purchase.
Final Points on Low Bay vs High Bay Lights
Choosing the right type of lighting depends on ceiling height, application, and efficiency needs. Low bay options are more affordable and suitable for smaller spaces, while high bay solutions provide powerful illumination for high ceilings. Unlike traditional lighting, LED bulbs offer energy efficiency and longevity, making them a superior light source.
Whether upgrading warehouses or offices, selecting the right light bulb ensures optimal brightness and savings. Businesses looking for reliable lights also benefit from tailored solutions to fit their unique space requirements.
Should You Choose High Bay or Low Bay Lights?
Selecting between low and high bay lights depends on your space and lighting needs. At FES Lighting, we specialize in helping businesses choose the right bay lighting solution for maximum efficiency and savings.
With our unique business model, we are one of the best LED lighting retrofit companies around. You pay $0 upfront and only when you save. High bay lighting is used for tall ceilings, while low bay works best for smaller areas—let us determine the best fit for you. Contact us today at FES lighting for a tailored lighting solution that maximizes performance and energy efficiency!
Contact us today for a tailored lighting solution that maximizes performance and energy efficiency.
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