Par 20 vs GU10?

Question

Can anyone tell me the difference between using Par 20 vs GU10 recessed pot lights other than price? I was told that the Par 20's offer a softer, more diffused light, while the GU10 light is hotter, but I've spoken to two different associates at the same big box store and have gotten two different answers. Is there anyone who really knows?

Answer 1

The PAR20 has a standard "medium" Edison s***w base that's been around for 100 years.  The GU10 bulb has a twist lock base, so you need to have a fixture that fits it.  Both bulb styles are available in various beam widths.  Although some say that the GU10 has a "whiter" light, if you compare a PAR20 halogen against a GU10 halogen, they have the same color temperature.