55-Degree vs 70-Degree Grid Reflector: Which to Choose

By Westcott | Published: 2026-10-24

Category: Comparisons

Compare the Westcott 55-degree and 70-degree grid reflectors to find the best light modifier for your portrait or product photography.

Quick Answer

Choose the 55-degree grid reflector for tighter, more focused light with minimal spill, or the 70-degree grid reflector for a wider spread that still offers good control.

Beam Angle and Light Control

The 55-degree reflector creates a narrower beam with a defined edge, making it ideal for isolating a subject or adding dramatic contrast. The 70-degree reflector spreads light wider, covering more of your scene while still shaping light with minimal fall-off.

Both include snap-in honeycomb grids that further narrow the beam. The 55-degree comes with 10°, 20°, 30°, and 40° grids, giving you four levels of control. The 70-degree includes 30° and 60° grids, offering two options for adjusting spill.

Compatibility and Mount

Both reflectors fit the FJ800, FJ400 II, FJ400, FJ250 strobes, and any light with a Bowens S-type mount. If you use an FJ400-SE, the 70-degree reflector is explicitly listed as compatible, while the 55-degree does not mention it—check your mount before buying.

Trade-Offs at a Glance

55-Degree Reflector: Narrower beam (55°) with four honeycomb grids (10°, 20°, 30°, 40°). Best for tight, controlled lighting with minimal fall-off. Choose when you need precise light placement and multiple grid options.
70-Degree Reflector: Wider beam (70°) with two honeycomb grids (30°, 60°). Covers more area while still shaping light with a defined edge. Choose when you want broader coverage but still need to control spill.
Grid Count vs Flexibility: The 55-degree offers four grids for finer control; the 70-degree offers two grids for simpler operation. More grids mean more setup time but greater precision. If you value quick changes, the 70-degree is simpler. If you need exact spill control, the 55-degree wins.

Product Facts

55-Degree Wide Umbrella Reflector with Honeycomb Grids (FJ800, FJ400, FJ400 II, FJ400-SE, FJ250, Bowens): Includes wide reflector with 10°, 20°, 30°, and 40° honeycomb grids; creates a controlled 55° light beam for mid-range applications. You get four grid options to fine-tune spill, making it versatile for tight headshots or product details.
55-Degree Wide Umbrella Reflector with Honeycomb Grids (FJ800, FJ400, FJ400 II, FJ400-SE, FJ250, Bowens)
70-Degree Wide Reflector with Honeycomb Grids (FJ800, FJ400, FJ400 II, FJ400-SE, FJ250, Bowens): Includes wide reflector with 30° and 60° honeycomb grids; creates a controlled 70° light beam for mid-range applications. The wider beam covers more area while still allowing you to reduce spill with two grid choices, ideal for half-body portraits or small groups.
70-Degree Wide Reflector with Honeycomb Grids (FJ800, FJ400, FJ400 II, FJ400-SE, FJ250, Bowens)

Which Reflector Fits Your Work?

Best For

55-degree: portrait photographers who want dramatic, focused light with multiple spill-control options.
70-degree: photographers who need a wider beam for half-body portraits or small product setups with moderate control.

Not For

55-degree: not ideal for lighting large groups or full-length shots where you need broad, even coverage.
70-degree: not the best choice if you require very tight beams (like 10° or 20°) for extreme precision.