If you need new headlight bulbs for your car, you may be confused by the different models available. 9005, 9006 and H11 are some of the most common models in headlight bulbs and they look very similar. However, they have some key differences that you need to know to avoid compatibility issues.
9005, 9006, and H11 bulbs differ in base, socket compatibility, nominal power, and main beam type. They may also vary in lumens and lifespan depending on the brand you choose.
In this article, we will briefly introduce each of these bulb types and then compare them in different aspects. Read on to learn more about the difference between 9005 vs 9006 vs H11 bulbs.
9005 Bulb Basics
The 9005 bulb, also known as HB3, is a common type of high beam headlight bulb. It uses a single filament and has a P20d connector.
The 9005 bulb usually has a power rating of 65W and runs on a 12V system. It produces a light that can illuminate a wide area and improve your visibility on the road. It also has a directional beam that ensures the light goes where you need it. It is ideal for driving on highways or roads with extreme darkness
Some vehicles may also use the 9005 bulb as fog lights, depending on the manufacturer.
9005 LED bulb
9006 Bulb Basics
The 9006 bulb, also referred to as HB4, is a popular type of headlight bulb commonly used for low beams and fog lights. It utilizes a single filament and features a P22d connector. Running on a 12V system, the 9006 bulb has a power rating of 55W.
Although the 9005 and 9006 bulbs may appear similar, their primary applications differ. While the 9005 bulb is utilized as a high beam bulb emitting brighter light to illuminate larger areas, the 9006 bulb is mainly used for low beams and fog lights, helping to illuminate the area closer to the vehicle.
9006 LED bulb
H11 Bulb Basics
H11 bulbs, also known as H9/H8 and HB5, are commonly used for both high beam and low beam headlights in vehicles. These bulbs are also frequently used for fog lights in some cars. H11 bulbs are designed as a one-filament beam bulb, which means that they can only emit light from a single point.
When it comes to power usage, H11 bulbs typically require 12 volts and 55 watts for optimal performance. However, some vehicles may require a higher power output of 24 volts and 70 watts.
H11 LED bulb
Understanding the Difference Between 9005, 9006, and H11 Light Bulbs
Shape
When considering the overall shape of the popular 9005, 9006, and H11 halogen bulbs, they all feature an L-shape design. Additionally, both the 9005 and 9006 halogen bulbs come in similar sizes, making it difficult to discern the difference in shape between the two. Therefore, upon first glance, it may be difficult to differentiate between the two.
With LED headlight bulbs, the shape and external design can vary depending on the brand, and it may be challenging to differentiate between the 9005, 9006, and H11 bulb sizes at a glance. Therefore, it's essential to examine the details to identify the correct bulb size accurately.
Base
One of the primary distinguishing factors for differentiating between bulb sizes is the base, also known as an adaptor or holder. This is the lowermost part of the bulb that connects it to the socket. You can identify the differences between the 9005, 9006, and H11 bulbs by looking at their bases.
Viewing the bulbs from the top, you will find that all of them have three tabs surrounding in the cap. The actual size or direction of these tabs, however, differs. While the bases of 9005 and 9006 bulbs appear quite similar, upon closer inspection, you will notice that the smallest tab on the 9006 bulb turns clockwise, while on the 9005 bulb it turns in the opposite counterclockwise direction.
You may have read that modifying 9005 bulbs to fit a 9006 connector is possible. However, it's important to note that this modification requires cutting the foot in the cap, which can easily damage or destroy the bulb if not done correctly.
On the other hand, the base of an H11 bulb looks completely different from that of a 9005 or 9006. H11 bulbs features a big ring in the cap, unlike the other two bulbs.
Socket Compatibility
Another distinguishing factor to consider when comparing 9005, 9006, and H11 bulbs (as well as other bulbs) is socket compatibility. Let's examine the sockets of these three bulbs and note their similarities and differences.
Upon closer inspection, the distance between the two pins in the 9005 and 9006 sockets is almost the same.
In contrast, the socket of an H11 bulb presents a significant difference from that of the 9005 and 9006 bulbs. The H11 has pins closer together than those found in the 9005 and 9006 sockets. Additionally, the H11's plugs have tabs at both ends, whereas the other two bulbs' plugs lack this feature.
Main Beam Type
Car headlights have two beam types, low and high beam. The low beam setting is typically used for everyday driving, while the high beam is used for additional visibility in dark or challenging driving conditions.
The main thing to remember is that the 9005 bulb is a powerful high beam option that emits some bright light beams. On the other hand, 9006 and H11 both are commonly used in low beam light bulbs.
On this differentiation, 9006 and H11 fall in the same category but the H11 is brighter than 9006 as a low beam bulb.
Power Usage
When selecting the right bulbs for your vehicle, it's essential to consider power usage. With higher wattage bulbs tending to produce brighter light, but also more heat. It's paramount to use bulbs with wattage ratings compatible with your vehicle to prevent damaging your electrical system.
The 9005 bulbs operate on 65W power, while the 9006 and H11 work on 55W power. Despite the similarity between the 9005 and 9006 bulb designs, it's not advisable to interchange one bulb fitting for the other due to their wattage differences.
Lumens
Lumen rating is a vital indicator of the brightness level of a bulb. A higher rating implies greater light emission.
In terms of halogen bulbs, a 9005 bulb emits Luminous flux of 1700 lumens, making it one of the brightest options available for car owners. On the other hand, a 9006 bulb emits a limited 1000 lumens since it is designed specifically for low beam applications. An H11 bulb is slightly brighter, emitting 1350 lumens.
However, when it comes to LED bulbs, things tend to vary. LED bulbs tend to have higher lumens than halogens, and they typically have a lumen rating of 2000 to 5000 lumens. It's essential to note that the specific lumen rating of 9005, 9006, and H11 LED bulbs may vary depending on the brand you go for.
Lifespan
The bulb type itself doesn't affect the lifespan. But a well-known fact is that LED bulbs have a longer lifespan compared to halogen bulbs. Typically, halogen bulbs only last for up to 1000 hours, while LED bulbs can range from 3000 to 5000 hours, based on their manufacturer and brand.
Recommended LED 9005, 9006, H11 Replacement Bulbs
After knowing the difference between 9005 9006 and H11 bulb sizes, if you finally decide which bulb you need, here are our LED bulb recommandations. All of them are bright, feature the same pattern as your original bulbs, easy to install and long-lasting. Get them now from SuncentAuto and enjoy free shipping!
H11 LED Headlight Bulbs - SEALIGHT® X1 H11/H9/H8 6000K White IP68 LED Headlight Bulbs 2Pcs (Hot!)
9005 LED Headlight Bulbs - SEALIGHT® S1 9005/HB3 60W 6000K White IP67 LED Headlight Bulbs 2Pcs
9006 LED Headlight Bulbs - Marsauto® M1 9006/HB4 40W 6500K White IP67 LED Headlight Bulbs 2Pcs (Budget-friendly!)
9005 and H11 LED Headlight Bulbs Combo Pack - SEALIGHT® S1 9005/HB3 H11/H9/H8 60W 6000K White IP67 LED Headlight Bulbs 2 Pairs (Top seller!)
9006 and 9005 LED Headlight Bulbs Combo Pack - SEALIGHT® S1 9005/HB3 9006/HB4 60W 6000K White IP67 LED Headlight Bulbs 2 Pairs
Final Words
As you have reviewed our comparison guide comparing 9005, 9006, and H11 bulbs, you now have a better understanding of these commonly used headlight bulbs. However, if you are considering interchanging these bulbs, you need to be aware of the potential safety and compatibility issues that may arise, despite the fact that some modifications might enable them to fit one another.
It is crucial to note that car headlight bulbs are an important safety feature that should never be taken for granted. Therefore, to avoid compatibility issues and ensure your safety, it is strongly recommended that you replace your headlight bulbs with the correct bulb size designated for your car.
If you're on the lookout for the right replacement headlight, fog light or any other automotive bulb easily, look no further than SuncentAuto. Our user-friendly website enables you to efficiently find the exact bulb that fits your car by simply inputting your car's make, model, year, and voila — you'll have your option. Moreover, we offer free shipping to any order you make, ensuring convenience and affordability.
