There’s always confusion between the Map light and Dime light for some obvious reasons. However, they are quite different and you should about the differences when buying either one of them.
Today, we are going to cover the differences along with the proper uses of these lights to help you understand them better.
In this map light vs dome light comparison, we will explain what is a dome light in a car with examples to differentiate it from the map lights.
What Is a Dome Light in a Car?
It is the interior light that turns on as soon as you open the door of your vehicle. This light is included in every vehicle so that you can get enough light in the interior of your vehicle to insert the key, find items properly, and fasten seatbelts before you start riding it.
The dome light is placed at the center of the vehicle roof to give enough light to the driver. It is important to know that the angle of this light is limited to 180 degrees.
What Is a Map Light in a Car?
These are the two lights placed at the center of the roof. Each of these bulbs is placed for the driver and passenger seat convenience. You will find different switches on the bulbs so that the person sitting on the passenger seat can find whatever he wants without disturbing the driver.
Similarly, the driver can turn on the bulb from his side and find anything he wants.
Traditionally, these lights were installed so that people can read maps and guides without worrying about the lack of light in the vehicle. However, today they are more like utility lights that fulfill multiple objectives.
So, next time when someone asks you what is a map light in a car? You can easily explain the difference.
Map Light vs Dome Light: The Difference
Let’s understand the difference between map light and dome light through different points.
It is crucial to understand that dome lights are placed at the center of the vehicle’s roof. On the other hand, map lights are placed near the passenger seat and driver seat each.
Difference Based on the operation
A dome light opens as soon as you enter the vehicle. However, a map light usually comes with different switches so that you can use this high brightness light according to your requirements.
Difference Based on Light Angle
The dome light is designed for the driver as it is there to avoid safety issues. Thus, the light only covers a 180-degree angle and works better for the driver. A map light comes with a wider angle (360 degrees) that works for both driver and the person sitting in the passenger’s seat.
Differences Based on Brightness
A map light serves as the official interior light to read maps, books, guides, or to get some brightness in the vehicle. However, a dome light is there for some different reasons. That is why map lights are brighter than dome lights.
For better understanding, here are the exact lumens produced by each light.
Map Light = 400-420 lumens
Dome Light = 280-300 lumens
Thus, it is clear that a map light is way brighter than a dome light.
Find the Interior Bulb You Need at SuncentAuto
The good news is you do not need to worry much about dome lights and map lights as you can find them all on SuncentAuto at some great prices. This platform lets you choose the right interior light bulbs for your vehicle by letting you select the manufacturer and model for better results.
SuncentAuto is an established platform where you can buy some quality products from SEALIGHT, Torchbeam, and many other automotive brands.
Simply check out their interior lights column and select your vehicle before ordering that bulb.
