When it comes to headlights, there are a few options available on the market. Some of the more popular choices are H11 and 9005 bulbs.
The H11 bulbs are less powerful and can only provide low beam functionality, while 9005 bulbs offer high beam options. However, the lifespan is greater on 9005 bulbs. Despite this fact, H11 bulbs are more resistant to heat damage because of their lower power consumption and better cooling abilities.
H11 bulbs are able to be used with other low beam lights, such as H8, H9, and H16. 9005 bulbs can only be used with 9006 and H13 bulbs. Even though they may appear similar, H11 and 9006 sockets are not compatible with each other.
If you're confused about which bulb you need for your car, allow us to guide you in the right direction.
The Compatibility of Sockets
The compatibility of these two bulbs is important to know because it can affect your decision on which one to choose. If you're looking for an affordable option that offers a wide beam of light, then the H11 bulb is a good choice for you. However, if you're looking for a more powerful and brighter headlight bulb, then the 9005 is a better option.
The socket type of each bulb is also important to know. The H11 bulb has an H8, H9, and H16 socket, while the 9005 bulb has a 9006 and H13 socket. These sockets are not compatible with each other, so make sure you know which one you need before making your purchase.
Some people will tell you that 9005 and H11 light bulbs are interchangeable, but they're not. You can fit a 9005 bulb into an H11 socket with some effort, but it's impossible to put an H11 bulb into a 9005 socket.
So, as you understand, we don`t recommend using the 9005 lamp in this case, because it may dazzle the oncoming traffic.
Why Do We Compare H11 And 9005 Lamps?
| Specs | 9005 bulb | H11 Bulb |
| Base | P20d (90°) | PGJ19-2 |
| Number of filaments | 1 | 1 |
| Applications | High Beam Headlights | Low Beam Headlights |
| Nominal Power | 65 W | 12 V: 55 W 24 V: 70 W |
| Cross Compatibility | HB3, H10, 9040, 9055, 9140, 9145, 9150, and 9155 | H8, H9, H16 (L-Shaped) |
The H11 and 9005 are the most popular headlight bulbs on the market. They are both low-beam bulbs, which means they are designed to provide a wide and evenly distributed beam of light that is ideal for illumination purposes.
The fact is that these two lamps are usually used when people want to improve the look of their headlights. The H11 is a more affordable option, while the 9005 is a bit more expensive. However, both lamps offer excellent brightness and light output.
So, what's the difference between these two headlight bulbs? Well, let's take a closer look at each one to find out.
H11 Bulbs
The H11 bulb is a low-beam headlight bulb that offers a wide and evenly distributed beam of light. It is an affordable option that is popular among many car owners. Their wattage is 55W and the voltage is 12V.
They have a 30,000-hour lifespan which is very good for those lamps that are used frequently. The H11 bulbs are less powerful and can only provide low beam functionality, while 9005 bulbs offer high-beam options. However, the lifespan is greater on 9005 bulbs. Despite this fact, H11 bulbs are more resistant to heat damage because of their lower power consumption and better cooling abilities.
Usually, the H11 has a slightly dimmer beam. It means that they are not the best choice if you're looking for a lamp that can provide a powerful and bright beam of light. Moreover, they do not dazzle other drivers because the light is not that concentrated. Dazzling is a very important safety feature, and we'll talk more about it later on.
The heat dissipation of H11 lamp is one of the best. It means that they can be used in a variety of weather conditions without the risk of overheating. One of the main advantages of H11 bulbs is their affordability. They are more budget-friendly than other options on the market, which makes them a great choice for many car owners.
9005 Bulbs
The 9005 bulb is a high beam headlight bulb that offers a concentrated and powerful beam of light. It is a more expensive option that is popular among car enthusiasts and those who want the best performance from their headlights.
This lamp has 65W wattage and the voltage is 12V voltage. Such nominal power makes it a bit more challenging to use 9005 bulbs in a regular car. The lifespan of the 9005 bulb is around 1,500 hours.
This bulb is used for high beams because it offers a more concentrated and powerful beam of light. The 9005 bulb is a good choice for those who want the best performance from their headlights. However, it is important to note that this bulb is not suitable for use in regular cars because of its high power consumption.
The 9005 bulb has a higher light output than the H11, which means it is a better choice for those who are looking for a lamp that can provide a bright and powerful beam of light. Moreover, the 9005 bulbs do not dazzle other drivers because they have a more focused beam.
Even though the 9005 bulbs have a longer lifespan, they are not as resistant to heat damage as the H11 bulbs. This is due to their higher power consumption and less effective cooling abilities. The 9005 bulb is a good choice for those who want the best performance from their headlights. However, it is important to note that this bulb is not suitable for use in regular cars because of its high power consumption.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
The difference between H11 and 9005 bulbs lies in their power, light output, and durability. If you're looking for an affordable option that offers a wide and evenly distributed beam of light, then the H11 bulb is a good choice for you. However, if you're looking for a more powerful and brighter headlight bulb, then the 9005 is a better option. It is important to note that the 9005 is not suitable for use in regular cars because of its high power consumption.
Both lamps are good when it comes to durability and resistance to heat damage. However, the H11 bulb is a better choice if you're looking for an affordable option that offers a wide beam of light. The 9005 bulb is a better choice if you're looking for a more powerful and brighter headlight bulb.
FAQs
What bulb is the same as 9005?
The H10/9145 or 9140 light bulb is commonly found in many vehicle's fog lights; however, these bulbs are nearly indistinguishable from the 9005 bulbs. In fact, the 9005 variant is 10 times more popular than its predecessor. Therefore, we mostly sell the 9005 HID bulbs for conversion kits.
What vehicles use a H11 headlight?
Among the 2012-2015 Toyota Tacoma, the 2019+ Ford Ranger, and the 2012-2016 Honda Civic Si, H11-size bulbs are the most popular type used on modern vehicles.
What does a 9005 headlight bulb fit?
The 9005 bulb is one of the most commonly used bulbs and can be found in GMC/Chevrolet, Scion/Toyota/Lexus, Chrysler/Dodge, Nissan/Acura, and Ford vehicles!
Reviewed by Brent Ordway
Brent Ordway is an ASE-certified car technician. He has been working on cars since he was a teenager and loved helping people keep their vehicles running smoothly. Brent's skills as a mechanic are unrivaled. In 2022, he earned his place on the list of winners for the ASE Master Automobile Technician of the Year award.
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