H7 vs H11 Headlight Bulb Comparison

In case you are searching for the right headlight bulbs, you may have come across H7 and H11 options. Both of these types can offer great results, but they also have some key differences.

Even though these bulbs are classified similarly, they cannot be swapped out. For example, an H1 and an H7 bulb may look the same in terms of light output, but an H7 bulb won't fit into a socket for an H1 bulb. Thus, you must use the corresponding bulbs for your vehicle's make and model.

Here we will dive deeper into each of these headlight bulbs so that you can make an informed decision when it comes time to purchase new ones.

Socket Compatibility

Group 1 bulbs, which include H1, H3, H4, H7, H11, HB3, and HB4 are not all interchangeable even though they're in the same category. These types of bulbs are usually used as headlights. Their socket compatibility will depend on the bulb base and the manufacturer.

For example, the H7 bulb with a PX26d base can fit into the following sockets: H7, 880, 881, 9004, 9006, HB1, and HB2. But at the same time, they might not fit the H11 headlight bulb because the H11 has a different base.

Therefore, it's important to check your vehicle's owner manual or the bulb chart that's specific to your car before you purchase new bulbs. This way, you can be sure to get the right type of bulb and avoid any compatibility issues.

H7 Headlight Bulbs

When choosing an H7 headlight bulb, you have two power options to choose from: 12 V: 55 W and 24 V: 70 W. The most popular option is the 12 V: 55 W, as it works with most vehicles' electrical systems. The socket type for this bulb is PX26d, which is the most common.

With a brightness between 2500 and 4000 lumens, this light bulb will provide plenty of illumination. On average, it will last for 450 hours before needing to be replaced. The color temperature is between 3000 and 4500K, so the light emitted will have a slight blue tint. Be careful when handling the light bulb as it emits UV rays which can be harmful to your skin and eyesight.

There are two types of halogen headlight bulbs: single-filament (H7) and dual-filament (HB3). Most commonly, people use the single-filament H7 bulb. The term "single filament" is used to describe a halogen headlight bulb that contains only one wire. In terms of convenience, though, the H4 bulb stands out above virtually all other bulbs available on the market.

The pros of using this bulb include:

• The light is very bright
• It's relatively inexpensive
• It's easy to find at most stores

The cons of using this bulb include:

• The light emitted can be harsh on the eyes
• It doesn't last as long as some other types of bulbs
• It can be difficult to install

H11 Headlight Bulbs

The H11 light bulb is pretty popular in automotive applications. It's often used for fog lights and headlights. But did you know that...

The H11 has 12 V: 55 W and 24 V: 70 W of nominal power. It is 44 mm long with one filament, meaning it emits light in only one color. The number of filaments affects the light's color temperature; for example, if your bulb has two filaments, then it emits white and yellow light. That is why H11 headlight bulbs are often used in fog lights because the yellow light helps to cut through the fog.

H11 bulbs are designed for single-beam headlights and should not exceed 55 watts. This is to ensure that the bulb emits enough light for proper road illumination; H11 bulbs emit about 1250 lumens. As the cost rises, so does the number of emitted lumens. Still, with such light output, this lamp is far from being the brightest on the market.

An H11 headlight bulb is a good choice if you're looking for a bright light without breaking the bank. But keep in mind that it doesn't last as long as some of the other options out there.

To sum it up, here are the pros and cons of using an H11 headlight bulb:

Pros:

• One of the most common options on the market;
• The nominal power is 12V: 55W;
• It emits about 1250 lumens;
• The bulb is pretty cheap.

Cons:

• Has a relatively short lifespan;
• Not as bright as some of the other options.

Specs Comparison

Brightness

As you have already read, H7 bulbs emit light in the range of 2500-4000 lumens, while H11 bulbs emit around 1250 lumens. So, if we compare brightness, then H7 bulbs are definitely brighter. So, in case you need a brighter option for your car, choose H7.

Color Temperature

H11 light bulbs produce around 350 lumens per bulb, making them a great replacement for H3, H4, and H7 light bulbs. They run on 12 volts and have an operating temperature of 2,700 degrees Fahrenheit. However. if you desire to have a light with a blue tint, then H7 bulbs are the way to go since they have a color temperature of between 3000 and 4500K.

Beam Type

High or low beam bulbs are a matter of personal preference. H7 bulbs emit light in a wide, focused beam pattern which is ideal for high-beam headlights since it illuminates the road ahead with little to no glare. However, some people prefer the light emitted by H11 bulbs since it's less harsh on the eyes.

Lifespan

H11 light bulbs have a lifespan of 450-1000 hours or 2-4 years with normal use. However, if you frequently use your headlights, then the bulbs will not last as long. A standard H7 bulb has a B3 value of 330 hours. As a comparison, an old-fashioned dual filament 60s bulb had less light output and failed after only 50 hours.

Usability

When comparing H7 vs H11, it's important to consider the usability of each light bulb. H7 bulbs are easier to find since they're more common, but H11 bulbs are becoming more popular as well. However, both options are relatively easy to find and purchase.

H7 bulbs are also easier to install since they have a standard size and fit most vehicles. However, H11 bulbs may be slightly more difficult to install since they require a bit more effort to fit into the headlight housing.

FAQs

Are H7 and H11 the same bulb?

Even though light bulbs may look similar, they are not all interchangeable. An H11 and H7 bulb may appear to give off the same amount of light, but an H7 bulb will not fit into a socket for an H11 bulb. This means it is important to use the correct type of bulb for your vehicle.

What cars use H7 headlights?

Cars such as various BMW, Audi, and Mercedes models use H7 bulbs for headlights. All these cars can be outfitted with HID or LED headlights, which produce a much brighter light than a standard halogen bulb. Usually, the headlight bulbs in these cars are not easy to replace and will require a professional to do so.

Can I replace my H7 bulb with LED?

Any car that comes with halogen headlight bulbs from the dealership can use LED lights. The primary benefit is greatly improved visibility on the road at night, which makes driving safer. So, no matter, whether you have an H7 or H11 bulb, you can replace it with an LED option.