H8 vs H11: Can You Interchange Them?

Each time at the lighting shop you find yourself in the same dilemma: what light bulb do you need this time, H8 or H11? Both of them look the same, but their characteristics and specs are slightly different.

Although H8 and H11 light bulbs are interchangeable, it is worth noting that the filament wattage for H8 bulbs is lower at 35W. That said, you can use either type of bulb in the same socket without issue.

Here is a short guide on the main differences between H8 and H11 bulbs to help you make the right choice.

Socket Type Congruity

By slightly modifying the base and connector, H11 bulbs can be fitted into an H8 socket. You should first take off the cover of the connector and then twist it until it clicks into place. Next, put the cover back on. The connection is now secure and you can use your H11 bulb in an H8 socket. H11 bulbs can also be used in an H9 socket by following the same method as for the H8 socket type. So, in case you are thinking of the H11 and H8 socket compatibility, we can ensure you that it is possible.

H8 General Specifications

When you need a fog light or a headlight bulb, H8 is often the best solution. This lamp has a P20d base and a single filament. The power of this bulb is usually between 35W and 55W. Such nominal power allows the bulb to produce a bright light. The beam of light is wide and covers a large area in front of the car.

The light output is about 800 lumens. The color temperature is 8000K, close to the spectrum's blue end. As you can see, the light output of this lamp is perfect for poor visibility conditions. In case you need the color temperature to be closer to white, you can choose a bulb with a lower color temperature.

Its lifespan ranges from 450 to 1000 hours. It depends generally on the quality of the bulb and the conditions in which it is used. For example, if you use your fog lights very often, the lifespan will be shorter. The lightbulb socket also has an influence on the lifespan: a good-quality socket will make the bulb last longer.

H11 Main Characteristics

This LED bulb is used for all types of lights: headlights, fog lights, and DRLs. It has only one filament which is why it's more efficient.

With a wattage of 55W and a voltage of 12V, it emits light of up to 6000K. Usually, such nominal power is enough for a headlight. At the same time, when speaking of the nominal power for the H11 lamp, it should be noted that it may vary depending on the manufacturer. So, next time your auto mechanic offers you to buy an H11 LED with a power of 60W, know that it is complete nonsense.

The light output of this lamp is also impressive. It is about 1300 lumens and that is pretty good for a headlight. Finally, when looking for an H11 bulb, pay attention to its lifespan. This lamp will serve you for about 50,000 hours which is 5-10 years of continuous use.

Low Beam and High Beam

Whenever we speak of bulbs that may be used as a high or low beam lamp, there are some key differences that we have to take into account. These are the following recommendations.

• High beam: The H11 bulb is a great choice for a high beam lamp. Its light output is impressive, and it will last you a long time.
• Low beam: The H8 bulb is a good choice for a low beam lamp. It is not as powerful as the H11, but it is still a good option.

In conclusion, both the H8 and H11 bulbs are great choices when it comes to picking out a new light bulb for your car. However, there are some key differences between the two that you should be aware of before making your final decision. If you need a powerful and long-lasting light bulb for your car, the H11 is the best choice. If you are looking for a more affordable option, the H8 is also a good option.

Specs Comparison

Specs	H11	H8
Base	PGJ19-2	PGJ19-1
Number of filaments	1	1
Applications	Headlight bulbs high beam and low beam, fog lights, daytime running lights	Headlight bulbs high beam and low beam - most often, fog lights, daytime running lights
Nominal Power	12 V: 55 W 24 V: 70 W	12 V: 35 W
Cross Compatibility	H11B, H11, H11SU, H11ST, H11XV, H16 without side clips	H11 *H11 can replace H8, but H8 cannot replace H11

Color Temperature

When looking at the H11 and H8 lamps, it is clear that the H11 bulb is brighter. It emits light of up to 6000K, while the H8 bulb has a color temperature of only 8000K. As you can see, the difference of almost 2000K in color temperature implies that the H11 bulb is much brighter than the H8 bulb.

Light Output

As we have already mentioned, the light output of the H11 bulb is much higher than that of the H8 bulb. The H11 bulb has a light output of up to 1300 lumens, while the H8 only has an output of 800 lumens. So, if you are looking for a bright light bulb for your car, the H11 is the better choice.

Lifespan

Finally, when it comes to lifespan, the H11 bulb is also superior to the H8 bulb. The H11 can last for up to 50,000 hours, while the H8 only lasts for 450-1000 hours. So, if you are looking for a light bulb that will last you a long time, the H11 is the better choice.

Uses cases

The usability of an H11 bulb is pretty straightforward since it is used for all types of lights: headlights, fog lights, and DRLs. The H8 bulb, on the other hand, has a more specific use. It is mostly used for fog lights and DRLs since it is not as powerful as the H11.

Power rating

H11 bulbs have a higher power rating of 55 watts in comparison to H8 bulbs who only have 35 watts- meaning that although they consume more energy, they are brighter. Both options work great. However, the H11's notably better light output intensity makes it the superior choice for nighttime driving conditions or when used as fog lights.

H8 vs H11 - Which Is Better For Your Vehicle?

Now it`s time to compare these two lamps and find out which one is better for your car. First of all, they differ in terms of light output. The H11 bulb emits more light than the H8: its light output is 1300 lumens while the light output of the H8 is only 800 lumens.

As for their power, the H8 has a power of 35W-55W, and the H11 has a power of 55W. So, if we compare these two lamps by their power, the H11 is a clear winner. When it comes to lifespan, both bulbs have a long lifespan. However, the H11 bulb lasts longer: it can serve you for up to 50,000 hours while the H8 bulb will last for 450-1000 hours.

To sum up, if you need a powerful and long-lasting light bulb for your car, the H11 is the best choice. If you are looking for a more affordable option, the H8 is also a good option. Both the H8 and H11 bulbs are great choices when it comes to picking out a new light bulb for your car. However, there are some key differences between the two that you should be aware of before making your final decision.

FAQs

Are H8, H9 and H11 the same?

H11 is the same as H8 and H9 in terms of design. It's easy to use since it's a plug-and-play system, and can be used as either a headlight or fog light bulb.

Can H11 be used as high beam?

There are two types of light beams available for most vehicle headlights: low beam and high beam. Of the options given above, only the 9005 bulbs are made for high beam headlights and the 9006 and H11 bulbs are made for low beam headlights.

Can I replace H11 halogen with LED?

The purpose of LED headlights is to improve a driver's safety at night by providing more light on the road. All vehicles that come with halogen headlight bulbs from the factory can be converted to use LEDs.