Factory lights don't always give you the best visibility, especially when navigating dark roads. Fortunately, we have compiled a list of the top-reviewed project headlight bulbs, according to Amazon reviews.
AlLEO Left-Hand Drive H4 LED Headlight Bulbs Mini Projector Lens EMC Canbus 90W 20000LM 6000K White H4 9003 HB2 Hi/Lo Beam LED Headlight Conversion Kit with Sticker -2 Year Warranty
AlLEO Left-Hand Drive H4 LED Headlight Bulbs Mini Projector Lens EMC Canbus 90W 20000LM 6000K White H4 9003 HB2 Hi/Lo Beam LED Headlight Conversion Kit with Sticker -2 Year Warranty
Firehawk Firehawk 2022 New H11/H8/H9 LED Bulbs, 15000LM Japanese CSP, 400% Brightness, 200% Night Visibility, 6000K Cool White, Halogen Replacement Conversion Kit, H16 Fog Light, Pack of 2
Firehawk Firehawk 2022 New H11/H8/H9 LED Bulbs, 15000LM Japanese CSP, 400% Brightness, 200% Night Visibility, 6000K Cool White, Halogen Replacement Conversion Kit, H16 Fog Light, Pack of 2
What are Projector Headlight Bulbs?
Projector headlight bulbs increase visibility when driving in the dark. In some cases, factory headlights don't provide you with enough lighting. Projector headlight bulbs offer the following benefits:
- Brighter lighting: Perhaps the biggest benefit of projector headlight bulbs is that they offer brighter lighting. This is beneficial when driving in dark conditions.
- Less obstructive: Even though projector headlight bulbs are brighter, they are less obstructive in affecting other driver's visibility. This is because they direct downwards, out of direct view.
- Increased efficiency: Depending on the type of projector headlight bulb you choose, they can also be more efficient. For example, LED projector headlights use less energy, making them efficient.
- Better off-roading: If your driving includes navigating off-road, then projector headlight bulbs may be just what you need for better visibility.
Initially, projector headlight bulbs were considered high-performance and were only available in luxury vehicles that came with a high price tag. Today, you can buy projector headlight bulbs for your vehicle. If you use your vehicle for any purpose other than regular, daily commuting, then upgrading your lights may be worth it. Projector headlight bulbs are usually an affordable upgrade that significantly improves visibility.
Types of Projector Headlight Bulbs
There are a few types of projector headlight bulbs to consider:
Combo Kit
If you want projector headlight bulbs that come with everything you need for installation, then you might want a kit. The SEALIGHT 9005/HB3 H11/H9 14000LM LED Bulbs Combo comes with four LED projector headlight bulbs, two high and two low, as well as a wiring harness. These lights replace halogen headlights with sizes HB3, H9, or H11 and don't require any additional wiring installation.
Mini Projector
Mini projector lights are smaller-sized bulbs that still offer exceptional lighting. The Left-Hand Drive H4 LED Headlight Bulbs come with a perfect high-low beam pattern using a mini lens. They are compatible with H4 design and use LED lights to offer up to 300 percent more brightness. The bulbs come equipped with an aviation aluminum alloy that also dissipates up to 250 percent of heat.
LED
LED lights are an efficient option when choosing projector headlight bulbs. The Firehawk 2021 New H11/H8/H9 LED Bulbs are long-lasting projector headlight bulbs. These lights are durable, lasting over 50,000 hours by using a unique cooling system. Installation of these lights is easy and can usually be completed in a few minutes or less. These bulbs are compatible with H11, H8, or H9 car models.
Fog Lights
You can use the same projector technologies to improve the brightness of your fog lights. The JDM ASATR Bright White PX Chips Fog Light Bulbs come in a set with two fog bulbs that offer a brighter output. They fit H11 or H16 sizes and come equipped with an aluminum circuit board.
How to Choose Projector Headlight Bulbs
Choosing the right projector headlight bulbs requires that you check your size requirements. You can learn your vehicle's headlight size from your owner's manual. From here, consider how bright you want your bulbs to be. Projector headlight bulbs come in different variations of brightness. The higher the wattage, the more bright the bulb is, and vice versa.
You can also choose different types of bulbs. Halogen lights give you ample brightness but do consume more energy than other options. This means if you're looking for a more efficient option, you should go with LED bulbs. Even HID lights use less energy than when compared to halogen lights.
You may also have control over the color hue of your projector lights. Some people prefer the traditional yellowish color whereas some prefer a more modern, white color. Be sure to also consider the brand. You want a durable, reliable product. You can usually learn a lot about potential bulbs by considering previous customer reviews.
How to Replace/Install Projector Headlight Bulbs
Disclaimer: The guidelines in this story are general and not meant to replace instructions for your specific vehicle. Please consult your owner's manual or repair guide before attempting repairs.
Replacing or installing your headlight bulbs is easy and can usually be done in a few minutes. You can install or replace projector headlight bulbs with the following steps:
Prepare Your Vehicle
Prepare for your installation by parking your vehicle in a safe place. Then, unbox your new headlight bulbs. Be sure that your lights came with a wiring kit. Otherwise, you will need one of those for installation.
Remove the Existing Headlights
The process of removing your existing headlights, and how easy or difficult it is, will depend on the make and model of your vehicle. For example, older models may require that you first remove the whole headlight assembly to access the bulb. Fortunately, you can usually find this information in your vehicle's owner's manual.
Remove the bolts and then pull the headlight assembly unit forward. Disconnect the writing harness and twist the bulb until it is free. Pull it out carefully, being sure not to touch the glass bulb as it may be hot.
Place the New Bulb
Place the new bulb, then twist it into place. The new bulb should fit snugly, as long as it is the right bulb size. Reconnect the wiring harness until it is secure.
Check that the Lights Work
Check that the lights work before replacing the headlight assembly harness kit. If they don't work, the wires may still be loose, or it could be a problem with the headlights themselves. Check that you like the visibility before replacing the whole unit.
You can replace a broken projector headlight bulb with the same steps. You may also decide to upgrade your headlights again in the future, where you can complete the same steps.
Hearst Autos Research
Hearst Autos Research, produced independently of the Car and Driver Editorial staff, provides articles about cars and the automotive industry to help readers make informed purchasing choices.