9005 Vs 9006 Vs H11 Headlight Bulbs: Are They Same Or Different?

Whether you are buying new headlight bulbs for your car to get better performance or want to replace the existing ones in case of malfunction, you can find a wide range of options out there. Not only will you find different headlight bulb models, but you can also find different types of headlight bulbs to choose from.

Even though you can find different options for the same, the three types of headlight bulbs you will find include 9005, 9006, and H11 headlight bulbs. While all of these bulbs may seem very similar, not all of them are going to be interchangeable. Hence, we are here with a complete comparison between 9005 vs 9006 vs H11 bulbs so that you can easily pick the right one for you.

Make sure to check out all the details and factors in this guide by going through it till the end. But before checking the differences between H11, 9005 and 9006 headlight bulb types, we will first learn more about each bulb type down below.

9005 Headlight Bulbs Explained

If you are buying LED bulbs for the high beam light of your headlight, then the 9005 bulb type is the primary option that you will find. This type of light is great for lighting up a large area with high-intensity light with ease. Apart from being used in headlights, these same bulbs can also be used in fog lamps thanks to their high-intensity light output. But before using 9005 bulbs, you need to ensure that high beam bulbs like this one are allowed in your country.

9005 Bulbs: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High beam bulbs for using on the highway
• Quite powerful bulbs which look great
• Generally pretty long lifespan ratings
• Pretty directional light output for high beam

Cons:

• Power draw can be a bit high compared to others
• Might be a bit too bright for oncoming traffic

9006 Headlight Bulbs Explained

The 9006 bulb is another option that you can consider while buying new bulbs for headlights. And while the 9005 and 9006 bulb types may seem quite similar with the same socket, they are used for different applications. Unlike the 9005 headlight bulbs, the 9006 headlight bulbs are used for low beam output instead of high beam output. These also have different wattage ratings as you will see later on in this comparison.

9006 Bulbs: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Great compatibility for most headlight bulbs
• Decently reliable LED bulbs
• Viable option for using in low beam configuration
• Low heat output with an efficient design

Cons:

• Not as powerful as 9005 bulbs
• Cannot be used for fog lamps

H11 Headlight Bulbs Explained

When compared to the 9005 and 9006 headlight bulb types, the H11 bulb type is much different. Unlike the previous bulb types, the H11 bulb uses an L-shaped design. As for its primary function, such types of bulbs are used for the low beam in headlights. In fact, this type of bulbs can be used in both headlights as well as fog lights if needed. When compared to other H series headlight bulbs, the H11 headlight bulb is also great for long-term usage thanks to its excellent lifespan.

H11 Bulbs: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Unique L shaped design
• Works for both headlights and fog lamps
• Highly efficient LED bulbs with low heat output
• Makes your car look quite great

Cons:

• Limited lifespan rating compared to others
• Slightly lower brightness than 9005 bulbs

9005 Bulb vs 9006 Bulb vs H11 Bulb: Comparison Table

Here is to know about the differences among H11 vs 9005 vs 9006  headlights when compared to each other.

Specification	9005 Bulb	9006 Bulb	H11 Bulb
Wattage	60W	55W	55W
Lumen	1700-2100 lm	1000-1700 lm	1200-1700 lm
Lifespan	500-1000 hours	1000-2000 hours	1000-2000 hours
Beam Type	High Beam	Low Beam	Low Beam
Compatibility	High beam for many vehicles	Low beam for many vehicles	Low beam for many vehicles
Color Temperature	3000K-6500K	3000K-6500K	3000K-6500K
Usage	Suitable for high beam and fog lights	Suitable for low beam and fog lights	Suitable for low beam and fog lights
Installation	Easy to install	Easy to install	Easy to install
Price Range	$10-$30	$10-$30	$10-$30
Best For	High visibility, long-distance illumination	Low beam driving	Low beam driving, foggy conditions

9005 vs 9006 vs H11 Headlight Bulbs: Specifications

1. Wattage

Wattage directly influences the brightness and power consumption of headlight bulbs. Typically, a higher wattage results in a brighter light.

9005 headlight bulb operates at 60 watts, making it the most powerful among the three, suitable for high beam applications that require intense illumination. In comparison, both the 9006 and H11 headlight bulbs operate at 55 watts. This wattage is optimal for low beam and fog light applications, offering sufficient brightness for everyday driving conditions without excessive power consumption. 55-watt rating for both 9006 and H11 ensures balanced performance, making them ideal for scenarios where controlled and adequate lighting is necessary.

2. Lumen

Lumen is a crucial measure as it indicates the total light output or brightness of a bulb. This lumen rating can include values like 1000 lumens, 1200 lumens, and even 1700 lumens where the higher rating results in much better performance.

9005 headlight bulb produces between 1700 to 2100 lumens, making it highly suitable for high beam applications that require bright, far-reaching light. In contrast to 9005, the 9006 headlight bulbs has a lumen output ranging from 1000 to 1700 lumens, which is adequate for low beam use where a controlled and less intense light is needed. H11 bulb, with 1200 to 1700 lumens, is effective for low beam and fog light applications, similar to the 9006 bulb.

3. Lifespan

Lifespan is important because it determines how long the headlight bulb will last before needing replacement. The longer lifespan of the 9006 and H11 bulbs makes them more cost-effective and reliable for everyday use.

9005 bulb has a lifespan of 500 to 1000 hours due to its higher wattage and brightness levels. 9006 bulb generally lasts between 1000 and 2000 hours, benefiting from its lower power consumption and less intense illumination. Similarly, H11 headlight bulb also offers a lifespan of 1000 to 2000 hours, making it a durable choice for low beam and fog light applications.

4. Beam Type

Beam type determines the pattern and focus of the light emitted by the bulb. Only the 9005 bulbs are made for high beam headlights and the 9006 and H11 bulbs are made for low beam headlights.

9005 headlight bulbs is designed for high beam applications, providing a powerful and focused beam that illuminates long distances ahead. 9006 bulbs, on the other hand, are intended for low beam use, offering a wider and less intense beam pattern to ensure visibility without blinding oncoming traffic. H11 bulbs is also designed for low beam and fog light applications, providing controlled and adequate lighting for close-range visibility, particularly useful in foggy or adverse weather conditions.

5. Compatibility

Compatibility ensures that the headlight bulb fits and functions correctly in the intended vehicle.

9005 bulb is typically used for high beam headlights in many vehicles, offering bright, long-distance illumination. 9006 bulb is commonly found in low beam headlight applications, providing suitable lighting for regular driving conditions. H11 bulb is widely used for low beam and fog light applications, making it versatile for various vehicles and lighting needs.

All three bulbs are designed to fit standard headlight housings, but it’s important to check your vehicle’s specifications to ensure the correct bulb type is used.

6. Color Temperature

Color temperature affects the color and quality of light emitted, measured in Kelvin (K). This color temperature range ensures that users can select a light color that best suits their visibility needs and aesthetic preferences.

9005 headlight bulb typically has a color temperature range of 3000K to 6500K, allowing for both warm yellowish light and cool bluish-white light options. 9006 bulbs also offer a similar color temperature range of 3000K to 6500K, providing flexibility in choosing the desired light color for low beam applications. H11 headlight bulb has a color temperature range from 3000K to 6500K, making it suitable for low beam and fog light use with options for both warm and cool lighting.

7. Usage

Usage defines the ideal applications for each type of headlight bulb. Each bulb type (9006 vs 9005 vs H11) serves specific purposes, ensuring optimal lighting performance for different scenarios.

9005 headlight bulb is best suited for high beam and fog light applications, offering powerful and focused illumination for long-distance visibility. 9006 headlight bulb is ideal for low beam applications, providing a wider and less intense beam pattern suitable for everyday driving without blinding other drivers. H11 headlight bulb is designed for both low beam and fog light use, providing balanced illumination that enhances visibility in various driving conditions, especially in foggy or adverse weather.

8. Installation

Installation affects how easily a headlight bulb can be fitted into a vehicle. All three bulbs ( 9005, h11 and 9006) are user-friendly and typically do not require professional assistance, making them convenient options for most vehicle owners.

9005 bulb is generally easy to install, often requiring a simple plug-and-play setup in most vehicles. Similarly, the 9006 bulb features a straightforward installation process with a plug-and-play mechanism that fits into standard low beam headlight assemblies. H11 bulb also offers a hassle-free installation, designed to fit into standard headlight and fog light housings.

Connectors of 9005 Bulbs, 9006 Bulbs, H11 Bulbs

If you want to interchange light bulbs in your headlight, then checking the connectors offered by your light bulbs is highly important. Hence, checking the connector differences of these light bulbs is highly important which is as follows:

1. Connectors of 9005 vs 9006 Bulbs

Unfortunately, despite looking very similar the 9005 and 9006 bulbs use different connectors. In comparison, the 9005 light bulb has an additional connector compared to the 9006 bulbs. Although, 9005 bulbs can be used with a 9006 connector by modifying it.

2. Connectors of H11 vs 9005  Bulbs

As expected, the connectors of the 9005 and H11 bulbs are completely different. This is due to the fact that they are made for high beam and low beam usage respectively. Although, using a 9005 bulb with an H11 connector is still possible.

3. Connectors of 9006 vs H11 Bulbs

Even though the connectors of 9006 and H11 bulbs may look similar, they are completely different. Thankfully, similar to 9005 bulbs, 9006 bulbs can also be used with H11 connectors if you want.

Socket Compatibility of 9005 Bulbs, 9006 Bulbs, H11 Bulbs

You also need to check the socket compatibility of the light bulb that you are going to use in your headlights. Because these are different light bulbs, they all use different sockets as given here

1. Socket Compatibility for 9005 vs 9006 Bulbs

If you want to use a 9005 bulb in a 9006 bulb socket, then you will be glad to know that it is possible with modifications. However, using a 9006 bulb in a 9005 socket is not possible since 9006 bulbs have a larger socket base.

2. Socket Compatibility for 9005 vs H11 Bulbs

Similar to using 9005 bulbs in 9006 sockets, 9005 bulbs can also be used in an H11 socket by using a similar modification process with it too. As for using H11 bulbs in a 9005 bulb socket, that is not possible due to the larger H11 socket size.

3. Socket Compatibility for 9006 vs H11 Bulbs

In case you have a 9006 bulb, it can also be used with an H11 socket without needing any modifications in most cases. But using an H11 bulb with a 9006 socket is not possible which means that H11 bulbs only work with H11 sockets.

Best Halogen Headlight Bulbs of 9005, 9006, H11 Type

Now that you know more about 9005, 9006, and H11 type bulbs, you might also want to get one for your headlights. And while these are primarily LED bulbs, you can also find halogen options as given here:

1. Budget-Friendly Headlight Bulb: Sylvania 9005

Despite being affordable, these lights are highly powerful with a maximum brightness output of 1700 lumens. To make this possible, these bulbs use up to 65 watts of power. You also get a 1-year warranty and a 200-hour lifespan with these bulbs which is quite good for a budget-friendly halogen bulb.

2. Great Performing Headlight Bulb: Sylvania 9006

Since these are low beam halogen bulbs, their brightness is lower at 1000 lumens. Thankfully, this does result in a lower power consumption of 55 watts. Similar to the more powerful option from Sylvania, this one also has a 200-hour lifespan rating along with a 1-year warranty.

3. Excellent Brightness Headlight Bulb: Sylvania H11

Even though this is a halogen bulb, you get a decently high brightness output of 1345 lumens thanks to its cobalt blue nan-coating. With this coating, it is able to offer a comparatively higher lifespan rating of 230 hours. As for their power consumption, this halogen bulb is rated for up to 55 watts.

Best LED Headlight Bulbs of 9005, 9006, H11 Type

Apart from halogen bulbs, you can also find much more powerful and standard LED bulbs if you are going with a 9005, 9006, or an H11 bulb. For the same, you can consider getting one of our favorite recommendations:

1. High-Performance Headlight Bulb: Marsauto 9005

Being made for high-performance usage, this bulb offers a superb brightness output of up to 8000 lumens. For such a powerful bulb, its given lifespan rating of 30000 hours is quite great. Since this light has an LED element inside, you get a color temperature of 6000K with it.

2. Value for Money Headlight Bulb: Marsauto 9006

Even with a comparatively lower price tag, you get a brightness output of 8000 lumens with it. In fact, you also get a pretty great lifespan rating of 30000 hours with these light bulbs. One of the best things about this light bulb is that you get a pretty low power consumption rating of just 40 watts.

3. Great Looking Headlight Bulb: Beamtech H11

Since these light bulbs are primarily made for looks, they do have a lower brightness output of 4000 lumens. Thankfully, you still get a pretty amazing lifespan rating of 30000 hours with these H11 bulbs. And since this light bulb has a fanless design, it is completely silent and won’t make any weird sounds.

Conclusion

By checking this complete comparison and guide regarding headlight bulbs, you must have a pretty great idea about 9005, 9006, and H11 bulbs. In this comparison between 9005 vs H11 vs 9006 bulbs, we have given each and every detail regarding these light bulbs. Apart from their comparison, you can also find recommendations for the best 9005, 9006, and H11 light bulbs.

With these, you can easily pick the right headlight bulbs for your vehicle whether you want halogen bulbs or LED bulbs. If you have gone through all the information regarding the comparison between 9006 vs 9005 vs H11 given above, make sure to share your thoughts in the comments section. You can also post any questions down there if you have any!