Types of lamps
Halogen is the cheapest technology, but trusted automotive lamp manufacturers make them very efficient.
An old solution that is still the most popular, but loses a lot in terms of efficiency. I think that the H4 and H7 are very familiar to most car enthusiasts, not only in terms of their prevalence, but, above all, in the frequency of application of this or that solution. Access to these types of lamps is almost unlimited - you can find them not only at roadside gas stations, in regular supermarkets, but also (which is the fastest way) in online stores.
Xenon - this type of lamp provides the best lighting parameters for the road.
The xenon lamp is becoming more common and is used on a fairly wide scale - it differs in design and operating principle from a standard, say, H7, but this does not mean that it is inferior. In contrast, a xenon lamp, which operates on a gas called xenon, produces light with a much higher white intensity, so the area illuminated in front of the car is more visible and the range of the projected light is definitely better.
The cost of one original set (we are not talking about the so-called bi-xenons, where both low and high beams are implemented through xenon lamps) for a specific car model is usually several thousand rubles.
Expensive LEDs shine beautifully, “budget” ones work worse than xenon lamps and even incandescent lamps.
Contrary to what some people think, they are not eternal at all. Over time, LEDs lose their efficiency and produce less and less light. However, they are included in almost all car lamp ratings. In modern cars, LEDs are increasingly replacing classic light bulbs. They not only provide greater safety, but also a variety of design options and high energy saving potential.
Recommendations
When choosing a car lamp for low beam, it is recommended to follow these simple rules:
- You should carefully study the manufacturer's instructions. It is important to be familiar with all instructions and advice. In particular, sometimes there is a ban on the use of one or another model on public roads in Western European countries.
- It is important to consider, in addition to the popularity of the manufacturer, also the technical characteristics of the lamp.
- You should not chase power when buying the brightest car lamp. First of all, the light should be comfortable for the driver.
- When choosing a powerful lamp, you need to make sure that the car's electrical network can withstand the appropriate load.
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Characteristics
The first h7 lamps began to be produced more than two decades ago and have not ceased to be improved since then. However, one of their constant features, characterizing the basic operating properties, remains the distance between the filament and the flange. Thanks to its fixed value, the combustion point of the spiral remains constant. This directly affects the focusing quality of the reflector and, as a consequence, the degree of illumination of the road surface.
Another important feature of h7 lamps is geometry. The more precise their proportions, the better the uniformity of the light flux, the greater the power and the better all important characteristics. Competition in the market and the variety of production technologies give rise to several modifications of such lamps.
They differ from each other primarily by such criteria as:
- Power.
- Lighting parameters.
- Emitter type (xenon, halogen, led).
In terms of electrical properties, standard h7 lamps have the same parameters - they are all designed to operate with a voltage of 12 volts and a power of 55 watts. Often, some manufacturers produce light bulbs with power up to 85-90 W, but all of them are applicable only in a special optical auto system. Installing them in the headlights of a regular car will lead to overload and damage.
Note! The h7 lamp is installed primarily in optics for low-level illumination. For high beams, they use a now outdated and cheaper analogue - h1.
Halogen lamps
The h7 halogen lamp is the most affordable and cheapest of this category. Has good lighting characteristics. It can be installed without additional equipment. The flask is made of quartz or hard-alloy glass. Inside it is filled with iodine or bromine vapor. The main disadvantage is excessive heat generation, which is one of the strongest factors in its rapid aging and shortening of service life.
Xenon lamps
The operating principle of the H7 lamp of this modification is based on the initiation of an electric arc that occurs in an inert gas (xenon) environment between adjacent electrodes. Thanks to this technology, the lamp produces a luminous flux of increased brightness at the same power as its analogues. In addition, vibrations that occur during vehicle operation do not in any way affect the functionality and durability of the lamp. Its advantages also include a comfortable temperature and light tone. The disadvantage is the need to install an ignition module, which increases the already considerable cost of the device.
LED bulbs
A completely new generation of technologies for powerful illumination of the road surface, h7 LED lamps, are characterized by efficiency, durability and maximum resistance to mechanical factors (vibrations, shaking, shocks). The light source in them is a solid element - a semiconductor led crystal. Their main disadvantage and the reason for their low popularity are the difficulties in installation and subsequent adjustment in standard headlights. Ideally, a special optics system should be installed under such a specific lamp.
Important! H7 lamps are produced not only in a standard version, but also with a set of additional qualities - increased service life, increased luminous flux, all-weather use (all-weather) and increased visual comfort.
With extended service life
Halogen devices with extended service life are presented by two manufacturers.
Philips Long Life
If previously you had to frequently change low beam lamps, then with the installation of a device from this manufacturer you can simply forget about their existence for several years. They will last a long time and do their main function perfectly.
Advantages:
- the service life increased by 4 times will be 3 years (100 thousand km);
- powerful luminous flux;
- justified cost (varies in the range of 549-700 rubles).
Flaws:
- shines in a yellowish color, although this was done specifically to increase its service life.
Prices for Philips Long Life:
Osram Ultra Life
German quality lamp with extended service life and three-year warranty. Color temperature 3200 K.
Advantages:
- excellent brightness (1550 lm);
- service life for 2000 hours;
- 3 year warranty;
- reasonable cost (within 1000 rubles).
Flaws:
- it is very difficult to use the guarantee;
- lives only 2 years on average instead of the stated three years.
Prices for Osram Ultra Life:
What lamps should I buy?
H4 halogen bulbs are usually installed on small cars or older models, also because they are cheaper. H7 is used in more expensive cars, but their headlights must have two reflectors because, unlike H-Sevens H4, they only have one filament. H7 is smaller than the classic H4, so they work like a small radiator - 92% of the electricity is converted into heat.
The tungsten wire inside them can heat up to 3000 ° C. However, the quality of the bulb-reflector set determines the characteristics of the reflector. A review of car lamps showed that the large round headlight of the small VW Upa with an H4 bulb (manufactured by Hella) produces a much brighter light (as shown by measurements and subjective experience) than the smaller Ford Focus headlight with an H7 bulb. In the latter case, styling was probably most important, not lighting efficiency. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated case, as evidenced by testing of many headlights with small reflectors.
Conclusion: which lamp is the best?
The car lamp market has its own leaders among manufacturers. Comparison of lamps is possible based on many parameters. Within each category of H7 car bulbs (halogen, LED and xenon), there are many worthy options in terms of price-to-quality ratio. Which one is the best is impossible to say unequivocally, since everything depends on the specific car and the characteristics of its use, as well as on the priorities of a particular driver. For ease of selection, you can use the above rating of lamps.
Distinctive features
Halogen gas lamps appeared in the world of cars about 20 years ago, but still hold the lead. This is perhaps due to the low cost of the product and the good quality of light produced from them. No additional equipment is required to install the lamp. The structure of halogen models is practically no different from old incandescent lamps. In a flask made of carbide or quartz glass there is a filament and an inert gas is added, which contains halogen additives - chlorine or bromine. The lamps provide excellent luminous flux.
With xenon effect
The list of halogen lamps with xenon effect includes 3 manufacturers.
MTF-Light Palladium
This Korean-made lamp was loved by Russian car owners for a number of its interesting advantages:
- glow temperature 5500 K;
- creating the effect of expensive xenon;
- affordable price (950 rubles).
Flaws:
- slightly blind motorists in oncoming traffic.
Prices for MTF-Light Palladium:
Philips CrystalVision
Lamps with xenon effect will help when you get tired of yellow halogen lamps. This model shines with a stylish white light with a slight bluish tint.
Advantages:
- visual xenon effect;
- the package contains two Philips W5W gift light bulbs;
- justified cost (varies in the range of 1099-1650 rubles).
Flaws:
- The brightness could be increased.
Philips CrystalVision prices:
Osram Cool Blue Intense
It has visually improved comfort, and is close in color to the original xenon. Color temperature 4200 K.
Advantages:
- brightness is 20% more;
- luminous flux reaches 1500 lm;
- shines in white-blue color;
- reasonable cost (varies in the range of 590-990 rubles).
Flaws:
- poor lighting on a wet road.
Prices for Osram Cool Blue Intense:
Rating of lamps with H1 base
This type of lamp is used as high and low beam in cars, vans and trucks. These days, they are one of the most commonly used types of car bulbs.
Inside the incandescent lamp there is one high efficiency filament with an H1 mount. These lamps offer a luminous flux of 1500/3200 lm. The height of the luminous flux depends on whether it is a traditional halogen lamp or a xenon HID lamp, which contains two gases - xenon and krypton. The service life of this type of lighting is at a very high level, because the vast majority of models available in stores shine from 400 to even 600 hours.
OSRAM COOL BLUE INTENSE H1
The quality and parameters of OSRAM Cool Blue Intense exactly meet the requirements set by car manufacturers upon first assembly. In this way, they provide lighting that makes the most of the headlights and thus influences driving safety.
Products from automotive lamp manufacturers OSRAM are used for the first assembly in every second new car. Car manufacturers don't compromise. Light source suppliers must meet the highest requirements.
GE TUNGSRAM Megalight Ultra
The high efficiency of the lamps provides better road illumination, an expanded driver's field of vision and improved night driving conditions. The TUNGSRAM Megalight Ultra+ series has been approved for use on public roads. The silver coating applied to the lamp ensures no glare.
TUNGSRAM is a guarantee of the highest quality products while maintaining an attractive price. TUNGSRAM Megalight Ultra + 130% lamps are placed in the same category as Osram Night Breaker Laser or Philips X-tremeVision.
Rating of TOP 7 best halogen lamps h7
Our current rating includes:
- Philips LongLife EcoVision.
- OSRAM 62210FBR-DUOBOX.
- Osram Night Breaker Laser Next Generation - 64210NL-HCB.
- Koito WhiteBeam III.
- Bosch Gigalight Plus 120.
- Osram Cool Blue Boost - 62210CBB-HCB.
- Philips X-TremeVision.
Let's take a closer look at the selected models.
Philips LongLife EcoVision
An excellent choice for drivers who want to save money is the Philips LongLife EcoVision halogen lamp. The model, like all lamps of this type, is used in high and low beam headlights. The Philips device stands out for its increased resource, which is almost 4 times longer than that of conventional lamps. The lamp is powered by 12 V.
Brightness, lm | 1500 |
Color temperature, K | 3100 |
Power, W | 55 |
Price tag: from 750 to 850 rubles. (2 lamps)
- excellent service life - 1500 hours;
- the device produces bright, high-contrast light that does not dazzle oncoming drivers;
- High quality quartz glass is used, which is vibration resistant and has good strength.
- There are two pieces in the set, which is not always convenient.
Philips lamps are a good alternative for affordable money. I now have them in my foglights. There is enough light and I'm happy. I got tired of the previous ones, so I decided not to save money; a stingy person, as they say, pays twice. I advise you to buy, the manufacturer is well-known and its products stand out for their quality. I think you won't regret it.
Philips LongLife EcoVision
OSRAM 62210FBR-DUOBOX
OSRAM series halogen lamps are usually presented in a set of two products. They are designed for installation in headlights of passenger cars. The lamps operate stably in the car network with both alternating and direct current. Yellow filters on the lamp bulb reduce the dispersion of the light flux by fog and precipitation.
Power, W | 55 |
Color temperature, K | 2600 |
Brightness, lm | 1500 |
Price: from 1299 to 1500 rubles. (2 lamps)
- good product length - 59 mm;
- weightless (12.5 grams);
- service life (550 hours).
- not found.
I installed different lamps on the car, but after OSRAM the rest faded into the background. I was pleased with the German quality and thoughtfulness at a very affordable price. The light shines softly and your eyes don’t get tired. And it is so important to have a fresh and sharp look at the road. I've been using it for about six months and it hasn't let me down. I recommend.
OSRAM 62210FBR-DUOBOX
Osram Night Breaker Laser Next Generation - 64210NL-HCB
More recently, last fall, the manufacturer OSRAM updated its line of Night Breaker halogen lamps, which at that time were considered the brightest. And a new collection, Night Breaker Laser Next Generation, was born. Representatives of this line have become brighter by 150%. I think the new product will not go unnoticed by buyers and will help better illuminate the road and curbs in front of the car.
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Power, W | 55 |
Brightness, lm | 1500 |
Color temperature, K | 3750 |
Cost: from 1680 to 2100 rubles.
- the spraying on the model was replaced, which changed the brightness achieved both on headlights with lenses and with reflective optics (1500 lm);
- Greater contrast can be achieved with increased color temperature (3750 K).
- according to customer reviews - shorter service life;
- 6 month warranty.
The lamps shine quite well, clear boundaries, the roadside is visible. No complaints. They lasted ten months, but my mileage was about 13,000 km. The price, in my opinion, is too high. I bought it in an online store, so I managed to save money. I will buy models from this company, and now I will buy exactly the same lamp. I recommend it.
Osram Night Breaker Laser Next Generation - 64210NL-HCB
Koito H7 WhiteBeam III
Lamps from the Japanese manufacturer KOITO are the pinnacle of development of advanced automotive lighting technologies. They are made using KOITO know-how. Lamp bulbs are made of glass, which is more refractory than ordinary glass and filters the UV part of the radiation. This reduces the heat emission in the headlight. A typical set consists of two lamps; it is assumed that both headlight bulbs must be replaced.
Power, W | 55 |
Color temperature, K | 4200 |
Price tag: from 1840 to 2000 rubles.
- warm white shade (from 4200 K);
- long service life (more than 550 hours).
- not found.
They are on low beam in the car. They shine with excellent soft white light. More pleasant and even more powerful than standard halogens. On the outside it is very similar to models using xenon. And the resource is excellent, the operating time is decent. I am satisfied with this model of light bulbs. I’m not going to change, and if I do, it’ll only be to a Japanese one. I recommend to buy.
Koito H7 WhiteBeam III
Bosch Gigalight Plus 120
The products of the German giant Bosch, as always, are at their best. This set of two light bulbs will meet your expectations. The power and voltage of the model are standard. And the brightness is increased. The lamp shines much further than its analogues, which attracts the attention of car enthusiasts. Installing lamps is easy even for less advanced users. To replace the headlight bulbs, it is not at all necessary to go to a service center; you can easily do it yourself.
Power, W | 55 |
Color shade | yellowish |
Cost: from 1130 to 1250 rubles.
- much brighter than the analogue of this company with plus 90;
- There are two pieces in the package, it is convenient to replace the light source in two headlights at once.
- sensitive to voltage surges and shaking.
The lamps are expensive, but in my opinion they are worth the cost. They last a little less than previous Bosch models, but this was most likely influenced by the increase in the brightness of the glow. They fell into disrepair within two years, and it should be said that I rarely drive in the dark, and during the day I use the fog lights. In general, I am satisfied with the purchase and use of halogens and recommend it. I hope this model of light bulbs will help you on the road and will perfectly illuminate your path.
Bosch Gigalight Plus 120
Osram Cool Blue Boost - 62210CBB-HCB
Another representative of Osram lamps is Cool Blue Boost with cool white emitted light, made in China. The lamp will illuminate road markings and signs with maximum contrast in the evening and at night. And it is suitable for those who do not like to have a yellow stripe or a stripe of a color other than white running in front of them.
Power, W | 80 |
Color temperature, K | 5000 |
Brightness, lm | 1100 |
Price: from 1260 to 1500 rubles.
- emits rich white light (5000 K);
- high power (80 W).
- low brightness (1100 lm).
I’m already accustomed to the fact that some halogen lamps are not installed in the headlights, but they shine approximately the same, the difference is several shades of color from yellow to bluish. But one day an acquaintance came to visit, turned on the headlights, I was one hundred percent sure that he had xenon lamps, but when he told me that these were ordinary halogen lamps from this manufacturer Osram, I was in deep shock. I couldn’t imagine that a halogen lamp could shine so brightly. I immediately went to buy it. And I’ve been using it for a couple of months now, I’m happy as an elephant. And I advise you, with such light you can’t go wrong.
Osram Cool Blue Boost - 62210CBB-HCB
Philips H7 X-TremeVision
In 2014, Philips celebrated the centenary of the production of the first automobile lamps. The release of the new Philips H7 X-TremeVision was timed to coincide with this event. Yes, the company has updated its series of halogen lamps. And this model shines 130 percent better than the device from previous series. The model also increases visibility by approximately 45 meters.
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Power, W | 55 |
Brightness, lm | 1500 |
Color temperature, K | 3700 |
Price tag: from 1420 to 1650 rubles.
- the manufacturer stated an excellent service life (450 hours);
- presence of a yellowish tint during operation.
- no guarantee.
I love all the shades of yellow that the lamps emit. And this device has just standard yellow. I decided halogens would be perfect for me. So I installed it and enjoy it, and it looks like I spent well and spent it moderately. There were no comments during operation. I advise you to buy.
Philips H7 X-TremeVision
The best LED low beam lamps
Such products are also labeled as LED. They are interesting due to their low price, long service life and flow power, safety for the driver and car parts. We present to your attention two of the best LED low beam lamps with H7 and HB4 sockets, selected from 10 popular options on the market.
Osram Chip H7 12V 30W
Let's start the review with the Osram Chip car lamp, which is primarily intended for installation in low-beam headlights. However, if necessary, it can also be used for long-distance lighting thanks to the universal H7 base. It is chosen due to its low energy consumption, good mechanical resistance and uniform, bright flow, which increases driving comfort and safety on the road. At the same time, the lighting does not irritate the driver’s eyes and does not interfere with normal visibility. High-quality soldering of elements ensures a long service life.
Advantages
- The headlights do not overheat due to the low lamp power - 30 W;
- Low load on the generator;
- Lack of UV rays in the spectrum;
- Well illuminates the roadside;
- Gives a clear picture ahead;
- Great resource.
Flaws
- The dispersion range is not large.
Due to the bright and saturated radiation, a car with Osram Chip lamps becomes more visible on the highway, which reduces the risk of accidents.
Clearlight, base HB4, 2800 lm, 2 pcs.
Compared to the previous model, this one comes with two LED lamps, not one. They are distinguished by good behavior on the road - they can withstand vibration and shock due to the absence of a filament and bulb. Their ease of use ensures quick switching on and off, which also increases the service life of the product to 30 thousand hours. This option is also relevant due to the reduced load on the car’s battery and generator, which is possible due to the low power consumption of 20-30 W.
Advantages
- Flow power 2000 lm;
- Does not require frequent replacement;
- Shelf life – up to 90 months;
- Easy to install;
- Nice color temperature.
Flaws
- Not sold everywhere.
Reviews note that the Clearlight LED lamp well illuminates both the side of the road and the road near the car, which reduces the likelihood of accidents involving both pedestrians and other vehicles.
Choosing H7 lamps
They first appeared on the market in the 90s and gradually became one of the most common. Automotive companies are constantly working to improve devices in order to improve their technical characteristics and increase reliability.
H7 differ in parameters and power. 55 W is the standard power, but some modifications also come with higher power levels, usually intended for closed tracks or off-road conditions.
H7 low beam lamps are divided into:
- halogen;
- LED;
- xenon
If you conduct a test, you can identify each type of device with its pros and cons, which would be good to know about when choosing the right product.
- Halogen lamps have the optimal combination of price and quality; they shine well without installing any additional equipment. This is the most used option today. Modified types come with xenon effect and extended service life. The disadvantage is the strong heating of the lamps and rapid failure.
- LED devices are economical, do not work worse as a result of shock or shaking, and have the longest service life. Disadvantages include the difficulty of adjusting the light beam due to the special design of the lamp and its cost.
- Xenon lamps are not afraid of vibrations and have a color temperature as close as possible to daylight. The disadvantages include the high cost and the need to install an additional ignition unit.
When choosing H7 lamps, it is recommended to pay attention to the above advantages and disadvantages in order to avoid disappointment later, and to give preference to lamps with a simple white color, which work great in rain, snow, and fog.
You will learn about low beam lamps with an H7 base, which are the best, thanks to the rating presented according to the version of the Mark.guru portal. It includes products from different manufacturers with normal and increased light output. So, what kind of lamps can be installed in a car and not worry about their proper functioning, we will consider further.
The best standard halogen car lamps in H7 socket
Standard halogen lamps attract ease of installation, reliability, high performance, and good value for money.
Narva H7 Standard 24V
The Narva H7 Standard 24V 1pcs lamp is intended for use on vehicles with a 24 V on-board power supply (and this is usually a freight vehicle).
The socket with PX26d base has 2 contacts and a flange connection, allowing the lamp to be placed at the required distance from the reflector. The average cost of the product is 220 rubles.
Advantages:
- good lighting of the right side;
- high level of light output;
- simple installation;
- flask made of high quality glass.
Flaws:
- some loss of lane illumination.
Narva Standard halogen produces a white color with a glow temperature of 3300 K, consumes 70 W power and provides a lighting angle of 320°.
Goodyear Halogen H7 12V
The Goodyear Halogen H7 12V halogen lamp with a power of 55 W produces a luminous flux of 1500 lm and a color temperature of 3200 K. You can buy such a lamp for an average of 360 rubles.
Advantages:
- ultraviolet radiation suppression;
- the ability to use in low and high beam headlights, as well as in PTF;
- beam length increased by 1.5 times;
- uniform distribution of light flux.
Flaws:
- Increased heating and short service life typical for halogen lamps.
The Goodyear Halogen car lamp bulb is made of German quartz glass with a UV filter that protects headlights from the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation.
Neolux Blue Light H7
The Neolux Blue Light halogen lamp, designed for headlights, provides an intense luminous flux in any road conditions, providing a sufficient level of safety even in unfavorable weather for travel. The average cost of the product is 720 rubles for a set of two lamps.
Advantages:
- easy installation;
- heat-resistant glass flask;
- UV protection;
- The light does not cause fatigue during long driving.
Flaws:
- short service life.
When installing a Blue Light H7 car lamp, it is not recommended to touch the bulb with your hands so as not to leave fingerprints, which could cause premature failure of the product.
Lamps from which company to choose
Osram
A trademark with more than a century of history and one of the world's leading manufacturers of lighting equipment. Osram lamps are supplied to most car factories as original spare parts: for example, if you buy original Renault lamps, you will find Osram markings on them.
Lamps are available in both standard power and with increased light output, but in any case you can be sure of purchasing a high-quality and durable product.
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Philips
The Dutch concern is known for many things, and to a large extent – for its work in the field of lighting technology, both halogen and gas-discharge. Few people know, but the currently popular energy-saving lamps were developed by Philips.
In the automotive lighting industry, Philips is one of the main suppliers of lamps and optics to factory conveyors, and a huge range of halogen, xenon and LED lamps is produced for the secondary market.
Bosch
A German giant that produces a huge range of various automotive components - from engine control units to spark plugs. Its developers also paid attention to automotive lighting.
Speaking about Bosch products, it is impossible to say anything more briefly and succinctly than the Germans themselves: “Bosch ist Bosch” (“Bosch is Bosch”).
Narva
The youngest of the manufacturers we mentioned, but this does not make the company’s products of lesser quality. The production of automotive halogen lamps began in 1969, and since then this brand has become one of the most popular due to its good price-quality ratio.
“True German quality” is not just a figure of speech. The truth of this phrase is proven by the popularity of Narva lamps, which does not fall over time.
The best H7 halogen car lamps with increased luminous flux
It is possible to increase the brightness of halogen car lamps with an H7 base through the use of a more refractory filament, which provides a high glow temperature, as well as a special gas mixture, which is pumped into the flask under high pressure.
PIAA H7 Hyper Arros HE-923
The glow temperature of the South Korean-made PIAA Hyper Arros lamp is 5000 K, power consumption is 55 W. The supply voltage is standard 12 V. You can buy a set of two such lamps for 2 thousand.
Advantages:
- thoughtful packaging that allows you not to touch the bulbs when removing the lamps;
- blue-coated quartz glass flasks;
- increased light output;
- reliable metal holder.
Flaws:
- the cost is higher than that of its closest competitors.
To prevent Hyper Arros lamps from being damaged during transportation, the manufacturer placed them in a plastic container that is reliable and easy to remove later.
General Electric H7 MegaLight Ultra +120 GE98264
The General Electric MegaLight Ultra halogen lamp uses an improved filament with a special coating, resulting in illumination that is 120% brighter than standard. The average price of a product is 740 rubles.
Advantages:
- quartz glass flask;
- UV protection;
- comfortable white light;
- improved reflection from road markings and signs.
Flaws:
- It is difficult to remove the lamp from the packaging without touching the bulb.
UV protection of General Electric lamps is especially important when using plastic headlights, as this reduces the risk of them becoming cloudy.
Blik UltraLight +120 H7 24V
The Blik UltraLight halogen lamp is powered from a 24 V on-board network, that is, it is intended for trucks, special equipment and buses. The cost of a set of two lamps is 1050 rubles.
Advantages:
- transparent flask, painted blue on top;
- easy installation;
- increased driving safety;
- tangible visual comfort for the driver.
Flaws:
- fragility.
The Blik UltraLight +120 lamp creates a luminous flux whose intensity exceeds the light intensity of the standard model by 120%.
Which H7 lamps should you not buy?
These are the products mentioned at the beginning of the article, which have such instructions as “Offroad use only” or “Not for use in Europe” . In simple terms, they shine so “crookedly” that the manufacturers themselves say that it is impossible to use them (legally) on public roads. Typically, the violation of light distribution will most likely be located precisely in the area of the oncoming lane.
Video - Testing lamps with H7 base
The best xenon low beam lamps
This is one of the most popular types of light bulbs for installation in headlights, most often low beams. It is a gas-discharge source that guarantees the power and brightness of the flow, its uniform distribution and, accordingly, safety on the road. They are especially relevant when driving in adverse weather conditions. We studied 6 popular options and selected from them the 2 most effective, high-quality and reliable models for rating low-beam lamps.
Philips 85126VIS1, D2R Vision 4400K 85V 35W
The Philips 85126VIS1 lamp is convenient because it can complement the one previously installed in the car in case the old one burns out and thereby save money, since the difference in brightness and color saturation is indistinguishable to the eye. The product spectrum is UV-free and has excellent protection against moisture due to its production from high-quality quartz glass. This allows it to serve for a long time even in harsh operating conditions, including on “killed” roads. True, if it is turned on frequently, for example in winter, the risk of its failure increases somewhat.
Advantages
- Color temperature – up to 4400K;
- Also used for long-distance lighting;
- Does not blind drivers on the road;
- Power 35 W;
- Service life – 2500 hours.
Flaws
- Not a low price.
When replacing a conventional light with a Philips 85126VIS1, the manufacturer recommends making adjustments and setting it correctly to avoid distortion.
Egolight for headlights, d3s socket, 5000 K, 35 W, 2 pcs.
The Egolight car lamp is designed to provide low beam and, less commonly, high beam. It has the widespread D3S base, used in lensed optics. The product is absolutely safe for it and individual plastic parts, as it does not heat up compared to the halogen type. Its design has been improved, which increases its service life and performance on rough roads. Here, the risk of rapid breakdown due to the absence of a filament is almost completely eliminated.
Advantages
- Color temperature is 5000K;
- The warranty is given for 1 year;
- Optimal power – 35 W;
- Clear illumination of the road and roadside;
- Does not contain mercury, environmentally friendly;
- Easy to install.
Flaws
- High price.
Egolight's light is generally pleasant, but sometimes turns yellow, which causes a bit of blinding to drivers' eyes.
Rating of LED lamps
Philips X-Treme Ultinon
They are among the best lamps in the LED category. Power is 14 W. They create bright illumination, the light temperature is 6,200 K. They increase brightness by 2.6 times, which ensures excellent visibility in foggy and cloudy conditions. Equipped with a built-in electronic control unit, which greatly simplifies installation. Optimal for headlights with a reflector, but undesirable for projectors. A huge drawback is the high price (from 3,000 rubles).
SHO-ME LH
A budget model with a service life of over 30 thousand hours. The design uses 2 LEDs of the latest generation. Their sizes are equal to the sizes of incandescent filaments, so the brightness was doubled and the clarity of the light boundary was maintained. Power is 30 W. Temperature (color) - 5,000 K. Cost is high - on average 1,500 rubles.
Optima LED i-ZOOM
They create a white and warm light and provide good visibility even in bad weather. 6 LEDs look like filaments in a halogen lamp. This H7 low beam bulb is equipped with a heatsink. Power consumption - 19.2 W. The price for 1 lamp is on average 1,300 rubles.
Clearlight Flex Ultimate
They provide a powerful stream and have precise focusing. Thanks to original LEDs, the brightness increases 3 times. This auto lamp has a reliable belt-type cooling system, which ensures reliability, safety and durability (operation time - 15 years). They are compatible with almost every type of headlight and have a built-in trick that eliminates errors on the on-board PC. A set of 2 light bulbs costs an average of 6,000 rubles.
4 ZES-X3
A unique high-tech solution that provides the driver with better road illumination at night at a distance of 500 m. LEDs are resistant to heat and vibration and create a high-density light flux, which, according to tests, is 6,000 lm. The installation of the bulb in the headlight is adjusted using a special key for the socket (it is included in the kit), thanks to which optimal optical adjustment is possible for driving on public roads.
Narva Range Power LED
This lamp with a color temperature of 6,000 K can be called the “little sister” of Philips, since Narva is a subsidiary of this company. Due to the large price difference with similar performance characteristics, the choice of many domestic car owners is in favor of Narva. The border between light and shadow is clear. Proper adjustment of the light bulb and high-quality optics eliminate dazzling low beam from oncoming traffic, providing a good view of the road.
Cyclone Type-21 Dual
CSP LEDs, manufactured using the latest technology, allow this auto lamp to generate a flux that is not inferior to that created by a xenon lamp. This model produces 4,500 lumens. Sold in pairs. A pair costs an average of 2,100 rubles. The advantages are the aluminum radiator and the 12/24 V voltage, thanks to which the lamp is suitable for a truck. Service life - 30,000 hours. This product is vibration resistant.
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Baxter SE-Series 6000 K
This lamp is based on Korean-made Lattice chips, which have a power of 22 W and are almost twice as powerful as a standard halogen lamp. The average price of a paired set of car lamps is 1,800 rubles. Advantages: aluminum case, temperature range -40...+85, waterproof level - IP68, operating time - up to 20,000 hours.
Sho-Mi G8.2
Sho-Mi LED lamps that provide headlights are not inferior in brightness to xenon-based car lamps, but have a simpler, vibration-resistant and universal design. They are less fire hazardous. The price of a paired set is on average 1,300 rubles. Advantages: no glare effect; the cooling radiator has a large heat exchange area; the light boundary is very clear; long service life.
ERA LED 4000K
On average, the operating time of this car lamp is 30,000 hours (when turned on), for this reason it usually works for more than three years if it is turned off periodically. This model is environmentally friendly and, upon completion of operation, is disposed of as part of household waste.
V-Tac VT-1853 10 W 806 lm
A very popular model, primarily due to its standard design. The color temperature value is in the range between the color temperature of a classic incandescent lamp and the color temperature of a daylight auto lamp. The level of illumination fully corresponds to products with an energy consumption level of 60 W.
IKEA RYET LED 1000 lm
The main feature of this lamp is to create soft daylight indoors with low brightness. Even one such auto lamp illuminates a large room well. The flux has an indicator of 1,000 Lumens, but this had almost no effect on the power of the auto lamp, which does not exceed 13 W, so it belongs to class A+ in terms of energy consumption.
Best Standard H7 Halogen Bulbs
Osram Original 64210
190 (blister, 1 pc.)
Having bought a new car and changed the standard low beam lamps on it for the first time, you will most likely find the Osram inscription on them. And automakers usually try to select any “third-party original” consumables according to the “strong average” principle - that is, they take a moderately expensive one, but it is reliable and works as it should. So we will probably put Osram Original Line lamps in first place in the ranking of the best lamps in the h7 socket: they feel good even at high voltages, and they cope with shaking on broken roads just as they should.
Of course, their luminous flux is not amazing, but it was not in vain that we said that this is a “strong average”. But the light distribution of these bulbs fully complies with the standards, and they illuminate the roadside in front of the car in the near zone especially well. Perhaps at point 75R (the far side of the roadside) their light is not as good as one could wish, but this will become really critical only for those who like to break the speed limit: in all other cases there is enough lighting, the requirements of the standard are exceeded.
Main advantages:
- Good resource
- Price-quality ratio
Minuses:
- Light distribution slightly shifted closer to the car
BOSCH H7 Pure Light
180 (blister, 1 pc.) The second representative of the “middle class” from the German brand will also completely satisfy the optical stand during testing. At the same time, although their luminous flux is slightly weaker than Osram’s, the light distribution in the forward direction is more uniform, so it cannot be said that Bosch is particularly inferior to its competitor.
But what is definitely worth noting is the issue with the lamp life. The fact is that with the release of the Longlife Daytime series (those really last a long time), Bosch decided to make the Pure Light series an absolute “middle-of-the-road”, including in terms of service life. For example, these lamps tolerate increased voltages worse than Osram Original Line - and this test clearly shows the expected lifespan. Filament burnout is inevitable in any case, but in meatier ones that can better withstand extreme voltages (good 12-volt lamps can easily withstand up to 19 volts), the natural aging of the filament is usually slower. And they usually can withstand shaking better. So, taking into account the fact that the price and light of Osram and Bosch are the same, plus or minus (depending, in the end, on the specific store and on the specific headlight), we will give primacy in the ranking of the best low beam lamps to the more reliable ones lamps
Main advantages:
- Good light distribution
- Acceptable price
Minuses:
- Not the highest resource compared to competitors
Narva Standard H7
200 (blister, 1 pc.)
If you often have to pay special attention to the right side of the road, then the “standard” series of H7 lamps from Narva will be interesting: without failing the requirements for all measurement points, this is where these lamps shine especially well. A comparison with Osram involuntarily suggests itself, which showed excellent illumination of the near part of the right shoulder at the 50R point: here the Narva has even better “range” (the light is brighter at the 75R point), but in terms of lane illumination they are slightly worse. So, if the Osram is more universal, then the optimal use for the Narva will be unlit city roads and country roads, and not the highway: here it is more important to see the “surprise” running out onto the roadway in time.
But the strong point of “Narva” is its survivability: the H7 lamps turned out to be successful, have a good service life and at the same time stand on par with the rest of the rating participants with an accuracy of plus or minus 20 rubles, depending on the store. Therefore, even at first there was a difficulty: who should I give more points to – the Bosch, which is less accentuated in light distribution, or the reliable, but “with character” Narva? We still preferred versatility, but you, of course, can make your choice differently.
Main advantages:
- Reliability
- Excellent illumination of the right side
Minuses:
- There is some loss of illumination along the traffic lane
The best xenon options
If the headlights are designed for xenon, then you need to buy special products. And when there was a regular halogen, you will have to retrofit the system with ignition units; it is better to entrust their installation to a specialist so as not to damage the wiring.
Sho-Me H7
Chinese products with good quality and low prices. There are options with different color temperatures, it ranges from 3,000 to 6,000 K. They are included in the review of the best solutions due to their prevalence and compliance with standards. Peculiarities:
- Resource – about 3,000 hours of operation.
- Good luminous flux performance.
- Large selection of models.
It is worth noting that cases of lamp failures are not uncommon. But if this happens within a year, you can exchange them under warranty. Otherwise, they are almost no different from their European and Japanese counterparts.
Maxlux H7
A South Korean company that produces lamps under contract in China. The quality is almost the same as the Chinese ones. At the same time, the price is much more expensive. Main features:
- Various color temperature options.
- Service life – 2,000 hours.
- Provide uniform light.
At a price of 1,700 rubles per pair, it is much more expensive than almost all halogen analogues. And if you need to buy ignition units, the amount will increase even more.
MTF-Light H7
The brand is Russian, but is manufactured in South Korea. There are three options for luminous flux, so you should select it in advance and check this point with the seller. Main advantages:
- Work well with almost all ignition units.
- Starts quickly from both cold and hot conditions.
- Good anti-interference, vibration resistance.
Ignition occurs in just 0.3 seconds, and 80% brightness is achieved within 5 seconds. This is much faster than analogues. Glass protects the contents of the flask well from ultraviolet radiation.
Choosing a reliable H7 lamp for a car is not difficult. The main thing is to figure out what type is installed on the machine, and then choose one of the options described in the rating. If there are no such brands, select products from well-known companies.