Since there are so many light bulbs to choose from, it has become more difficult to know which one to buy. The problem is that each bulb has a specific purpose, and it is rarely interchangeable with another type of light bulb.
Many people are baffled by the 9005 and 9006 taillight bulbs. Is the 9006 a newer version of the 9005? Is one better than the other? In terms of power, what is the difference?
Before we get into the specifics of the comparison, I’d like to explain the distinctions between the two types of bulbs and show you some of the best options currently available.
High-beam bulbs have a base number of 9005, whereas low-beam bulbs have a base number of 9006. It is possible to insert the 9005 bulb into the 9006 slot, but the 9006 bulb is not possible. They should not be used together.
The Differences Between 9005 and 9006 Bulbs Explained
Application
Because they contain only one filament, the 9005 and 9006 bulbs can only be used for a single purpose. Both the high beam and the low beam functions can be achieved with bi-lux bulbs, such as the H4. Single filament bulbs have become the preferred choice for most manufacturers due to its reputation for dependability and efficiency.
- The 9005 is used as the headlight high beam lamp exclusively.
- The 9006 is used as the headlight low beam bulb and front fog lamps bulb.
Power Draw
The distinction between 9005 and 9006 bulbs is in the tiniest aspects. Both types of batteries have a voltage of 12.8, but the wattage they use is different. When you put a 9006 into a 9005 socket, the difference in power draw makes them incompatible, even if the bulbs are very similar.
- The 9005 bulb draws 65 Watts.
- The 9006 bulb draws 55 Watts.
Luminous Flux
The bigger the amount of lumens, the brighter the headlamp’s beam will be. There is a deliberate difference in lumens between 9005 and 9006 bulbs so you cannot run high beams, but especially low beams that are excessively bright.
Lumen ratings are rarely provided by manufacturers of street legal lights, however aftermarket LED beams and other off-road and work lighting equipment have plenty of information available.
- The 9005 bulb is rated at 1200 to 1700 lumens.
- The 9006 bulb is rated at 700 to 1200 lumens.
Lifespan
As a general rule, more costly headlight bulbs are more likely to live longer than cheaper ones. The bulbs’ lifespan will be reduced if there are problems with the vehicle’s electric circuit or if the voltage fluctuates frequently.
There isn’t much of a difference in lifespan between 9006 and 9005 light bulbs. Because you’ll be using low beams more frequently than high beams, the 9005 bulb will last longer.
It may seem like a short time, but even if you’re primarily driving at night, you can expect your bulbs to last for a long time.
Compatibility
The 9005 and 9006 bulbs are nearly identical in appearance, however they cannot be used interchangeably. The automakers aren’t aiming to trick their customers into buying two different items, but rather streamline manufacturing so that the bulbs can be more affordable in the long run.”
Bulb makers can reduce production costs and offer lower-priced goods by making only minor adjustments to the glass and housing designs. Considerably if the price isn’t cheap, I’m sure that if the bulbs had varied shapes and sizes the price would be even more expensive.
You can technically use the 9005 bulb in the 9006 slot, but you should avoid doing so because doing so would result in your low beam being too bright, posing a danger to approaching traffic.
The Best 9005 Bulb Options
As of the date/time specified, prices and availability are subject to change. This product’s pricing and availability will be determined by the [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] information presented at the time of purchase.
1. Sylvania 9005 XtraVision Halogen Headlight Bulb
These headlights are made by one of the most well-known automotive bulb manufacturers, Sylvania XtraVision.
There is no extra glare to enjoy the amazing down road visibility. There is no need to worry about whether Sylvania’s bulbs are legal for use on the road because they are an OEM provider. In order to maintain the best possible sight, the manufacturer suggests replacing bulbs in pairs because they dim over time.
When it comes to the price, it’s more than affordable for a high-quality product like this.
2. Philips Automotive Lighting 9005 CrystalVision Headlight Bulb
The Philips CrystalVision is a simple halogen bulb that provides the HID look and bright white light of a HID bulb. If you want to save money without sacrificing quality, opt for Philips CrystalVision bulbs instead of the more expensive Xenon HID lights.
During the day, the blue coating on the glass gives a cool blue tint; however, at night, it has no effect on the color of the beam, therefore the bulb is perfectly acceptable for public use.
This bulb costs $32.50 more than Sylvania’s CystalVision lights, but if you’re looking for that cool blue colour and HID-like appearance, Philips is the best option.
3. Fahren 9005/HB3 LED Headlight Bulbs Conversion Kit
There are several advantages to using the Fahren 9005 LED Headlight Bulbs instead of the traditional halogen lights. In comparison to traditional halogen bulbs, LED lights are more long-lasting and can last up to 50,000 hours.
I’m not sure if these lights are legal to use on the street, but they’re a popular choice. According to the manufacturer, the bulbs produce 10,000 Lumens of light, which is a significant improvement over halogen’s 6,000 Lumens.
It’s worth the $34 investment if you can run these bulbs legally, as they offer a number of advantages over halogen bulbs. Fahren 9005 LED Bulbs are Amazon’s most popular 9005 LED bulbs because they are brighter and more durable.
The Best 9006 Bulb Options
As of the date/time specified, prices and availability are subject to change. This product’s pricing and availability will be determined by the [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] information presented at the time of purchase.
1. Philips Automotive Lighting 9006 X-treme Vision
As far as low-beam lights go, the Philips XtremeVision 9005 bulbs are the greatest option for maximizing visibility without breaking any laws. Philips says that these bulbs improve vision by as much as 100 percent over the weakest street-legal bulbs on the market.
Halogen light bulbs are the ideal alternative for nighttime drivers, especially those who frequently drive at night. On sale, the two-pack of Philips bulbs costs $36.70, which is more than worth it for the superior light they produce compared to some of the other options.
2. Sylvania – 9006 XtraVision High Performance Halogen Headlight Bulb
Sylvania’s 9006 XtraVision High Performance Halogen Headlight bulbs are an excellent choice for a matched pair with your 9005 high beam lights.
The 9006 XtraVision, like its 9005 XtraVision predecessor, provides enhanced visibility and decreased glare on the road. For years to come, these bulbs will continue to shine brightly.
If you don’t want to spend a fortune on Philips bulbs but still need high-quality bulbs, acquire a set of XtraVision 9005 and 9006 bulbs!
3. Sealight 9005 & 9006 LED Bulbs Combo Package
There will be an LED conversion for the 9006 halogen bulbs, but this time it will be two 9005 and two 9006 bulbs in a set.
Up to 14, 000 Lumens per pair of lights, the Sealight combination package outshines typical halogen bulbs by a factor of five. The signal pattern is meant to be improved in order to keep oncoming traffic safe while also maintaining optimal visibility for drivers ahead.
Reduced heat buildup and a longer lifespan are achieved by separating the bulb’s external driver chip from its power supply. It costs $70 for a set of four bulbs, which is about the same as Philips, but still more expensive than Sylvania’s.
FAQs
What bulb is the same as 9005?
The H10, 9140, 9145, and many more bulbs perform the same function as the 9005, which includes the H10, 9140, and 9145. However, each bulb is designed to work in a specific environment, such as a vehicle’s headlights and the amount of power it consumes. Even though the 9006 and 9005 are the most similar, they cannot be used interchangeably.
Can I use 9005 as the low beam?
Low-beam lights can fit into the 9006 slots but this is not recommended because the low-beam lights will be overly bright and disturbing to approaching vehicles.
Summary
Even though the 9005 and 9006 light bulbs seem alike, their Lumen outputs and intended uses dictate that they cannot be used interchangeably. You don’t need a real lifehack or need to modify other bulbs to match the purpose if you use the proper bulb, even if it costs more.
The most common bulbs, such as 9005 and 9006, are the most cost-effective to purchase. There isn’t much of a difference in price between the 9005 and the 9006, so getting both will keep you covered for a long time.
