9006 vs H11 Headlight Bulbs | What’s The Difference?

In this post, we’ll be taking a appear at the principal variations amongst 9006 vs H11 headlight bulbs.

These two bulbs are typically believed to be interchangeable, nonetheless there are some slight variations that make these bulbs exclusive.

Specifically, 9006 bulbs are rated to run at greater wattage and create a brighter beam of light. H11 bulbs are much more energy effective and far better suited for daily or rather ‘every-night’ driving.

As for interchangeability, 9006 bulbs can be fitted into H11 sockets with the proper modifications but not the other way about.

Allow us to use our knowledge operating on vehicles and headlights to assist you make an informed purchasing selection.

Keep reading for much more details on the variations amongst 9006 and H11 headlight bulbs.

9006 vs H11 headlight bulbs Compared

Power Rating

One of the principal variations amongst H11 and 9006 bulbs is their wattage. 9006 bulbs draw much more energy at 60 watts, whereas H11 bulbs are made to run at 55 watts. That indicates 9006 bulbs create a longer throw and provide wider road coverage than H11 bulbs.

Brightness

Another crucial distinction amongst these two bulbs is their brightness output. Thanks to their greater energy rating, 9006 bulbs create about 1200 lumens of brightness, compared to the H11’s 1000 lumens.

However, we can report from firsthand testing that this distinction is not as noticeable as the numbers could recommend and shouldn’t genuinely influence your obtain that considerably.

Beam variety

Just as essential as brightness is the variety of beam every bulb produces. 9006 bulbs are predominantly noticed in higher beam configurations even though low beam configurations are also achievable. On the other hand, H11 bulbs are exclusively utilised in low beam configurations, as they are significantly less harsh and do not distract oncoming site visitors.

Longevity

9006 bombs are recognized for their stellar heat dissipation functions which permits them to resist heat harm, enabling far better lifespan. Meanwhile, H11 bulbs are no slouch and do not lag far behind 9006 bulbs in terms of longevity.

Compatibility

9006 bulbs can be modified to match H11 sockets. However, H11 bulbs can not be fitted into a 9006 socket. That indicates if your auto or SUV calls for an H11 bulb, you can get away with installing a 9006 bulb.

However, we do not advocate this as the 9006 bulb is a higher beam bulb that can pose a critical security danger for oncoming site visitors if utilised in a low beam setting.

Efficiency

As you can anticipate, H11 bulbs, with their reduce wattage and comparatively reduce output are the much more effective alternative of the two. They draw significantly less energy than 9006’s and totally free up juice for other vital electrical functions of the auto.

Use case

Finally, we have the distinct use instances of these bulbs: 9006 bulbs are much more suited for use on significantly less properly-illuminated roads. H11 bulbs, on the other hand, are made for standard use on surface streets, city centres and highways.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, 9006 bulbs and H11 bulbs each serve distinct purposes. 9006’s are made for use as higher beams whilst H11’s are low beam only.

9006 bulbs provide far better visibility in darker situations, with the tradeoff of temporarily blinding other drivers in your path. H11 bulbs are much more effective but 9006 bulbs are longer lasting.

And whilst 9006 bulbs can be fitted into an H11 socket, the opposite is not achievable, nor do we advocate operating 9006 bulbs in a low beam configuration.

Which bulb you select genuinely comes down to your distinct demands and manufacturer suggestions.