LED Projector Headlights: The Future of Car Lighting

FACTS CHECKED BY  Bob Smith

Rely on your vehicle’s headlights to keep you safe when driving at night. LED projector headlights can help you see further down the road and better navigate dark or hazardous territory thanks to their broader and brighter beams. Not to mention that LED headlights for automobiles may also improve the appearance of your vehicle. If you’re interested in upgrading your vehicle with LED projector headlights, read on for tips on choosing the right set for your needs.

What Are LED Projector Headlights?

LED projector headlights use LED technology to project light onto the road ahead. Due to their greater light output and longer lifespan, high-power LED headlights are becoming increasingly popular.

The headlights of a modern car

The headlights of a modern car

Projector headlights on cars generally have a steeper initial price than conventional halogen or HIDs headlights, but they offer significant advantages in light output, energy efficiency, and durability. LED projector headlights are also becoming more popular on motorcycles due to their improved visibility and decreased power consumption.

LED projector headlights are an excellent option for drivers who want better visibility and long-term dependability.

Types of Projector Headlights

There are three main types of projector headlights: halogen, HID(Xenon), and LED. All of these types of headlights use a projector to focus light onto the road ahead.

Halogen

Car with halogen headlights

Car with halogen headlights

Halogen headlights are the most common type of projector headlights. Halogen lights are readily available and relatively cheap. The light given off by tungsten halogen bulbs is intense, making them a suitable choice for individuals who want optimum visibility. However, halogen bulbs have a shorter lifespan than other bulbs, so we must replace them more frequently.

HID (Xenon)

HID headlights

HIDs headlights

HID headlights are a fantastic choice for drivers who want the most excellent possible visibility. HIDs headlights generate light by using a high-intensity discharge bulb. Xenon bulbs are more expensive than halogen bulbs, but they last longer and put out more light. HID headlights can sometimes produce too much light, which can be a problem for oncoming traffic.

LED

Close detail on one LED headlight

Close detail on one LED headlight

LED headlight bulbs offer a bright, focused light ideal for individuals who want excellent visibility. LED headlights create light using light-emitting diodes. LEDs are more costly than halogen and HID bulbs but last far longer and use considerably less power.

LED vs. HID: Which Is Better For Projector Headlights?

HIDs are brighter than LEDs, but LEDs last longer and are more energy-efficient. LED is the way to go if you’re looking for the best projector headlights. However, HID headlights are a good option if you’re on a budget.

How to Choose LED in Projector Headlights

HID and LED are the most popular choices regarding projector headlights. Consider the following things while comparing these types of headlights:

Modern LED headlights

Modern LED headlights

  • Light output: LED headlights to produce a brighter, more focused light than HID headlights.
  • Lifespan: LED headlights last much longer than HIDs headlights. You won’t have to replace your LED headlights often, saving you money in the long run.
  • Energy efficiency: LED headlights are more energy-efficient than HIDs headlights.

Best LED Bulbs for Projector Headlights

Variety of LED bulbs

Variety of LED bulbs

The following LED bulbs are the best-LED bulbs for projector headlights that we have found on the market:

SEALIGHT LED Bulbs Combo, Super Bright Cool White, Plug and Play

The Sealight Headlight bulbs offer great value and provide an excellent white light output that is perfect for projector headlights. Aside from the incredible white light output, the lights’ installation isn’t complicated as no extra tools are required for installation. 

These LED headlights are 1.5 times brighter than conventional projector headlights and come with a one-year warranty. The lifespan of these LED bulbs is approximately 20 years.

NINEO LED Bulbs

The NINEO LED bulbs produce a staggering 6000 lumen light output and have a color temperature of 6500K, which is 5x brighter than typical LED lights. The LED bulbs are also 90 watts each, which makes them some of the most powerful LED bulbs on the market. 

The NINEO LED bulbs have adjustable adapters to fit most projector headlights and are easy to install. Moreover, the cooling fans have two ball-bearing blades, which ensures that the LED bulbs get maximum cooling.

Cougar Motor LED Headlight Bulbs All-in-One Conversion Kit

The LED headlight bulbs for the Cougar Motor have a combined capacity of 120 watts, and each light has its own CREE LED chips. The 10000LM lights have a 6000 Kelvin rating and are more relaxed than other LED bulbs. 

These LED bulbs have an adjustable collar to ensure a perfect fit for your projector headlights and will last 50,000 hours. The LED bulbs also come with unlimited support, which is helpful.

How to Replace/Install LED in Projector Headlights

LED Projector Headlights: Car headlight repair

Car headlight repair

If you want to replace the LED bulbs in your projector headlights, here’s what you’ll need:

  • First, find the screws that hold the headlight assembly in place. There are usually two screws, one on each side. Remove these screws and set them aside.
  • Next, carefully pull the headlight assembly out of the projector housing.
  • Once you have removed the assembly, you can access the back of the LED bulb, twist the bulb counterclockwise to release it from the socket, then pull it out.
  • To install the new LED bulb, insert it into the socket and twist it clockwise until it is tight.
  • Put the headlight assembly back in place and screw it in securely.

That’s all there is to it! 

How to Make Projector Headlights Brighter

LED Projector Headlights: Driver hand adjusting headlight level

Driver hand adjusting headlight level

There are a few things you can do to make LED projector headlights even brighter:

  • First, make sure to clean the lenses regularly.
  • Second, ensure that the LED bulbs are correctly aligned. Misaligned bulbs can cause the light to be scattered, making it appear dimmer.
  • Finally, consider adding an LED behind each projector headlight. It will help to amplify the light, making it appear brighter.

Following these simple tips, you can enjoy the full benefits of LED projector headlights. 

FAQs

What Is Brightness Best For Projector Headlights?

Many options are available to car owners who wish to install projector headlights. To choose the best choice for your needs, it is essential to consider the amount of light output and the beam pattern. For example, some projector headlights are designed to produce brilliant light, while others provide a softer light.  Ultimately, your best option will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

What Types of LED Lights Works Best With Projector Headlights?

LED Projector Headlights: LED light bulbs

LED light bulbs

LED bulbs are the best type of light to use with projector headlights. LEDs also use less electricity, resulting in lower energy bills and brighter light than halogen bulbs. Additionally, LED bulbs have a longer lifespan than other bulbs, so you won’t have to replace them as often.

Projector Headlights vs. Reflector Headlights: What’s the difference? 

LED Projector Headlights: Two reflector headlight beams

Two reflector headlight beams

The main difference between projector headlights and reflector headlights is how they produce light. Projector headlights use a lens to focus the morning, while reflector headlights use a reflective surface to direct the light. As a result, projector headlights provide a more focused beam of light than reflector headlights. Additionally, projector headlights are more efficient than reflector headlights, as they use less electricity to produce the same amount of light.

Summary

As the name suggests, projector headlights use LEDs (light emitting diodes) to produce the morning for the headlamps. These bright lights provide a concentrated light ideal for driving at night or in poor visibility. LED headlights are also very energy-efficient and have a long lifespan, making them an appealing option for many car owners. 

For more information on LED headlights, please click here.

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