If you are deciding on a new headlight installation, chances are good that you are spending some time wondering what kind of headlights are best for you. Not all headlights are created the same, and a significant factor that determines their characteristics are what kind of bulbs they use. 

With many cars using standard halogen bulbs from the factory, many Boston drivers look to make an upgrade with their next set of bulbs. Drivers will inevitably stumble across two types of bulbs when looking for an upgrade: HID headlights and LED headlights.

But what are the benefits of HID vs LED headlights, and which are right for you?

What Are HID Headlights?

HID (High-Intensity Discharge) headlights, also known as xenon headlights, use xenon gas to produce a bright, intense light. Unlike traditional halogen headlights, which use a filament, HID headlights use an electric arc to create the light. The electric arc heats up the xenon gas that is located within the bulb, which causes the gas to emit light.

This type of headlight has been around since the 1990s and has always been a premium feature that was only on upscale vehicles. While they outperformed halogen lights in terms of brightness, efficiency, and lifespan, they are noticeably more expensive.

What Are LED Headlights?

LED (Light Emitting Diode) headlights are another type of automotive lighting system that uses a series of light-emitting diodes to produce light. These diodes are small, energy-efficient semiconductors that emit light when an electric current passes through them.

Just like with HID headlights, LED headlights can provide a bright light that far outshines what a halogen light can produce. The beams coming off LED lights are also easier to direct, allowing these lights to reduce instances of glare towards oncoming traffic. Due to the diodes’ small size, LED headlights can feature interesting designs as manufacturers can snake lines of LEDs throughout. 

Durable, efficient, and bright, LED headlights are quickly becoming popular within the car industry. However, a set of LED headlights will cost you more than other headlight technologies.

Differences Between HID vs LED Headlights

So now that we have a general understanding of the technologies, when it comes down to HID vs LED headlights, what is each best at?

Brightness

While both HID and LED lights are by far brighter than halogen lights, LED lights tend to be able to reach higher lumens levels. 

However, one advantage of HID lights is their coverage. These bulbs will have a broader range, illuminating a larger part of the road. It is important to note that if someone installs these bulbs improperly, they can cause a lot of glare to oncoming traffic. This is why it’s important that you have a trusted and experienced professional perform the installation.

Size

LED and HID lights are roughly the same size, with LED lights being slightly smaller. However, they are a different shape than halogen lights. So if you plan to switch over from halogen lights, a conversion kit will need to be used for either HID or LED.

Lifespan

When it comes to the HID vs LED headlights battle, this category is the clear winner towards LED lights. While both HID and LED lights last longer than their halogen counterpart, LED lights have a substantial lead when it comes to lifespan.

The lifespan of an LED light can go past an astounding 20,000 hours, while HID lights are known to go for more than 5,000 hours.

Colors

HID and LED lights are available in various colors and tints.

Price

At the moment, LED headlights are more expensive than HID headlights. But when considering their longevity and greater durability, the slight price increase is worth it for most people.

HID vs LED Headlights Verdict

LED headlights can be seen as a direct upgrade to HID lights in almost every regard. The lights are just as bright or brighter, last longer, and are more energy efficient. While they cost more than HID lights, the benefits are worth it.

If you are looking to change out your headlights, don’t hesitate to contact us and have our experienced team perform the installation for you.