The electrical circuits of modern cars use different types of lighting devices. For headlights, these are mainly products with H4 and H7 sockets. The first modification of lamps has a specific application, and the second (H2) is clearly outdated and, if found on sale, it is extremely rare, since it is practically out of production.
This article will explain the difference between car lamps of the fourth and seventh options, as well as which of them are better to use for low beam.
Both H4 and H7 are mostly halogen lamps. Used in all cars to organize head lighting. The flasks are made of quartz glass, which allows them to neutralize (eliminate) the effects of UV rays.
- In the design of the base.
- In the resource. In this indicator, H7 lamps are almost 2 times superior to their 4th series counterparts.
- By the number of filaments. Modification H4 has two, H7 has one.
- The seventh product option is more often used in modern cars, with free-form headlights.
It is impossible to answer the question which low beam lamps are best for cars. The selection criterion depends on many conditions, including the driver’s vision characteristics. The descriptions below of lighting fixtures for auto modifications H4 and H7 will help you make the best purchase.
All prices indicated are in Russian rubles.
Base H4
An earlier modification compared to the H7, but it is used for cars, for obvious reasons, much more often. One of them is the ability to use the lamp for both high and low beam (2 threads).
The cheapest products in this series are made in the classic version, that is, they differ in averaged parameters, which gives them versatility. These lamps are characterized by reliability, sufficient service life, and their cost is low, ranging from 510 to 980. The most famous H4 brands of this group of lighting devices are “Mtf-Light” (Longlife series), “Philips Vision”, “Osram” (Original Line ).
Lamps characterized by increased brightness. Compared to all halogen lamps for cars, they stand out due to their maximum luminous flux intensity. Estimated price – from 840 to 960. Sold under the label “Philips X-Treme” (Vision series +130%), “Osram” (Night Breaker), “Mtf-Light” (Argentum +80%).
If the lamp designation contains the symbols “+ so much%”, then this is it. For people with low vision - the best choice. But it is worth considering that when installing such products, precise adjustment of the headlights is necessary. Not every car owner can do this on their own.
H4 with enhanced visual impact. The light is white or with a faint yellowish tint, depending on the manufacturer. You can highlight the products “Mtf-Light” (Titanium), “KOITO” (White Beam III), “Philips” (WhiteVision). Cost - from 910 to 1,015. According to experts, such H4 modifications tire the eyes much less.
Lamps with extended life. For example, Philips Long Life series products have a fourfold excess in this parameter. For H4 “Osram” (Ultra Life), the mean time between failures is at least 2,000 hours. The price ranges from 910 to 980. Taking into account the traffic regulations requiring low beams to be turned on even during the day, these lamps are worth paying attention to.
All-weather lamps. Provide both high and low beams. They are distinguished by the creation of a flow that gives the viewing area greater contrast, which allows you to clearly see the route in fog, during heavy precipitation, and so on. These are primarily lamps “Osram” (Fog Breaker), “Mtf-Light” (Aurum), “Narva” (Contrast+). The price range is more significant - from 598 to 925.
High power lamps. Slightly more expensive - from 910 to 970. These include the representative of the Philips H4 family of the Rally series and a product under the Osram brand performed by Offroad Super Bright. It is advisable to purchase such lamps for car owners who often travel long distances. For example, those who like to travel by car. But the operation of these products also has disadvantages. First of all, an increase in the load on the on-board electrical wiring of the car.
Consequently, when installing an H4 of increased power, you will have to revise the entire circuit, and possibly its partial restoration. In addition, there is one more nuance - when operating a car in urban conditions, lamps of more than 60 W are prohibited.
Among this category of devices there are also more expensive samples. Their cost can reach 2,415 rubles. We are talking about bi-xenon lamps, which in some respects are superior to halogen lamps. For example, Maxlux, MTF-Light and the cheapest lamp in this range, Sho-Me, suitable for any (even old model) car. The price of the latter is 745 rubles.
Base H7
The products are more modern, therefore, not everyone has encountered them in practice. Their conditional categorization is similar to the H4 series lamps. Therefore, it is advisable to note only certain points and list the most famous manufacturers.
Types of H7 lamps
- Halogen. Plus – the cheapest modifications of this series. The downside is significant heating. As a result, a reduced service life compared to analogues.
- Xenon. Plus - increased light output. Disadvantages - the need to attach a special design to the ignition unit; high price of lamps. It consists not only of the cost of the product itself, but also of additional components. In addition to the block, you will also need appropriate optics. Taking into account the total costs, installing xenon lamps will cost much more than other types of devices. Yes, and exploitation too. Increased energy consumption affects the intensity of the generator, which leads to increased fuel consumption.
- LED. The advantages are well known - increased resource, economical power consumption from the on-board network. There is only one minus - the difficulty of adjustment when installing in a headlight. Only a professional or an experienced amateur, who is not purchasing for his car for the first time, can achieve the required parameters of the low beam beam. This is the main reason why LED samples have not yet become widespread in the automotive industry.
Intermediate output
From the point of view of expediency and practicality, the best type of low beam lamps are halogen products. And for older car models they are the only option.
H7 modifications
Halogen lamps
"Standard". The top sellers in this H7 series are Philips (Vision), Mtf-Light (Longlife Standard) and Osram (Original Line). Price – from 540 to 998.
With increased luminous flux.“Philips” (X-Treme Vision +130%), “KOITO H7” (White Beam III), “Osram” (Night Breaker Unlimited) and a number of others. The cost of lamps is in the range of 720 – 1280.
With increased resource. These are, first of all, Osram (Ultra Life) and Philips (Long Life). Price range 950±50.
H7 xenon lamps.
The flask of this product is from Philips. Color temperature is 4,300 0K, which is considered acceptable for our eyes. But the light, although soft, is not entirely natural - white. The most expensive lamp in the entire H7 xenon series is about 1,798.
"Maxlux H7". South Korean products are attractive not only for their price (945), but also for their large selection of color temperature characteristics.
"MTF-Light H7". The approximate cost is from 780 to 810. The peculiarity of this lamp is its increased resource. The manufacturer claims at least 2,100 hours between failures.
"Sho-Me H7". The cheapest representative of this group of lamps is from China (440). With a power of 35 W, it is distinguished by a large range (that is, luminous flux) and, judging by reviews on thematic forums, reliability.
What to look for when choosing a lamp
Unfortunately, counterfeits are quite common in this market segment. How to identify truly high-quality products?
- The marking on the base must be embossed. If it is applied with paint, then the inscription (without the use of special means) cannot be erased.
- The presence of the letter “E” in the designation + a number in a frame is a sign of international certification.
- The protection of the lamp bulb from UV rays is indicated by the letter U. Its absence is a sign that it is better to pass by.
When purchasing a lamp, regardless of its base (H4 or H7), you should be guided by the rule of sufficiency and expediency. Is a product with increased power really necessary if all movements by car are made within the city limits and only occasionally to the countryside? Why spend money on a more expensive option with increased visual effect if your vision is fine? That is, purchasing a lamp for low beam is a purely personal matter. What to choose from and what to take into account is outlined in some detail.
A person driving a car needs to be extremely concentrated and constantly monitor the situation on the road. In poor lighting conditions, car lamps are an important factor, helping to provide adequate lighting. Traffic safety depends on the effectiveness of the headlight.
Key lighting for cars is done using car lamps. Lighting devices in the h7 base are among the most popular. They first appeared on the markets in the 90s and since then have not lost their relevance; on the contrary, every year their production becomes more advanced.
H7 lamps are installed for low, high and fog lighting. Devices of this type are characterized by a standard power of 55 W, but there are other models where the power ratings are increased.
H7 lighting devices are divided into three categories: halogen, LED and xenon. Each of these types of devices has its own advantages and disadvantages.
- Halogen - will delight the buyer with a successful combination of price and quality. It is most popular among motorists, as it shines beautifully and does not require the installation of additional equipment. If you purchase a modified type, then there are lamps with a xenon effect. Their service life will be increased. Unfortunately, the halogen illuminator has the disadvantage of being very hot and therefore can quickly fail.
- LED is quite economical. In the event of shaking or impact, the performance of such a lamp does not deteriorate. Service life is high. Thanks to the long-term operation of the device, it can be called environmentally friendly. But not everyone likes such lighting devices. Firstly, due to the difficulties that arise when adjusting the light beam. And, secondly, because of the price, which is not affordable for every buyer.
- Xenon - withstands various vibrations and shaking. Its color temperature is as close as possible to our usual daytime color. Among the disadvantages, it should be noted the cost of such a device and the fact that it will be necessary to install an ignition unit.
So, when choosing an h7 lamp for a car, you need to pay attention to all of the above points and identify the most suitable ones for yourself.
Characteristics
In automobile lighting devices, characteristics play an important role, those technical features that you need to pay attention to first of all. Speaking about h7 lamps, we are, of course, talking about such parameters as the power of the device, color temperature, intensity and brightness of the light flux, the range over which it extends, and the service life of the device.
Difference between lamp h7 and h4
Both types are intended for head lighting. The h7 lamp was released later than the h4, so it is ahead of it in some technical characteristics. As an example, let's take the criterion of work duration. For h7 it will be twice as large as for h4.
The width of h4 will be significantly wider than h7. The differences between the light bulbs include the fact that h4 has two spirals, and h7 is a single-filament lighting element.
The devices also have differences in the design of the base.
Which company is better to buy h7 lamps
According to the tests carried out, the following brands have proven themselves to be excellent:
- Japanese company Koito, which produces excellent halogen lamps suitable for domestic realities.
- The German company Osram, famous for its impeccable top-level products.
- The Dutch company Philips, which is similar in quality to the Osram brand.
- The Hungarian company Bosch creates devices with excellent color flux, providing amazing visibility, both near and far.
Comparative test of lighting with h7 lamp and other types:
Which h7 lamps are better?
The most popular h7 lighting devices purchased are halogen. Which is not surprising, because they effectively provide low and high beams, and also help fight fog. These lighting mechanisms are created with different accents, for example, there are lamps with increased luminous flux, and there are devices where the main criterion is durability. When purchasing a car product, you need to identify the most important selection criteria for yourself.
There are gas-filled lamps. In them, the filament does not oxidize, so it is thinner and longer. There is xenon inside the device, which creates a fairly high pressure in the bulb, thereby increasing such a parameter as the brightness of the device.
Rating of the best h7 lamps for cars
10th place. Bosch Plus 90
At the top of the rating of high-quality h7 lighting devices is the Bosch Plus 90 model. This lamp is halogen, its luminous flux will be 1500 Lumens, so it does not lack in brightness. The light output is almost 90% higher than that of a conventional halogen lamp.
The generated white light appears close to daylight, which provides the driver with comfortable driving. According to the results of the test, this lamp demonstrated that in the H7 base it is one of the best in terms of brightness. How much does such a miracle cost, you ask? The average price is 480 rubles.
lamp Bosch Plus 90
Advantages:
- Excellent luminous flux, the brightest;
- White color that does not tire your eyesight;
- Excellent light distribution;
- Safe for surrounding drivers.
Flaws:
- High price compared to analogues.
Lamp video test:
9th place. Osram ultra life lamp
The German manufacturer has released a device with a longer service life and a three-year warranty. This halogen lamp is perfect for 24/7 use. It can be called environmentally friendly, because thanks to its economical qualities, it will last a long time, you will not have to frequently change the lamps and then dispose of it, polluting the environment. Brightness - 1550 Lumens. Gives yellow light. The approximate cost is about 1000 rubles, but this is not much, considering how long the purchase will last.
Osram ultra life lamp
Advantages:
- Extended resource;
- Dear manufacturer;
- Reliability.
Flaws:
- They say that the guarantee is difficult to obtain.
8th place. Lamp KOITO WHITEBEAM III
Halogen KOITO WHITEBEAM III from a Japanese manufacturer is characterized by increased light output. Color temperature 4200 K. Power supply 12 V. Quality tested in the legendary Paris-Dakar car races. The price tag is about 1900 rubles.
Lamp KOITO WHITEBEAM III
Advantages:
- High service life;
- Less energy consumption;
- The lamps practically do not heat up.
Flaws:
- Price.
Comparative lamp test - in the video:
7th place. Lamp MTF-Light H7
Xenon MTF-Light H7, originally from South Korea, satisfies numerous requirements for this type of device. MTF-Light H7 has a high light temperature, high brightness and a guaranteed service life (2000 hours). The power is 35 V and the brightness is from 2600 to 3200 lumens. Depending on the temperature, the light can range from warm white to cold. Heating time to 80 percent brightness is only 5 seconds. Approximate cost 950 rubles.
Lamp MTF-Light H7
Advantages:
- Starts quickly regardless of hot or cold conditions;
- Resistant to vibrations and fluctuations;
- Excellent noise immunity;
- Low cost for xenon.
Flaws:
- Not all buyers are satisfied with the original lighting.
6th place. Osram Night Breaker Unlimited lamp
Another device from a German manufacturer is in high demand - the Osram Night Breaker. If you are wondering: “Which lamp is better for low beam,” then the Osram Night Breaker will be an excellent option for lensed optics. The power with the h7 base is 55 V, the luminous flux is 1500 Lumens, and the color temperature is 3700 K, which gives light 20% whiter than conventional halogen lamps. This model creates a light beam that is longer than standard lighting of its counterparts. As a result, a beam of light floods a decent amount of space, which allows the driver to see better, concentrate on the road and avoid accidents. The average price is 1200 rubles.
Osram Night Breaker Unlimited lamp
Advantages:
- Good and enhanced luminous flux in any weather, visibility is no worse than xenon;
- Reputable brand;
- Good packing.
Flaws:
- Price.
Review of this model - in the video:
5th place. ClearLight H7 lamp
ClearLight H7 is considered one of the best LED lamps in the quality rating. Thanks to more advanced technology, the service life of these devices is increased, and the load on the generator and energy consumption are reduced. Brightness is excellent from 2800 to 4300 Lumens. The lighting device produces high-quality white light of 4500 K. The ClearLight H7 device can rightfully be given the status “Longest-living”, since the operating time is amazing, about 30,000 hours. ClearLight H7 is suitable for installation in high beam, low beam and anti-fog headlights. The average cost is 2600 rubles.
ClearLight H7 lamp
Advantages:
- Economical, consumes 30 W;
- Glow intensity;
- Easy installation.
Flaws:
- A bit expensive.
4th place. Philips h7 Longlife Ecovision lamp
The Philips Longlife Ecovision car lamp for h7 socket is made of unrivaled quartz glass, which features a Philips Quartz Glass UV filter. This allows the device to withstand strong gas pressure inside the flask and serves as an excellent barrier against the rapid evaporation of tungsten from the filament. The halogen Philips Longlife Ecovision has a luminous flux of 1500 Lumens, which is great for both low and high beams and against fog. The average price is 750 rubles.
Philips h7 Longlife Ecovision lamp
Video review of the lamp:
Advantages:
- Good characteristics;
- Compactness;
- Ideal background light.
Flaws:
- A little expensive.
3rd place. Bosch Pure Light H7 lamp
One of the most economical in price is the halogen model Bosch Pure Light H7. Its characteristics include such points as a voltage of 12 V, a power of 55 W, and a color temperature of 3200 K. The Bosch Pure Light H7 lacks all sorts of so-called “proprietary technologies”, but the device shines quite well and is popular among buyers. The average price is 200 rubles.
Bosch Pure Light H7 lamp
Advantages:
- Price;
- Glow;
- Does not burn out for a long time;
- The highest level of quality.
Flaws:
- In wet weather they are not bright enough.
2nd place. Philips H7 Vision Plus lamp
In second place is the Philips H7 Vision Plus lamp, beloved by many drivers. This European brand is perfectly adapted to Russian conditions. Voltage 12 V, power 55 W. The main advantage of this lighting device is its high brightness, providing a large illumination area. First-class brightness improves road safety. The color temperature is 3200 K. The average price is 950 rubles.
Philips H7 Vision Plus lamp
Advantages:
- Strong light;
- Compared to analogues, reasonable price;
- Safety.
Flaws:
- Insufficient lamp life.
1 place. Osram H7 Original lamp
In first place in the ranking of high-quality h7 lighting devices is Osram H7 Original. This model is used for headlights and is distinguished by the excellent quality of the German brand. The color temperature is 3200 K. Osram H7 Original is attractive because it has a long service life and does not have to suffer from regular replacements of low-quality products. Approximate price 350 rubles.
Osram H7 Original lamp
Review of the lamp - in the video:
Advantages:
- Deep white light providing excellent visibility in all weather conditions;
- The optimum ratio of price and quality;
- Good packaging prevents moisture from entering.
Flaws:
- Some buyers noticed such a disadvantage as sensitivity to overvoltage.
Conclusion
To ensure that traveling by car does not cause unnecessary hassle, you should take care in advance of proper road lighting at night or in difficult weather conditions. Headlights ensure smooth driving. By studying the ratings of quality lamps, the choice of the right product will be made faster, and you can be confident in road safety.
The program includes determination of illumination at control points of the measuring screen. According to UNECE Regulation No. 112, measurements must be taken at a distance of 25 m from the screen. For the study, we took a reference low-beam headlight with a power source voltage of 12 V. There were five control measurement points: 50L, 75L, 50R, 75R, 0.
The results were disappointing. Chinese products have not become any better, and the “Europeans” have let us down. Of course, we are talking about random checks of lamps lying on the shelves of the metropolis. But why blame China if, for example, on the packaging of Philips lamps two manufacturers are simultaneously indicated: on the side - Germany, and on the bottom - France! And who supplies us with a set of OSRAM lamps with a note on the packaging in English: “Do not use in Europe and the USA”? We are, of course, not the USA, but, it seems, for many we are not Europe either. The same on the packaging of NARVA lamps: “Do not use in Europe.”
Electrically things are no better. MegaPower lamps with the word “Germany” crookedly taped on the packaging almost burned down the respected Auto Electrical Research Institute: the reflector in the reference headlight began to melt due to the prohibitive heat generation!
It was also not possible to evaluate the parameters of BlueVision DLAA light bulbs: the concept of “cut-off line” does not exist for them. Where were they made? And who knows - the next inscription in Latin says: “Made like in Japan.”
Declared manufacturer- Japan mentioned
Approximate price(for 2 lamps) - 400 rub.
Special marks
Declared power- 55 W
Measured power- 49.2 W
The standards are failed at points 50R and 75R, so these lamps really cannot be used on public roads. It’s good that the manufacturer warned about this, albeit in English.
Out of counting -
Declared manufacturer- Germany
Approximate price(for 2 lamps) - 685 rub.
Special marks manufacturer's translation: “Not for Europe”
Declared power- 85 W
Measured power- 62.4 W
Why do we sell products “not for Europe”? High current consumption, too much illumination at point 0, too little at point 75R...
Out of counting -
Declared manufacturer- Germany
Approximate price(for 2 lamps) - 1250 rub.
Special marks manufacturer's translation: “Only outside public roads”
Declared power- 55 W
Measured power- 61.2 W
“Ultra-white” bulbs cannot be used on public roads, and the manufacturer warned about this. Lack of illumination at points 75R and 50R, too much illumination at point 0.
Place 16
Declared manufacturer- Korea
Approximate price(for 2 lamps) - 220 rub.
Declared power- 100 W
Measured power- we didn’t have time to measure
With such a light bulb it won't take long to burn out. The reflector of the reference headlight began to melt, because of this the test was immediately stopped. Only the word Rally hints at the fact that it is not for roads.
Place 15
Declared manufacturer- China
Approximate price(for 2 lamps) - 320 rub.
Declared power- 55 W
Measured power- 49.2 W
“Super-bright” light bulbs cannot be used: at points 50L and 0 there is a significant excess of illumination
Place 14
Declared manufacturer- “like Japan”
Approximate price(for 2 lamps) - 350 rub.
Declared power- 100 W
Measured power- 94.8 W
There is no cut-off line at all, and therefore it is impossible to take measurements in accordance with the requirements of the UNECE Rules with such a lamp. The verdict is clear: it cannot be used on public roads.
Place 13
Declared manufacturer- not specified
Approximate price(for 2 lamps) - 215 rub.
Declared power- 55 W
Measured power- 49.2 W
The country of origin is not specified. The light bulbs did not reach the illumination level at 75R.
Place 12
Declared manufacturer- China
Approximate price(for 2 lamps) - 155 rub.
Declared power- 100 W
Measured power- 62.4 W
Chinese light bulbs, despite the declared excess power, did not reach the illuminance level at 75R.
Place 11
Declared manufacturer- Germany
Approximate price(for 2 lamps + 2 five-watt light bulbs) - 1450 rub.
Declared power- 55 W
Measured power- 49.2 W
At point 50L the illumination exceeds the permissible level.
Place 10
Declared manufacturer- Germany
Approximate price(for 2 lamps) - 1600 rub.
Declared power- 55 W
Measured power- 49.2 W
At point 0, the famous light bulb unexpectedly exceeded the standard requirements.
place 9
Declared manufacturer- Germany
Approximate price(for 1 lamp) - 510 rub.
Declared power- 55 W
Measured power- 49.2 W
The light bulb was failed by measurement at point 0: the permissible illumination limit was exceeded.
Place 8
Declared manufacturer- Germany
Approximate price(for 1 lamp) - 330 rub.
Declared power- 55 W
Measured power- 50.4 W
The lamps passed the tests, but experts noted that the color was clearly tilted towards yellow - this is unacceptable for low beam. For fog lights - normal.
Place 7 - IPF
Declared manufacturer- Japan
Approximate price(for 2 lamps) - 3400 rub.
Declared power- either 55 or 65 W
Measured power- 46.8 W
The bulbs met the standard requirements, but why such a deafening price?
Place 6 - NARVA
Declared manufacturer- Germany
Approximate price(for 1 lamp) - 200 rub.
Declared power- 55 W
Measured power- 48 W
The right shoulder is illuminated with a reserve, and at point 0 - back to back according to the standard.
Place 5
Declared manufacturer- Germany
Approximate price(for 1 lamp) - 250 rub.
Declared power- 55 W
Measured power- 49.2 W
The lamp illuminates the right side of the road with a reserve - this is good. But at point 0 there is no reserve at all.
Place 4
Declared manufacturer- Germany
Approximate price(for 1 lamp) - 230 rub.
Declared power- 55 W
Measured power- 49.2 W
The lamp passed the test, although at 75R there was barely enough illumination. But at the 50R point there is a huge reserve!
Place 3
Declared manufacturer- Germany
Approximate price(for 1 lamp) - 410 rub.
Declared power- 55 W
Measured power- 48 W
The packaging promised “+ 50%” and “+ 20 m”, but the protocols did not record anything like that.
Place 2
Declared manufacturer- Hungary
Approximate price(for 1 lamp) - 170 rub.
Declared power- 55 W
Measured power- 49.2 W
It meets the requirements, but does not declare any special features.
Place 1
Declared manufacturer- Germany
Approximate price(for 2 lamps) - 1100 rub.
Declared power- 55 W
Measured power- 50.4 W
The lamp complies with the standard. We found the promised 90% increase in illumination only at the 50R point.
Night time is the most dangerous time for a motorist. Most accidents occur at night, therefore, special attention should be paid to the choice of headlights.
There are many halogen and LED bulbs with an H7 base on the automotive market. Let's look at models with increased brightness according to tests.
Choosing a halogen lamp
To purchase a high-quality car light bulb, you need to have a good understanding of manufacturers of lighting equipment for vehicles. In conditions of fierce competition, manufacturers are constantly improving the quality of their products.
However, unscrupulous Chinese companies supply very low quality light bulbs. Therefore, choosing a lighting device must begin with choosing a manufacturer.
Popular manufacturers:
- Osram. The world's leading manufacturer of automotive lighting equipment for over a hundred years. Osram lighting devices are installed on many cars of famous brands. The company produces both regular and high-brightness H7 halogen lamps for cars.
- Philips. The lighting products of this manufacturer occupy a large niche in the world market. Philips light bulbs are renowned for their high quality and reliability.
- Bosch. The largest German concern, which has proven itself in a wide variety of industries. Bosch stands for reliability.
- Narva. The youngest manufacturer of all brands, which began producing halogen lamps in 1969, the quality of which is at the highest level.
Main characteristics:
- Power.
- Range.
- Luminous flux intensity.
- Life time.
- Colorful temperature.
Rating of the best lighting devices
For the convenience of car enthusiasts, a rating of H7 halogen lamps for cars has been compiled. It includes popular samples of lighting devices, often purchased by car enthusiasts.
The basis for including a particular model in the list was its compliance with the following criteria:
- Compliance of the distribution of luminous flux installed in a standard headlight lamp with the state standard.
- Distribution of luminous flux (illumination of the roadside, oncoming lane, road).
- Actual electricity consumption.
- Power of light radiation.
1. OSRAM NIGHT BREAKER UNLIMITED.
The unique properties of the light bulb are that it creates a light beam whose length is 40 meters longer than that of conventional car lamps, and the emission spectrum is 20% whiter. All these parameters allow this model in the H7 base to illuminate a larger space with white light, which allows the driver to avoid a possible accident at night.
The actual luminous flux intensity is 1500 Lm. The results of the study showed that the tested light device illuminates the right side of the road better than any other model from the proposed list. All this allows us to consider this light bulb the best and confidently recommend it for purchase. Average price 1,200 rub.
2. BOSCH Plus 90.
In 2009, Bosch released H7 halogen car lamps with increased luminous efficiency for more efficient road illumination at night. The work creates longer and wider cones of light, allowing you to see obstacles on the road in advance and avoid a collision.
The roadside illumination indicator for this light bulb is several times higher than the operating requirements. The purchase will cost 1,370 rubles.
3. PHILIPS Vision Plus +60%. The combination of a 60% increase in luminous flux and an affordable price (600 rubles) makes this model a very good option for purchase.
Its actual luminous flux is 1450 Lm, and the illumination of the roadside is within the standard. All this, as well as the manufacturer’s brand, allows us to recommend the lamp for use.
4. PHILIPS Vision +30%. In terms of luminous flux intensity, it exceeds standard lighting devices by 30%.
The actual flux intensity of this light device is 1390 Lm, and the illumination of the roadside exceeds the standard, which is a good indicator.
In terms of price (350 rubles) and quality, the light bulb is a good option, however, due to the design features, it tends to blind the driver of the car in front.
5. PHILIPS X-treme Vision +100%. According to the manufacturer, lamps of this type have a luminous flux intensity that is 100% greater than standard lighting devices and a beam of light extended by 35 meters.
The actual radiation intensity of the light bulb is only 1400 lm. With roadside lighting, the situation is a little better, although it does not reach the PHILIPS Vision Plus +60% indicators, but it still fits into the standard.
After all the tests, we can say with confidence that the lamp did not live up to the declared characteristics and is inferior in them to its “less” powerful brother. The price of the considered model is 1000 rubles.
6. HELLA H7 +90%. A good budget option from a subsidiary of Philips.
HELLA H7 +90% devices, the best in their price range (RUB 690). They provide excellent light intensity (1400 lm) and provide good illumination of the right side of the road at a low price.
7. OSRAM SUPER +30%. The manufacturer does not set any inflated characteristics, except for the stated 30% more light output.
The luminous flux intensity as a result of the test was 1350 Lm, which is a satisfactory result, but at the same time, the degree of illumination of the roadside is significantly lower than that of other models.
The glare zone of such a lamp is many times greater than the norm, as a result of which it will blind drivers driving towards and ahead through the rear-view mirrors. Price 300 rubles.
8. KOITO Whitebeam III. A light bulb with increased luminous efficiency due to the increased temperature of the filament. To prevent its burnout, the pressure in the flask is doubled compared to standard devices.
If you need to find the best H7 halogen lamps with increased brightness, you should study the parameters of other light sources: LED, xenon. When comparing, it is easier to determine the option that is most preferable in terms of technical characteristics. H7 – base type. It is more widespread than others and can be used in high and low beam headlights.
This type of base and other characteristics of the lamp satisfy all the requirements for a four-headlight car lighting system.
Best H7 Halogen Bulbs
Such light sources are in many ways similar to outdated analogues. The design is the same: a quartz glass flask, an incandescent filament, but halogen compounds (bromide, iodide) are used as filling. The advantage of this type of light bulb is that it emits a much more powerful luminous flux. This is due to the strong heating of the filament (up to 2900°C). As a result, the glass body heats up, which does not cause a short period of operation of the light source.
Today, high-brightness lamps are often used, which provides a good xenon effect. In this case, the light will be closer to white, the radiation intensity is high. This effect is achieved through the use of light bulbs characterized by a high color temperature (4200K).
Halogen light sources have an average service life of 2000 hours.
The most popular models of such light bulbs:
- Bosch Pure Light H7.
- Philips H7 3250K Vision Plus.
- OSRAM H7 Original.
Bosch Pure Light H7
The first option is characterized by a standard power of 55 W. Supply voltage – 12 V. The lamp is equipped with an H7 socket and is used when installing a car’s headlight system. The average cost of such a product is 250-370 rubles. The color temperature of the light bulb is 3200 K. In terms of this parameter, the light source is inferior to most analogues.
Considering that the power of such a lamp is standard and the color temperature is low, the emitted light is not bright enough to replace its xenon counterpart. However, these parameters are sufficient to use this model as a replacement for brighter light sources.
Bosch Pure Light H7
Philips H7 3250K Vision Plus
The advantage of a Philips car headlight lamp is its high level of illumination.
Thus, such products produce 60% more light compared to analogues. The light beam has a significant length - 25 m longer than other types of lamps. A feature of Philips products is the use of quartz glass with a UV filter in the design.
Thanks to this, the lamps can withstand more intense loads created by the pressure of the gas mixture inside the bulb.
Main characteristics:
Philips H7 3250K
OSRAM H7 Original
Another option in this group is OSRAM H7 Original. Products of this brand are characterized by standard parameters:
- power – 55 W;
- supply voltage – 12 V;
- color temperature – 3200 K.
The advantage of Osram products is reliability. A long period of operation is also noted. The lamp's emission is bright enough to provide the xenon effect. The average cost of a product of this type is 250 rubles.
Best H7 LED Bulbs
Products of this group are the most preferable, as they are characterized by a number of positive qualities:
- the light does not flicker;
- long service period;
- LEDs do not heat the case;
- high brightness;
- a wide range of color temperatures, which allows you to choose both warm, neutral and cold shades of radiation.
The disadvantages include the risk of poor assembly, which negatively affects the service life and quality of lighting.
This is due to the fact that the mounting locations for headlight bulbs in headlights are designed for the dimensions and design of halogen products. Another disadvantage is the weak dispersion of the light flow, it is more directed. The brightness of the light beam is very high, because of this the light will blind drivers of oncoming cars, and in the absence of an additional cooling system, the diode will quickly burn out.
OSRAM H7 Original
Best H7 LED Bulbs:
- H7 G9L Philips ZES 5000K.
- CLEARLIGHT H7.
H7 G9L Philips ZES 5000K
The first option is characterized by increased brightness and white color. This is due to the fact that this type of product emits light with a temperature of 5000 K. The design includes a reflector. Thanks to this element, a more diffused light flux is created, the length of which is 40 meters longer than that of incandescent lamps. Main characteristics:
- supply voltage – 12-24 V;
- power – 24 W;
- service life – 10 thousand hours;
- brightness of light radiation – 4000 lm.
The design includes 6 Philips brand diodes. The cost of a set of two lamps is 5,700 rubles.
CLEARLIGHT H7
Another option is CLEARLIGHT H7 based on LEDs. Lamps of this type are also offered in a set of two pieces. Main parameters of one product:
- supply voltage – 12 V;
- power – 24 W;
- luminous flux brightness – 2800 lm;
- operating period – 30 thousand hours;
- color temperature – 4500 K;
- recommended temperature regime – up to +60°С;
- degree of protection – IP68.
The average cost of CLEARLIGHT H7 lamps is 2600-2800 rubles. per set (2 pcs.)
The best H7 halogen lamps: xenon effect
The price of such products is lower compared to xenon analogues. To achieve the desired effect, some lamp manufacturers use the method of painting the glass bulb blue. However, this measure has almost no effect on the quality of lighting. It is recommended to choose halogen lamps, characterized by increased brightness of the luminous flux. As a result, you can get a light source at a more affordable price, but with characteristics close to a xenon type analogue. The best halogen products in this group:
- OSRAM Cool Blue Intense H7.
- Philips CrystalVision.
- Mtf-Light Palladium.
OSRAM Cool Blue Intense H7
The first option is characterized by standard parameters:
- supply voltage – 12 V;
- power – 55 W.
The brightness of the luminous flux of such a lamp is 20% higher in comparison with analogues. The color temperature is 4300 K. Thanks to this, the lighting acquires a bluish-white tint. This color temperature value brings the halogen lamp closer to its xenon counterpart. It is recommended to install it in headlight designs with transparent glass.
OSRAM Cool Blue Intense H7
Philips CrystalVision
Philips halogen lamps, in particular the CrystalVision version, are offered at a price of RUB 2,000/set of 2 pieces. They are equipped with an H7 base and are characterized by a color temperature of 4300 K, which makes it possible to obtain white-blue radiation. The power is 55 W, the supply voltage is 12 V. The desired shade of luminous flux was achieved using a blue coating. Lighting brightness – 1140 lm. The service life is 200-400 hours, which is determined by operating conditions.
Philips CrystalVision
Mtf-Light Palladium
These are halogen-type lamps, which in terms of the shade of the luminous flux are close to their xenon-based counterparts due to the color temperature of 5500 K. This is achieved by painting the bulb blue.
However, the brightness level of lamps of this type remains insufficiently high: from 700 to 900 lm, depending on the design. Parameters such as power and supply voltage are standard for light bulbs, 55 and 12 V, respectively.
The best xenon lamps n7
Light sources of this type are characterized by a long period of operation, which is due to the filling of the flask with an inert gas. As a result, energy consumption levels are reduced. In order to adjust the light flux, projection lenses are installed in addition to the lamps. Thanks to them, the beam of light will be directed onto the road surface.
The flask, in addition to xenon, contains metal salts, and 2 electrodes are involved in the operation process. The main advantage of xenon lamps is the closeness of the color temperature to the same parameter of natural light (4300-6000 K). The duration of operation is 3 thousand hours. The main disadvantage is the need to add an ignition unit to the design of the car. The best H7 xenon lamps:
- MTF-LIGHT H7.
- Sho-Me H7.
MTF-LIGHT H7
The first option is characterized by a color temperature within 4300 K. The lamp power is 35 W, the standard supply voltage is 12 V. Such a product can be in operation for no longer than 2 thousand hours. A distinctive feature of the lamp is the high level of brightness of the luminous flux - 3200 lm. Country of origin: South Korea. The average cost of a xenon gas-discharge lamp in this version is 950 rubles.
Analogue Sho-Me H7
Manufactured in China, the brightness level is worse, but it is superior to the considered option in terms of color temperature. The power of such a lamp is 35 W. Supply voltage – 12 V. Product service life does not exceed 2 thousand hours. The brightness of the light flux is 2800 lm. Color temperature – 5000 K.
Finding a complete replacement for xenon light sources is difficult, due to their design.
Thus, illumination of the roadway with this lamp is carried out using the principle of a light arc, as a result - its luminous flux becomes brighter. In terms of lighting intensity, such products are superior to their halogen counterparts. Popular brands Philips and Osram also offer xenon-based light sources, but use a different type of base.
Video testing
