Contents
- Are H11 and H16 bulbs the same?
- What bulb is compatible with H16?
- What bulb can I use instead of H11?
- Is H11 a fog light bulb?
- What does H16 bulb mean?
- Are all H11 bulbs the same?
- Can I use 9006 instead of H11?
- Is H11 and 9005 the same?
- What are H11 bulbs used for?
- Can I use H8 instead of H11?
- Is H11 the same as 9012?
- What is the difference between H11 and H11B?
In case you are a driver who wants to replace a bulb or install an extra set of headlights, you will have to choose between H11 and H16 bulbs. There are some significant differences between these two types of bulbs that might influence your decision. Here we will tell you about them and help you make the right choice.
Are H11 and H16 bulbs the same?
The H16 bulb has the same physical form as the H11. As a result, you may install an H11 bulb instead of the H16 in your vehicle without any difficulty. The most frequent use of the H16 is fog lights, whereas the H11 is used primarily for headlights. The major difference between these two types of bulbs is in their light output. The H16 produces a brighter light than the H11. As a result, it is more suitable for use in fog lights. The light emitted by the H16 is less focused than that of the H11, making it more dispersed and easier to see in foggy conditions.
Another difference between these two types of bulbs is their power consumption. The nominal power of the H16 bulb is 12 V: 19 W while this feature for the H11 is 12 V: 55 W. It means that the H16 is more energy-efficient than the H11. Also, the base used for the H11 is PGJ19-2, while H16 is used with the PGJ19-3 socket. In this wise, if you want to interchange one bulb with the other, you need to replace the socket as well or do some modifications.
Other characteristics like brightness level and color temperature are also different for these two types of bulbs. The H11 has a brightness level of 1345 lumens and a color temperature of 6000 K. The H16 bulb, on the other hand, has a brightness level of 6000 lumens and a color temperature of 8000 K. It`s interesting to know that both bulbs use 1 filament which means that they can last longer.
To sum up, there are several key differences between H11 and H16 bulbs that you should take into account before making a purchase. The most important distinction is in their light output – the H16 produces a brighter light than the H11. Another difference lies in power consumption – the H16 is more energy-efficient than the H11. Additionally, these two types of bulbs have different brightness levels and color temperatures. Finally, the lifespan of the H16 bulb is longer than that of the H11.
What bulb is compatible with H16?
Depending on what shape is your H16, its compatibility may vary. If you have an L-shape bulb, it may be equivalent to H11, H8, and H9 automotive bulbs. For those, who have T-shape H16 bulbs, it may be replaced with 5202, 2504, PSX24W, PS24W, 5201, or 9009 options. All of them use LED, HID, and halogen technologies, so that`s why their efficiency and lifespan will be different too. You can always check the manufacturer`s website for more information about the specific bulb that you need.
What bulb can I use instead of H11?
Fortunately, 9006 bulbs may also be used with H11 connectors if you wish, much as 9005 bulbs. The 9006 is a low-beam headlight, while the 9005 is a high-beam headlight. Neither of these bulbs are as bright as HID headlights, but they will get the job done in a pinch and are much cheaper than HIDs.
At the same time, all H11 bulbs may be used in place of a 9005, as the H11 is a high-beam headlight. This includes LED, Xenon, and halogen bulbs. The only thing to be aware of is that not all H11 bulbs are created equal. Some are much brighter than others, so make sure to buy a bulb that is bright enough for your needs.
Is H11 a fog light bulb?
As we have already mentioned, the H11 is most often used in headlights, whereas the H16 is mostly utilized in fog lights. That is because the H11 emits a light that is whiter in color, while the H16 casts a yellowish light.
While some people do use the H11 in their fog lights, it is not as common since the whiter light can create a glare when used in foggy conditions. It is for this reason that the H16 is generally seen as the better option for fog lights.
So, to answer the question, no, H11 bulbs are not typically used in fog lights. However, some people do choose to use them anyways since they emit a brighter light. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide which type of bulb they want to use in their vehicle.
Can I use fog lights as headlights?
Fog lights may be used in conjunction with your low beams as long as the latter don’t emit a brighter beam than your normal headlights. They can’t be utilized instead of your regular headlights.
You should avoid using your fog lights while there’s no fog since they can be blinding to other drivers. It’s also illegal in some states to use them without having your low beams on as well.
So, while you technically can use your fog lights as headlights, it’s not advisable to do so except in very specific circumstances. Doing so otherwise may result in decreased visibility for yourself and others on the road.
What does H16 bulb mean?
The H16 automotive light bulb is a member of the H9/H11 bulb family, which is quite comparable to H8, H9, and H11. It features a traditional right-angle style connector base with a big rubber o-ring beneath the metal tabs, as well as three metal tabs evenly spaced around the base to keep it in place.
The H16 also has a P20d base, which is the same as an H11 bulb. The difference lies in the fact that H16 bulbs have a higher wattage, meaning they emit a brighter light.
In short, the H16 bulb is a high-wattage light bulb that is mostly used in fog lights. Its bright yellowish light helps to cut through foggy conditions and improve visibility on the road.
Are all H11 bulbs the same?
H11 light bulbs come in many different varieties, so it can be tricky to decide which one is right for you. But not to worry – we’re here to help.
An H11 bulb is a type of halogen headlight bulb. Halogen bulbs are filled with a gas that makes the filament very hot, which in turn produces a bright light. H11 bulbs are designed to fit in specific types of headlights – usually, those that are low-beam only or high-beam/low-beam (also known as bi-xenon).
There are two main types of H11 bulbs: standard and upgrade. Standard H11 bulbs are the most common type and are typically used as replacement bulbs for vehicles that came with halogen headlights. Upgrade H11 bulbs, on the other hand, offer a brighter light and longer lifespan. They’re often used as an upgrade from standard H11 bulbs, but can also be used as a replacement bulb for vehicles that came with xenon headlights.
Can I use 9006 instead of H11?
Nope, h11 and h8 are comparable enough to go together, but not the 9006 automotive bulbs. That is because the 9006 is a low beam bulb, while the H11 is a high beam. The difference in the bulbs is the filament that’s inside of them. The H11 has a C-shaped filament, and the 9006 has a U-shaped one which means that the H11 will provide more light.
Is H11 and 9005 the same?
While the two bulbs have an L-shape, they are not interchangeable. The 9005 is a high beam light with a strong illumination capability, whereas the H11 is a single low beam light. The H11 cannot replace the 9005 in terms of performance.
What are H11 bulbs used for?
The H11 variety bulb is utilized as a standard automobile headlight. Dual-beam headlights exist, but H11 bulbs are single-beam lights. That implies you’ll need two bulbs for each headlamp. This makes it perfect for upgrading the high beams, low beams, or fog lights.
H11 bulbs are also used in some motorcycles. The H11 bulb has a smaller glass envelope than other motorcycle headlight bulbs, so it produces less light. That might not seem like an advantage, but it means that the H11 bulb won’t blind oncoming traffic as much.
At the same time, H16 bulbs are usually found in fog lights and daytime running lights (DRLs). DRLs are required by law in some countries, so you might not have a choice about using H16 bulbs. So, if you’re looking for a fog light or DRL upgrade, H16 bulbs are the way to go.
Can I use H8 instead of H11?
Although H8 bulbs are not an exact match for H11 housings, with a little effort they will fit snugly. The H8 is a good alternative to the H11 if you can’t find an H11 bulb that meets your needs.
The H16, on the other hand, is not a good substitute for the H11. The two bulbs have different purposes, so it’s best to stick with the H11 for headlights and the H16 for fog lights and DRLs.
Is H11 the same as 9012?
HIR2 (9012) and H11 headlight bulbs are not physically or optically compatible. You cannot use an adapter to change this even if you were to adapt the electrical socket, there is no way to fit a HIR2 bulb into a headlamp designed for an H11 bulb. It’s simply not possible. But what’s the difference in light output? A HIR2 bulb will produce more light. How much more light depends on the specific bulbs, but it’s typically between 10-20% more light. It all comes down to the design of the bulb. The H11 is a single filament bulb with a PAR56 reflector, while the HIR2 is a dual filament bulb with a P60 reflector. The P60 reflector is more efficient at directing light, which results in more light output.
What is the difference between H11 and H11B?
The only significant distinction between H11 and H11B halogen bulbs is that the ‘B’ versions have the connection pins/plug exposed (think of any regular old electrical plug you might own on an appliance or electronic device in your house), whereas the ‘ordinary H11’ version has it encased inside a connector to keep out moisture.

Headlights are automotive jewelry. Correct fitment coupled with the right choice of technology will turn your vehicle into a shining gem.
Official sources of fitment information – https://sylvania-automotive.com and https://www.automotivebulbfinder.com/philips/