The best h7. High-brightness halogen lamps for cars H7: which ones are better? Reviews. Tuning is the enemy of the resource
Traveling in the dark, no matter how dangerous and uncomfortable they may seem, is inevitable. To ensure traffic safety in such difficult conditions, each car is equipped with a number of special devices, the most important of which are lighting devices. The quality of road lighting and the detail of the view directly depend on their condition and level of equipment.
Dmitry Kulkov, a specialist at the technical center of the FAVORIT MOTORS Group of Companies, and service manager at the KIA FAVORIT Koptevo auto center, spoke about which lamps are best suited for the correct low beam, and what to look for when choosing them.
What determines the quality of headlight light?
Today, almost a third of cars are equipped with insufficiently efficient headlights. The main reason for poor luminous flux is poor technical condition of the equipment. The main reason for poor luminous flux is poor technical condition of the equipment and inconsistency in the direction of the luminous flux. But in some cases, improving the view of the road requires simply replacing the light bulb, polishing the headlights and adjusting the direction of the headlight beam.
How to choose the right lamp?
Today, the market offers a wide range of lamps from various manufacturers. However, among the variety of expensive and affordable artificial light sources, it is important to figure out which lamps are best to put in the low beam of your car. Depending on the type of lamp, their functionality may vary.
- Xenon lamps guarantee excellent visibility on the road, including during rain or snowfall. An important advantage of such lamps is their relative safety for the human eye. Xenon light is similar to natural daylight and, even if you are driving for several hours in the dark, you will not feel very tired. At the same time, the declared service life of xenon is about 3000 hours with a power consumption of only 35 W. The only drawback of xenon bulbs is their high cost.
- Halogen lamps are also used for installation in headlights. A special feature of such incandescent lamps is that the bulb fills with inert gas. Speaking about the amount of light output received, halogen lamps are less efficient compared to xenon, however, the price of such lamps compares favorably. In addition, halogen lamps have a wide selection of standard sizes and a service life of about 4000 hours.
- LEDs can also be installed in the optics of your car. A diode-type lamp has a particularly long service life - about 50,000 hours and a low required voltage of only 12 V. LEDs are often installed in the headlights of foreign cars, as well as in ordinary fog lights. This type of small-sized lamps does an excellent job of providing bright low beam, as well as additional illumination. If these are non-original headlights designed for the use of LEDs, they do not provide the required form of luminous flux. A reliable heat dissipation structure is required.
Lamp classification
Depending on the purpose, the special design of the bulb, as well as filaments, spirals and base, all headlight lamps are divided into certain types in accordance with the UNECE requirements for automobile lighting devices. The most common types of lamps are the internationally regulated H4 double filament lamp and the H7 single filament lamp installed on vehicles manufactured in the last 20 years. Both options are used in the generally accepted two-headlight CR type lighting system adopted in Europe. The best lamps with H4 and H7 sockets are produced by such well-known companies as Hella, Philips, Osram, IPF, IL Trade and MTF-Light.
Auto lamps H4
H4 bulbs, thanks to two filaments, are used for both low and high beam. Due to the fact that modern manufacturers offer many modifications, it is necessary to know the characteristics of the H4 light bulb that best suit your optics system. In general, all lamps of this type have a standard power of 60-65 W; the mode of operation for high or low beam is regulated by automatic selection of the appropriate electrode. After the release of the law on the mandatory use of low-beam headlights during the daytime, H4 lamps with an increased service life appeared in stores. Now you can use such a lamp around the clock without damaging your car. On the modern spare parts market in 2018, there are several categories of H4 automotive lamps:
- Standard lamps that are installed on the car at the factory;
- Lamps with increased luminous flux;
- Universal lamps providing visual comfort. Such lamps can replace fog lights;
- High power lamps, which are used in combination with additional electronic equipment that protects the generator and electrical wiring of the car from overload.
Auto lamps H7
A relatively new version of the car lamp - with an H7 socket, which has a light output of increased brightness, enhanced by the inclusion of halogen bromine and iodine vapors. The filament of such a lamp is made of special high-strength tungsten alloys. Before installing a similar lamp in the headlight of your car, consult which H7 lamps are better. A detailed review of most h7 halogen lamps shows that they all have a guaranteed long service life. Distinctive features of lamps from different manufacturers are power and spectrum, which can vary from warm to cold light.
If you plan to make a long journey by car, be sure to take care of installing a high-quality H7 high beam lamp. Thanks to a special lamp design equipped with a protective ring, the light from your headlights will not dazzle oncoming drivers. When choosing a durable and safe headlight lamp, be sure to pay attention to the reputation of the manufacturer and the country of origin of the product. Only a lamp manufactured in accordance with special technical conditions can ensure optimal traffic safety.
If you have difficulties selecting or replacing the low and high beam lamps you need, contact the specialists of the technical centers of the FAVORIT MOTORS Group of Companies. The official dealer of famous car brands always has original lamps in stock. Experienced technicians will tell you how to make the right choice and, if necessary, quickly replace the lamps in your car's lighting fixtures.
Every car owner knows perfectly well how important it is to have a good view of the road at night or in poor visibility conditions. To make driving a car comfortable, safe and confident, headlights must illuminate the road surface well. Therefore, the choice of lamps should be approached very responsibly. Often, many modern cars have headlights installed. Which ones are better, let’s try to find out based on the ratings.
Car specifications and description
Element H7 is a single filament lamp. It is designed for installation in four-headlight headlight optics in cars that have a separate system of reflectors for high and low beam. However, in the vast majority of cases, these lamps are installed only in the low beam.
Products of this type are characterized by the presence of a flange. But the distance from the flange to the spiral is constant and fixed. This is done so that the filament point is always present in focus.
Modern industry offers a wide variety of lamps with H7 socket in different modifications. All of them are manufactured using their own technologies and have certain parameters that characterize the light, as well as power. Although the standard power for light bulbs of this type is 55 W. Models with higher performance can also be found on sale. But it is recommended to use them only in off-road conditions. In an ordinary car, which is intended for city driving, the use of such bulbs will only lead to failure of the on-board electrics due to overloads.
There are three types of lamps on the automotive market. These are halogen models, xenon and modern LED products. Let's try, based on the data obtained in the tests, to determine the best H7 light bulbs.
BOSCH Plus 90
In 2009, the company showed the world a new product from a line of halogen products with improved light output characteristics. Lamps from this series are truly the brightest from this brand. Light output characteristics are 90% higher than standard lamps.
Due to the innovations used by the manufacturer, the product creates a longer and wider light cone. At the same time, the road is illuminated 50% more efficiently. If you install this lamp in the headlight, the driver will have more time to make a decision. After all, with such optics he will notice the obstacle much earlier.
The light generated by bulbs from this series is white when compared with standard models. The company applied innovative solutions. The flask is filled with xenon, the design of the spiral is optimized, the flask coating is partially blue. The light is close in temperature to daylight. This strains your eyes much less and allows you to move more comfortably.
As a result of tests carried out by experts, the light bulb from this series was able to show the best results in terms of brightness - 1500 lm. As for the illumination indicators on the right side of the road, everything here is also much better than that of other representatives. In general, this lamp showed good results, and its characteristics exceeded the requirements several times. In addition, the product is completely safe for all surrounding drivers.
HELLA H7+90%
This manufacturer is a subsidiary of Philips. The trademark is intended to sell products under it in the budget segment. Don’t think that just because it’s on a budget means it’s necessarily bad. This is wrong. “Hella” - is it quite similar to the “Priora”? Definitely theirs, especially since the price allows it.
In the test, this lamp performed as an average representative. The luminous flux is 1400 lm. The illumination of the roadside on the right side is one of the best and even higher than that of analogues from Bosch.
This halogen bulb turned out to be one of those that has a good price-quality ratio. It is offered at an affordable price (a thousand rubles per set), and is capable of providing high-quality illumination of the road surface and the right side of the road. The product is not safe for oncoming drivers. These are reliable and affordable H7 light bulbs. Which ones are better to choose? Motorists say that Hella is a very good option.
Osram Night Breaker Unlimited
The manufacturer claims that these halogen lamps can form a light beam with a range of up to 40 meters or more when compared with standard products. In this case, the color temperature will be higher than on the same standard options. The driver will be able to detect an obstacle in advance and respond to it in time. The manufacturer uses a special patented coating in this series. It reduces glare from reflected light.
In tests, this lamp performed well. Its luminous flux is one of the highest and amounts to 1500 lm. Indicators for the level of illumination of the right side of the road are also excellent. Many people use these H7 bulbs. Which is better - Osram or Hella? Experts assure that models from the first series are also a good choice.
Osram SilverStar 2nd generation
The manufacturer indicates that this bulb can generate 60% more light compared to standard ones. As for the luminous flux, it is longer by as much as 20 meters. At the same time, the manufacturer indicates a service life that has doubled when compared with previous models.
It is stated that the use of these lamps will make driving safer. These lamps are an ideal product for headlights with colorless lenses. But in real tests this model showed very mixed results. With one of the strongest luminous fluxes of 1490 lm, the illumination level of the right side of the road turned out to be weak. According to experts and figures, this lamp does not significantly exceed the performance of standard halogen products.
H7 xenon bulbs: which ones are better?
As for xenon, the choice is small. There is only one representative who occupies a place in the ranking. This is MTF Light H7. There are other companies, but they often offer frankly low-quality products.
This model meets all requirements better than all others. There is a high color temperature here, the light is as close to natural as possible. This lamp produces a fairly high brightness - 2800 lm. Even with increased brightness they are not capable of such a result. In addition, the service life is pleasing. The manufacturer claims that the product can operate up to 20,000 hours. But this is five times more compared to halogen solutions. And finally, another advantage of this model is the price of 900 rubles per set.
LED H7 bulbs: which ones are better
Nowadays, LED optics is one of the most promising areas in automotive technology. This is due to the high durability and protection of the lamp from vibrations and shocks. Also, diode products are capable of producing a high-quality light beam with a high glow temperature and brightness.
ClearLight H7
This model meets all modern requirements for LED optics. The lamp is quite powerful - the brightness ranges from 2800 or 4300 lm, depending on the model and modification. The service life of this product is also amazing - up to 30,000 hours are stated. The model is very economical. Consumption is only 30 W.
DLED H7 9.5W
This is an example of what a car lamp should not be. It, of course, produces light of 4500 K, its price is about 3 thousand rubles. But the power is only 9.5 W. This makes the device economical, but there is no benefit. The brightness of this model is only 990 lm. This is very little. Experts do not recommend purchasing these H7 bulbs. Which ones are better for Priora? Certainly not these.
It is not enough to purchase and insert such an LED lamp into the connector - the headlight optics must be designed for these lamps. In standard Priora optics, such products will do more harm to the owner than good.
Another rating
The best H7 light bulbs among standard ones are models from the Phillips Vision series. Among the models with increased light flow, we can highlight Phillips Extreme Vision products. The best models in terms of service life are products from the Long Life series and models from Osram - the Ultra Life series. Among xenon products, MTF Light products are considered better.
About choosing lamps
When choosing, the consumer always wants to purchase the best model. It is recommended to take into account the factors that are among the most important. These are brightness, light comfort, lamp durability, price.
You should not purchase inexpensive models, especially if the product is of dubious quality. Your safety while driving depends on which lamp is installed in the headlight. When choosing a suitable lamp, you need to focus on the reputation of a particular brand. However, sometimes you come across specimens that shine better than models from a well-known manufacturer. As for the service life of the H7 bulb - which ones shine better, those have a shorter service life. And vice versa, if it is a lamp with an extended service life, then its brightness is reduced. The best lamp is a standard solution, especially if it is installed on a domestic car.
H7 halogen lamps are among the most popular. They provide millions of cars with low and high beams and even fight fog. Such lamps exist in different versions: some manufacturers offer them, others, on the contrary, promise a triple resource, while others can simply tint the caps of your headlights to match the body.
Which ones will turn out to be the most “long-lasting”? We conducted life tests of H7 lamps with a power of 55 W - both conventional and related “improved” ones: either with an increased luminous flux or with an increased resource. Our sample included lamps from the largest manufacturers: three each from the Narva and Osram brands, as well as two from Philips (regular Philips lamps go only to the assembly line, and only modified ones go on sale). From the singles for which there was no worthy pair on the market, we took a Bosch lamp, the packaging of which promises a threefold increase in resource, as well as a couple of inexpensive lamps: the Belarusian Dialuch and the Chinese Innovator.
We did not measure the lighting characteristics of the lamps - we were only interested in the durability and the relationship between the real service life of the “improved” lamps and their stated deviations from the standard ones.
How old am I?
We assembled a pulse generator that supplies the lamps with a supply voltage with the desired duty cycle from the Ragtime 5-12-(0–600) relay from the Kaluga plant Energomash and two of its ordinary relatives. The Jumpstart booster, connected to the output of the Mastech HY3030E power supply, worked as a buffer - without it, the source would not have been able to handle significant currents.We assembled a pulse generator that supplies the lamps with a supply voltage with the desired duty cycle from the Ragtime 5-12-(0–600) relay from the Kaluga plant Energomash and two of its ordinary relatives. The Jumpstart booster, connected to the output of the Mastech HY3030E power supply, worked as a buffer - without it, the source would not have been able to handle significant currents.
How long should a halogen light bulb last? It is clear that much depends on the intensity of its operation, the state of the on-board network and other factors. But the approximate resource is known: about 500 hours. And this indicator refers to the most ordinary halogen, and not to the “improved” one.
There is an analogy with internal combustion engines: any attempt to increase the power of a standard engine inevitably results in a decrease in service life. Therefore, if a light bulb promises “+50%” power, range or brightness, be prepared to change it not after 500 hours, but much earlier.
Another thing is lamps that promise an extended service life: their task is precisely to last longer than usual.
In any case, we are talking about hundreds of hours of work, and it is problematic to provide such long-term tests. Therefore, we have developed an accelerated testing technique based on the fact that any increase in the supply voltage of an electric lamp greatly affects its service life. For example, if you increased the voltage on a light bulb by 10%, you reduced its life by about four times. It was this circumstance that we decided to take advantage of at one stage of our tests.
How do we test?
First, check in cyclic mode at constant voltage. We supply 13.2 V to the lamps, and for 12 hours they operate according to the “one second on, two seconds off” algorithm at an ambient temperature of +23 °C. For the next 12 hours, unplug the lamps and place them in the freezer (-25 °C). Then we repeat the cycle. The duration of such tests is ten days.
Then - a test in stationary mode at increased voltage. The lamps operate at a supply voltage of 16.0 V for four hours, then every four hours we raise the voltage by 0.5 V in discrete steps of 0.1 V.
Which of the H7 lamps will go out last? Or, according to Pushkin, “which of us... will have to triumph alone?”
|
Elimination game
Everyone withstood the cyclic “it will go out, then it will go out.” Neither freezing (in the freezer) nor subsequent peak loads in start-stop mode broke anyone either. All lamps withstood the torture of increased voltage of 16.0 V. We added half a volt, and here was the first loss: the Philips lamp, which promised an additional 150% brightness, died. We added another volt - and new victims: Narva, which promised a 90% increase, and Osram with its “+ 110%”.Well, the theory is confirmed by practice! Any tuning aimed at increasing power characteristics reduces the resource.
At a voltage of 18.0 V, the “long-lasting” Osram suddenly died - however, with such overloads it is already difficult to demand durability from light bulbs. Another half a volt - and the “long-lasting” Narva dies. At 19.0 V the standard Narva goes out, but five lamps are still alive!
19.7 volts! Resource champion - Bosch. This is the only lamp that has remained operational, delivering more than double the rated power. And we still doubted whether to take this lamp for testing or not. The manufacturer's promised increase in resource up to three times seems to be true.
Tuning is the enemy of the resource
Let's summarize. Products with increased power characteristics were the first to burn. Ordinary light bulbs lasted much longer, even managing to outperform most of the “long-lasting” ones. The winner was not much ahead of them.
Conclusion? If you don’t want to change light bulbs often, don’t chase “improved” products: the costs are guaranteed, but bonuses are unlikely.
| Approximate price 290 rub. Claimed features increase in resource up to three times Competition winner: the lamp gave up only when the supply voltage was above 19.7 V. | Approximate price 190 rub. Claimed features - | Approximate price 360 rub. Claimed features increased resource The “long-lasting” Narva lost to its untitled relative, although it was twice as expensive as that one. |
|
| Approximate price 530 rub. Claimed features 90% improvement in visibility Expensive! The regular Narva costs almost three times less, but lasts longer than this one. | Approximate price 1820 rub. (per pair) Claimed features luminous flux: + 110%; range: +40% The expensive Osram gave up very quickly. | 6. Osram Original 64210–01B 499, Germany 6. Osram Original 64210–01B 499, Germany Approximate price 240 rub. Claimed features - Excellent light bulb - lasted up to 19.0 V. And the price is reasonable. |
|
| Approximate price 400 rub. Claimed features increase in resource up to four times This lamp was disappointing: I was hoping that since it was expensive, it would last longer. | Approximate price 1300 rub. (per pair) Claimed features The promised “+ 150%” immediately affected the resource: this lamp burned out first! It's a pity for the money. | ||
What are the best halogen, xenon and LED h7 low beam bulbs? Vehicle owners often ask this question, because road lighting is one of the components of a good drive. Road lighting directly depends on the quality of the lamps and their characteristics. In this article we look at how to choose the right lamp. Which set of lamps do you and your car need?
In the abundance of goods and their varieties, it is easy for a simple driver to get lost. We decided not to waste time on chatter and have prepared for you a rating of the best lamps.
- Low beam lamps.
- How to decide.
- What to pay attention to.
- Parameters and installation of light bulbs.
H7 lamps: review of the best, reviews
A wide selection of lamps, the descriptions and characteristics of which are very diverse, are often found in stores. How to choose among all this xenon, halogen And LED H7 car lamps that are ideal for your car?
philips diamond vision h7
Thanks to blue tint headlights will make your car stand out among the crowd. The color temperature ensures bright light and good illumination of the road.
Characteristics
Average price: RUB 1,500.00.
- Application: high beam and low beam
- Glow temperature 5000 K
- Short warranty period (14 days)
For that kind of money I expected better. The light is cloudy, you can’t see the wet road, it’s scary to imagine what will happen in the rain or fog. Although the blue tint looks very cool.
philips diamond vision h7
New functional diode lamps, together with a beautiful modern design, expand the boundaries of visibility on the road compared to simple halogen ones by more than 110%. Elevated at 45 m threshold The light cone makes it possible to see the edges of the road even better.
Characteristics
Average cost: 1,000.0 rub.
- 20% whiter light
- 45m longer color cone
- No warranty
They work well. Bright good light, but does not shine for long - only 9 months of inactive use.
osram night breaker unlimited
bosch plus 90
The bosch company offers a good bosch plus 90 lamp for the headlight low beam. It improves road visibility and ensures driving safety thanks to increased light output by more than 90%. Has an effect blue flicker.
Description goods
Average price: RUB 600.00
- Increased light output by 90%
- Poor packaging
- High probability of buying a fake
I bought this product in an online store. Arrived late and not very well packaged. I put it on the car to check. The light turned out to be good and bright. Looks pretty good. But for such a company the packaging could be better.
The Sho-Me lamp is an excellent replacement for the old one. With the right choice of equipment, it increases comfort and visibility of the road. And the increased period of work in 3000 hours gives you the opportunity not to spend extra money on replacing lamps. Gas-filled lamps from this company operate at a higher temperature than at the usual equivalent power.
Characteristics
Average cost: RUB 600.00
- High light output +120%
- Extended operating period (3000 hours)
- Low cost 600.00 rub.
- Diffuse glow
I changed my dimensions. The light is normal, more or less bright, but very diffused, it’s not clear where it’s shining.
The new filament design and the latest spraying of the bulb provide 120% more lighting of the road both in length and in the side lines. Lamps are a good helper at night.
Product Description
Average price: RUB 1,300.00
- 120% more illumination
- Attractive silver tone
Great value for these lamps. They shine well and brightly.
General Electric H7 Megalight Ultra +120
hella
Thanks to the longer thread incandescent, special gas inside the flask and a large number of turns, the luminous flux of the lamp is increased by 90%, which gives additional bonuses when lighting the road.
Product Description
Average price: RUB 650.00
- Increased luminous flux by 90%
- No warranty
- Low brightness compared to others
Standard lamp, I didn’t notice much difference from others. It's better to look for a better option.
narva long life
New environmental lamp with increased service life, load-bearing less harm environment.
Characteristics
Average price: RUB 700.00
- Long period of work (more than a year)
- No guarantee
A good lamp for the money. Friends advised me to put it in and they were not mistaken. Excellent head light and its range.
Test comparison of the above lamps to identify the best
Which H7 diode lamps should I use for low beam? How choose the best out of so many models presented? In our test, we compared the main characteristics of the presented lamps to identify the best one.
| Name | Power, W | Price, rub. | Extended service life | Point |
| philips diamond vision h7 | 55 | 1 500 | No | 4 |
| osram night breaker unlimited | 55 | 1 000 | No | 4 |
| bosch plus 90 | 55 | 600 | No | 4 |
| 35 | 600 | Yes | 4,5 | |
| General Electric H7 Megalight Ultra +120 | 55 | 1 300 | No | 3,7 |
| hella | 55 | 650 | No | 4 |
| narva long life | 55 | 700 | Yes | 4,5 |
The best h7 LED bulbs for low beam
How do you know which h7 LED low beam bulbs are the best of 2018? Let's look at a few examples. The data is collected based on parameters, customer reviews and tests.
– lamp h7 12v 55w from the series Night Breaker Unlimited, providing increased (compared to conventional) up to 40 meters luminous flux. The test showed 20% whiter light.
Characteristics
Average cost 2018: RUB 1,000.00
- 110% more light on the road
- 20% whiter light
- 40m longer color cone
- No warranty
- The period of work is no more than one year
For the money it's the best! I'm taking it for the second time. I also installed it on my wife’s car and recommend it to my friends. Although they do not last long, they last for a year, and the quality is great.
Osram H7 Night Breaker Unlimited
Narva long life– an environmentally friendly ice lamp with an increased service life and less impact on the environment.
Specifications:
Average price 2017: RUB 700.00
- Ecological (without harmful effects on the environment)
- Increased period of work (more than 1 year)
- No guarantee
Great light bulb! I installed my swallow a long time ago and am very pleased. Bright light and good quality.
Narva long life
The best h7 halogen lamps
Which h7 halogen lamps are right for your car? Let's look at examples of the best.
New car lamp Osram Cool Blue Hyper+ 7. Enlarged brightness And pure light. Bright, rich white light thanks to high color temperature.
Characteristics
Average cost 2018: RUB 1,400.00
- High color temperature 6000K
- Quality of parts
- Pleasant white light
- Service life (no more than six months)
Shines brightly and goes well with the running lights. In combination with xenon fire. Yellow colors are a thing of the past.
Osram Cool Blue Hyper
Halogen lamp MTF-Light Vanadium H7. The white light of the lamp gives you a great advantage on the road. Bright lighting does not blind oncoming people, and the lens does not damage the eyes.
Characteristics
Average price: RUB 900.00
- Pure white light
- Service life more than a year
- Easy installation
Marking
The letters on the packaging mean:
- T- a small light bulb with a base;
- R- a lamp with a base 15 mm long and a bulb diameter of 19 mm;
- R- a light bulb with a base of 15 mm and a bulb diameter of up to 26.5 mm;
- W- after the number means power W; at the beginning of the marking indicates the presence of a glass base;
- N- halogen lamp;
- Y- orange flask.
Additional information on the plinth:
- R- flange type base;
- VA- base with symmetrical pins;
- BAY- base with a pin shifted in height;
- BAZ- base with a pin offset in height and circumference;
- SV- soffit light bulb (the base is on both sides);
- E- a light bulb with a threaded base.
How to install h7 lamp
There is nothing difficult about the installation process. In most cases, the product packaging contains simple and clear instructions. If there is no such description, an approximate diagram or drawing will be clearly shown, which will help you quickly find your way.
- You need to position the lamp electrode down, that is, the “protrusion on the base” upwards.
- Due to the fact that the upper hemisphere of the lens forms the main part near-color beam, the light is directed relative to the central axis down and a little right(to the side).
- appear in front of the car two dark stripes; that is, if the light bulb is installed with the electrode facing up, it is the electrode that creates the shadow on the road.
Often, even in the daytime, visibility on the road can be very poor, which is why you may not notice an approaching car. In connection with this, traffic regulations have been changed and today low beams must be turned on while driving on all vehicles, regardless of the time of day. And these are not just wishes addressed to drivers, but a current regulation, failure to comply with which may result in a fine of 500 rubles (more details in Article 12.20 “On violation of the rules for using external lighting devices”).
Such requirements and reasonable sense lead any car enthusiast to the question: “Which low beam lamps are best to use?” To answer this, you must first understand the differences between these lighting devices.
How do lamps with different markings differ from each other?
Today, lamps with one or two incandescent filaments (spirals) are produced. The latter allow you to use lighting elements for both near and far illumination; to do this, you just need to switch from one light to another. Single-strand analogues are more difficult to use. In more detail, there is the following classification:
- H1 - used for high beam headlights and sometimes for fog lights (designed for a four-headlight system).
- Lamps in the H2 base are used for low and high beams, as well as fog lights. This type of lighting elements is practically not found today.
- H3 - only for fog lights.
- H4 automotive lamps are used in traditional European two-headlight systems for high and low beam.
- H7 automotive lamps are also used for high and low beam in four-headlight systems.
The last two types are used most often. If we talk about their differences, then H7 are single-filament lighting elements, and H4 have two spirals, but are inferior in the characteristics of the new model. This is especially true for the service life (for the H7 it is twice as long). And, of course, like all the lamps described above, each type has its own base design.
Since H4 and H7 lamps are most often used for low beam, let's talk about them in more detail.
The best lamps in the H4 base
If we talk about which H4 low beam lamps are the best, then we should rely primarily on the glow power. If you do not leave the city, it is better to take 60 W bulbs, and for country trips 130 W.
Important! Lamps with a power of more than 60 W are prohibited from being used in urban areas. h7 bulb
As for the choice between halogen and LED lamps, it’s worth saying right away that although LED lighting elements are more economical, they are not suitable for headlights designed for H4 halogens.
The manufacturer assures that its product can last at least 30 thousand hours. Power consumption does not exceed 30 W.
Safety depends on the quality of road lighting when driving a car. The sooner the driver can notice various obstacles, the more time there will be for the correct reaction and decision-making. In order to avoid any problems at night, you need to be very careful when choosing headlights. Let's find out what the best H7 low beam lamps are.
Standard H7
Such single-filament lamps are most often used for low beam.
For long-range measurements it is much preferable to use older H1 standard devices. H7 can be safely classified as a flange lamp. They are distinguished by a fixed distance from the flange to the spiral. This ensures that the filament is in the focus of the reflector. This is important to ensure that the lighting is correct. H7 low beam lamps must have precise geometric characteristics - this is the key to the highest quality results.
Today, several types of different devices with such a base are manufactured. They differ from each other in production technologies, technical and lighting characteristics, as well as power indicators. The standard power of a regular H7 low beam lamp is no more than 55 W. But there are manufacturers who make models with higher power. For example, the well-known company Narva produces products of increased size. However, it is better to use them outside of roads and highways. The use of such high-power lighting fixtures in the headlights of conventional cars can overload the vehicle's power supply system and cause it to fail.
H7 low beam lamps: varieties
Among all the diversity, three types of these lighting devices can be distinguished.
So, this is halogen lighting, metal halide or xenon, as well as LED lamps. Each technology has both pros and cons. We will look at them in more detail.
Halogen light
H7 low beam halogen lamps are inexpensive, have good performance and do not require any additional equipment. By design, it is a flask made of hard or quartz glass. It is filled with neutral gases, as well as halogen vapors. The design also includes an incandescent filament. Today these devices are among the most in demand. But with all its high characteristics and excellent qualities, there are also disadvantages. These are high operating temperatures that accelerate the aging process. Among the advantages are excellent value for money.
Test
During the tests, the headlight lamp was installed in a dark room. Experts measured the illumination and also compared it with existing requirements and rules. It was checked whether the headlights would blind other road users. The test involved only H7 low beam halogen lamps.
Bosch Plus 90 H7
This line of lamps from a well-known manufacturer was introduced at the end of 2009. These devices are considered one of the brightest low beam sources from this manufacturer. Their light output is as much as 90% higher than that of many standard devices. Thanks to the use of modern innovations and technologies in production, products in this series produce longer and wider cones of light.
Thus, the roadway is illuminated much more efficiently than standard lighting equipment. The use of such lamps makes it possible to increase the time it takes to make a decision about performing a particular maneuver, because with them you can quickly see an obstacle.
The light emitted by these H7 low beam lamps is whiter than standard products. With these devices, driving a car in the dark is much easier. This is an excellent result.
"Hella"
This company is one of the divisions of Phillips. The trademark was introduced for products sold at a lower price. Lighting devices in this series showed an average level of luminous flux. And this H7 low beam lamp illuminates the right side of the road better than anyone else. This device is one of the most optimal. Its value for money is simply excellent. Offered at affordable prices, this product illuminates the road well and does not dazzle oncoming drivers.
OSRAM NIGHT BREAKER unlimited
According to the manufacturer, this product is capable of creating a light beam with a range of 40 meters greater than standard devices. The glow spectrum is whiter. Drivers can recognize road hazards earlier.
In the test, this device proved to be one of the best. Although its characteristics are on the verge of acceptable, it is the best choice and maximum brightness.
OSRAM SILVERSTAR 2.0
This light source produces a glow with an intensity 60% higher than standard light sources. The light beam is 20 m longer than standard low beam lighting. The manufacturer managed to double the service life of this product. The lamp showed poor results. It is only slightly higher than the coefficient shown by standard light bulbs.
H7 low beam lamp (xenon)
These metal halide products produce a glow due to an electric arc that is passed between two electrodes. The flask is filled with xenon. These modern lighting devices are practically immune to various vibrations. The light they produce is much more powerful and better, with a high color temperature.
Which xenon to install on a car?
Owners of cars in which xenon light is not provided by the manufacturer install so-called pseudo-xenon or xenon lamps in the PTF. Well, others who have such a light installed regularly are often interested in what devices and kits to choose.
This beam cannot be made by hand. For the manufacture and installation of these elements, high-quality equipment and modern technologies are used. You also need to have special optics.
On the domestic market, the H7 xenon low beam lamp is available in two types.
Thus, a distinction is made between factory products from well-known and leading manufacturers and devices produced by specialists from Central Asia and brothers from the Middle Kingdom.
Which xenon to choose?
This choice depends on several factors. The first is the budget. And here there are two options: a minimal set of a lamp and an ignition unit, or a complete set, consisting of optics, headlights and everything else.
Tests were carried out, which resulted in several brands that were distinguished by high product quality and light efficiency.
MTF Light Kit
There are several automotive parts included here, including H7 low beam bulbs. There is also an ignition unit. The optics have a high level of coherence. There is practically no effect of scattered light during rain.
SHO-ME
This product compares favorably with its competitors with a wide range of emission spectra.
Lighting devices produced under this brand are suitable for any car. The set includes lamps for cars H7 low beam, as well as for the product for other sockets.
APP Digital Ultra Slim
These are Japanese made devices. Here we can highlight the ignition unit with compact dimensions, high quality lamps, reliability, and long service life of the bulb.
These are only the highest quality samples of xenon equipment. When making a choice, you need to take into account all the nuances of the market.
It is best to purchase this equipment from direct dealers. This is the only way to get a quality product. The presented brands provide a strong and high-quality glow, and when properly configured, these lamps will not dazzle other road users.
The best of the best
If we consider the standard H7 base, which low beam lamp is better, then it all depends on the make of the car and financial costs. So, as a result of numerous tests and analysis of user feedback, only three leaders meet all the requirements. These are products from Osram, products from the German company Bosch Plus 90 series and Hella + 90 lamps.
But the service life of these lamps is very, very short. It is only seven months. Those who have paid attention to the Koito brand should know that they do not meet the requirements stated by the manufacturer. They are much higher than they really are.
So, we looked at the features of the H7 low beam lamp and their main manufacturers. We hope this review will be useful to you.
Head lights- an essential part of any car. Traffic safety largely depends on them. And for this reason, automobile concerns are tirelessly conducting research and work to improve these lamps, working on the parameters of the light beam, improving technical characteristics and reliability. By conducting a comparison test, laboratories determine which light bulbs are the best.
One of the most common types of automotive lighting is H7 light bulbs - they appeared on the market in the second half of the 90s.
H7 light bulbs - description and characteristics
Single-filament bulbs of the H7 type are installed in four-headlight headlights in a car with a separate system of reflectors for high and low beams. But in the vast majority of cases, the H7 provides near-level light. For long-range, the less expensive and outdated version of the H1 is used.
With H7, which is typical for the flanged version, the distance from the flange to the spiral is constant and fixed. This is done with the aim that the filament point is constantly present in the focus of the reflectors.
A test test showed that it produces the correct light. Based on this, it can be emphasized that the accuracy of shapes and sizes affects the light and is one of the factors determining the quality of the lamps.
Lamp with H7 base - general view
Today's industry offers car enthusiasts various modifications of H7 low beam lamps. They may have different production technology, parameters characterizing light, and power. For H7, the standard power is 55 W. But there are modifications of the H7 with increased power ratings. However, they are recommended only for use in off-road conditions or on closed tracks. In a normal car, the use of such lamps will lead to the electrical power system being overloaded and failing.
The following varieties of H7 exist:
- halogen;
- xenon;
- LED
After conducting a test and studying the reviews, you can find each variety has its own advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a closer look at what features are typical for each modification of the H7.
H7 halogen bulbs
Halogen low beam sources H7 have a fairly low cost. There is no need to install additional equipment for them. They provide the right quality light.
They consist of a container for the manufacture of which they take carbide or quartz glass, an incandescent filament and gas with halogen additives. In fact, it is the most widely used low beam option today. Their most significant drawback is that they shine at a fairly high operating temperature, which greatly affects the wear rate of the optics. If we talk about the balance of cost and quality, then H7 halogen products have the optimal balance.
Xenon bulbs H7
In H7 xenon low beam sources, light from an electric arc is released between two electrodes in a glass container with xenon. This is a more modern option, guaranteeing the correct white-blue light, comfortable for the eyes of the driver of the vehicle and not dazzling those driving oncoming cars. Since they shine without a filament, they are not afraid of vibration - a test test confirms this.
However, xenon bulbs have two significant disadvantages:
- The first is the rather high cost.
- The second is the need to install additional equipment; xenon products need an ignition unit.
They are much less common than halogens.
LED bulbs H7
Experts who evaluate the quality and performance of lamps say that LEDs are the future of car lights. The test confirms the prospects of this direction. They are the most economical, durable and resistant to vibrations and shocks. The light from these lamps meets all the necessary requirements, which is why they will be the best option for lighting.
However, their use requires the use of special optics. Some people put LEDs in regular headlights. However, this can cause problems. LEDs do not shine point-wise, so conventional headlights do not provide the ability to properly adjust the light beam.
The price of LEDs is quite high. Therefore, they are not very widely available on the market. Some manufacturers have developed headlight designs where there is no division into bulbs, reflectors and optics. The test showed that the light of a headlight consisting entirely of LED lamps is much more effective in providing visibility of the road.
Selection of low beam lamps H7
When choosing H7 lighting sources, consumers often have a question about which ones are better. In this matter, it is best to consider the factors that are most important to you:
- the brightness of their glow;
- lighting comfort;
- durability;
- cost and other indicators
It’s better not to chase too much for cheapness, especially if it comes at the expense of quality. Your safety depends on how well and correctly the light bulbs in your headlights shine - saving on it is very expensive.
Light intensity diagram of H7 halogen headlights in the near zone of the right shoulder
Light intensity diagram of H7 halogen headlights in the far zone of the right shoulder.
Different manufacturers use their own methods and technologies for making lamps. A comprehensive test assesses their quality and effectiveness. This allows you to avoid deliberately incorrect paths in production. However, the same test demonstrates that the overall paths may vary across vendor implementations.
The most common advice in this area is to take into account the reputation of the manufacturer. However, products from little-known companies with an unknown reputation are most often inferior in quality to products from well-known brands - they almost always shine as they should.
When choosing, you need to know that, in addition to standard products, manufacturers offer options with improved parameters. However, it is worth considering that the better one indicator, the lower the other - no one has canceled the law of balance.
Therefore, the brighter the light sources shine, the shorter their service life. Conversely, lamps with an extended service life usually have lower brightness. Therefore, standard products, as a rule, are the optimal solution in terms of balancing all indicators.
Conclusion
H7 bulbs today are most often used in car low-beam headlights. They shine in almost all modern models. The industry today offers different varieties of them - the choice depends on those factors that are most important for a particular consumer.