The duration of the sunny day decreases. Increasingly, motorists are starting to turn on their headlights. The driver gazes intently into the half-dark road, looking out for the side of the road or a lurking hole. A horseman jumps out towards him, his headlights shining into the sky. The angle of view narrows sharply. Suspension blow! “I missed one,” clicks in my head. "Oh, how there is not enough light!" - as if the other half of the brain echoes. And the eyes continue to peer into the tape of the roadway. "It was necessary to change the lamps in the headlights!" - comes from somewhere a thought long postponed to the rear shelf ...
Here is an example of the standard traffic situation in which both drivers did not care about safety road traffic in the dark. The headlights of one poorly illuminate the road, and the headlights of the other blind oncoming drivers and also poorly illuminate the road.
We are sure that our readers are not so careless and do not want to get into a similar situation. To be prepared, you need to modify your car a little, replacing the headlight lamps before the winter season. Get more so much needed luminous flux will allow lamps of increased light output, bright boxes of which flaunt on the windows of all car dealerships. But what should you choose? Of the numbers on the packages indicating an increase in light, "+ 30%" is almost the most modest. And so "+ 60%", "+ 90%", and some promise all "+ 100%" of the light! Fantasy paints drenched bright light road in the midnight darkness ...
To find out which lamps are better, the staff of the editorial staff of the AutoDela magazine bought 12 sets of head light lamps with increased luminous efficiency in Moscow car dealerships and turned to the laboratory of the Federal State Unitary Enterprise "Research and Experimental Institute of Automotive Electronics and Electrical Equipment" (NIIAAE) to conduct a test according to the method established by UNECE Regulations No. 37-03 and UNECE No. 112-00.
The headlamp with the lamp installed in it was located in dark room, where the cut-off line required by GOST was set at a distance of 25 m from the source. The operator measured the illumination at the control points and compared it with the requirements of the regulations. The points at which the measurements are made are designated as follows: 0-0 - the point characterizing the light of the vehicle in front through the rear-view mirror; B50L - the point characterizing the blinding of the driver of the oncoming vehicle; 75R and 50R are the points representing the lighting of the right shoulder.
Additional materials:
Koito VWhite - headlight lamp H4, test
Koito Manufacturing Corporation was founded in 1915, when it released its first invention used for signal lamps on railways, which improved the visibility of the tracks, which made it possible to increase the safety of transportation of both passengers and goods. This was the beginning of the development of Koito Corporation, specializing in the production of lighting products for different types transport.
Now one of the main activities of Koito is the production car lamps and lighting systems.
Today Koito supplies all major Japanese car factories and is highly regarded by its scientific research and developments. Successful testing of the company's products in the Paris - Dakar rally and other off-road competitions gives the company the reason to be called the leading manufacturer of automotive lamps and lighting systems.
DESIGN FEATURES
In addition to standard lamps, Koito's assortment includes lamps with increased luminous efficiency, which include the Koito VWhite H4 model. According to the manufacturer, VWHITE high temperature lamps provide twice the brightness while consuming the same amount of energy as conventional halogen lamps. This is achieved due to the fact that the glow temperature of the lamp filament is higher than in standard samples... To prevent the tungsten filament from burning out, the concentration in the flask is increased inert gas... At the same time, it is pumped into the lamp bulb at a pressure twice that of a standard lamp.
The lamp bulb has a blue tint, made of quartz glass- more refractory than usual, and filtering the ultraviolet part of the radiation, due to which Koito VWhite H4 lamps are absolutely safe for polycarbonate headlights of modern cars. Also, since the electric power of the lamp is standard (60/55 W), the lamp also does not generate excess heat - no more than a standard one. Due to such technical innovations, the color temperature of light is increased to 3700K, which improves color perception driver.
Llamas are sold in pairs in a transparent plastic bag with a red label covered with Japanese characters... We want to warn readers right away that you should not be intimidated by the declared power value of 100/90 W: with these figures, the manufacturer is trying to emphasize the increased light output of the lamps. Their electrical power is standard, so you can safely put them in your car.
TEST RESULTS
Consumption measurement electrical power at a test voltage of 13.2 V, they showed that the lamp completely fits into the parameters declared by European rules, and the Koito VWhite H4 lamp is completely safe for car wiring. In this case, the luminous flux of the filament (for both the near and high beam) completely fits into the range established by GOST, and is 1500 lm for the high beam and 930 lm for the low beam.
At the cut-off line, the Koito VWhite H4 lamp showed good geometry, forming a correct beam. Headlights with installed Koito lamps VWhite will not dazzle oncoming drivers, since the illumination at the control point at 44 lm is within the limits established for the serial production.
Measurements of the illumination value at point 0-0 showed that the lamp fits into the requirements of GOST and will not dazzle the driver in front: if the requirement for illumination is less than 0.7 lm, the illumination of Koito VWhite does not exceed 0.61 lm.
The Koito VWhite lamp well illuminates the near shoulder area, the illumination value in which is 15.1 lm while the requirement for serial production is 9.6 lm, and also illuminates the far shoulder area well - 11.5 lm.
ADVANTAGES
Increased light output. Clear cut-off line. Protection from glare of oncoming and passing vehicles.
LIMITATIONS
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
Koito VWhite headlamps in the H4 base showed a good test result and deserve the attention of motorists.
GE MegaLight Ultra - H4 headlight lamp, test
General Electric, or GE, as a manufacturer of lamps for the home has long been known to Russian consumers. Before the crisis, the company was also well represented in the automotive segment. Now their market share has declined dramatically and finding GE-branded headlights is not easy.
DESIGN FEATURES
The GE MegaLight Ultra H4 headlamps are sold in pairs in a simple paper box painted in gray-lilac. The bulb of the lamp is colorless, with a strip blue in the upper part of the flask, and the flask cap is painted with silver paint.
The manufacturer claims that the luminous flux of the lamp is increased by 90%.
TEST RESULTS
Measurement of the electrical power consumption of GE MegaLightUltra did not exceed the permissible parameters.
The luminous flux of the low-beam filament was 995 lm, the main-beam filament - 1520 lm. This is slightly lower than the value recommended by GOST, but within the required range.
At the cut-off line, the GE MegaLightUltra halogen lamp performed well, but not perfect. There is a certain dark spot at the top of the right illumination zone and a light spot above the control line to the right of the center.
The light from the headlights with installed GE MegaLight Ultra lamps is unsafe for the driver and does not meet the requirements of GOST for safety, since it will dazzle both oncoming and passing drivers. When the illumination requirement at point B50L was not more than 0.4 lm, the illumination with the installed GE MegaLight Ultra lamp was 0.73 lm. For the 0-0 point, the measured value of 1.05 lm is 50% higher than the European regulations.
The lighting of the curbside area the lamp meets the requirements. Illumination values at control points 75R and 50R were 12 and 22.6 lm, respectively.
It should be noted that one lamp in the kit burned out during the tests.
ADVANTAGES
Good illumination of the near shoulder area.
LIMITATIONS
The lamp does not meet the requirements of UNECE Regulation No. 112-00. One lamp burned out during the tests.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
GE MegaLight Ultra headlamps in the H4 base when installed in a car will blind both oncoming and driving in front drivers.
GE SpotLight Silver - H4 headlight lamp, test
DESIGN FEATURES
GE SportLight Silver headlamps in H4 base are sold in pairs in a simple blue tinted paper box. The bulb has a light blue tint, and the cap is painted with silver paint.
GE claims that the lamp's luminous flux has been increased by 50%.
According to the manufacturer, the GE SportLight Silver lamp uses Superblue technology to create a "cool light". The manufacturer's website says that the technology consists in using quartz glass with a blue tint to make a bulb.
The use of Megalight Plus technology is also announced - an increased luminous flux, which is achieved due to improved internal geometry, which increases the area of the illuminated part of the road (especially at a distance of 30 to 80 meters from the car with right side), the contours of the light spot become sharper, obstacles are better visible, road signs, and there is no need for additional headlights.
TEST RESULTS
Measurements of the electrical power consumption of GE SportLight Silver did not show that the lamp exceeded the permissible parameters.
The luminous flux of the low-beam filament was 920 lm, for the main-beam filament - 1590 lm. This is slightly lower than the values recommended by GOST, but within the required range.
At the cut-off line, the GE SportLight Silver halogen lamp performed well, although the right side of the "jackdaw" was clearly overstated above the norm.
The light from headlights with installed GE SportLight Silver lamps will not dazzle either oncoming or passing drivers, since with an illumination value of 0.38 lm for the B50L point and 0.7 lm for the 0-0 point, the values fit into the requirements of European regulations.
In terms of illumination of the roadside area, the lamp meets the requirements of serial production. Illumination values at control points 75R and 50R were 11.5 lm and 15.4 lm, respectively.
ADVANTAGES
Safety for oncoming and passing drivers.
LIMITATIONS
Lamps are rarely found in car dealerships.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
Headlamps GE SportLight Silver in the H4 base did a good job in the test, keeping within the required parameters, but nothing more.
Koito WhiteBeam III- headlight lamp H4, test
DESIGN FEATURES
The Koito White Beam III is a high light output lamp. According to the manufacturer, the high-temperature lamps of the White Beam series provide twice the brightness of the glow, while consuming the same amount of energy as conventional halogen lamps. The glow temperature of the filament is higher than in standard samples. To prevent the tungsten filament of the lamp from burning out, the concentration and pressure (twice as much as in standard) of an inert gas are increased in the bulb.
The bulb of the lamp is blue, made of quartz glass, which is more refractory than usual, and filters the UV part of the radiation, due to which Koito White Beam III lamps are absolutely safe for polycarbonate headlights of modern cars. The electric power of the lamp is standard (60/55 W), and therefore the lamp does not generate excessive heat (no more than standard lamps). Due to such technical innovations, the color temperature of the light is increased to 4200K, which improves the color perception of the driver.
Llamas are sold in pairs in a transparent plastic bag with a white label inscribed with Japanese characters. "Loud" numbers "135/125 W", as conceived by the manufacturer, mean increased light output of the lamps. Their electrical power is standard, so they can be safely installed in a car.
TEST RESULTS
Measurement of electrical power consumption at a test voltage of 13.2 V showed that the Koito White Beam III lamp fully meets the parameters declared by European regulations and is completely safe for car wiring. The luminous flux of the filament for both the low beam and the high beam is fully within the range established by GOST: 880 and 1440 lm, respectively.
At the cut-off line, the Koito White Beam III halogen lamp showed good geometry with a correct beam. It was clearly seen that the color of the lamp goes into the colder part of the spectrum compared to standard halogens. With the naked eye, it was noticeable that in the area of illumination of the roadside, the beam brightness is higher than in other parts of the spatial distribution pattern.
Headlights with Koito White Beam III lamps installed will not dazzle oncoming drivers, since the illumination to the control point at 44 lm is within the limits set for serial production.
Measurements of the illumination value at point 0-0 showed that the lamp meets the requirements of GOST and will not blind the driver in front. If the requirement for illumination is less than 0.7 lm, the illumination from Koito White Beam III does not exceed 0.54 lm.
The Koito White Beam III lamp provides good illumination of the near shoulder area (15.9 lm when the requirement for serial production is 9.6 lm), and the far shoulder area is also well illuminated (11.6 lm).
ADVANTAGES
Increased light output. Increased brightness in the curb. Protection from glare of oncoming and passing vehicles.
LIMITATIONS
All labels on the label are in Japanese.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
Koito White Beam III headlamps in the H4 base showed a good test result and deserve the attention of motorists.
MTF Light Titanium - H4 headlight lamp, test
MTF lamps are manufactured by the Korean company Jenn Feng, whose main activity is the production and sale of lighting equipment, including high-intensity gas-discharge (xenon) and floodlights used in automotive and floodlight systems, electronic equipment and communication systems.
DESIGN FEATURES
MTF Light Titanium headlamps in H4 base are sold in pairs in plastic packaging with a Russian-language label. The bulb is blue. According to the data listed on the website, this is a double interference coating.
The manufacturer claims that the lamp is 450 lumens brighter and that the color temperature of the lamp is 4400K. It is also indicated that the lamps are made of special glass that absorbs most of the ultraviolet radiation (UVSTOP marking). Safe for plastic headlights.
TEST RESULTS
Measurements of the electrical power consumption of MTF Light Titanium did not show that the lamp exceeded the permissible parameters.
The luminous flux of the low-beam filament and the main beam of the MTF Light Titanium lamp is below the standardized values for the low-beam filament by 36%, and for the main-beam filament by 40%. The measured values were 640 lm and 1000 lm, respectively. At such values of the luminous flux, it was difficult to expect anything good from the lamp, but we nevertheless installed it in the headlight - and we were shocked!
The cut-off line, which was formed by the headlight with the MTF Light Titanium lamp installed in it, was so distorted that it simply did not meet any safety requirements. It feels like they put a headlight for a right-hand drive car on the stand! ..
To understand what had spoiled the normal headlight, the experts decided to measure the location of the filaments inside the bulb, but everything turned out to be normal. Probably, it's all about the proprietary two-layer interference coating.
It immediately became clear that such a headlamp would not shine normally, but the illumination values at the control points were nevertheless measured.
For the points of blinding of the oncoming driver and the driver moving in the same direction, the requirements of the rules are exceeded by 590% and 840%, respectively (point B50L - 2.36 lm, point 0-0 - 5.88 lm).
Surprisingly, the values for the shoulder area turned out to be higher than the GOST requirements: point 75R - 16.3 lm, point 50R - 16.7 lm.
The conclusions of the laboratory experts are unambiguous: the MTF Light Titanium headlight lamp does not meet the requirements of UNECE Regulations No. 37-03 and UNECE No. 112-00.
ADVANTAGES
Flask interference coating.
LIMITATIONS
The lamp does not comply with the requirements of UNECE Regulations No. 37-03 and UNECE No. 112-00. Does not form the correct cut-off line.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
We do not recommend using MTF Light Titanium headlamps in the H4 base in the car: if you install them, it will be problematic to pass the inspection ...
MTF Light Argentum - H4 headlight lamp, test
DESIGN FEATURES
MTF Light Argentum headlamps in H4 base are sold in pairs in plastic packaging with a Russian-language label. The bulb of the lamp is blue, with a colorless stripe at the level of the dipped beam. According to the manufacturer's website, this is a double interference coating.
The label states that the lamp is 80% brighter. The distributor's website states that the MTF Light Argentum lamp has a special innovative coating and a special filament increased efficiency, which provides an increase in light by 80% and a lengthening of the beam by about 15 meters. They also declare a color temperature of 4000K and that the lamps are made of special glass that absorbs most of the UV radiation (UVSTOP marking). Safe for plastic headlights.
TEST RESULTS
Measurement of the electrical power consumption of MTF Light Argentum did not show that the lamp exceeded the permissible parameters.
The luminous flux of the low-beam filament was 960 lm, for the main-beam filament - 1490 lm. This is slightly lower than the values recommended by GOST, but within the required limits.
At the cut-off line, the MTF Light Argentum halogen lamp performed well, but not perfect: the far right region was blocked off, in the central part of the beam, a spot of light was visible above the indicated border.
The light from the headlights with the MTF Light Argentum lamps installed will be uncomfortable for drivers driving in the same direction in front, since, in terms of illumination value of 80 lm, the lamp met the requirements for production samples, but only at the upper limit. The headlight will dazzle drivers of oncoming vehicles, since the measured values are 52% higher than the norm (0.61 lm).
By lighting the roadside area in the area of point 75R, the MTF Light Argentum lamp kept within established by the rules criteria, but along the lower bound. At the point of the near zone of the roadside 50R, the illumination was higher than the requirements of GOST.
ADVANTAGES
Good illumination of the near shoulder area.
LIMITATIONS
The lamp does not meet the requirements of UNECE Regulation No. 112-00. Blinds oncoming drivers.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
MTF Light Argentum headlamp lamps in H4 base do not meet the requirements of European UNECE regulations. We recommend looking for the best option.
Osram Cool Blue Intense - H4 headlight lamp, test
Osram is one of the two leading lighting manufacturers in the world. The company supplies lighting equipment to 150 countries. Sales outside Germany account for 88% of the total turnover. The company has more than 100 years of history in the production of lamps, including for cars.
DESIGN FEATURES
Osram Cool Blue Intense headlamps in H4 base are sold one by one in a paper box in the company's colors. Also in stores you can find plastic packaging with a set of two lamps. The bulb of the lamp has a pale blue tint, and the cap of the bulb is painted with silver paint.
The manufacturer claims that the luminous flux of the lamp is increased by 20%, and the color temperature reaches 4200 K. The catalog says: “The Osram Cool Blue lamp illuminates the road with a fashionable and bright bright bluish-white light and makes almost the same impression as the light xenon lamps».
TEST RESULTS
Measuring the electrical power consumption of Osram Cool Blue Intense did not show that the lamp exceeded the permissible parameters.
The luminous flux of the low-beam filament was 960 lm, for the main-beam filament - 1650 lm. This corresponds to the values recommended by GOST.
At the cut-off line, the Osram Cool Blue Intense halogen lamp performed well, the border of the light beam goes strictly along the established line.
The light from the headlights with Osram Cool Blue Intense lamps installed will not dazzle either oncoming or passing drivers, since the illumination values of 0.42 lm for the B50L point and 0.66 lm for the 0-0 point fit into the requirements of the European rules for serial samples.
The measured values for the roadside illumination lamps Osram Cool Blue Intense exceed the requirements of the rules: point 75R - 15.4 lm, point 50R - 19.4 lm.
One lamp burned out during the test.
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
One of the lamps burned out during the test.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
Osram Cool Blue Intense headlamps in the H4 base are a good choice if they do not burn out after the first turn on.
Osram Night Breaker Plus - H4 headlight lamp, test
DESIGN FEATURES
Osram Night Breaker Plus headlamps in H4 base are sold one by one in a paper box in the company's colors. Also in stores you can find plastic packaging with a set of two lamps. The bulb of the lamp is blue with a colorless stripe at the level of the dipped beam.
The manufacturer claims that the luminous flux of the lamp is increased by 90%, that the lamp creates a light cone 35 m longer and that its light is 10% whiter than the standard one. It also indicates that the lamp life is 50% longer than that of the previous generation. The patented technology of a special coating of the bulb, which reduces the level of glare of the driver, is also mentioned.
There are no additional explanations about the technologies used.
TEST RESULTS
The measurement of the electrical power consumption of the Osram Night Breaker Plus lamp did not show an excess of the permissible parameters.
The luminous flux of the low-beam filament was 1050 lm, for the main-beam filament - 1770 lm (the highest in the test). This corresponds to the values recommended by GOST.
At the cut-off line, the Osram Night Breaker Plus halogen lamp performed well, the border of the light beam follows the established line.
Unfortunately, with such a promising start, it turned out that headlights with Osram Night Breaker Plus installed would dazzle oncoming drivers, as the illumination at B50L was 50% above the requirements. Drivers driving in the same direction in front will also be uncomfortable: with an illumination value of 0.82 lm, the lamp met the required parameters for serial samples at the upper limit of tolerance.
In terms of illumination of the curb zone, the measured values for the Osram Night Breaker Plus lamp exceed the requirements of the rules: point 75R - 14.7 lm, point 50R - 23.6 lm. As promised by the manufacturer, the far zone is illuminated better.
But at the same time, the conclusions of the experts are disappointing: the Osram Night Breaker Plus lamp does not meet the requirements of UNECE Regulations No. 112-00.
ADVANTAGES
Good illumination of the far side of the curb.
LIMITATIONS
Blinds oncoming drivers. Does not meet the requirements of UNECE Regulation No. 112-00.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
If it were not for the annoying bobble with the blinding of other road users, then the Osram Night Breaker Plus headlight lamps in the H4 base could be recommended for purchase.
Philips Crystal Vision - H4 headlight lamp, test
DESIGN FEATURES
Philips Crystal Vision headlamps in H4 base are sold in pairs in a branded plastic box. The bulb has a blue tint and the cap is silver-colored. The kit we purchased also included blue side light bulbs.
The manufacturer claims that the lamp is intended for those who want a powerful White light... The color temperature of the lamp is claimed to be 4300 K. No further explanation of the technologies used is provided.
TEST RESULTS
The electrical power consumption measurement of the Philips Crystal Vision did not exceed the permissible parameters.
The luminous flux of the low-beam filament was 800 lm, for the main-beam filament - 1110 lm. This is lower than the requirements for headlamps by UNECE Regulation No. 37-03.
At the cut-off line, the Philips Crystal Vision halogen lamp performed well, the border of the light beam with a slight deviation corresponds to the established line.
The light from headlights with Philips Crystal Vision lamps installed will not dazzle either oncoming or passing drivers, since the illumination values of 0.33 lm for the B50L point and 0.68 lm for the 0-0 point fit into the requirements of European regulations.
For roadside illumination, measured values for Philips Crystal Vision lamps exceed far-field regulations. The illumination value at control points 75R and 50R was 12.5 and 22.1 lm, respectively.
ADVANTAGES
Good illumination of the curb area.
LIMITATIONS
Low overall luminous flux.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
Philips Crystal Vision H4 headlamps are not a bad choice, even though the actual luminous flux values are underestimated.
Philips X-treme Vision - headlight lamp H4, test
DESIGN FEATURES
Philips X-treme Vision headlights in H4 base are sold in pairs in a branded plastic box. The bulb of the lamp is colorless, with a blue stripe in the upper part of the bulb.
The manufacturer claims that the luminous flux of the lamps is increased by 100% compared to standard lamps. For the production of the flask, quartz glass is used, which not only has a higher mechanical strength, but also reduces the proportion of ultraviolet radiation.
TEST RESULTS
The measurement of the electrical power consumption of Philips X-treme Vision did not exceed the permissible parameters.
The luminous flux of the low beam filament was 1080 lm, for the high beam filament - 10690 lm. These are the highest values in our test, they fully comply with the requirements of UNECE Regulation No. 37-03.
At the cut-off line, the Philips X-treme Vision halogen lamp performed well, the border of the light beam with a slight deviation corresponds to the established line.
Headlights with Philips X-treme Vision bulbs installed will dazzle oncoming drivers, as the illumination at B50L was 65% higher than the requirements. According to the criterion characterizing the degree of blinding of the driver moving in front in the same direction, the lamp met the required parameters for production samples at a value of 0.74 lm.
For curb illumination, measured values for Philips X-treme Vision lamps exceed far-field regulations. Illumination values at control points 75R and 50R were 15.4 lm and 24 lm (the best in the test), respectively.
The experts' conclusions were disappointing: the Philips X-treme Vision lamp does not meet the requirements of UNECE Regulation No. 112-00.
ADVANTAGES
Good illumination of the curb area.
LIMITATIONS
Blinding oncoming drivers. Does not meet the requirements of UNECE Regulation No. 112-00.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
Philips X-treme Vision headlights with H4 base provide good illumination of the roadside, but we cannot recommend them due to inadequacy of safety requirements.
Bosch Xenon Silver - H4 headlight lamp, test
DESIGN FEATURES
Bosch Xenon Silver headlamps in H4 base are sold individually in a sealed blister, and you can also find plastic packages with two lamps on sale. In the near future, kits in paper boxes should also be on sale. The bulb has a blue tint and the cap is silver-colored.
The manufacturer claims that the lamp provides 50% large area illumination of the road, and the spectrum of the lamp is close to daylight.
TEST RESULTS
Measurement of the electrical power consumption of Bosch Xenon Silver did not show that the lamp exceeded the permissible parameters.
The luminous flux of the low beam filament was 930 lm, for the high beam filament - 1550 lm. This is slightly below the GOST recommendations, but within the required range.
At the cut-off line, the Bosch Xenon Silver halogen lamp performed well, the right edge was obstructed, as well as the light spot above the border in the right center area.
Headlights with Bosch Xenon Silver bulbs installed will not dazzle oncoming drivers. The illumination at the control points B50L and 0-0 meets the requirements of the rules: 0.44 lm and 0.7 lm, respectively.
The measured values for the Bosch Xenon Silver lamps for the illumination of the roadside area exceed the requirements of the regulations. The illumination value at point 75R is 17.3 lm, at point 50R - 21 lm.
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
Not detected.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
Bosch Xenon Silver headlamps in the H4 base provide good illumination of the roadside and meet all safety standards.
Bosch Plus 90 - H4 headlight lamp, test
DESIGN FEATURES
Bosch Plus 90 headlamps in H4 base are sold individually in a sealed blister. You can also find plastic packages with two lamps on sale. In the near future, kits in paper boxes should also be on sale. The bulb of the lamp is colorless, with a blue stripe in the upper part of the bulb.
The manufacturer claims that the lamp provides 90% more coverage for the road, and the spectrum of the lamp is close to daylight.
TEST RESULTS
Measurement of the electrical power consumption of Bosch Plus 90 did not exceed the permissible parameters.
The luminous flux of the low-beam filament was 930 lm, for the main-beam filament - 1580 lm. This is slightly lower than the values recommended by GOST, but within the required range.
At the cut-off line, the Bosch Plus 90 halogen lamp performed well. There was a noticeable spot of light above the border in the right center region.
The light from the headlights with Bosch Plus 90 lamps installed will not dazzle oncoming drivers, the illumination values at the control points B50L and 0-0 meet the requirements of the rules and are equal to 0.4 lm and 0.7 lm, respectively.
The measured values for the Bosch Xenon Silver 90 lamps are in excess of the regulations regarding the illumination of the roadside area. The illumination value at control points 75R and 50R was 16.9 lm and 20.7 lm, respectively.
ADVANTAGES
Good illumination of the curb area. Does not blind other road users.
LIMITATIONS
Not detected.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
Bosch Plus 90 headlamps in the H4 base provide good illumination of the roadside and meet all safety standards.
Many car owners with H4 headlights complain about bad light roads. These are the weakest low beam autolamps, only 1000lm. Most others, for example the popular H7 base, have a brightness of 1500lm. A difference of 50% has a decent effect on lighting. Installation of diode auto lamps are in the best way improve the light to an acceptable level. Let's test LED lamps H4 model CL6 provided by cool-led.ru online store
Where can I buy?
Cool-Led.ru
Buy here
in others, they are not sold because this store is the manufacturer.
Get a 3% discount by using the "ledobzor" coupon
The light from the dipped beam coil only hits the top of the headlamp, because it is covered from below by a small reflector. Filaments in a halogen and any LED H4 work only separately. Therefore, do not trust the characteristics in which these two indicators add up.
- 1. Where to buy?
- 2. Test samples
- 3. Test conditions
- 4. Measurements in the headlight
- 5. Colour temperature
- 6. Installation of diode
- 7. Cut-off line
- 8. Light distribution
- 9. Results
- 10. Where to buy?
Tested samples
The benchmark for comparison will be the new Philips H4 12V 60 / 55W halogen bulb, which is installed by the manufacturer in car factories. In one light bulb there are two filaments, the first low beam and the second high beam
Characteristics table.
The equivalent for the luminous flux is given taking into account the influence of a color temperature of 5000K in comparison with a halogen 3100K on illumination in the dark.
Test conditions
The samples will be installed in the headlamp from the latest model of 2011 Volkswagen Polo. The supply voltage is 13.2 Volts, it is considered the standard by the manufacturers Osram and Philips.
For comparison different sources light, there is GOST R 41.112-2005, which regulates the conditions for carrying out measurements. The light spot for each source is different, for example, xenon and LED, therefore, specific and most important points... They were visually depicted in the photo of the road from the driver's seat.
Description:
- B50L - the point responsible for dazzling the driver;
- 75R - shoulder after 75 meters;
- 50R - shoulder after 50m.
- the number in the name of the point indicates the distance to it in meters, the letter is responsible for the position.
We will also check the axial luminous intensity and illumination on the optical axis. These indicators are used in regloscopes, devices for tuning car headlights.
Headlight measurements
We preheat each one for 30 minutes to performance. We measure the illumination in lux at the control points, the results are entered in the table.
The results are excellent, the sample fits well into the focus of the headlight, shines correctly. This is rare.
| Point | Halogen, luxury |
CL6 H4, luxury equivalent |
Difference in % |
| B50L | 1,35 | 5,5 | +407% |
| 50L | 10,5 | 24,2 | +230% |
| 50V | 25 | 58,1 | +232% |
| 50R | 26,2 | 67,1 | +256% |
| 75R | 35,1 | 90,9 | +258% |
| Explanation, the difference in% shows how much% CL6 is better than halogen | |||
The dazzle of oncoming traffic at point B50L is slightly higher, for this it is enough to lower the headlight down by 1 unit using the corrector. This will not affect the performance at other control points. Bad car LED lamps have 30-50 times more glare.
In my practice, 90% of auto lamps with imitation of a halogen filament do not shine correctly. Only 10% can be installed on a car and operated.
Colour temperature
The color temperature of 5000K is optimal, it is neutral white with no blue tinge. Especially the shade is visible when halogen and led autolamps are installed in the headlights at the same time.
In the dark, the maximum eye sensitivity changes from 555nm to 507nm. That is, the sensitivity in the neutral-white range increases, while in the warm range it decreases. Therefore, with the same amount of lumen, neutral white at 5000K will give the visibility of objects better than 3000K halogen. The difference will be approximately 60-65%, due to this, visibility is improved.
Measuring devices do not have a night mode of measurement, so you have to multiply the results by one and a half times.
Diode installation
After installing the H4 LED lamp, you need to adjust the headlight tilt angle, that is, lower the headlights with the corrector down by 1 unit.
Cut-off border
Light distribution
results
CL6 LED bulbs showed excellent results, they will be able to improve road lighting by more than 230-250%. The cut-off line practically corresponds to the STG with a standard bulb, the glare is the lowest. In terms of value for money, it is the best lamp among the 14 other H4 base models tested. You can safely buy, you will not regret it, I haven’t met it better yet.
Where can I buy?
You can buy lamps only in the store Cool-Led.ru
Buy here Get a 3% discount using the "ledobzor" coupon.
In others, they are not sold because this store is the manufacturer.
I think I have dispelled many myths and rumors about H4 LED bulbs. If with my review I save a couple of your lives on the road, it means that I am writing these reviews for a reason.
All lamps that are now sold on the market can be roughly divided into three groups
1 Standard halogen bulbs
2 Lamps with increased light output (PHILPS Vision Plus + 50% PHILIPS + 100%, Osram Night Breaker + 90%, etc.)
3 xenon lamps (MTF SHO-ME and others) their hallmark is a blue glass lamp
In the first case, everything is clear: these are standard lamps with standard light output. there are no tricks in these lamps. these lamps are equipped with cars coming off the assembly line. The color temperature of these lamps is in the order of 2600-2800 Kelvin.
In the second case, apply special technologies and materials to increase the light output of the lamp. The color temperature, like the light output of such lamps, is higher and is about 3000-3200K? that is, such a lamp shines brighter and whiter light!
And with the third type of lamps, everything is much more interesting, let's dwell on it in more detail.
Lamps "for xenon" have an increased color temperature of about 3600-3800K and shine even whiter than the previous ones, but in terms of light output they are significantly inferior to the first and second lamps. Why it happens? let's figure it out.
So imagine a tungsten coil of a lamp through which an electric current is passed, making it glow. If, with the help of a glass prism, we decompose the light emitted by this spiral into its components, then we will see that this seemingly white light consists of many colors (remember the rainbow). All these colors add up to give us white light.
If, in the case of the first and second types of lamps, the light freely passes through the transparent glass and goes to the reflector, and then is reflected on the road, then for the third type of lamps everything is different.
Due to the fact that the glass of the lamp is blue, only light rays can overcome this barrier
Green
Blue
Blue
Purple
and for Red, Orange, and Yellow, blue glass is an insurmountable obstacle (therefore, our eye sees that it is blue)
As a result of such a filter, a good half of the radiation does not come out of the lamp, which leads to a significant deterioration in the illumination of the road, in addition, the most powerful part of the spectrum is red and yellow rays (remember the yellow fog lights) Therefore, in difficult road conditions such as rain and fog, it is extremely dangerous to use such lamps due to their complete inefficiency.
Therefore, you should not believe the Xenon 4300K inscriptions, etc.
Outcome
If you are interested in the MAXIMUM BRIGHT light of your headlights and are ready to put up with a slightly shorter service life of such lamps, as well as a higher cost, then your choice is the lamps of the second category. You will distinguish them by the inscriptions + 50% + 80% + 100% and by CLEAR glass lamps. The presence of a small colored strip on such lamps does not lead to a deterioration in the light characteristics. The area of glass opposite the spiral will always be uncolored
If you want your headlights to have a color similar to the color of xenon lamps, then your choice is a category 3 lamp, but know that you will lose up to 70% in road illumination (depending on the degree of glass coloration). They will shine weaker than the standard "Yellow"
The electrical circuits of modern cars use different types lighting fixtures... For headlights, these are mainly products with H4 and H7 bases. The first modification of lamps has a specific application, and the second (H2) is clearly outdated and if it is found on sale, it is extremely rare, since it has been practically discontinued.
This article will explain what is the difference between bulbs for cars of the fourth and seventh options, as well as which ones are better to use for low beam.
Both H4 and H7 are mostly halogen bulbs. Used in all cars for the organization of head lighting. The flasks are made of quartz glass, which makes it possible to neutralize (eliminate) the effects of UV rays.
What are the design differences between H7 and H4 lamps
- In the execution of the base.
- In the resource. According to this indicator, H7 lamps surpass the analogues of the 4th series by almost 2 times.
- By the number of filaments. The H4 has two, the H7 has one.
- The seventh product option is more often used in modern cars, with free-form headlights.
It is definitely impossible to answer the question of which low-beam lamps are better for a car. The selection criterion depends on many conditions, including the driver's vision features. The following descriptions of lighting fixtures for auto modifications H4 and H7 will help you make the best purchase.
All prices indicated are in Russian rubles.
Plinth H4
An earlier modification than the H7, but it is used for cars, for obvious reasons, much more often. One of them is the ability to use a lamp for both high and low beam (2 filaments).
The cheapest products in this series are made in classic version , that is, they differ in averaged parameters, which gives them versatility. These lamps are characterized by reliability, sufficient resource, while their cost is low, within 510 - 980. Most famous brands H4 of this group of lighting devices - "Mtf-Light" (Longlife series), "Philips Vision", "Osram" (Original Line).
Lamps characterized by increased brightness. Against the background of all halogens for cars, they stand out with a 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 visually impaired people - optimal choice... But it is worth considering that when installing such products, precise headlight adjustment is needed. Not every car owner can do this on his own.
H4 with enhanced visual impact. Light - white or with a slight yellowish tint, depending on the manufacturer. We can highlight the products "Mtf-Light" (Titanium), "KOITO" (White Beam III), "Philips" (WhiteVision). Cost - from 910 to 1015. According to experts, such modifications of the H4 eyes are much less tired.
Lamps with increased resource. For example, products of the Philips brand of the Long Life series have a fourfold excess on this parameter. For H4 "Osram" (Ultra Life) MTBF is at least 2,000 hours. The price is in the range of 910 - 980. Taking into account the requirements of the traffic rules about the need to turn on the dipped beam even during the day, these lamps are worth paying attention to.
All-weather lamps. Provide both high and low beam. They are distinguished by the creation of a stream that gives the viewing area a high contrast, which allows you to clearly see the track in fog, with intense precipitation, and so on. These are, first of all, lamps "Osram" (Fog Breaker), "Mtf-Light" (Aurum), "Narva" (Contrast +). The range of prices is more significant - from 598 to 925.
Lamps increased power. Somewhat more expensive - from 910 to 970. These include a representative of the Philips H4 Rally series and a product under the Osram brand in the Offroad Super Bright performance. It is advisable to purchase such lamps for those car owners who often move to 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 / car wiring.
Therefore, when installing H4 with 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 an urban environment, lamps with more than 60 W are prohibited.
Among this category of devices, there are also more expensive samples. Their cost can reach 2,415 rubles. It is about bi-xenon lamps, which are superior to halogen in some characteristics. For example, Maxlux, MTF-Light and the cheapest Sho-Me lamp in this series, suitable for any (even an old model) car. The price of the latter is at the level of 745 rubles.
Plinth H7
The products are more modern, therefore, not everyone has come across them in practice. Their conditional categorization is similar to H4 lamps. Therefore, it is advisable to note only certain points and list the most famous manufacturers.
Varieties of H7 lamps
- Halogen. Plus - the cheapest modifications of this series. The downside is significant heating. As a result, an underestimated service life in comparison with analogs.
- Xenon. Plus - increased light output. Cons - the need to connect 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 need the appropriate optics. Taking into account the total costs, the installation of xenon lamps will be much more expensive than other types of devices. And the exploitation too. The increased energy consumption is reflected in the intensity of the generator, which leads to an increase in fuel consumption.
- LED. The pluses are well known - increased resource, economical power consumption from the on-board network. There is only one minus - the complexity of the adjustment when installed in the 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 dipped beam. it main reason, according to which LED samples have not yet become widespread in the automotive industry.
Intermediate withdrawal
From the point of view of expediency and practicality the best variety Low beam lamps are halogen products. And for old car models, they are the only option.
Modifications H7
Halogen lamps
"Standard". The sales leaders in this H7 series are Philips (Vision), Mtf-Light (Longlife Standart) 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 bulb of this product is from Philips. Color temperature - 4 300 0K, which is considered acceptable for our eyes. But the light, albeit soft, but not entirely natural - is white. The most expensive lamp of 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 in terms of color temperature.
"MTF-Light H7". approximate cost- from 780 to 810. The peculiarity of this lamp is its increased resource. The manufacturer claims at least 2,100 MTBF.
And so ... we continue.
A couple of days ago, unexpectedly, in the morning, the left lamp burned out.
When I got to work and waited for dawn, I went to explore the store with auto light.
I faced such a problem. There are a lot of manufacturers on the market of light bulbs, and according to the seller, they are all good. (Well, this is how he asks: “Do you have fresh bread?” The answer is clear to everyone.)
Having rummaged around on the Internet, I found a very good article with visual material.
I hope this material will be useful for someone.
Koito VWhite - headlight lamp H4, test
ADVANTAGES
Increased light output. Clear cut-off line. Protection from glare of oncoming and passing vehicles.
LIMITATIONS
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
Koito VWhite headlamps in the H4 base showed a good test result and deserve the attention of motorists.
Koito WhiteBeam III - H4 headlight lamp, test
ADVANTAGES
Increased light output. Increased brightness in the curb. Protection from glare of oncoming and passing vehicles.
LIMITATIONS
All labels on the label are in Japanese.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
Koito White Beam III headlamps in the H4 base showed a good test result and deserve the attention of motorists.
MTF Light Titanium - H4 headlight lamp, test
ADVANTAGES
Flask interference coating.
LIMITATIONS
The lamp does not comply with the requirements of UNECE Regulations No. 37-03 and UNECE No. 112-00. Does not form the correct cut-off line.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
We do not recommend using MTF Light Titanium headlamps in the H4 base in the car: if you install them, it will be problematic to pass the inspection ...
MTF Light Argentum - H4 headlight lamp, test
ADVANTAGES
Good illumination of the near shoulder area.
LIMITATIONS
The lamp does not meet the requirements of UNECE Regulation No. 112-00. Blinds oncoming drivers.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
MTF Light Argentum headlamp lamps in H4 base do not meet the requirements of European UNECE regulations. We recommend looking for the best option.
Osram Cool Blue Intense - H4 headlight lamp, test
ADVANTAGES
LIMITATIONS
One of the lamps burned out during the test.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
Osram Cool Blue Intense headlamps in the H4 base are a good choice if they do not burn out after the first turn on.
Osram Night Breaker Plus - H4 headlight lamp, test
ADVANTAGES
Good illumination of the far side of the curb.
LIMITATIONS
Blinds oncoming drivers. Does not meet the requirements of UNECE Regulation No. 112-00.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
If it were not for the annoying bobble with the blinding of other road users, then the Osram Night Breaker Plus headlight lamps in the H4 base could be recommended for purchase.
Philips Crystal Vision - H4 headlight lamp, test
ADVANTAGES
Good illumination of the curb area.
LIMITATIONS
Low overall luminous flux.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
Philips Crystal Vision H4 headlamps are not a bad choice, even though the actual luminous flux values are underestimated.
Philips X-treme Vision H4 headlight lamp test
ADVANTAGES
Good illumination of the curb area.
LIMITATIONS
Blinding oncoming drivers. Does not meet the requirements of UNECE Regulation No. 112-00.
GENERAL ASSESSMENT
Philips X-treme Vision headlights with H4 base provide good illumination of the roadside, but we cannot recommend them due to inadequacy of safety requirements.
Bosch Xenon Silver - H4 headlight lamp, test
