Are 9003 and H4 the same? Yes, 9003 and H4 bulbs are the same type of headlight bulb. They are the same in structure and size, just named differently. 9003 is the name commonly used in the US market, while H4 is more common in Europe and Asia.
The H4 bulb was first introduced in 1971 and was the first halogen bulb with a dual-filament design, which means it can switch between high and low beams in one bulb. It was originally designed for racing, and later became popular in Europe. It is still widely used in motorcycle and some car headlight systems. However, because H4 bulbs may produce strong glare in some scenes, they do not meet US regulations on headlamp beam distribution. Therefore, an improved version, 9003 headlight bulbs (also known as HB2), was subsequently launched in the US market to meet US traffic safety standards.
Today, H4, HB2 and 9003 bulbs are highly compatible in structure and can be used interchangeably. Most brands will also mark all three models on the packaging for users to identify and choose.
H4 vs 9003 Headlight bulbs comparison
|
|
9003 |
H4 |
|
Wattage |
55/65Watts |
55/60Watts |
|
Brightness |
1000/1650Luman |
1000/1650Luman |
|
Lifespan |
600Hours |
600Hours |
|
Beam Type |
Low Beam/High Beam |
Low Beam/High Beam |
|
Base Type |
P43t |
P43t |
Learn more about 9003 and H4 bulbs
Purpose
Both 9003 and H4 are dual filament bulbs, which means they can be used as both low beam and high beam.
Power
In terms of power, the power of 9003 bulbs and H4 bulbs depends on their beam pattern. In low beam mode, the power is 55 watts, and in high beam mode, the power is 65 watts.
Brightness
Similarly, the brightness of the headlight bulbs 9003 and H4 depends on their beam pattern. In low beam mode, the brightness is 1000 lumens, while in high beam mode, the brightness can reach 1650 lumens.
Lifespan
Lifespan is the shortcoming of halogen bulbs, and this is no exception for 9003 and H4 halogen bulbs. Their lifespan is only a pitiful 600 hours, which means we need to replace the bulbs frequently, which is something many car owners are reluctant to do. To solve this problem, many car owners replace halogen bulbs with LED bulbs.
If you are also considering upgrading, please read on. We will introduce the advantages and selection suggestions of 9003 and H4 LED bulbs in detail below to help you make a wise choice.
Upgrade your 9003/H4 bulbs to LED.
Want to upgrade your 9003 and H4 bulbs to experience brighter, clearer and longer-lasting lighting performance? RIMTHIN provides you with LED bulbs designed for compatibility and performance, which are the perfect replacement for halogen lamps. Its brightness is 6 times that of ordinary halogen bulbs, which means that we can have a wider and brighter vision when driving at night. In addition, our 9003/H4 LED bulbs can last up to 50,000 hours, which means that we can use them continuously for several years without changing the lights.
Worried about the trouble of installing 9003 and H4 LED bulbs? Not true. RIMTHIN LED bulbs use the same interface design as the original bulbs, plug and play, easy to install, without modifying the wiring harness or replacing the lamps.
When purchasing our bulbs, new users can also enjoy an 85% discount. Free shipping on all orders.
9003 vs. H4 Bulbs Comparison Summary
Now you have a clearer understanding of the relationship between 9003 and H4 bulbs. Although the two models differ in name, they are essentially the same bulb type with fully compatible sizes and interfaces.
Whether you are planning to replace existing halogen bulbs or upgrade to brighter, more efficient LED bulbs, it is important to understand the compatibility between these models. This will not only help you avoid buying the wrong product but also ensure the performance, safety, and road compliance of the lights after installation.
Remember: choosing the right bulb for your car model is a key step to improving your nighttime driving experience. Understanding the bulb specifications is the starting point for every car owner to rationally upgrade the lighting system.
Common Questions about 9003 vs H4 headlights
Are 9003 and H4 high beams or low beams?
9003 and H4 are the same bulb with two filaments, which can be used as low beam and high beam at the same time.
The headlight bulbs 9003 vs H4, which one is brighter?
They are the same bulb, so the brightness is the same.
Can I use 9003 instead of H4?
Yes, they are the same bulb and can be used interchangeably.
The bulbs 9003 vs H4, which one is better?
They are the same bulb, so there is no difference between good and bad.
What's the Difference Between 9003 and H4 bulbs?
There is no difference between 9003 and H4 bulbs, the only difference is the name.
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