H7 vs. H11: Which Headlight Bulb Is Brighter?

H7 is typically brighter than H11 in their standard halogen forms: an H7 55W bulb is rated around 1,500 lumens, whereas an H11 55W bulb is usually around 1,250–1,350 lumens. In practice, however, perceived brightness depends heavily on the headlamp’s optics, aim, voltage, and lens condition, so the on-road difference may vary.

What the Specifications Say

Automotive halogen bulbs are standardized, and their nominal light output is defined by regulations such as ECE R37 (commonly used worldwide) and SAE standards (common in North America). While both H7 and H11 are single-filament, 12V halogen bulbs typically rated at 55W, their allowed luminous flux differs due to filament and capsule design.

Below are typical nominal ratings you’ll see for standard halogen categories at their test voltages (values are approximate and vary slightly by standard and brand):

• H7 (55W): about 1,500 lumens (ECE nominal, with tolerance)
• H11 (55W): about 1,250–1,350 lumens (ECE/SAE nominal ranges)
• H9 (65W, related category): about 2,100 lumens (often cited as a brighter alternative to H11, but not a drop-in replacement)

On paper, H7 has a modest edge in raw luminous flux over H11 at the same 55W power level, which is why it’s generally considered the “brighter” of the two in standard halogen form.

Why Real-World Brightness Can Differ

Even with higher nominal lumens, the brightness you see on the road depends on how efficiently the headlamp converts bulb output into a well-focused beam. Several practical factors influence this outcome beyond the bulb’s lumen rating.

• Headlamp optics: reflector/projector design and optical efficiency determine beam shape and intensity on the road.
• Aim and alignment: a poorly aimed lamp can look dim or cause glare, wasting usable light.
• Electrical supply: voltage at the bulb (affected by wiring and vehicle voltage) changes output noticeably.
• Lens condition: clouded, yellowed, or dirty lenses can severely cut output.
• Color temperature: “whiter” light can appear brighter to the eye, though it doesn’t add lumens.

Because of these variables, two cars using the same bulb type can produce very different on-road performance.

Fitment and Interchangeability

H7 and H11 are not directly interchangeable. They use different bases and are designed for different sockets and retaining mechanisms. Always check your owner’s manual or the lamp marking to match the correct type.

• H7: Base type PX26d; commonly used for low or high beams in many European and global models.
• H11: Base type PGJ19-2; commonly used for low beams and fog lamps in many Asian and North American models.
• Related notes: H8/H9/H16 share a similar family with H11, but wattage, output, and heat differ; substitutions can require modifications and may be unsafe or illegal.

Because of base, wattage, and heat differences, stick to the specified bulb unless a vetted, vehicle-specific upgrade path is recommended by the manufacturer or a trusted lighting specialist.

LED and HID Replacements: A Different Comparison

If you’re comparing LED or HID conversions labeled “H7” or “H11,” brightness claims vary widely and often don’t reflect real on-road performance. Many retrofit kits focus on headline lumen numbers rather than beam quality, thermal control, or regulatory compliance.

• Legalities: In many regions, LED/HID retrofits into halogen housings are not road-legal unless the entire lamp is type-approved.
• Beam pattern: Correct LED emitter placement is crucial to replicate the halogen filament and avoid glare.
• Thermal management: Poor cooling reduces output over time and shortens lifespan.
• Meaningful metrics: Peak candela and compliant beam patterns matter more than inflated “raw lumens.”

If you consider an LED/HID option, prioritize products with proven, vehicle-specific performance and compliance, not just lumen marketing.

When to Choose Each

Most drivers don’t actually choose between H7 and H11—your headlamp is engineered for one or the other. But if you’re evaluating performance or replacements within your specified type, here’s how the landscape looks.

• If your car uses H7: You’ll generally get slightly higher halogen output than an H11 system, all else equal. Premium +30/+60/+100% halogens can improve beam intensity, with trade-offs in lifespan.
• If your car uses H11: Expect a bit less raw lumen output than H7, but optics can compensate. Some seek H9 swaps for more light, but this raises heat/current and often requires modification—proceed with caution and check legality.
• For fog lamps (often H11): Beam width and cutoff to reduce glare in poor weather are more important than maximum lumens.

The smartest path is to use the correct bulb type from a reputable brand, keep lenses clear, ensure proper aim, and maintain healthy electrical connections.

Summary

In standard halogen form, H7 is typically brighter than H11—about 1,500 lumens versus roughly 1,250–1,350 lumens—thanks to differences in bulb design and regulatory specifications. However, what you see on the road is governed by the headlamp’s optics, aim, voltage, and lens condition. H7 and H11 are not interchangeable, and for LED/HID retrofits, beam quality and legality matter more than advertised lumen figures. Use the bulb type your vehicle specifies, choose quality components, and maintain your lighting system for the best real-world visibility.

Is H11 brighter than H7?

One of the biggest differences you’ll notice between H7 and H11 bulbs is brightness. The H7 bulb cranks out a lot more lumens than the H11, making it perfect for those times when you really need to see and be seen, like driving at night or on dark, winding roads.

What is H7 equivalent to?

An H7 bulb is not the “same as” any other specific bulb type like H1 or H4 because it has a unique base and single-filament design, though other bulb types have “same as” options in the context of bulb cross-reference guides. For example, an H7 bulb has a PX26d base with two prongs. An H7 bulb can be found in halogen, LED, or HID formats, and it functions as either a single high-beam or low-beam light. 
Why H7 is not the same as other types:

• Base and Connector: An H7 bulb has a PX26d base with a two-prong connector, which is different from the three-prong base of an H4 bulb. 
• Filament: H7 bulbs are single-filament bulbs, meaning they can only operate a single function, either the low beam or the high beam. 
• Function: An H4 bulb is a twin-filament bulb that provides both high and low beams in a single bulb. 

What H7 is the same as:

• Other H7s: The H7 designation refers to a specific bulb type, base, and functionality. So, an H7 bulb is always the same as another H7 bulb in terms of its fitment and basic design. 
• Alternative “H7 Same As” Bulbs: For the purpose of purchasing a replacement bulb, you can find cross-reference lists that offer alternative bulbs with the same designation, such as 64210, H7EB, H7XV, H7ST, H7CB, or H7SU. 

What is the difference between H7 and H11 connectors?

Headlamp bulbs are no different. The main difference between the two bulbs is that the H11 connector has two narrow set prongs enclosed in an oval casing compared to the H7, which has two exposed prongs similar to a household plug. The H11 connector is also smaller compared to the H7.

Which is the brightest headlight bulb?

The GTR Lighting Ultra 3 is considered one of the brightest LED headlight bulbs available, offering high brightness and a white 5,950 Kelvin color, though extremely high-lumen bulbs like those from GTR Lighting and Lasfit may not be road-legal. For road-legal brightness without excessive glare, look for bulbs that provide around 2,500-3,000 lumens per bulb, which is a standard range for effective, yet safe, illumination. 
Brightest Bulbs (Potentially Not Road-Legal) 

• GTR Lighting Ultra 3: . Opens in new tabThis LED bulb is known for its exceptional brightness, outperforming other bulbs by a significant margin and offering a high-quality 5,950 Kelvin white light. 
• Lasfit LS Plus Series: . Opens in new tabThese LED headlights deliver an impressive 6,500 lumens per bulb, making them one of the brightest on the market. 
• Fahren & Morimoto 2stroke 4.0: . Opens in new tabThese are other high-performing LED options that test very brightly, though specific models vary in their brightness levels, such as the Fahren Termitor and the Morimoto 2stroke 4.0. 

Road-Legal Brightness 

• Standard Lumens: . Opens in new tabInstead of extreme brightness, aim for a headlight that produces between 2,500 and 3,000 lumens. This range provides excellent visibility without dazzling other drivers. 
• Color Temperature: . Opens in new tabFor a balance of brightness and visibility, consider bulbs in the 4300K to 6000K range, with 6000K often cited as providing the optimal combination of light color and performance. 

Key Considerations

• Regulations: . Opens in new tabBe aware that most jurisdictions have regulations against excessively bright headlights to prevent glare for oncoming drivers. 
• Beam Pattern: . Opens in new tabA bright bulb with a poorly designed beam pattern can still scatter light in unwanted directions, creating glare. 
• Heat Management: . Opens in new tabHigh-lumen LEDs generate significant heat. Ensure the bulb has an effective heat management system, like a copper pipe, to maintain its performance and prevent overheating.