Which is better: LED or xenon headlights?

When upgrading your vehicle’s headlights, chances are you’re weighing cost and performance. There are two types of headlights that offer significant advantages over traditional halogen bulbs. This guide will help you navigate the debate on LED versus xenon headlights.

What are LED and xenon headlights?

LED headlights

LED headlights function differently from traditional halogen or xenon headlights. They produce light through electroluminescence: electrical current passes through a semiconductor, engaging electrons to emit photons of light. because LED headlights use this process, they consume less power, generate minimal heat, and last significantly longer than traditional halogen or xenon (HID) bulbs.

Xenon (HID) headlights

Xenon headlights are a type of high-intensity discharge bulb (HID). Electricity jumps between two electrodes (called an electric arc) to produce light. The electric arc formed between two electrodes inside a gas-filled bulb heats the xenon gas within the bulb. It then vaporizes metal and high salts, enhancing light output.

The arc continues to grow brighter and more stable as the temperature rises, which is why it takes a few seconds for a xenon bulb to reach its full brightness. This results in a brighter and more efficient, natural-looking light. compared to older gas discharge technologies.

Brightness

Brightness is one of the more important factors when choosing between LED and xenon headlights. Both technologies have significant advantages over traditional halogen bulbs, but differ in how they handle light production.

Lumen output

When talking about brightness in electricity, lumens (lm) are used. One lumen has the brightness of one candle. Both xenon and LED bulbs are 2 to 3 times brighter than halogen lights:

• halogen bulbs: 1000 to 1500 lm (lumens)
• xenon bulbs: 3000 to 5000 lm
• LED lights 3000 to 5000 lm (although but some high-performance LEDs can exceed 5000 lm)

Light spread

Xenon HIDs produce an intense, wide-diffused beam that covers a large area, but can cause glare to other drivers if not properly aligned. LEDs offer a more focused and directional beam, which reduces light scatter and improves road visibility without potentially blinding oncoming traffic.

However, Xenon HIDs use the UV spectrum in addition to light spectrums humans can see. This illuminates road signs and street markings considerably more than LEDs.

Colour temperature

Colour temperature (K) affects how bright and clear light can appear. A range of 3000K to 4300K results in the appearance of a warm white or yellow light. By comparison, 4500K to 6000K has a white, day-like appearance, and 6000 K to 8000K+ produces a blueish white appearance.

Xenon bulbs will range typically from 4000 K to 6000 K and produce a pure white with a slight blueish tint. LEDs are customizable from a warm white to pure white or even blue, offering more adaptability. While LEDs offer more flexibility and colours, xenon lights will reliably provide a naturally bright daylight glow.

Brightness over time

Xenon bulbs will fade overtime as gas depletes and electrons wear out, thereby gradually reducing brightness. LEDs maintain a consistent brightness throughout their much longer lifespan.

Lifespan and cost

The lifespan of a headlight is a crucial factor when deciding between LED and xenon headlights.

LED headlights last significantly longer than xenon headlights, often outlasting the vehicle itself. LEDs have on average a higher upfront cost, but will pay for themselves overtime with rare replacements, most drivers often never having to replace their LED headlights. LED headlights last on average between 30,000 to 50,000 hours.

Xenon bulbs have a lower upfront cost but frequent maintenance, requiring replacement every 3 to 7 years. On average, HID bulbs will have a lifespan between 2000 to 5000 hours.

Which headlight is better?

When choosing between LED and xenon headlights, it comes down to the driver’s priorities. If you want long-lasting, energy-efficient headlights, LEDs are the better choice. But if you prefer a powerful, widespread beam with natural daylight glow, xenon headlights may be the right fit.

If you’re unsure which option is best for your vehicle, visit your local NAPA AUTOPRO shop. Our experts can help find the perfect headlight upgrade and provide guidance on installation.