Seeing headlight bulbs marketed as 9005/HB3 can be puzzling. You may be inspecting your high beam housing, see it needs an HB3, and wonder if 9005 would fit. Not to worry, these labels actually denote the same bulb type! The terminology differs due to the naming systems used. Read on to learn more about 9005 vs HB3.

Are 9005 and HB3 Bulbs the Same?

Yes, the are the same headlight bulb size. In the world of headlight bulbs, 9005 is also referred to as HB3. The 9005 is popular in the United States, whereas HB3 is commonly used in Europe.

The United Nations established universal standards to classify bulbs consistently across borders. Under UN Regulation 37, HB3 falls into Group 1 - bulbs approved for use as headlights. Meanwhile, 9005 is the corresponding US trade number.

So, the 9005 and HB3 bulb designations may differ, they refer to the same product.

What Bulb Is Equivalent to HB3 and 9005?

The HB3 and 9005 bulbs are equivalent, along with several other bulb sizes: H10, 9040, 9055, 9140, 9145, 9150, and 9155.

They share the same base design and can be used interchangeably in most cases. This is especially true when upgrading to LED bulbs. However, note that some bulbs may have different wattages or light output. For instance, a high-wattage 9005 halogen bulb could overheat in an H10 socket.

Therefore, it’s best to check your owner’s manual or pull out the stock bulb to check the base to find out what headlight bulb you need.

9005 HB3 Headlight Bulb Specs

Lumens and Power Draw

A standard 9005 halogen bulb emits approximately 800 to 1700 lumens of brightness and draws 55 - 65 watts of power. However, these numbers may vary depending on the manufacturer.

Is 9005/HB3 High or Low Beam?

The 9005 HB3 bulb is a single-filament headlight bulb mainly used for high beams in many vehicles. It's designed to provide intense light output, suitable for nighttime driving and poorly lit conditions.

People also read:
H11 vs. 9005 Bulbs: What Are the Differences Between Them
9005 vs. 9006 Bulbs Explained: What Are the Differences

Finding 9005 HB3 LED Headlight Bulbs

If your aging halogen headlights are dim or broken, it may be time to switch to LED bulbs. LEDs offer brighter illumination, longer lifespan, and lower power use than halogens.

When choosing new 9005 HB3 replacement bulbs, look for options with a balanced LED beam pattern to evenly light the road ahead without blinding other drivers. For off-road use where maximum brightness is key, consult our guide on selecting the brightest LED headlights.

The good news is swapping in LED bulbs is simple with plug-and-play designs. Just be sure to choose quality bulbs made by reputable brands.

But note that if your car came equipped with factory LED headlights, you'll need to replace the entire LED housings when the time comes.

FAQs

Q: Which cars use 9005 bulbs?

A: 9005 bulbs are commonly used in a wide range of vehicles, including popular brands like Ford, Chevy, GMC, Toyota, Honda, Dodge, RAM, Jeep, and many others. To confirm the correct bulb for your car, check your owner’s manual, use our Bulb Finder Tool, or consult your dealership. This helps avoid any fitment issues.

Q: Can I use a 9005 bulb instead of an HB3?

A: Yes. 9005 and HB3 are the same type of bulb. They are fully interchangeable.

Q: Is 9005 brighter or better than HB3?

A: No. Since 9005 and HB3 are the same, the brightness will depend on the bulb’s brand, wattage, and quality—not the label. And they perform equally well.

Last Words

The mystery of the 9005 vs HB3 bulb is now demystified. They're the same bulb, known by two different names in different regions. Whether you're looking to replace your high beam bulbs or considering an upgrade to LEDs, understanding these specifications can help you make an informed decision.