You ordered 9006 bulbs for your vehicle's low beams, only to realize it uses H11 bulbs. Now you're wondering - can I fit 9006 bulbs in an H11 socket?

The short answer is no. While both bulb types are commonly used for low beams and fog lights, 9006 and H11 bulbs have different sizes and connections. So they are not interchangeable.

Curious to learn more about the differences between H11 vs 9006 bulbs? Read on for a detailed comparison.

Key Takeaways:

H11 and 9006 bulbs are not interchangeable.

H11 is brighter, while 9006 lasts longer.Both draw 55W and fit low beams or fog lights.

Always check your OEM bulb code before buying.

h11 vs 9006 bulb

What are The Differences between H11 and 9006 Bulbs?

H11 vs. 9006 Base

The H11 bulb is equipped with a PGJ19-2 base, while the 9006 bulb comes with a P22d 90° base. This implies that each bulb fits into specific headlight systems due to their distinct base configurations.

H11 vs. 9006 Socket

The connectors, or plugs, of these bulbs also differ. The H11 bulb features pins that are positioned more closely than those in the 9006 bulb. Also, the H11 bulb's plugs boast tabs on their ends, which are absent in the 9006 bulb's plugs.

H11 vs. 9006 Dimensions

The standard H11 and 9006 halogen bulbs differ in size, as you can see in the image below.

These variations in base, connector, and dimensions all play a role in the connectivity and installation process. So, it's clear that the 9006 and H11 bulbs are not interchangeable.

h11 vs 9006 base socket dimentions difference

Cross-referenced Numbers

Cross-referenced numbers are other names that a bulb might go by in the market.

The 9006 bulb is also known as HB4. On the other hand, the H11 bulb is cross-referenced with H8, H9, and H16 bulb sizes.

Brightness

The 9006 bulb generates about 1000 lumens, whereas the H11 bulb produces around 1350 lumens. Even though the H11 bulb is technically brighter, the difference might not be noticeable during use.

Lifespan

The lifespan of H11 halogen bulbs hovers around 270 hours, while 9006 halogen bulbs outlast them with a lifespan of approximately 1000 hours.

Note that the figures of brightness and lifespan are based on Sylvania basic halogen bulbs. They may vary between different manufacturers.

What are the Similarities?

Power Consumption: Wattage

In terms of energy use, both H11 and 9006 halogen bulbs draw about 55 watts.

Beam Type

Both H11 and 9006 bulbs find common use in low-beam headlights and fog lights, providing a wide, low-intensity beam that improves road visibility.

Bulb Technology

While the H11 and 9006 are both standard halogen bulbs by default, they also offer LED upgrades. These provide a more eco-friendly and long-lasting alternative for vehicle owners who prioritize energy efficiency and durability.

To sum it all up, both the H11 and 9006 bulbs are commonly used for low-beam headlights or fog light applications and typically draw around 55 watts. However, the main differences lie in the base and connectors, making it impossible to replace one with the other.

So, make sure to stay in character and choose the right bulb for your needs.

To quickly understand how the 9006 and H11 bulbs differ and compare, check the comparison chart below:

FeatureH119006Notes
Base TypePGJ19-2 P22d 90° Different base designs mean they are not physically interchangeable.
Socket/ConnectorTighter pin spacing; tabs on plug endsWider pin spacing; no tabs on plugsConnector differences impact compatibility.
DimensionsSlightly different than 9006; smaller in sizeSlightly larger than H11 Always check housing clearance before purchasing.
Cross-Referenced NumbersH8, H9, H16HB4Useful when purchasing or replacing bulbs.
Brightness (Halogen)Approx. 1350 lumensApprox. 1000 lumens H11 is brighter, but the difference may be subtle to the eye.
Lifespan (Halogen)Approx. 270 hours Approx. 1000 hours9006 lasts significantly longer in most halogen versions.
Wattage (Power Consumption)55 watts 55 watts Identical power draw.
Beam TypeLow-beam or fog light Low-beam or fog light Both used in similar applications.
Bulb TechnologyHalogen (standard), LED upgrades availableHalogen (standard), LED upgrades availableLED upgrades offer better efficiency and longevity.
CompatibilityNot compatible with 9006 sockets without a conversion adapter Not compatible with H11 sockets without a conversion adapter Always match bulb base and connector for proper fit.
Common UseLow-beam headlights, fog lights Low-beam headlights, fog lights Often used in combo packs with 9005 high beam bulbs.

Learn more about H11 and 9006

What is an H11 Bulb?

The H11 bulb, also known as the H8/H9/H16 bulb, is a popular choice for low-beam headlights and fog lights used in vehicles.

One of the main advantages of H11 bulbs is their superior brightness. They typically produce 1,350 lumens, making them an excellent choice for night driving.

To understand more about H11 bulbs, read our comprehensive guide.

Recommended H11 LED Headlight Bulbs:

-13%
SEALIGHT® S2 H11/H9/H8 60W 6500K White IP68 LED Headlight Bulbs 2Pcs
Sealight®
S2 H11/H9/H8 60W 6500K White IP68 LED Headlight Bulbs 2Pcs
4.75 star rating
(914)

What is a 9006 Bulb?

A 9006 bulb, also known as an HB4 bulb, is another type of halogen bulb used in automotive lighting. They're often used for low beam headlights and fog lights, similar to H11 bulbs.

For more detailed information, check out our full guide on 9006 bulbs.

Recommended 9006 LED headlight bulbs:

As we discussed above, H11 and 9006 are different headlight bulbs. Your choice between the two will depend on your vehicle compatibility.

The 9005 bulb size is often confused with the 9006 and H11 bulbs. In a nutshell, the 9005 bulb is specifically designed for high-beam headlights, while the 9006 and H11 bulbs are primarily used for low-beam headlights.

When it comes to vehicle lighting, many manufacturers opt for a combination of the 9005 bulb for high beams and either the 9006 or H11 bulb for low beams.

As a result, it's quite common to find combo packs in the market that include both. 

Recommended Headlight Bulbs Combo:

Can I Use H11 Instead of 9006?

Many car owners wonder if they can swap an H11 bulb for a 9006. While both bulbs may look similar in shape and size, they are not directly interchangeable without some important considerations.

Electrical Differences:

The H11 and 9006 bulbs have different electrical requirements. An H11 bulb might draw more or less current than a 9006, which can lead to flickering, warning lights, or even damage to your car’s wiring.

Light Output Issues:

Even if you manage to fit the H11 into a 9006 socket, the beam pattern and brightness may not be ideal. This can reduce your visibility on the road and create safety concerns, especially at night or in poor weather.

Adapter Caution:

Some people use adapters to make the swap work, but cheap or poorly designed adapters can cause loose connections or trigger error messages. If you do choose to use an adapter, make sure it’s from a reputable brand and designed specifically for your vehicle.

The bottom line: it’s best to stick with the bulb size listed by your vehicle manufacturer.. It’s safer and more reliable.

How to Choose the Right 9006 or H11 Headlight Bulb for Your Vehicle

Confirming the Bulb Size Your Vehicle Needs

Before anything else, make sure you know which bulb size your vehicle needs. Here are three ways to find out:

Check Your Owner’s Manual: This is the most reliable source for all vehicle specifications, including the correct bulb size.

Use SEALIGHT’s Bulb Finder Tool: Enter your vehicle’s make, model, and year to get an instant recommendation.

Look at the Existing Bulb: If you’re replacing a bulb, remove it and check the number printed on its base. That’s your exact size.

For a step-by-step guide on how to apply these methods, check out this detailed guide.

9006 or H11 LED Upgrades: What to Consider

If you're considering an upgrade to 9006 or H11 LED bulbs, there are some key factors you need to take into account:

LED Bulb Beam Pattern

A well-designed LED bulb will direct light where you need it most, without causing glare to oncoming traffic. For more insights, you can refer to our article on LED bulb beam patterns.

Brightness

Brightness is a key determinant of how much you can see and how well you are seen on the road. To understand how to pick the brightest LED bulbs, this guide will help.

Ease of Installation

Some LED bulbs are easier to install than others. The size of the bulb, the design of the headlight housing, and your vehicle model can all influence the installation process. For a better understanding, here's a guide on factors affecting LED bulb installation.

Heat Management and Lifespan

LED bulbs generate heat, and how they manage this heat can significantly affect their lifespan. LED bulbs mainly come in two types based on their heat management technology: fan and fanless. Read this guide on LED heat management.

FAQs About H11 vs. 9006

Q: Is H11 better than 9006?

A: Whether an H11 bulb is "better" than a 9006 depends on your vehicle requirements. Both H11 and 9006 bulbs are commonly used for automotive headlights, but they have different specifications. Always check what bulb fits your vehicle to ensure you're buying the correct replacement.

Q: Can 9006 replace H11 or vice versa?

A: No, 9006 bulbs and H11 bulbs have different base designs and are not interchangeable. Attempting to fit an H11 bulb into a 9006 socket (or vice versa) could result in damage to the bulb or the socket. Always check your vehicle manual or the bulb number on your existing bulb to ensure you're buying the correct replacement.

Q: Are 9006 and H11 bulbs the same?

A: No, 9005 and H11 bulbs are not the same. The base design, connector, brightness, cross-referenced numbers of these two halogen bulbs are different.

We hope this article has provided clarity on the differences between H11 and 9006 bulbs. For further assistance with bulb sizes or to explore a range of 9006 LED or H11 LED bulbs, we invite you to visit SEALIGHT.