35W HID bulbs are usually the standard for HID systems because 55W HID bulbs are not usually what their specs claim.Ī relay harness connects the HID system to your car’s battery. This system allows them to function expectedly. That electric current must travel in an arc to get to your car’s headlights. Purpose of 35W and 55W HID KitĪn HID kit or system works when a high-volt energy current reaches the HID bulb. Any more than this for your headlights causes brightness loss and eye strain. The quality of the color will decrease due to the increased amount of wattage and power needed.Ī higher Kelvin amount for the light does not necessarily mean it will be brighter since the brightest thing we know of is the Sun is 5800K.
It is vital to note that light from a 50W ballast compared to a 35W ballast will be 50% brighter. The law of diminishing returns holds with 55W ballasts because as the watts increase, the lumens do too, but gradually the “increase” seen as valuable diminishes over time. It may seem brighter at first glance but is usually less efficient when compared to the 35W. For example, 35w bulbs work with 35W ballasts, and 55W bulbs with 55W ballasts.ĥ5W becomes less efficient since the bulb may become too hot and doesn’t offer better light. HID Bulbs and ballasts should go together. However, there are some cases where a 55W would work best for your car, so keep that in mind. One valuable difference between 35W and 55W ballasts is the increased risk of electricity, brightness, and damage with a 55W HID. The higher wattage of the bulb, the less intense the color appears. The most common and legal color is often white with varying watt HID.ĥ5W bulbs used with 55W ballasts will also look nearly three times brighter but slightly dull. The bulbs will look bright and be the color they are supposed to, including white, blue, purple, red, and others. That should factor into your decision because you may only be allowed to use one.Īlso Read, HID BALLAST 101: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BALLASTSģ5W bulbs draw from that many watts of power. The most critical point to consider is that 35W is legal in most states, while 55W may not be. 35W is typical for drivers, states, and manufacturers.55W offers maximum brightness and glare.35W has a better bulb life and won’t need replacing as quickly.
35W requires less power, runs less hot, and may work better for your machine.