12v g4 LED bulbs: features, selection rules + review of the best manufacturers

TOP of the best LED lamps from cheap to expensive

We have collected a small rating of h4 led lamps. It is compiled based on feedback and consumer demand:

1. Budget C6 H4 LED Headlights with an active cooling system cost about $20. Many users note that at this price they often show themselves on the good side, well illuminating the road. They consume power of 12-36 W (depending on the mode of operation) and give out a luminous flux of 3800 lm. Claimed service life is 20,000 hours.

2. 4drive bulbs, a kit cost about $40, they also have active cooling. The declared luminous flux is 8000 Lm (although this is doubtful). Power - 36 watts. It can work both in cars with on-board network voltage of 12V and 24V.Unfortunately, the manufacturer stated the service life not in hours, but in years - at least five years, the only question remains, under what kind of operation.

1. Nighteye H4 LED cost about $45. The declared luminous flux is 4000 lumens, 25 watts. The design and layout of the LEDs is similar to a conventional halogen, which ensures good performance and the correct light beam.

2. Philips LED X-treme Ultinon 6200 K is a quality H4 LED bulb. The price is about 120 dollars. The declared power is 23 W, the service life is 5000 hours. According to the manufacturer, it does not blind drivers of oncoming cars. You can see her test video below.

1. An expensive option from Japan is IPF Led Head H4 6500K 341HLB. It costs almost 300 dollars. The luminous flux is 2260 and 3400 Lm for low and high beam after 10 minutes of operation (on LEDs already warmed up), and the total power is 24 watts. Claimed service life is over 50,000 hours. LEDs cost the same money as the coils, which ensure they work properly and are reflected in the headlight.

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Deciphering the marking of lamps

The letters serve as the primary designation for the type of lamp base. The letter G marks the pin base, and the digital value shows the distance between the working contacts, in this case 4 millimeters.

The length of the pins themselves, through which the module receives the electricity necessary for operation, does not exceed 0.75 mm, and the diameter cannot be less than 0.65 mm.

Previously, only tubular fluorescent lamps were equipped with G-marked bases.Today, the pin element is used more widely and can be used on both halogen and LED modules.

Plinth type G4 is ceramic, metal and plastic.

The first two types are considered more reliable, easily withstand high temperatures and are not afraid of intense operational loads.

The G4 halogen module with ceramic base lasts much longer than the equivalent with a metal or plastic connector

When installed in a lamp, a halogen lamp with a pin base is not screwed in, but snapped into the lighting fixture. The pins are included in the design tightly and securely hold the lamp in the workplace.

Plinths marked GY4 and GU4 are an additional modification of the classic G4 variant and have slight deviations in the basic diameter of the metal contact pins or in the distance between them.

Disadvantages and disadvantages of LEDs, as well as lamps assembled on them

The main and main drawback is the warranty. The guarantee is not only for LEDs, but for light sources assembled on their basis. Each lamp manufacturer, in pursuit of its buyer, offers a guarantee for the uninterrupted operation of its products for 3-5 years. Here it is worth considering ... Why so few? After all, the service life of the diodes themselves is an order of magnitude higher !!! The answer is simple. Any lamp is not only LEDs. This is a complex device that contains numerous electronic components. It is they who fail before the diodes. So, if the warranty of your lamp is 3 years. and it broke after three years and one day, then with a high probability you will be left without a lamp and without money. And that means you won’t get a “fat plus” in the form of energy savings. The average payback period for a good light source is at least 5 years.It's not pleasant, but tolerable. Especially if you give preference not to cheap fakes, but to high-quality lamps from famous manufacturers.

The first and most important drawback is pulsation

1The most annoying problem with LED lamps is flickering. High-frequency flickering, pulsation. This is the scourge of today's lamps. A more detailed description of this problem will be discussed in one of the following articles.

In the meantime, let's take into account that ripple is the main drawback of LED lamps. Often Chinese lamps suffer from it, in which capacitors are used instead of drivers.

And if you take into account the advantages and disadvantages of LEDs (any), then this criterion often plays a role in refusing to buy LEDs, since many do not know how to deal with pulsation, flickering of LED lamps and diodes directly.

The high price of chips

2The cost of LEDs and lamps. This characteristic has remained and will be relevant for Russian buyers for a long time. For high-quality and expensive LEDs from eminent Nichia, Philips, Osram, the prices are simply “ahovskiye”. But you want cheap and beautiful))) But in this aspect, this is not suitable. In LED lighting, cheap is never good. Not that market.

I spent a lot of time assembling various LED derivatives. And as expected, I bought a large number of chips on the well-known Aliexpress site. Everything seemed to suit. Cheap and cheerful. But at that moment I was young and green in LED lighting. Somehow I got into herb diodes from Nichia ... There was no limit to surprise. With a similar power of light, I received almost three times more than Chinese ones.This prompted me to mentally reflect on the advisability of buying Chinese components. But I didn’t have enough for a long time) I had to look for the “golden mean” again on Ali. Only after a long painful search did I manage to find suppliers who sell fairly high-quality diodes for quite a tolerable price. Not much worse than the famous ones. If you are interested, write, I will give a link. Not cheap. But qualitatively. Small difference. Advantages and disadvantages in such LEDs will suit everyone.

Driver

3Earlier, I already announced that all diode lamps have a driver in their composition. The higher the quality of the power supply, the more expensive the final cost of the product will be ... I will also attribute this to the minuses and disadvantages of LEDs. I would like it to be cheaper.

Dimming, beam angle and color temperature

4Dimming. It can also be attributed to the cost. Any LED lamps do not work with dimmers from incandescent lamps. And this means you need to buy a new dimmer, and the lamp itself, which supports dimming, is also not cheap. Again minus karma.

5Small angle of dispersion. Diodes emit light in a narrow direction. In order to get more or less normal light, you have to use secondary optics. Lamps without lenses and collimators look less than respectable. Again costs ... Again an increase in cost (.

6. LED bulbs are available in various color temperatures. For an apartment, you can select from 3500 to 7000K. Without a clear understanding, it is not possible to choose a lamp of the desired glow for an inexperienced buyer. And most manufacturers do not always correctly indicate the temperature.

7. And one more interesting observation. Buying in two stores for an incandescent lamp, we get a “flask” identical in light.In the case of LEDs and LED lamps, this will not work. In nature, there are no identical diode lamps. Therefore, two lamps bought in different stores of the same glow and power will most likely shine differently. Of course, if it happens that the lamps are assembled on diodes of the same brand and released at the same time, then the distortion will be minimal. But then again, this is from the realm of fantasy. Who does not believe. Can try. ) As you know, smart learns from the mistakes of others. I didn’t have examples, I checked))) The light show is still something!)

Features of low voltage illuminators

For 12V G4 lamps, all the main advantages of LEDs are characteristic: economical energy consumption, durability, environmental friendliness and low heat dissipation. In addition, due to the design differences, capsule illuminators have additional advantages.

One of the significant advantages can be considered their versatility. Compact dimensions allow the lamps to be installed in miniature lamps, used to illuminate ceiling structures, steps, furniture, decorating and zoning the interior.

There is a high demand for "capsules" among car and motorists - diodes are involved in the transport lighting system.

The pin base allows you to replace halogen lamps with more economical LED ones. This gives tangible savings on energy resources - electricity consumption is reduced by two to three times

Despite the high initial investment, diode bulbs fully pay for themselves - they last 15 times longer than halogen counterparts.

Additional advantages of low-voltage LED-illuminators:

1. Electrical safety. It is believed that a 12 V electric current does not harm a person.Therefore, low-voltage light bulbs are acceptable for installation in high-risk areas: swimming pools, saunas, cellars, etc.
2. Instant turn on. The operation of the LED eliminates the ignition stage - the LED lamp immediately generates a 100% luminous flux.
3. Reliability. Capsule models are resistant to mechanical damage: scratches and chips.

G4 LEDs are available in a range of hues ranging from neutral pale yellow to cool white with blue.

If we talk about the disadvantages of capsule models, then we can distinguish several significant disadvantages:

1. High price. You will have to pay a lot for a guarantee of durable work. It is definitely not worth saving on quality - the parameters of cheap Chinese analogues from unknown manufacturers do not correspond to the declared characteristics. Moreover, when using light bulbs with a low-capacity capacitor, there is a risk of breaking it.
2. The increased current value is a consequence of low voltage. The length of the wires needs to be adjusted. With an increase in the length of the wires, the resistance increases, and the quality of the lighting deteriorates.

To avoid dimming of the bulbs, it is necessary to check that the length from the power supply to the bulbs is approximately equal, the permissible error is 2-3%.

The most significant minus of microbulbs is the use of a stabilizing power supply that equalizes the voltage up to 12 V. The device somewhat complicates installation, considerable dimensions are sometimes difficult to hide under the chandelier body or false ceiling

The place for the power supply must be thought out in advance, you may have to create a certain niche for the equipment.In addition, the device has its own efficiency, due to which the lighting efficiency may decrease.

And the very presence of an additional link in the circuit increases the risk of failure of the entire chain.

Varieties of lamps

The fundamental differences between bulbs with an H4 base are the following characteristics:

Product form.

LED models can have 2, 3 or 4 edges. This affects the way the diodes are arranged. May be flat or cylindrical.

Type of radiating elements.

The most popular copies: SMD 5050, SMD 2323, CREE. Depending on the type of diodes used, the power varies from 4 to 50 watts.

Their location and number.

The number varies from 2 to 18 pieces.

Varieties of the cooling system.

There are models on the market with active and passive heat dissipation. They differ in the presence of a built-in fan.

According to the results of the tests, the most realistic lighting, similar to halogen, is given out by copies with the arrangement of chips according to the principle of filaments.

Most products are equipped with a special “curtain” that creates the desired light border when switching to the near one.

The quality of the product and its service life depends on several other factors:

• Power supply (12/24 V).
• Stream of light.

For the near one, 1000 lm will be enough, for the far one - 1500 lm. The intensity produced by the head LEDs is much higher.

• Type of light emitting elements.
• Colorful temperature

Values ​​range from 4000 to 6000 K.

• The maximum allowable heating temperature.
• Degree of protection.

The best H4 LED bulbs

Such models are resistant to mechanical damage and have a high color temperature.This ensures efficient operation in difficult conditions, when driving on uneven surfaces or sharp impacts, and also reduces the risk of fatigue during long journeys.

Optima Turbine GT H4 5100K

5

★★★★★editorial score

100%
buyers recommend this product

The model has a thin heatsink made of anodized aluminum. This makes it possible to place the LED chips at a minimum distance from each other to increase the brightness and performance of the lamp. A special cooling turbine prevents overheating during prolonged operation.

The lamp power is 40 W, the brightness is 4800 lumens. It is compatible with both reflex and lined optics, and can operate from a 9-32 volt mains voltage. Thanks to this, the installation can be made not only in the headlights of a car, but also in a truck or special equipment.

Advantages:

• forced cooling;
• high class of protection;
• great brightness;
• durability;
• versatility.

Flaws:

high price.

The Optima Turbine GT is suitable for use in temperatures from -40 to +85 °C. It can be used in the most difficult climatic conditions to ensure traffic safety on the road.

Epistar H4 C8 5000K

5

★★★★★editorial score

100%
buyers recommend this product

The efficiency of heat dissipation and stable operation of this lamp under any load are provided by four copper heatsinks, a printed circuit board, and a thin aluminum housing. The compactness of the model facilitates easy installation in small-sized headlights and other elements of lighting technology.

Temperature resistance from -45°C to +55°C and fully waterproof design guarantee stable operation of the lamp for more than 10,000 hours.The arrangement of the LEDs follows the structure of the filament, which improves focus and reduces the risk of blinding drivers moving in the oncoming lane.

Advantages:

• smooth start;
• simple installation;
• long service life;
• current stabilization;
• low energy consumption.

Flaws:

high price.

Epistar H4 C8 5000K is recommended for headlamps. An excellent choice for confident driving in unfamiliar terrain.

Carprofi CP-X5 H4 Hi/Low CSP

4.8

★★★★★editorial score

89%
buyers recommend this product

The main feature of the model is an increased level of brightness - 6000 lumens. It is powered by an innovative CSP LED chip design technology that allows 20% more semiconductors to be placed on the board for more efficient operation.

The lamp power is 30 W, the glow temperature is 5500 K. Thanks to the removable base, it is convenient to install the lighting element on your own. Its service life is more than 30,000 hours, which guarantees stable operation for several years.

Advantages:

• simple installation;
• durability;
• energy saving;
• no interference;
• heat resistance.

Flaws:

small radiation range.

Carprofi CP-X5 is worth buying for drivers who have to regularly use high and low beams for a long time. An excellent choice for night riding at any temperature outside.

MTF Light Night Assistant 4500K

4.8

★★★★★editorial score

88%
buyers recommend this product

During operation, the model does not blind drivers in the opposite direction strip, does not emit infrared and ultraviolet rays. Road safety is guaranteed by the correct distribution of the light beam in front of the car.

The light temperature is 4500 K, the lamp life is 50,000 hours. This allows you to use one set without the need for replacement for several years. The user can choose the nature of the glow - warm or cold white.

Advantages:

• low dispersion;
• high power;
• economical energy consumption;
• durability;
• compact dimensions.

Flaws:

heating during operation.

The MTF Light Night Assistant 4500K is a safe and reliable solution for use in the most challenging environments. Such lamps can be advised to owners of both cars and trucks.

Selection criteria for LED luminaires

A simple test will help to check the pulsation - when you point the mobile phone's camera at the switched on pulsating lamp, the image will flicker.

What indicators you need to pay attention to to find the best LED lamps for your home:

1. Voltage. As a rule, LED-devices operate on the usual mains voltage of 220 volts, however, some types of foreign products are designed according to American standards of 110 volts, which should be taken into account when buying.

2. Power. When the level of illumination is quite satisfactory, but there is a desire to replace outdated sources with LED ones, you can use a simple formula: divide the power of the current incandescent lamp by 8. The result will show the required power of the LED lamp.

3. Device and form. It all depends on the preferences of the owners and rationality. For example, it makes no sense to buy a heaped lamp of a bizarre shape if it will be used in an ordinary lamp, hidden from contemplation.

4. Plinth.LED lamps are available with a screw (E) or pin (G) base, each of which has its own characteristics:

• E27 - a classic threaded base that fits lamps designed for LEDs and Ilyich bulbs;
• E14 minion - analogue of E27, but with a smaller diameter;
• G4, G9, G13, GU5.3 - pin bases for low-voltage lamps, which are equipped with spotlights;
• GU 10 - LED lamps with a swivel pin base are most often used to illuminate the work area, embedding them in a kitchen backsplash, furniture, hood, countertop, and more.

5. The number of LEDs in the lamp. Although LED light bulbs do not burn out, they age, so the more semiconductor diodes that provide the brightness of the light output, the longer the light bulb will last.

6. Degree of protection. It is indicated by the IP marking with numbers. LED lamps IP40 and IP50 are quite suitable for the house (for dusty rooms).

7. Housing materials. Experts advise to give preference to a transparent glass case, rather than ceramic, aluminum, plastic or matte, in view of its greater light transmission.

8. Cost. Naturally, LED lamps are expensive. Not everyone decides to give even 300-500 rubles for one product, not to mention a larger amount. But if you remember about energy efficiency, safety and a gentle effect on vision, then the issue of high cost is no longer so relevant.

9. Manufacturer. In LED radiation, the intensity of the blue spectrum is high, which is not very comfortable for others. Large companies care about the safety of LEDs for health, while unknown pay little attention to this aspect.Therefore, it is worth choosing only certified products, despite the fact that the price is higher. Health is more important.

Selection Tips

When choosing a car lamp, you must correctly select the base, power and voltage of the lamp. Each driver has their own preferences and requirements for light. Someone needs as much light as possible, because. at night they see less or travel frequently. Another driver demands maximum life expectancy, car bulbs for his car are hard to get and do not want to change them often. And the other wants his car to look great, he dreams of a great-looking bluish headlight. The main parameters when choosing halogen lamps are:

• • Plinth.
    The term "base" refers to that part of the luminaire which serves to mechanically hold and electrically connect the luminaire to the light source. "Sockets" can be screw, bayonet, or pin, and they can also vary in size. Different types of "sockets" are not compatible with each other.
  • Light flow.
    Shows the power of the lamp, that is, how much light it emits. For high-quality light bulbs, this is about 1500 lumens and above. We recommend avoiding light bulbs with low or too high luminous flux. The first will not sufficiently illuminate the area in front of the car, and the second will blind the driver who is driving in the opposite direction. High performance off-road lamps are designed for use on unofficial roads only.
  • Power consumption.
    The officially permitted power is 55 watts and 60 watts.
  • Voltage.
    In the case of passenger cars, the bulbs are powered by 12 V, in the case of trucks - 24 V.
  • Life time.
    The time during which (according to the manufacturer) under ideal conditions, the lamp should work without failure. Turning the lamp on and off more frequently will shorten the lamp life. When evaluating the life of lamps, a simple ratio is usually applied: the more powerful the light bulb, the shorter the life, as a rule. Branded bulbs with a long life span last the longest because their light is not as intense.
  • Light color.
    This is the temperature of light (also color), the unit is Kelvin. It characterizes the spectrum of white light emitted by a light bulb. Depending on this value, we perceive the color of light from "warm white" (about 3000 K) to "cold white" (about 6000 K).