You may have various questions regarding the differences between light bars. Lightbars tend to have major pride differences between renowned brands. 

Many Chinese brands are being sold on online platforms. So it could be utterly confusing and alarming. You have to ensure that you aren’t spending your money on something that isn’t worth it. 

However, the brightness and quality of the light emitted through your light bar depend on the PC board. The type of LED you’ve chosen also come into effect. The major hazard to your light bar would be excessive heat and moisture. 

In this write-up, we will try our best to clarify your doubts. We educate you on what is available to help you make the most efficient decision. Then, you can decide whether to buy our products or not. 

Housing Material

The type of material used in the frame structure determines the light bar’s lifespan.

Using steel or low-quality aluminum frames may deform your light bar. In most circumstances, light bars are placed outside the vehicle. So they result in corrosion as they are exposed to severe weather conditions. This may eradicate the purity of the waterproof seal. 

The use of aluminum 6061 is extensive in vehicles, including ships, cars, trains, aeronautics, constructions, and industrial buildings, all of which require high corrosion resistance. 

Lightbars which consist of 6061 aluminum, are recommended for their structural integrity, resistance against corrosion, and heat conductivity. 

Polycarbonate Lens

Although it may tend to be a bit tough, you must compare the quality of the PC material between the lenses used in two different light bars. 

Using cheap quality material in PC lenses reduces the light transmission by 15% or more. 

Whereas the usage of better quality lens material will have a higher life span and resistance against scratches and erosions. 

Light Source

LEDs are available in various grades. There are name brand/trademark brands and off-brand LEDs. You can denote the quality of the LED by reading the watt rating of the light bar. 

In some instances, manufacturers are dishonest regarding the elements used and do not mention the exact number of elements in the light bars. 

You need to have the highest possible number of Watts and Lumens to have the best illuminating light bar. 

The wattage is based on the output of lights in the total LEDs, whereas Lumens are measured based on the light output, including the lens. Some manufacturers tend to use the maximum number of wattage and lumen ratings. 

Types of LEDs

Cree LEDs

Cree LEDs are the most commonly used LEDs since they are pretty efficient and effective, and Cree LEDs are larger in size and are more comprehensive in the PCB area. 

A 3 Watt Cree LED is usually used in LED light bars. A 50″ LED Off-Road Lightbar should consist of a Raw Lumen rating of 30000 or more. 

Epistar LED

Epistar LEDs are commonly used in low-priced light bars. Although Epistar LEDs are rated as 3 watts, they are not nearly as bright as Cree LEDs, so they are considered to be a 2-watt light source. 

Epistar provides less of a daylight effect than most people look for. They emit more amber-colored light. 

Off-brand LEDs 

Off-brand LEDs can go low as 1 watt each. If your manufacturer has not specified the LED brand used, you are most likely receiving an Off-brand LED.

The number of LEDs used is more important than the type of LED when it comes to measuring brightness. It is tough to identify the number of LEDs used.

Generally, the only way to calculate the number of LEDs is to dismantle the light bar, which is not recommended since it would damage the housing of the light bar and damage the waterproofing. 

It is suggested that you purchase a light bar from a brand you trust. It is best to avoid off-brand light bars that come at low prices. 

PCB designs are important, just like LEDs are. You need to trust the brand you are purchasing from. It’s vital for you to avoid off-brands that don’t meet the quality you are expecting. 

Cheap manufacturers would use one LED chip for the entire light bar, which would impact the lifespan of your light bar. The brightness of the LEDs tends to vary with the input of voltage. 

Waterproofing

The most prominent obstacle faced by off-brand LED light bar users is moisture getting inside. Fog and vapor inside the light bar do not only look bad, but it is also the main cause of light bars burning out prematurely. 

Ingress Protection, known as IP rating, is a form of measurement used to define the level of effectiveness of the sealing consists of against interference from dust particles and water vapor. 

The first digit denotes the intrusiveness of solid materials. Most light bars have an IP rating of 6X, which is 100% dust-tight. 

Thus the second digit is more important. 

• IP67: Protects against harmful effects of water and dust.
• IP68: Resistance against submersion and has a high resistance against dirt, dust, and sand.  
• IP69k: Provides protection against ingress of dust, high temperature, and high water pressure.

Stick to a light bar with IP68 or higher, which can be mounted at a location where it can identify rain or other potential submersions. It is also advised to avoid off-brand cheap bars that tend to claim IP67 and are sealed using silicone falsely. 

In addition, another outstanding feature you can look for is a Gore vent which is available in finer light bars. A Gore vent is a valve that allows moisture to get out and prevents moisture from getting in. 

During situations where moisture gets into your light bar, you can turn on the light for around 1 to 2 hours, and the arousing heat would evaporate the moisture through the vent. 

This is an excellent feature to contain even on an IP68 or IP69k light bar.

We hope this article benefits you and helps you choose the right light bar!