In order to appreciate the difference between 35W and 55W HID kits, you are first going to want to understand the basic definition of HID. Also known as High Intensity Discharge, HID refers to a type of light for your vehicle. Xenon lamps is another term you will want to keep in mind, as this refers to the process by which illumination occurs when xenon gas is ignited inside the bulb.
The white light created through HIDs is 3X brighter your average halogen bulbs. In terms of benefiting from the addition of HIDs to your car, you are going to find yourself with two options. At this point, you can now understand and appreciate the differences between 35W HIDs and 55W HIDs more easily.
What Are The Differences Between 35W And 55W HID
In terms of usage, the differences between the 35W and 55W HIDs are fairly minor. Both of the 12-volt versions can be used with not only cars, but with motorcycles, as well. However, your 24-volt 35W kit is going to be crucial for the working with the larger trucks that feature the 24-volt batteries.
As you may have already guessed, the numerical difference between 35 and 55 can also be appreciated as a legitimate difference between the capabilities of each kit. Overall, with 2300-3500 lamperes, the 35W HID kit may prove to be lacking for someone who needs something with considerable power. To that end, such an individual would want to consider the 55W HID kit, which offers a range of 3000-4800 lamperes. While there is some potential for overlap there, the 55W HID kit is ultimately going to be your more powerful option for brightness.
There is also a warning canceller requirement that should be kept in mind. When your stock sockets are 50W or 55W, a 35W HID kit is going to require what is known as a warning canceller. In the event that your stock socket is in the 50/55W range, your 55W HID kit is not going to require one of these warning cancellers. This can override the warning systems that are set off in some cars, when your HID lights have been installed.
Lamp type/ballast is yet another consideration to weigh. High-pressure sodium-type lamps are characteristic of the 35W HID kits. With the 55W HID kits, you will have something that utilizes low-pressure sodium-type lamps. Quad/dual ballasts highlight the 55W lamps, whereas the 35W lamps are more often than not going to feature single ballasts.
