Whats the difference between expensive and inexpensive HIDs?

[HAfrica13]

I know this might sound ignorant, but what is the difference between $400 HID kits (from xenondepot) and $200 kits (from ebay)? I know people will say, "quality, obviously!" but what are signs of high quality and low quality HIDs? the amount of light output? I'm just a little hesitant to spend double just to get a "quality" set of lights. I'm sensitive to thisafter I bought some PIAA 8000k halogen HID-look bulbs; at $90 for the pair its a little disheartening hearing about guys that paid only 20! (my fault though, didn't consult the forum)

So yea... I guess there is alot more technology involved in HIDs, but really what is nicer about the higher quality? (anyone have cheaper pairs? i would like to hear your thoughts)

Thankyou so much, just trying not to make another mistake!

 

[4RunnerRon]

I think you answered your own question - quality. Bottom line is the generic, less expensive HID systems are made up of cheaper components, which may not last as long or perform as well. Kits from companies like XenonDepot come with components that are commonly found on vehicles that come from the factory with HID. For instance, my kit has Philips bulbs and ballasts. It also has a plug-and-play wiring harness, and the company has a good reputation with the aftermarket community (us and those like us). You pay extra for that.

 

[HAfrica13]

so will the phillips ballasts last longer? as well as the bulbs?

because other than life and output, i dont see how thaey can differ. but yea its probably smart to just quit being so cheap and get the ncie pair (i dont wanna mess up the electrical system!).

Thanks

 

[Uneek]

HAfrica13,

Think of it this way. Quality isn't measurable between a cheap Taiwan kit sold on eBay vs. a Xenon Depot kit until it fails. For all I know, it's possible a Taiwan kit could last equally as long as the XD kit. The other aspect of quality is consistency. The Philips bulbs probably have the same color vs. cheap bulbs where one will be whiter and another yellowish. But when that Taiwan kit fails and you replace the components, it could've cost you as much as getting the XD kit initially. It's something I usually take into consideration when trying to save my hard earned money.

The XD uses all Philips components which are also used by many OEMs. That in itself speaks volumes about Philips HID products. Imagine the reputation of a high end auto maker with cars coming in for headlight issues. (No one will blame the cheap Taiwan components maker that their lights failed. They'll just fault the auto manufacturer for it, thus Toyota uses Denso for a lot of their vehicle components.) I'm going with, like many here and elsewhere, Xenon Depot as I already have one of their kits and it works flawlessly.

 

[HAfrica13]

Alright. That answers that! i can deal with the extra 200. plus it will make getting them all the more satisfying!

Thanks