Bulbs are indispensable for vehicles to use in fog lights, sidelights, headlights, etc. You may also need them in the interior of your vehicles, such as for car signals and light provision.
There are bulbs for exterior and interior coverage. Today’s article will center on the interior ones, bringing up the 168 bulb vs. 194 bulb argument.
Many users wrongly assume no differences between a 168 bulb and a 194 one. While it is true that there are similarities, they also have their share of dissimilarities. So, here goes a comprehensive comparison for you to learn more about them and select one.
168 Bulbs
The category of 168 bulbs is T10. T10 bulbs have similar bases made from identical incandescent filaments. It radiates brighter light and works excellently as an interior bulb due to its high wattage.
The primary use of a 168 bulb is in warning lights, owing to its high brightness levels. That will help you see the signal instantly. It has a candlepower of 3 with 4.9 watts.
It has several brightness levels and is capable of serving various purposes. It comes with a service life of roughly 1500 hours. However, it generally tends to produce more heat than most T10 bulbs.
194 Bulbs
It is another T10 bulb. But it has 3.9 watts, slightly lower than the first one. With a 2 candlepower, the light intensity is also not as high as that of a 168 bulb.
So, the light will be dimmer, an ideal choice if you need uninterrupted lighting. Another impressive characteristic of the bulb is its mega lifespan of 2500 hours.
One thing to remember is that the light has a single brightness level. You cannot notch it up or down when necessary. It is the best option for dome lights, reading lights, and glove box lights. Although it is mainly for interior coverage, it works well as a lighting arrangement for backup, braking, etc.
Key Differences Between 168 Bulb And 194 Bulb
Wattage
There is a slight difference between 168 and 194 bulbs in their wattage. The first one has a power rating of 4.9 watts, whereas the latter has 3.8.
Although it is not a distinguishable difference, it shows their light output and performance altogether. Notwithstanding that, 168 bulbs provide somewhat better lighting and interior coverage.
Lifespan
168 bulbs will serve you for around 1500 hours if you use them regularly. On the other hand, 194 bulbs will hold tight for more than 2500 hours, even if there are heavier loads.
The longevity of the 194 often kicks the 168 out of competition as people prefer them.
Brightness Level
The optimum brightness level is a functional difference between the bulbs, which is a key point for most users.
You can use 168 bulbs at multiple brightness levels. You will have the option to make it bright or dim according to the required lighting conditions of your job.
But it is not flexible with 194 bulbs, a downside considering you have to use them only in specific conditions.
Heat
Users often complain that 168 bulbs get hot faster than 194 bulbs. That can make the driver uncomfortable and damage or melt sensitive plastic-made components. However, the difference is not a major issue. Both will prove to be safe and reliable when used moderately.
Use
People use 168 bulbs for map lights, glove compartment lights, and warning lights. The concept behind the use is that the lights are not switched on frequently in these cases.
On the contrary, 194 bulbs are more appropriate for places demanding continuous lighting. It is a suitable option for people that use lights for interior coverage for a long period. For instance, you can use them for license plate lights, trunk cargo room lights, and dome lights.
Specs
To talk about the specs of the bulbs, the first thing is candlepower. It is the measure of their luminous intensity.
Since the 168 is brighter, its candlepower is 3. And the 194, the less bright one, has 2.
However, the bulbs do not have any difference with respect to their length. With an overall length of 26.8 millimeters, they feature a 14.2mm light center length. The outer diameter also goes as high as 14.2 mm.
Size
The 168 bulb has a tubular and small shape. You need to be sure of its specifications to buy the correct piece. The 194 has similar sizes and shapes, as they are T10-category like 168 bulbs.
Price
When looking for LED bulbs for the interior of your vehicle, you will see that the prices of 168 and 194 differ by a slight margin. That, too, happens when the brands are different. Otherwise, brands offering both bulbs charge the same price.
168 Bulb Vs. 194 Bulb: A Quick Comparison Table
| Characteristics | 168 Bulb | 194 Bulb |
| Wattage: | 4.9 | 3.8 |
| Light Output: | Brighter | Dimmer |
| Candlepower: | 3 | 2 |
| Lifespan: | 1500 hours (regular use) | 2500 use (heavy use) |
| Heat Production: | High | Slightly low |
| Brightness Level: | More than one | Only one |
| Use: | Map lights, warning lights, etc. | Dome lights and plate lights |
| Continuous Lighting Capability: | No | Yes |
Product Review Comparison between 168 & 194 Bulb
1. SYLVANIA – 168 T10 W5W LED Blue Mini Bulb
Sylvania is a prominent light specialist in the global industry. The use of advanced technology and continuous innovation in products are what keep the company a step ahead of the market. You can easily depend on Sylvania to replace your vehicle’s incandescent lights. It will match the other lights of your car or truck, too.
The 168 LED bulb of the brand will be a better and the appropriate replacement for interior lighting. The best part of the bulb is its comfortable lighting. Many customers complain from their experience that most 168 bulbs are blindingly bright. But you will get the perfect balance of light intensity from the Sylvania 168. Checking your glove compartment will never be a struggle for you anymore.
It comes at a high price but is worth it nonetheless. Moreover, the company has replacement offers for the shock- and vibration-proof 168 bulb. If they give you trouble within a certain period, contact Sylvania to get free replacements.
Related Post: How to Replace TPMS Sensor Battery? ( 8 Expert Easy Way )
2. SYLVANIA 194 Long Life Miniature Bulb
The structural features of the Sylvania 194 bulb are similar to that of the Sylvania 168 bulb reviewed above. The well-engineered and well-designed bulb can withstand vibration and road shock because of its thermal management system.
Users looking for a continuous supply of bright lighting will find it fitting. Although typically dimmer than a 168, it produces sufficient light to support your need for map lighting as well.
The bulb is very easy to install. So if you have not used a 194 bulb, you can easily give it a go.
SYLVANIA 194 LED Bulb Video Review
Which One Is Better – A 168 Bulb Or A 194 Bulb?
There is no straightforward answer to that question. Keeping the similarities and dissimilarities of the bulbs aside, it comes down to one thing – what do you need them for?
They both are for interior lighting, yet their uses are different. If you need them in places with constant lighting, the 194 will supply you with 2500 hours. But if you want brighter lights with several brightness levels for your warning lights, you can rely on the 168. It has a 1500-hour service life.
However, regardless of the uses, if you want lasting performance, you can get the 194, as it also produces lower heat. If power, light intensity, and flexible brightness options are your higher concerts, then the 168 is the right pick.
FAQs About 168 and 194 Bulb
Do all 168 bulbs have the same configurations and functions?
Yes, they do. But you will notice that they differ from one brand to another. For example, the lumens might vary between 35 and 38.
What does the term T10 refer to in light bulbs?
Bulbs have different categories, among which incandescent bulbs or the T class is one. T refers to Tubular, standing for the shape of the bulb. Plus, the number 10 means their diameter, expressed as ⅛ of an inch.
Every T10 bulb has a diameter of 1.25 inches (ten-eighths of an inch).
What are the other bulbs falling under the category of T10?
Other than 168 and 194, the 151, 193, and 147 bulbs fall under the category of T10. You can use them to replace one another. Note that it complies with others with similar bases in the T series, i.e., T15. Get the size chart of T10 to help you with that.
What are the uses of a T20 bulb?
A T20 bulb has the most use for interior lighting coverage, and you have to install it in the warning lights if its light intensity is high.
If the bulb is dim, you can keep it in the reading, glove compartment, and reading lights. Additionally, you can get it for your vehicle exterior for your parking, braking, and license plate lights.
Can I use a 194 bulb instead of a 168 and vice versa?
Technically, you can because they are T10 bulbs with the same structure and shape. However, their watts of power and light intensity are not the same. So, if you use a 168, where dim lighting would be better, you will not get your desired outcome. The same applies to using a 194 instead of a 168.
Related Post: 180-Degree Thermostat Vs 195-Degree Thermostat – Which One Is Better
Final Words
Next time there is a 168 bulb vs. 194 bulb debate, I hope you know which side you should take. The bulbs, being the same in many aspects, have largely different uses.
The proper way to choose the better one is to be specific about your requirement first. After that, you will automatically find which bulb you should get for your vehicle interior. Best of luck!
