Sometimes, people tend to get confused about which size bulb they should buy for their car. After all, there are a lot of options out there, and it can be tough to know which one is right for you. So, let's take a look at the difference between 194 and 168 bulbs.

194 And 168 - What Are The Differences?

Let`s start with general specifications. The 168 lamp rates for about 4.9 watts of power, while the 194 lamps have 3.8 watts of power. The 168 has a standard filament that is 0.28 inches in diameter. The nominal power of these both bulbs is 30 watts, but the 194 has a slightly lower power rating in terms of amperage.

Specs	194 bulb	168 bulb
Base	W2.1x9.5d	W2.1x9.5d
Number of filaments	1	1
Applications	License plate light, map lights, dome light, parking lights, front/rear side marker lights, trunk cargo room lights, turn signal lights, reading lights, glove box lights, inner tail light	Parking lights, backup lights, interior lights
Nominal power	6 V, 12 V, 24 V: 3 W	6 V, 12 V, 24 V: 5 W
Cross Compatibility	168 184 192 193 259 280 285 447 464 555 558 585 655 656 657 1250 1251 1252 2450	147 152 158 159 161 2652 2921 2825

The light output for each type of bulb is also different. The 168 bulbs produce about 38 lumens, while the 194 bulbs only produce around 25 lumens. Such brightness level allows the168 bulb to be used as a backup light, map light, or license plate light. The 194 is not as bright and is typically used for side marker lights or dome lights.

At the same time, the 168 lamp has rated for 3-candle power, while the 194 bulb has only 2. This specification characterizes the light intensity in a certain direction. The higher the number, the brighter the light will be in that particular direction.

Another difference lies in their lifespan. The 168 lamp lasts around 1500 hours with regular usage while the 194 lamp has around 2500 hours lifespan. The longevity of their life also depends on how often they use them.

Now that we know the general specifications, let`s move on to the differences in function between these two types of bulbs. The 168 has a single contact at the bottom of the base, which is where it gets power from. The 194 has two contacts at the bottom of the base, which allows it to work as a turn signal or brake light in addition to being a backup light, map light, or license plate light.

Finally, when speaking of the beam pattern, the 168 bulb has a wide-beam pattern that illuminates a large area. The 194 bulb has a narrow-beam pattern that only illuminates a small area.

So, there you have it! Those are the main differences between 194 and 168 bulbs. Be sure to take all of this into consideration when choosing which type of bulb is right for your needs.

194 And 168 - What Are The Similarities?

Why did we compare these exact 2 lamps? Does your car need a new lamp and you are wondering which one to buy? These 2 types of lamps are the most popular and requested. But what do they have in common?

First of all, they both use 30 watts of power. They also have the same diameter filament, which is 0.28 inches. As we mentioned before, their nominal power is also the same at 30 watts. One more similarity between these two types of bulbs is that they are both used for side marker lights or dome lights. So, if you need a new bulb for either of those applications, either the 168 or 194 will work just fine.

There are also some similarities in usage purposes and installation. Both the 168 and 194 can be used as a backup light, map light, or license plate light. They can also both be used as turn signals or brake lights.

And that`s about it! Those are all of the similarities and differences between the 168 and 194 bulbs. Be sure to take all of this into consideration when choosing which type of bulb is right for your needs.

194 vs 168 - Which One To Select?

As any driver, you must be pretty sure by now, that there might not be a single answer to this question. Everything depends on your car model, the place of installation, and personal preferences. For example, if you are looking for a bulb to use as a backup light, map light, or license plate light, the 168 would be a great choice. However, if you need a turn signal or brake light, the 194 would be the better option.

It is also important to keep in mind that the 168 has a wide-beam pattern while the 194 has a narrow-beam pattern. So, if you need a bulb that illuminates a large area, the 168 is the way to go. But if you only need to illuminate a small area, the 194 would be a better choice.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that the 168 bulb has a lifespan of around 1500 hours while the 194 bulb has a lifespan of around 2500 hours. So, if you need a bulb with a longer lifespan, the 194 would be the better option.

As you can see, there are many factors to consider when choosing between the 168 and 194 bulbs. Be sure to take all of this into consideration before making your final decision.

What are the alternatives for 194 lamps?

In case you decided to replace the 194 lamps in your car, there are a few options for you. Instead of using this bulb, specialists recommend using W5W, 147, 152, 158, 159, 161, 168, 194, 192, 193 options. All these lamps are much brighter and will ensure safer driving. No matter whether you will choose the 161 or 158 lamp, each of them would have the same functions as the 194 lamp. The only thing you should decide on is the color of the light. You can either go for white or yellowish light.

What are the alternatives for 168 lamps?

It may be a surprise, but the same bulbs that can replace the 194 lamp will go for the 168 lamp. That is because all these options are much brighter and will ensure safer driving. No matter whether you will choose the 161 or 158 lamp, each of them would have the same functions as the 168 lamp. The only thing you should decide on is the color of the light. You can either go for white or yellowish light.