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·We probably get 10 calls a day asking about lighting options for the Hard Rock, X, and 10A bumpers- asking questions from "what are the best?" to "I'm on a budget after buying this Jeep and just want some lights." Because of this, we decided to post our opinions of what works, looks good and give some info on the different lights and brands we like to use.
Auxiliary Lighting:
(For Hard Rock, X, and 10A you will need auxiliary light brackets that can be found here: Maximus-3 10A/X Rubicon Auxiliary Light Brackets)
Good:
(This would be the category for budget lights just to have something mostly for looks, but could function when needed.)
Runner Up:
Hella 500 Black Magic
These lights are exactly what you would expect from a $100 kit. It gets the job done, but is not comparable to an LED by any means. The looks of this light is what most are drawn to since it has a "Blacked out" appearance.
Hella 500 Black Magic Driving Lamp Kit - Auxiliary Lighting - Lighting - Exterior
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Winner:
Warn W650D
The Warn 650 Series Driving Lights have a better light output than the Hella Black Magic, but still fall in the budget category at $170 for the pair
Warn W650D 6-1/2 inch Halogen Driving Light Kit
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Better
Runner Up:
IPF 900XS
These halogen lights will definitely outshine and throw light farther than either of the previously mentioned lights. We use a ton of these on AEV builds because of their price point and style. Many people still love that classic round light look and the IPF’s work perfect for them!
IPF 900XS Series Complete Light Kit
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Winner:
Baja Designs XL Sport
Baja Designs is one of our favorite lighting companies to work with. The quality of the light and housing are top notch, while the light output is one of the best in the industry. From what we’ve seen, they have more light output than Rigid. Since this is an LED light, We do have the specs on output. (1800 Lumens each, at 20w output)
Baja Designs XL Sport LED Light
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Best:
Runner Up:
Baja Designs XL80
This was a little difficult to decide on. While the XL80 is by far one of the brightest lights on the market, we just couldnt give it the win because they are still a new light and we have only installed a few pairs. (none on a Hard Rock though) With 9500 Lumens each at 80 watts of light output, you definitely cant go wrong with them if you need that much light.
Baja Designs XL80 LED Light Pair
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Winner:
ARB 21 Intensity
While the 32 gets an honorable mention, we think that they are just too big and bulky. With that said, the 21 Intensity gets our vote. The 7” lights pack a HUGE punch with a light output of 6950 lumens at 74w each. Until ARB comes out with a true combination patterned lens, we recommend using a spot on the drivers side, and a flood on the passenger side to get the best of both worlds.
ARB 21 Intensity LED Light
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Honorable Mentions:
Rigid Industries
We use a ton of Rigid’s lights as well. However as bumper lighting, we feel that the D2s are too small. The XL series are the right size, but Baja Designs puts out more light with less LED’s, and the Q Series are just too big.
Auxiliary Lighting:
(For Hard Rock, X, and 10A you will need auxiliary light brackets that can be found here: Maximus-3 10A/X Rubicon Auxiliary Light Brackets)
Good:
(This would be the category for budget lights just to have something mostly for looks, but could function when needed.)
Runner Up:
Hella 500 Black Magic
These lights are exactly what you would expect from a $100 kit. It gets the job done, but is not comparable to an LED by any means. The looks of this light is what most are drawn to since it has a "Blacked out" appearance.
Hella 500 Black Magic Driving Lamp Kit - Auxiliary Lighting - Lighting - Exterior
Winner:
Warn W650D
The Warn 650 Series Driving Lights have a better light output than the Hella Black Magic, but still fall in the budget category at $170 for the pair
Warn W650D 6-1/2 inch Halogen Driving Light Kit
Better
Runner Up:
IPF 900XS
These halogen lights will definitely outshine and throw light farther than either of the previously mentioned lights. We use a ton of these on AEV builds because of their price point and style. Many people still love that classic round light look and the IPF’s work perfect for them!
IPF 900XS Series Complete Light Kit
Winner:
Baja Designs XL Sport
Baja Designs is one of our favorite lighting companies to work with. The quality of the light and housing are top notch, while the light output is one of the best in the industry. From what we’ve seen, they have more light output than Rigid. Since this is an LED light, We do have the specs on output. (1800 Lumens each, at 20w output)
Baja Designs XL Sport LED Light
Best:
Runner Up:
Baja Designs XL80
This was a little difficult to decide on. While the XL80 is by far one of the brightest lights on the market, we just couldnt give it the win because they are still a new light and we have only installed a few pairs. (none on a Hard Rock though) With 9500 Lumens each at 80 watts of light output, you definitely cant go wrong with them if you need that much light.
Baja Designs XL80 LED Light Pair
Winner:
ARB 21 Intensity
While the 32 gets an honorable mention, we think that they are just too big and bulky. With that said, the 21 Intensity gets our vote. The 7” lights pack a HUGE punch with a light output of 6950 lumens at 74w each. Until ARB comes out with a true combination patterned lens, we recommend using a spot on the drivers side, and a flood on the passenger side to get the best of both worlds.
ARB 21 Intensity LED Light
Honorable Mentions:
Rigid Industries
We use a ton of Rigid’s lights as well. However as bumper lighting, we feel that the D2s are too small. The XL series are the right size, but Baja Designs puts out more light with less LED’s, and the Q Series are just too big.
