As an off-road enthusiast, off-road lights are an essential part of the toolkit. Without light, trails are covered in total darkness and often standard headlights do not meet the off-road needs. Contrary to the belief that a decent set of off-road lights is expensive, especially LED-based lights, LED-powered off-road lights are available and cater to any budget. LED technology makes off-road lights more efficient and low maintenance.
In this guide, we recommend the 10 best off-road lights. Regardless of your style or type of off-road lights you are looking for, this guide has you covered. You will come across an awesome set that will fit your budget and vehicle. So, if you are a car freak or an off-road enthusiast who wants to ensure your vehicle is impeccably equipped, we got you covered.
- Features to Consider in Good Off-road Lights
- Top 10 Best Off-road Lights 2024
- 1. Nilight 20 Inch 126w LED Light bar
- 2. Rigid Industries 93131 SR2-Series 30" Driving/Hyperspot Combo LED Light Bar
- 3. SLDX Curved 52-Inch LED Off-Road Light Bar
- 4. Auxbeam 4" LED Pods 18W Flood LED Light Bar 1800lm
- 5. Cutequeen 18W 1800 Lumens CREE LED Spot Light Bar
- 6. Auxbeam 32" 180W Curved LED Light Bar
- 7. Autosaver88 Off-road Mounting Headlight
- 8. KC HiLiTES 151 Apollo Pro 6" 100w Driving Light System
- 9. Hella 500 Series 12V/55W Halogen Driving Lamp Kit
- 10. Optilux H71020051 Model 1300 Round Driving Lamp Kit
- Guide to Buying the Best Off-road Lights
- Conclusion
Features to Consider in Good Off-road Lights
In off-road terrain, the rough ground can be troublesome if the lighting is not adequate. Investing in decent off-road lights will give you clear vision to spot potential hazards. Off-road lights must be durable and able to withstand rough use and impacts. For a decent off-road light, consider the following attributes:
Build quality
Ensure the materials used can withstand rough conditions associated with the off-road environment. Some of the features to look for in off-road lights include:
- Scratch resistant, durable lenses
- High waterproof rating above 67
- Aluminum mounting hardware and housing
- Optional stone guards
There are many cheaper options available that cannot last when driven off-road. The heavy impact, constant vibrations and poor weather conditions among other variables cause easy breakage of non-off-road lights.
Beam pattern
There are 4 beam choices to choose from and they include spread, spot, driving and flood beam patterns. Many off-road lights use the spot beam pattern since it provides a greater range. The angle of the beam is narrower at roughly 45 degrees that provide a cone of light.
Flood beam pattern generates a huge quantity of light spread across an angle of 120 degrees to cover a bigger space. A mixture of the 2 beam patterns is the ideal option for a perfect forward vision.
Brightness
Since you will be using the lights off-road, you have no restrictions on how bright the lights can be. This allows you to retrofit an HID kit inside the light housing in case you need more light. However, the brightness of many off-road lights is enough as most have at least 5,000 Lumens.
Wattage
Depending on whether you choose LED or halogen it will make a huge difference to the light wattage. Limiting power consumption will increase the lifespan of off-road lights and decrease heat output. Also, it will draw less from your vehicle batteries, which can be a problem for older vehicles.
Top 10 Best Off-road Lights 2024
1. Nilight 20 Inch 126w LED Light bar
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
It comes with a diecast aluminum body, stainless steel bracket, and Polycarbonate lens. This is a great choice for individuals who want to go off-road with a spot flood combo light bar. It has an IP rating of 67, 126 watts power rating, 10-30 DC voltage and 30,000 hours lifespan. It combines a 300 flood beam with a 600 spot beam that covers a lot of ground for a clear front view.
Convenient features
It provides clear visibility in extreme conditions that guarantee a clear view of the road. This is an excellent product in terms of heat dissipation. The aluminum housing and silicone gel enhance the ability to cope with the heat.
For versatility, this off-road light comes with an adjustable mounting bracket that allows you to customize the position of the light bar based on personal preferences. This allows you to adjust the light bar up to 450 to place the light where it is needed. The light bar is designed to enhance brightness for customers as they drive off-road during the night.
The LED light bar provides optimal protection to ensure it lasts longer. Apart from the 67 IP rating, the light bar is dustproof. The stainless steel brackets mounts are capable of resisting rust and corrosion.
Overall
The budget-friendly Nilight 20 Inch LED Light bar generates bright light and prime protection since it is dustproof and waterproof. It comes with rust and corrosion resistant mounts. Also, the adjustable mounts can be mounted fast.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Fantastic optimal light output
- Cheap
- Admirable build quality
- Comes with adjustable mount bracket
Cons
- Can get hot easily
- Prone to condensation
2. Rigid Industries 93131 SR2-Series 30" Driving/Hyperspot Combo LED Light Bar
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
The SR2-Series uses a patented Specter optics system that generates intense and smooth light that extends wide and over a long distance. The Hyperspot beam is concentrated 50 that help increase efficiency by decreasing light waste while providing extremely high intensity for the landing spot. It comes with 32 LEDs generating 143.5 watts and 13,500 lumens. The light emitted by this off-road light bar can reach a monstrous 3,661 feet. This off-road light bar is great regardless of the off-road driving needs.
Convenient features
The LED does not need to be warmed up; thus, can be switched on or off instantly. These off-road LEDs have a lifespan of over 50,000 hours and considering it provides the highest intensity per watt in the market, you are guaranteed to have the highest quality LEDs. The aluminum housing is equipped with very big heat sinks to ensure the temperature is kept low so that the LEDs shine brighter.
This off-road light comes with a break and scratch-resistant polycarbonate lens and a rubber seal. The light bar is protected from low or high voltage. Also, the package includes an easy to install mounting bracket as well as plug and play harness.
Overall
The Rigid’s “Hyperspot” technology in this low-profile light bar is unmatched in the industry. With a flick of a switch, this light bar lights up an unbelievable distance while enabling you to have maximum night visibility and high speeds.
Pros
- Extremely tough and durable
- Efficient
- Over 50,000 hours of lifespan
Cons
- Expensive
3. SLDX Curved 52-Inch LED Off-Road Light Bar
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
This 52” wide monster comes with 100 LED bulbs generating 3 watts each. The curved LED light generates 18,000 lumens. Also, you get 2 LED spotlight pods with each generating 1,200 lumens. Each of the 2 spotlights has 6 LED bulbs that generate 3 watts. These LED lights are compatible with any vehicle or device with a 9 to 32 voltage power source.
Convenient features
The IP68 rating provides protection against dust and water and the SLDX provides a one year warranty. The spotlight 300 and floodlight 600 combo pattern give the best light beam with a wide angle and a bright center for clear visibility. The 6000k ensure you have a clear front view without causing fatigue in your eyes. The light comes with 2 wiring harnesses one for the 300W curved LED light bar and the other for the 2 spot LED lights. The housing for the LED light bar is made from die-cast aluminum. It has a life span of over 30,000 hours. The high IP rating eliminates any worries about moisture.
Overall
This off-road light is easy to install and works in very demanding environments where an unfailing light source is needed. It comes with a shatter resistant PMMA lens. The curved 52” LED light bar illuminates the sides and forwards for the ultimate lighting experience of a combo pattern with both flood and spotlights. It is a great solution for anyone who requires a bright light without straining their eyes since the flood/spot combo delivers the best light beam as it covers a wide angle.
Pros
- Well-built light bar
- The package generates 18,000 + 2,400 lumens
- Water resistant
- Comes with additional 2 LED light pods
Cons
- Only 1-year warranty
4. Auxbeam 4" LED Pods 18W Flood LED Light Bar 1800lm
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
This Auxbeam off-road light bar comes with CREE LEDs that provide optimal light in poorly lit areas. It uses famous LED chips and 600 flood beam design for longer and wide light beam while using little power. Altering the angle and position of the light is easy using the adjustable mounting brackets. It has an 18w power rating, equipped with 6 pieces of 3w LED chips, 9 to 32 volts, 1800 lumen, -400 to 850 Celsius working temperature and a 67 IP rating.
Convenient features
The 50,000 hours lifespan of the LEDs is pretty impressive, considering this is an economical choice. The 1,800 lumens and 600 flood beam technical specifications provide optimum lighting in front for better visibility without resulting in eye fatigue.
One feature worth mentioning is the low current drawn by the light. This means the off-road product will not cause harm to the battery and will enable you to save gas. The long-lasting off-road light is made to be dustproof, shockproof and waterproof. Also, it comes with corrosion and rust resistant stainless mounting brackets.
It comes with an aluminum housing equipped with a vertical cooling fin. Intelligent design features will enhance energy efficiency and heat dispersion. This versatile Auxbeam off-road light is an excellent choice. Its applications go beyond off-road use since it can be used both indoors and outdoors and at home.
Overall
The quality of this product is unmatched, which makes it a top off-road light choice. It is a durable product that provides optimal brightness. This off-road light is built using high-quality LEDs that can last for 50,000 hours.
Pros
- Perfect option when on budget
- Comes with a durable and well-designed housing
- Provides long-lasting illumination
- Brilliant waterproofing
- Strong solder points for optimum durability
Cons
- Does not have a wiring harness
- Provided bolts may be inadequate
5. Cutequeen 18W 1800 Lumens CREE LED Spot Light Bar
Editor’s Rating:
Design
When buying LED light bar, you might feel overwhelmed by many choices available in the market. They come in different sizes, brightness rating, price, shape, and applicability. Although this LED comes from a brand that is not popular, it’s up to the task. The combination of low price and high-quality built makes it a popular product that every motorist wants to have.
If you want a long-lasting product, you need to consider the material used as it plays a vital role in durability rating. Durable products will give you the value for your money. This LED light is made of high-quality aluminum alloy to make it strong. The mounting bracket is made of stainless steel for durability and to prevent corrosion. This is a guarantee that this lens won’t break easily.
Features and Performance
The package comes with mounting brackets, and 18W Led flood light which means you’ll need extra wiring kit. But it is not a cause for alarm. Enjoy the company’s 30-days unconditional return in case of any default.
With IP67 waterproof, the LED Light is rust-resistant, and you can use it under extreme weather conditions. It can get tilted up to 60 degrees to give you a full view on the road. It takes pride in RoHS, CE, and FCC certification. However, this is not a DOT certified product meaning you cannot use it where DOT rules and regulations need to be applied.
Do you want outdoor lighting for your outdoor garden or backyard? LED light by Cutequeen is your sure bet. It can also be used in trailer exterior and interior lighting and indoor lighting as well.
Verdict
If you want to enhance your safety on the road or at home, you should then consider buying this LED Light. It’s well-designed with sturdy material for durability and classic look.
Pros
- It’s the best cheap LED light bar
- Extremely bright for increased visibility
- Versatile
- It works perfectly for the go-kart
- IP67 waterproof
Cons
- The mounting bolts are not as strong as they ought to be
- The lens might fall out too fast
6. Auxbeam 32" 180W Curved LED Light Bar
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
It comes with 60 LED bulbs with an output of 180 watts. These translate into 18,000 lumens. This light bar is 32” wide and 3” deep and high. The light can be switched to flood or spot beam. The spot beam provides a targeted beam of light ahead while the flood beam provides a wide 600 illumination. The house and brackets are built from high-quality aluminum. The setup is waterproof and dustproof. It has water resistance certifications and an IP67 that guarantee this off-road light bar will cope with seriously bad weather.
Convenient features
This off-road light will last for approximately 50,000 hours, which means many years of service. The adjustable beam angle generates a spot beam at 300 or flood beam at 600. The aluminum housing and brackets make it very durable and extremely light. The strong and durable housing allows you to go off-road without worrying about the light breaking down.
Overall
This LED light bar is a decent solution if you need to enhance visibility in dark nights and hectic weather conditions. This off-road light can be installed in different part of a vehicle. The light comes with brackets that are easy to assemble and install.
Pros
- A long-lasting use up to 50,000 hours
- IP67 waterproof rating guarantees the light will cope well with bad weather
- Easy to switch between spot and flood light beams
- Good visibility
Cons
- For some trucks the wire is short
- Generates noticeable whistling noise when driving
7. Autosaver88 Off-road Mounting Headlight
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
This Autosaver88 headlight features high-quality chips that generate super bright light beams to light up a dark trail. The upgraded lens improves durability and scratch resistance. The pair of spotlights generate a total of 5,100 lumens, which make them a decent addition to a vehicle off-road lighting. They generate 6,000 to 6,500 Kelvin natural white light that eliminates the disturbing blue tint. The light pods 50,000 hours lifespan and working voltage between 10v and 60v. They have an IP68 rating, which means these off-road lights almost have a perfect seal against water. The acid-resistant aluminum housing increases the durability of these light pods. Each pod is 7” wide with LED bulbs scattered randomly but in a nice way.
Convenient features
The decent size and design allow these lights to have an admirable look when installed on a car. These come with an adjustable mounting bracket that allows change of the light beam direction to any area you prefer. This is a popular choice for many individuals considering its high-quality and affordable price. It is dustproof, waterproof and durable enough to cope with harsh environments. The aluminum housing comes with a radial heat sink that ensures a faster cooling rate.
Overall
These lights are capable of generating brighter light to increase visibility in the dark. Although the product may be a bit expensive, it includes 2 lights pods and mounting brackets. The IP68 rating ensures the light is protected from dust and water.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Admirable off-road lights
- Solid construction
Cons
- A little costly compared to counterparts
8. KC HiLiTES 151 Apollo Pro 6" 100w Driving Light System
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
This halogen off-road light generates 100 watts that coupled with its excellent lens and mirror ensure that the focus of the light is where you need it. The replaceable H3 halogen bulb generates light equivalent to 200,000 candles. The Spread beam patterns provide additional distances and width to maximize visibility. These KC Apollo lights are created to cope with the toughest off-road terrains. It comes with a Polymax housing, stone guards and the lights are engineered to work for years. The optical glass lens and optical reflectors combined with the powerful 100-watt halogen bulb generate a very bright light in the compact housing.
Convenient features
The simple and adjustable mounts allow easy installation of this off-road light. It can be attached to the front bumpers, A-pillars and light bars among others to ensure that your lighting needs are met. The design allows the Apollo Pro lights to fit in even hard to access areas. Although the halogen bulbs do not last as long as LED bulbs, they offer a brighter output for a small device. It generates 2,400 lumens which provide enough light for long distances. To maximize the benefit of each bulb, reflectors and glass lens funnel the light in a specific pattern. These lights are small and compact. The housing is made from an astonishingly hard and durable synthetic polymer. This eliminates corrosion and ugly looking rust stains on your vehicle. It has a dust and waterproof rating of IP68.
Overall
This is a decent off-road light made from materials that are good enough for the quality you pay for. Although they won’t last as long as LED light bars, you won’t be able to find this amount of light from such a small and compact device.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Comes with stone guards
- Includes relay kit and wiring harness
- Replaceable halogen bulbs
Cons
- Short lifespan of halogen bulbs
9. Hella 500 Series 12V/55W Halogen Driving Lamp Kit
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
This off-road light is equipped with bonded glass lenses, black plastic ABS housing and vapor coated aluminum reflectors. It is 6.88” high, 6.38” wide and 2.63” diameter. In this kit, you get two 500 Series halogen lamps, 2 white stone guards, 2 12V/55W H3 bulbs, 1 wiring harness, 1 switch, 1 relay, and mounting instructions.
Convenient features
This off-road light provides an impact resistant housing making the Hella 500 series at home off the road for any vehicle that demands rugged lighting and high performance. It is light and easy to install so you can focus on driving. Its affordability and features make Hella 500 series an obvious choice for a person who prefers a rugged, easy to mount high-performing driving light. In addition, Hella provides more accessories for the 500 series such as white stone guards, new Color Shieldz protective laminates and protective grilles. Color Shieldz provide more versatility as well as value by ensuring you can change a clear driving light to another color and switch back again as often as you want. The Color shieldz enhance the looks and also provide protection from damage arising from small rocks or road debris.
Overall
The Hella 500 kit provides off-road lighting at an affordable price. The attractive round lights are designed to last long and offer high performance. The precision glass lenses, coupled with the impact-resistant ABS housing and Aluminum vapor-coated reflectors make it a decent choice for off-road activity or rural driving.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Includes the necessary accessories
Cons
- Halogen bulbs have a short lifespan
10. Optilux H71020051 Model 1300 Round Driving Lamp Kit
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
This decent off-road light is made using the highest quality material and features a new and stylish design guaranteed to improve the appearance of your vehicle. The round off-road light is equipped with clear lenses, black housing 2 lamps with 12V/55W H3 bulbs. Its dimensions are 3.8” high, 3.4” wide and 3.2” diameter. The Kit is equipped with 2 lights, 2 bulbs, and wiring harness. It comes with a one year warranty.
Convenient features
The Optilux design ensures that it works with factory headlight in the provision of the best possible visibility in the dark to ensure your eyes experience less fatigue in any driving conditions off-road. It features clear round lenses in a stylish housing made from black die-cast metal. The lights are SAE compliant and come with heavy-duty mounting brackets, deluxe wiring harness, and illuminated switch. The size of the off-road lights allows different possibilities of fitting them including a lot of OEM mounting positions in bumpers. The die-cast black housing, as well as glass lens, provide decent durability and driving beam for maximum visibility. These off-road lights offer high performance with high-beam lights that illuminate your path.
Overall
The design of this off-road light ensures you get the best possible visibility for more driver safety and comfort without much eye fatigue as you drive off-road. The radical style of the off-road light provides value with easy installation. The homogenous light with the help of effectively optimized reflectors, active driving safety, and good visibility provide safety as you drive off-road in the dark or hectic weather conditions.
Pros
- Quality build
- Lightweight
Cons
- Short lifespan of Halogen bulbs
Guide to Buying the Best Off-road Lights
Lately, off-road lights have been soaring in popularity. In trucks, they are used for aesthetics as well as for safe driving. When in dark areas, off-road lights provide additional lighting to illuminate the road to ensure you have a flawless view of what is in front of you. Investing in decent off-road lights designed to improve your front visibility can result in a big improvement to your off-road experience.
The market provides different choices for off-road lights. Thus, making an informed decision is not an easy feat, particularly if it is your first time. These special additions are becoming a necessity for any off-road vehicles.
What is an off-road light?
It is a lamp that illuminates your way as you venture away from the paved and well-lit roads in your off-road vehicle. There are few things that can be as helpful or critical as a quality off-road light. Off-road lights ensure you are not blindsided by a bolder on the roadside or a sharp bend ahead.
The off-road lights ensure you are safe from anything that may be lurking in the dark or over the hill. It allows you to see any animal in front to avoid damage to your vehicle and accidents. Apart from improved safety, off-road lights provide emergency lighting. The lights will allow you to make it easy for you as you perform the basic repair in case your vehicle breaks down when off-road. As well, off-road lights have an aesthetic appeal since they come with different shapes, sizes, and designs. Also, they can be installed in different parts of the vehicle.
Types of off-road lights
There are various types of off-road lights to choose from; although, most enthusiasts stick to either light pods or bars. Often, light bars are installed above the windshield or on the front bumper while pods are installed pretty anywhere. The different styles and designs provide special features that differentiate them. There are 3 main types of off-road lights i.e. halogen, HID and LED lights. For more information on halogen, HID and LED off-road lights, check out this video.
Halogen lights generate light from filament heated up to 2,500 degrees Celsius by passing electricity to produce the glow. These off-road lights are not energy efficient and demand special care as you handle them.
The High Intensity Discharge (HID) off-road lights also known as xenon off-road lights are more efficient compared to halogen lights. These lights are filled with gases and have an electrode at both ends of the tube. As electric current passes through, light is emitted. These generate more light compared to halogen lights and are more efficient.
Light emitting diodes (LEDs) off-road lights are replacing halogen and HID lights. These generate light as a free electron moves across a semiconductor and loses its energy as a photon. The process occurs many times resulting in the generation of continuous bright light.
Things to consider in an off-road light
If you are considering improving your outdoor activity, the following factors will set you on the right track.
Cost
Off-road lights come in different shapes and prices. Generally, they come in either a single bar or a set of 2 pods but prices can increase for combo options equipped with spot and flood lighting.
Features
There are different features in off-road lights some of which may be necessary and some that are absolutely mandatory. For instance, if you want to go off-road in extreme weather, look out for an off-road LED bar that provides flood light abilities. If you are going off-road to rugged locations, purchase off-road lights which provide spotlight capabilities to eradicate any guesswork using a concentrated beam of light on a specific area. Here are some important features to look out for:
- Type of bulb – The 3 common choices are HID, halogen and LED with the latter being the favorite option
- Power – Calculated in watts, more watts equates to greater brightness
- Form factor The common options are LED bars and pod with each having its pros and cons
- Amp draw The larger the number, the faster your battery will drain if the engine is not running
- IP67 rating This rating will ensure your off-road lights are dustproof and waterproof since you will be using them outdoors and in some cases harsh weather
- Heat dissipation – Decent off-road lights are equipped with cooling fans to ensure a smooth and long performance
- Beam pattern – Off-road lights come in 3 different beam patterns i.e. spot, off-road, flood or combination of these 3
- Mounting – Many manufacturers provide mounting brackets. If not, you can purchase them at very affordable prices. Ensure they are compatible with the off-road lights
- Color temperature Calculated in K (Kelvin). This specifies the color of the light source with high-quality light found between 5000K and 6000K+
- Warranty – Most off-road light manufacturers provide some degree of warranty ranging from 6 months to 2 years and above
- Service life – Off-road lights made of LED are usually good as they provide 20,000 to 30,000 hours and above
Construction and design
Off-road lights made from LED are very durable, consume less power and are brighter compared to other light options. These are extremely shockproof and waterproof and to add to their value they function well on different voltages with little to no modifications.
There are several off-road light models that provide the best of both flood and spotlights, also known as hybrid off lights or driving lights. If you want a focused beam to focus further ahead, then choose spotlights otherwise choose floodlights if you need to project light evenly and widely in your vicinity that has an obstacle and technical turns. If you do both technical cruising and high-speed driving, a combo of both flood and spotlight is the ideal choice.
Ease of Use and Performance
Off-road lights fitted with Cree LEDs have higher quality compared to other options in the market. Often, color temperature is an important aspect that is usually overlooked when choosing the best off-road lights. Off-road lights that have a color temperature above 5000K decrease driver fatigue and provide superior terrain appreciation.
Mount the off-road light bar or pods where they offer maximum efficiency rather than where they look coolest. Huge off-road light bars are mounted over the windshield to illuminate far and wide. The best place to mount pods is on the front bumper without impeding airflow into the radiator.
Conclusion
Off-road driving can be riveting. This is the most thrilling leisure you can enjoy in your massive toy. However, regardless of the thrills associated with an off-road activity, off-road driving can be cumbersome when you lack the best off-road lights. These allow you to drive any route confidently and safely. In this guide, we have provided you with some of the best off-road lights and factors to consider when choosing the best off-road light. It is pretty clear that LED off-road bars and pods provide better value for your money.
