When searching for the best LED headlight bulbs, brightness and reliability are top priorities. The SEALIGHT 9005/HB3 9006/HB4 LED Bulb Combo stands out for exceptional brightness and versatility, making it ideal for most drivers. The Termitor Brightest H13/9008 LED Bulbs offer outstanding luminosity and longevity, suited for those seeking maximum visibility. Conversely, budget-conscious buyers might prefer the AUXITO H13/9008 LED Headlight Bulbs for their balance of performance and affordability. The main challenge remains balancing brightness, longevity, ease of installation, and cost—continue reading for a detailed comparison of these top contenders.
Key Takeaways
- Brightness levels vary significantly; the highest lumens don’t always mean better real-world visibility due to beam pattern differences.
- Durability and waterproof ratings are critical for long-term reliability, especially in harsh weather conditions.
- Installation complexity can differ; some bulbs require minimal tools, while others need more technical setup.
- Higher-priced options generally offer better longevity and performance consistency, but some budget models perform surprisingly well.
- Beam pattern and cutoff line quality can impact visibility and safety more than raw lumens alone.
| SEALIGHT H13 H10 LED Bulb Combo – 68,000 Lumens, 6500K Cool White, Pack of 4 |  | Best Overall for Brightness and Compatibility | Light Source Type: LED | Specific Uses: Fog Lights | Color Temperature: 6000 Kelvin | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SEALIGHT 9005/HB3 9006/HB4 LED Bulb Combo, 1000% Bright, 6500K White, 4 Pack |  | Best for Ultra Brightness and Compatibility | Brightness: 1000% brighter than original | Color Temperature: 6500K | Lifespan: 70,000 hours | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Termitor Brightest H13/9008 LED Bulbs, 10X Brighter 50,000LM, 85K+ Hours Service Life, 6500K Cool White, IP68 Waterproof, 1:1 OEM Size, 3 Minute Installation (Pack of 2) |  | Best for Extreme Brightness and Long Service Life | Light Source Type: High Intensity Discharge | Specific Uses: Fog Light Bulbs | Color Temperature: 6500 Kelvin | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SEALIGHT 9005 H11 Lights Combo, 96,000LM Ultra-1000% Brighter S6 Pro with 2025 4th-Core Chips, 6500K White, Pack of 4 |  | Best for High-Performance Visibility and Ease of Use | Brightness: 96,000 lumens | Color Temperature: 6500K | Lifespan: 80,000+ hours | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SEALIGHT S2S 9005/HB3 9006/HB4 Light Bulbs Combo, 140,000LM, 6500K White, 4-Pack |  | Best for Maximum Brightness and Versatility | Brightness: 140,000 lumens | Color Temperature: 6500K | Lifespan: 70,000+ hours | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SEALIGHT S7S H11 9005/HB3 LED Fog Bulbs, 120,000 Lumens, 6500K White, 4 Pack |  | Best for Maximum Brightness and Fog Visibility | Light Source Type: Xenon | Specific Uses: Fog Lights | Color Temperature: 6500 Kelvin | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| AUXITO H13/9008 LED Headlight Bulbs, 50,000 Lumens, 6500K Cool White, Pack of 2 |  | Best for Bright, Even Beam with Long Lifespan | Brightness: 50,000 lumens | Color Temperature: 6500K Cool White | Lifespan: 60,000+ hours | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SEALIGHT H13/9008 LED Bulbs, 50,000LM, 6500K Cool White, Pack of 2 |  | Best for Focused, Crisp White Illumination | Brightness: 50,000 lumens | Color Temperature: 6500K Cool White | Lifespan: 70,000 hours | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| RCJ 9005 9006 Bulbs Combo, 600% Brightness, 6000K Cool White, Dual Beam, Pack of 4 |  | Best for Maximum Illumination in All Weather | Brightness: Maximum 32,000 Lumens | Color Temperature: 6000K Cool White | Wattage: 120 Watts | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SEALIGHT H13 Bulbs, 70,000LM, 6500K White, with Fan, Pack of 2 |  | Best for High Brightness with Fan Cooling | Brightness: 70,000 lumens | Color Temperature: 6500K | Lifespan: 70,000 hours | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Termitor Upgraded H11 9005 Light Bulbs Combo, 100,000LM Super Bright, 6500K White, Pack of 4 |  | Best for Maximum Brightness and Visibility | Light Source Type: High Intensity Discharge | Specific Uses For Product: Fog Lights | Color Temperature: 6500 Kelvin | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
SEALIGHT H13 H10 LED Bulb Combo – 68,000 Lumens, 6500K Cool White, Pack of 4
This SEALIGHT combo stands out for its incredible brightness, offering a staggering 68,000 lumens, which surpasses many competitors like the SEALIGHT 9005/HB3 9006/HB4 LED Bulb Combo. Its easy plug-and-play setup makes it accessible even for those new to LED upgrades. While its high lumen output ensures excellent visibility, it also comes with the potential drawback of glare, especially for oncoming drivers, and a higher price compared to standard halogen options. The dual copper heat sinks and long lifespan of over 70,000 hours mean reliability is built-in, but performance can vary with vehicle wiring and local regulations.
Pros:- Exceptional brightness for maximum visibility
- Quick 5-minute installation with plug-and-play design
- Long-lasting with over 70,000 hours lifespan
- Compatible with most vehicles, including Ford F-150
Cons:- Can produce glare that may bother other drivers
- Higher price point than halogen bulbs
Best for: Drivers seeking a versatile, high-intensity upgrade compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including trucks and SUVs.
Not ideal for: Those concerned about glare or who drive in areas with strict glare regulations, as brightness may cause discomfort.
- Light Source Type:LED
- Specific Uses:Fog Lights
- Color Temperature:6000 Kelvin
- Color:White
- Fit Type:Universal Fit
- Lifespan:70,000+ hours
- Additional Details:70,000+ hours lifespan, 25,000 RPM silent fans, dual copper heat sinks
Bottom line: This bulb combo is ideal for drivers who prioritize brightness and ease of installation, and are less sensitive to glare concerns.
SEALIGHT 9005/HB3 9006/HB4 LED Bulb Combo, 1000% Bright, 6500K White, 4 Pack
This SEALIGHT kit delivers an astonishing 1000% brightness increase over halogen bulbs, making it a top choice for drivers who need maximum illumination, especially compared to the less intense Termitor Brightest H13/9008 LEDs. Its design emphasizes durability and universal compatibility, with a waterproof IP68 rating and a simple plug-and-play setup. However, such intense brightness often introduces glare that can affect other drivers, and some vehicles may require a CANBUS decoder to prevent flickering or warning lights. While this product excels in brightness, it may be overkill for everyday city driving where lower light levels suffice.
Pros:- Incredible 1000% brightness increase
- Durable, waterproof design suitable for all weather
- Easy installation with universal fit
- Long lifespan of 70,000 hours
Cons:- High brightness can cause glare for other drivers
- May require CANBUS decoder on some vehicles
- Potential for flicker or warning lights
Best for: Night-time drivers needing maximum illumination, such as off-road enthusiasts or those frequently driving in poorly lit areas.
Not ideal for: Urban commuters who prefer moderate brightness to avoid glare or who drive in areas with strict lighting regulations.
- Brightness:1000% brighter than original
- Color Temperature:6500K
- Lifespan:70,000 hours
- Waterproof Rating:IP68
- Compatibility:99% of vehicle systems
- Package:Pack of 4
Bottom line: This upgrade is best suited for drivers prioritizing maximum brightness and durability, with awareness of glare and compatibility considerations.
Termitor Brightest H13/9008 LED Bulbs, 10X Brighter 50,000LM, 85K+ Hours Service Life, 6500K Cool White, IP68 Waterproof, 1:1 OEM Size, 3 Minute Installation (Pack of 2)
The Termitor Brightest H13/9008 bulbs excel in delivering daylight-like illumination with an impressive 80,000 lumens, far exceeding typical LED options like the SEALIGHT H13 combo. Their OEM-size fit and quick three-minute installation make them accessible for most drivers. The high brightness, however, comes with a risk of glare if not aligned properly, and their higher wattage may strain older vehicle wiring. The remarkable lifespan of over 85,000 hours ensures long-term reliability, but the price point is also higher, reflecting their premium build quality and performance.
Pros:- Exceptional brightness with 80,000 lumens
- Long-lasting over 85,000 hours of service
- Easy 3-minute OEM-sized installation
- IP68 waterproof and weather-resistant
Cons:- High brightness may cause glare if misaligned
- Higher wattage could impact older electrical systems
- Price is higher than standard halogen or lower-end LEDs
Best for: Automotive enthusiasts who want maximum brightness and longevity, especially for fog lights or off-road use.
Not ideal for: Everyday city drivers who don’t need such intense illumination or are concerned about potential glare and electrical load.
- Light Source Type:High Intensity Discharge
- Specific Uses:Fog Light Bulbs
- Color Temperature:6500 Kelvin
- Brightness:80,000 Lumens
- Wattage:35 watts
- Service Life:85,000+ hours
- Protection:IP68
Bottom line: This bulb set is perfect for drivers demanding extreme brightness and durability, with some caution needed around glare and electrical compatibility.
SEALIGHT 9005 H11 Lights Combo, 96,000LM Ultra-1000% Brighter S6 Pro with 2025 4th-Core Chips, 6500K White, Pack of 4
Compared with other high-lumen options like the SEALIGHT S2S 9005/HB3, the 9005 H11 Lights Combo delivers nearly 100,000 lumens, making it a stellar choice for drivers needing maximum illumination on dark roads. Its advanced 2025 4th-Core Chips ensure a stable beam pattern and reliability, while the simple plug-and-play design reduces installation time. Despite its impressive brightness, the potential for glare remains, and its higher price reflects the cutting-edge technology. This product suits drivers who want a balance of extreme brightness and straightforward installation, without complicated wiring adjustments.
Pros:- Extremely bright with 96,000 lumens
- Easy installation with plug-and-play design
- Long lifespan over 80,000 hours
- Advanced 2025 4th-Core Chips for stable beam and reliability
Cons:- High brightness can cause glare
- Higher price due to advanced tech
- Limited info on compatibility with older models
Best for: Night-time drivers or off-road users seeking high-performance lighting with minimal fuss during installation.
Not ideal for: Urban drivers in well-lit areas or those sensitive to glare, as the luminosity could cause discomfort or annoy other drivers.
- Brightness:96,000 lumens
- Color Temperature:6500K
- Lifespan:80,000+ hours
- Technology:2025 4th-Core Chips
- Protection:IP68
- Pack Size:4-pack
Bottom line: This LED set is ideal for demanding nighttime drivers who prioritize high visibility and ease of installation, accepting the glare tradeoff.
SEALIGHT S2S 9005/HB3 9006/HB4 Light Bulbs Combo, 140,000LM, 6500K White, 4-Pack
This SEALIGHT S2S set pushes the limits with a staggering 140,000 lumens, making it the brightest option in this roundup. Its aerospace-grade aluminum housing and dual copper cooling tubes keep the heat in check, supporting the high output. While the extreme luminosity promises superb visibility, it also raises concerns about glare and the need for precise aiming. Compared to the SEALIGHT 9005/HB3 9006/HB4 combo, this model offers the most raw power, but at a higher risk of distracting other drivers. Its universal fit and waterproof IP68 rating make it suitable for a variety of vehicles, including powersports applications.
Pros:- Incredible 140,000 lumens for unmatched brightness
- Durable, waterproof construction
- Easy installation with universal fit
- Advanced cooling system ensures long-term reliability
Cons:- Potential glare for other road users
- May require decoders for some vehicle systems
- High power output may cause electrical strain
Best for: Off-roaders or drivers in extremely dark environments needing the highest possible illumination, with awareness of potential glare issues.
Not ideal for: City or highway drivers in well-lit areas who do not need such high lumen output and want to avoid glare conflicts.
- Brightness:140,000 lumens
- Color Temperature:6500K
- Lifespan:70,000+ hours
- Housing Material:Aerospace-grade aluminum
- Cooling:Dual copper tubes
- Protection:IP68
Bottom line: This ultra-bright LED kit is suited for extreme conditions and off-road use, with careful aiming to prevent glare issues.
SEALIGHT S7S H11 9005/HB3 LED Fog Bulbs, 120,000 Lumens, 6500K White, 4 Pack
The SEALIGHT S7S H11 9005/HB3 stands out for its extraordinary brightness of 120,000 lumens, making it ideal for fog lights where visibility in adverse conditions is critical. Compared to the AUXITO H13/9008, which offers a slightly lower lumen output, the S7S provides a more intense light, but this can sometimes lead to glare if not properly aimed. Its long lifespan of 10 years and durable aviation aluminum body promise reliability, yet some vehicles may require additional decoders, adding complexity to installation. While not the most affordable option, its performance in foggy conditions justifies the premium for drivers prioritizing safety. This pick makes the most sense for drivers who need powerful fog light illumination in all weather, despite potential compatibility issues.
Pros:- Incredibly bright with 120,000 lumens for foggy conditions
- Easy plug-and-play installation in about 3 minutes
- Long-lasting with a 10-year lifespan and durable construction
Cons:- May require additional decoders for some vehicle models
- Compatibility issues reported with certain vehicle types
Best for: Drivers needing the brightest fog light bulbs for safety in challenging weather conditions
Not ideal for: Casual drivers or those with vehicles prone to compatibility issues or requiring simple upgrades
- Light Source Type:Xenon
- Specific Uses:Fog Lights
- Color Temperature:6500 Kelvin
- Brightness:120,000 Lumens
- Wattage:65 Watts
- Lifespan:10 Years
Bottom line: This bulb is best suited for drivers who need maximum fog light performance and are comfortable with potential compatibility adjustments.
AUXITO H13/9008 LED Headlight Bulbs, 50,000 Lumens, 6500K Cool White, Pack of 2
The AUXITO H13/9008 offers a powerful 50,000 lumens on a single set, providing significantly brighter illumination than standard halogen bulbs and surpassing many competitors like the SEALIGHT H13/9008. Its long lifespan of over 60,000 hours ensures long-term reliability, and the plug-and-play design makes installation straightforward. The focused beam pattern enhances safety by directing light precisely where needed. However, its brightness level could create glare for oncoming traffic, especially if not properly aligned, and the higher price point might deter budget-conscious buyers. This option makes the most sense for drivers seeking an easy upgrade with reliable, intense illumination, but who are aware of potential glare issues.
Pros:- Extremely bright with 50,000 lumens per set
- Long lifespan of over 60,000 hours for durability
- Plug-and-play installation with no flickering or errors
Cons:- Potential glare for oncoming traffic if not properly aligned
- Higher cost compared to traditional halogen bulbs
Best for: Drivers wanting high-performance, long-lasting headlights with simple installation
Not ideal for: Those concerned about glare or on a tight budget, as it commands a higher price
- Brightness:50,000 lumens
- Color Temperature:6500K Cool White
- Lifespan:60,000+ hours
- Bulb Type:H13/9008 LED
- Cooling System:Copper-core
- Compatibility:Most vehicles with CAN-Bus
Bottom line: Ideal for drivers seeking a bright, durable upgrade that installs easily, with caution around glare management.
SEALIGHT H13/9008 LED Bulbs, 50,000LM, 6500K Cool White, Pack of 2
The SEALIGHT H13/9008 provides up to 50,000 lumens, making it a strong contender for drivers who want crisp, white light that enhances night visibility. Its design emphasizes a focused beam pattern, which improves safety by reducing light scatter and glare compared to broader beam designs like the AUXITO H13/9008. With a lifespan of 70,000 hours and a turbo cooling fan, it balances longevity with performance. Still, the cooling fan noise might be noticeable in some vehicles, and verifying compatibility is recommended before purchase. This makes the most sense for those who prioritize a sharp, focused beam with long-term reliability, accepting some noise as a tradeoff.
Pros:- Bright with 50,000 lumens for clear visibility
- Long lifespan of 70,000 hours
- Turbo cooling fan included for effective heat management
Cons:- Cooling fan noise might be audible in some vehicles
- Requires verification for specific vehicle fit
Best for: Drivers who want a focused, white light for nighttime safety and long-lasting performance
Not ideal for: Drivers sensitive to fan noise or with very specific vehicle compatibility needs
- Brightness:50,000 lumens
- Color Temperature:6500K Cool White
- Lifespan:70,000 hours
- Cooling Fan:Turbo cooling
- Waterproof/Dustproof:IP68
- Compatibility:Over 99% vehicle compatibility
Bottom line: Best suited for drivers seeking a focused beam with long durability, who are tolerant of fan noise.
RCJ 9005 9006 Bulbs Combo, 600% Brightness, 6000K Cool White, Dual Beam, Pack of 4
The RCJ 9005 9006 set claims an impressive 600% brightness increase, making it a prime choice for drivers who need maximum illumination. Its dual-beam design enhances visibility in both high and low beams, comparable to the SEALIGHT S2S 9005/HB3 but with a focus on brightness rather than pure color accuracy. Its IP67 waterproof rating ensures durability in rain or snow, yet its higher power draw of 120 watts and potential glare mean it requires careful installation. This set is best for drivers who prioritize raw brightness and weather resistance, willing to accept increased power consumption as a tradeoff.
Pros:- Up to 600% brighter than standard bulbs
- Dual beam for improved visibility
- Weather-resistant with IP67 rating
Cons:- Higher power consumption at 120W
- Potential glare if improperly aligned
Best for: Night drivers needing the brightest possible illumination in adverse weather conditions
Not ideal for: Budget-conscious or glare-sensitive drivers due to higher power use and brightness levels
- Brightness:Maximum 32,000 Lumens
- Color Temperature:6000K Cool White
- Wattage:120 Watts
- Light Output:Maximum 32,000 Lumens
- Waterproof Rating:IP67
- Compatibility:Vehicle-specific
Bottom line: Suitable for drivers demanding maximum brightness and weather durability, with awareness of increased power use.
SEALIGHT H13 Bulbs, 70,000LM, 6500K White, with Fan, Pack of 2
The SEALIGHT H13 with 70,000 lumens offers one of the highest brightness levels in this roundup, providing excellent illumination for nighttime safety. Its inclusion of a cooling fan ensures heat management, similar to the SEALIGHT H13/9008, but with a focus on long-term performance in most vehicles. The long lifespan of 70,000 hours and waterproof IP68 rating add to its appeal. However, the noise from the cooling fan can be noticeable, and some drivers might find the high brightness causes glare if not aligned properly. This bulb is ideal for drivers who prioritize maximum light output and reliable cooling, with the understanding that it may be slightly noisy.
Pros:- Extremely bright with 70,000 lumens for visibility
- Effective cooling with built-in fan
- Long lifespan and waterproof build
Cons:- Cooling fan noise may be noticeable
- High brightness could cause glare if not properly aligned
Best for: Drivers seeking maximum brightness with effective cooling in diverse weather conditions
Not ideal for: Those sensitive to noise or with very specific vehicle fit requirements
- Brightness:70,000 lumens
- Color Temperature:6500K
- Lifespan:70,000 hours
- Waterproof Rating:IP68
- Cooling Fan:15,000 RPM
- Compatibility:Most vehicles
Bottom line: Best for drivers who need intense illumination and reliable cooling, accepting some noise as part of the package.
Termitor Upgraded H11 9005 Light Bulbs Combo, 100,000LM Super Bright, 6500K White, Pack of 4
This set stands out for its extremely high brightness, delivering a combined 120,000 lumens that significantly outperforms most competitors like the SEALIGHT H13 H10 bulbs, which max out around 68,000 lumens. Its plug-and-play design makes installation straightforward, and the durable aviation aluminum body with a cooling fan supports long-term use. However, such intense brightness could be too harsh for oncoming traffic, and some vehicles might experience compatibility issues, especially with sensitive electronics. Compared to other options, this is best suited for drivers prioritizing visibility over subtlety and willing to manage potential glare.
Pros:- Exceptional brightness with 120,000 lumens for maximum visibility
- Easy to install with a universal fit, no flickering or errors
- Robust construction with aviation aluminum and cooling fan for longevity
Cons:- Potentially too bright for standard city driving, causing glare
- Possible compatibility issues with very sensitive vehicle electronics
Best for: Drivers who need the brightest possible headlights for off-road or rural driving conditions and are comfortable with adjusting to high glare levels
Not ideal for: Urban commuters or those with sensitive oncoming traffic, as the extreme brightness may cause glare and discomfort
- Light Source Type:High Intensity Discharge
- Specific Uses For Product:Fog Lights
- Color Temperature:6500 Kelvin
- Brightness:120,000 Lumens
- Color:White
- Fit Type:Universal Fit
- Light Output Maximum:130,000 Lumens
- Package Quantity:4
- Warranty:30-Day Return Guarantee
Bottom line: This bulb pack is perfect for drivers seeking the highest brightness, especially in challenging conditions, but may be overkill for everyday urban use.
How We Picked
I evaluated these LED headlight bulbs based on several key criteria that matter most to drivers: brightness levels measured in lumens, build quality, ease of installation, durability, and overall value. I prioritized products with high lumen outputs but also considered beam pattern quality to ensure effective illumination without blinding oncoming traffic. Waterproof and heat dissipation features were essential to gauge long-term reliability in various weather conditions. The ranking reflects a balance between performance, longevity, and user-friendliness, helping buyers find options that suit different needs and budgets.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best LED Headlight Bulbs
Choosing the best LED headlight bulbs involves understanding several critical factors beyond just brightness. It’s important to consider compatibility with your vehicle, installation ease, and how well the bulbs perform in different weather conditions. A well-informed purchase ensures safer driving and longer-lasting performance. Here are the main points to keep in mind:Brightness and Lumens
While high lumens suggest brighter headlights, it doesn’t automatically translate to better visibility. Beam pattern and cutoff line quality are equally important to prevent blinding other drivers. Look for a balance; excessively bright bulbs can create glare, especially if the beam pattern isn’t well-designed.
Compatibility and Fit
Not all LED bulbs fit every vehicle. Pay close attention to your car’s make and model, ensuring the bulb size and socket type match. Some bulbs come with adapters or multiple base options to ease installation, which can save time and frustration.
Durability and Waterproofing
Road conditions vary, so choose bulbs with high IP ratings (like IP68) and quality heat dissipation features. These ensure your bulbs withstand rain, snow, and dust, maintaining performance over time and reducing the risk of failure.
Ease of Installation
Some LED bulbs are plug-and-play, taking only minutes to install, while others require more technical work or removal of parts. Consider your comfort level and whether you want to avoid professional installation costs.
Price and Value
Higher cost often correlates with better longevity and performance, but there are budget options that perform well for casual drivers. Decide whether you prioritize long-term durability or a more affordable short-term upgrade, and look for reviews that confirm real-world reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will brighter LED headlights blind oncoming traffic?
Not necessarily. The effectiveness of LED headlight bulbs depends heavily on their beam pattern and cutoff line. Well-designed bulbs focus light into a proper beam that illuminates the road without causing glare. Choosing bulbs with adjustable beam patterns or those that meet legal standards can help prevent blinding other drivers.
Are LED headlight bulbs legal in all states?
Legality varies by location and specific vehicle regulations. Many regions require headlights to meet certain standards regarding brightness and beam pattern. Always check local laws before upgrading to LED bulbs, and opt for models that comply with DOT or ECE standards to avoid fines or failed inspections.
How long do LED headlight bulbs typically last?
Most quality LED headlight bulbs last between 30,000 to 50,000 hours, with some premium options exceeding 85,000 hours. Longevity depends on factors like heat dissipation, build quality, and usage conditions. Investing in well-reviewed, durable models can save money over time by reducing replacements.
Can I install LED headlights myself?
Many LED headlight bulbs are designed for straightforward installation and can be swapped out with basic tools, often in under 30 minutes. However, some vehicles have complex headlight assemblies requiring removal of parts or special adapters. Consulting your vehicle’s manual or a professional is advisable if you’re unsure about compatibility or installation complexity.
Do LED headlight bulbs improve night visibility more than halogen bulbs?
Yes, in most cases, LED bulbs provide significantly brighter and clearer illumination compared to halogen bulbs. They produce a whiter, more natural light that enhances contrast and reduces eye strain during night driving. However, the quality of the LED bulb’s beam pattern also determines how well visibility improves, not just raw brightness.
