Osram OEM 4300K vs Osram CBI 6000K
Have you heard about Osram?
Light is OSRAM: celebrating 110 years.
Ever since it was founded in early 1900s, OSRAM, leading brands in the light industry, committed to provide the top-quality products and offers the key technologies of the light market globally.
OSRAM is also known as SYLVANIA for American and Canadian market.
Definition of OEM
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)
Car makers do not produce the lamps (and other parts). The actual lamp itself is manufactured by either OSRAM or PHILIPS. Most vehicles normally come with 4300K which is yellowish white color.
OEM parts are generally known as the highest quality but also the most expensive parts you can find as a replacement. Auto makers (or your service coordinator from your dealership) always recommend you to go with OE parts because not only is it the only part they carry but also you have a higher risk of damaging your entire headlight housing with non-OEM parts. It is true that uneven electric current (caused by low quality bulb) may produce a higher temperature than usual which will shorten the lifespan of other parts nearby.
More importantly, OSRAM and PHILIPS are working directly with the manufacturers, meaning it is designed exclusively to work with your vehicle (your headlamp housing or your projectors) for the best lighting output. Even if you installed a better (or more expensive) light bulbs, you may not get the result you expected with non-OEM parts.
Difference between OEM vs CBI
OSRAM Xenarc CBI (Cool Blue Intense)
When headlamps were first introduced in late 1880s, the purpose of the headlamp is to illuminate the road ahead of you so driver can see through darkness. In 21 st century, it is more than just to light up the street but to add a distinctive style to your ride.
I have been asked by customer, ‘I know that I also have the same Xenon light system but why do other’s look whiter than mine?’
Yes, some high-end vehicles are originally equipped with higher spec headlamps, OSRAM Cool Blue Intense (CBI). If your vehicle came with OSRAM lamps from factory, then yes, you can use this Cool Blue Intense as a direct OE replacement part. OSRAM Cool Blue Intense Xenon (also available for halogen) lamps offer up to 20% more light as compared to OE spec bulbs. In terms of color, it offers up to 6000K (5000K for older generation) which is relatively higher color temperature than normal OE spec lamps which is, again, 4300K for most vehicles.
Comparison video between OEM 4300K vs. CBI 6000K
Downside?
The only thing I can think of is the price. It is more expensive than originally equipped OSRAM xenon 4300K lamps. Is it worth it? It is something that buyers need to decide on their own, depending on their preferences and needs.