HID vs. LED Headlights: Which Is Better for Your Kenworth T680?

Jun 18th 2025

When it comes to upgrading your Kenworth T680 headlights, two popular options often come up: HID (High-Intensity Discharge) and LED (Light Emitting Diode) headlights. Both lighting systems offer significant improvements over traditional halogen bulbs, but how do they compare? And more importantly, which one is the better choice for your Kenworth T680? This blog will dive into the benefits and drawbacks of HID vs. LED headlights and help you make an informed decision for your truck.

What Are HID and LED Headlights?

HID Headlights: These headlights use an electrical arc to produce light. The arc is created between two electrodes inside a gas-filled bulb, and the resulting light is brighter than traditional halogen lights. HID lights are known for their intense brightness and long-range illumination.
LED Headlights: LED lights use a semiconductor to convert electricity into light. Unlike HID lights, LEDs produce a more focused and energy-efficient light, which is increasingly becoming the preferred choice for vehicles. They are smaller, consume less power, and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional lighting systems.

Key Differences Between HID and LED Headlights

1. Brightness and Light Quality

HID Headlights: Known for their incredibly bright light, HID headlights can produce a large amount of light that’s perfect for long-distance visibility. These lights emit a whiter or bluish light, which mimics daylight. However, they might be too bright for other drivers, potentially causing glare and safety concerns.
LED Headlights: LED headlights are also bright but provide a more focused beam, which is ideal for illuminating the road without disturbing other drivers. They produce a bright white light with excellent color rendering, which helps improve visibility at night, in fog, or during inclement weather.

2. Energy Efficiency

HID Headlights: HID headlights consume more energy compared to LED headlights. While they are more energy-efficient than traditional halogen bulbs, they are still less efficient than LEDs, which means they may put more strain on your truck's electrical system over time.
LED Headlights: LED headlights are significantly more energy-efficient. They consume less power, which can help reduce the load on your truck’s electrical system, leading to less fuel consumption. This makes LEDs a better choice for long-term energy savings.

3. Durability and Lifespan

HID Headlights: HID lights have a relatively long lifespan, typically lasting between 2,000 to 3,000 hours. However, they can be more prone to damage from vibrations, which makes them less durable than LED headlights.
LED Headlights: LED headlights have a much longer lifespan, often lasting up to 10,000 hours or more. They are more durable, making them ideal for heavy-duty vehicles like the Kenworth T680. LEDs are also resistant to shock and vibrations, which makes them more suited for trucks that endure rough roads and bumpy terrain.

4. Heat Generation

HID Headlights: HID headlights generate more heat compared to LED lights. The higher heat levels require proper ventilation and cooling systems, which can add extra weight and complexity to the headlight assembly.
LED Headlights: LEDs generate much less heat than HID lights, which makes them more efficient and easier to maintain. The low heat production also helps prevent overheating, prolonging the lifespan of the headlights.

5. Cost

HID Headlights: HID lights are generally more affordable upfront than LED headlights, but the overall cost of maintenance and replacement can add up over time. Additionally, HID headlights require ballasts, which can increase the complexity and cost of installation.
LED Headlights: While LED headlights have a higher initial cost, they offer more value in the long term due to their longer lifespan and lower energy consumption. The reduced maintenance costs make LED headlights a more cost-effective choice in the long run.

Which is the Best Option for Your Kenworth T680?

1. For Better Performance and Visibility

If you're looking for long-range visibility and superior light intensity, HID headlights might be a suitable option. They offer incredibly bright and powerful beams, perfect for long-haul trucking.

2. For Cost-Effectiveness and Durability

LED headlights are the superior choice if you're looking for longevity, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. The longer lifespan and better performance in a variety of driving conditions make LEDs the ideal option for a Kenworth T680 that spends a lot of time on the road.

3. For Better Safety and Driver Comfort

If you want the best balance of brightness, safety, and comfort, LED headlights are the way to go. They provide superior color rendering, better visibility, and a more focused beam that minimizes glare for other drivers. This makes LEDs the better choice for night driving and traveling through inclement weather.

Aftermarket Kenworth T680 Headlights from QSC Truck Parts

When choosing aftermarket Kenworth T680 headlights, consider factors like brightness, energy efficiency, lifespan, and the overall design of the headlights. At QSC Truck Parts, we offer a wide selection of high-quality aftermarket semi truck parts, including Kenworth T680 headlights, to help keep your truck safe and functional.

Whether you need HID or LED headlights, our range of products ensures that you have access to the best solutions for your truck's needs. We offer affordable pricing, easy installation options, and expert advice to help you choose the right headlights for your Kenworth T680.