[corey415]

HID headlights are almost three times as bright as a regular bulb. The total light output is measured in lumens.

A HID bulb should last almost 10 times as long as a halogen bulb.

That is just the HID bulb itself. In terms of light output, the optical interface (reflector or projector) that the HID bulb resides in is actually the most important factor.

A HID reflector or projector is designed specifically for the high output of a HID bulb. It is the HID projector that creates the brilliant color, razor sharp cutoff, and even, wide beam.

Thats why if you really care about the light output, you will do a full HID retrofit instead of a HID kit. Installing a HID kit is only half of the equation, so to speak.

$15 bulbs are garbage. They are tinted blue to appear as if it is HID, however the light output should be no better than a regular halogen bulb. The only way to get better output from a halogen bulb is to use higher wattage bulbs.