But there are dozens and dozens of LED bulbs, kits, and everything else. What do you actually need to know about so you can get the best light pods for your money? Here's what we'll show you:
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Overview of the different light specs, including color temperature
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List of products with current prices and a handy comparison table
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Answers to common questions about LED light pods.
Ready to get started?
Buying Guide for LED Pod Lights
There are many products on the market and some important questions to answer. Let's go through some of the main things you'll want to think about before you make a purchase.
Why Use LED Pod Lights?
LED pod lights have become increasingly popular for their versatility and efficiency. Unlike traditional halogen or incandescent bulbs, LED pod lights offer a range of benefits that make them a superior choice for various applications.
Firstly, Durability is a key factor. LED rock lights are known for their robust construction. They are often encased in high-grade, weather-resistant materials, making them ideal for use in harsh outdoor conditions. Whether it's rain, snow, or dust, these lights continue to function effectively.
Energy Efficiency is another significant advantage. LEDs consume significantly less power than traditional bulbs, which means they have a lower impact on your vehicle’s battery and alternator. This efficiency doesn't compromise their brightness.
LED lights offer Longevity. They have a much longer lifespan compared to traditional bulbs. This means fewer replacements, less maintenance, and ultimately, cost savings in the long run.
Lastly, Customization is a highlight. LED pod lights come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing for a high degree of customization to suit your specific needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for spotlights for focused beam or floodlights for wider illumination, there's an LED pod light for every requirement.
Choosing the Right LED Pods
Selecting the right LED pods can be a daunting task given the myriad of options available. Here are some key factors to consider:
Brightness: Look for the lumen count to gauge the brightness. A higher lumen count usually means a brighter light, but consider your needs – overly bright lights might not be necessary for certain applications.
Beam Pattern: LED pod lights typically come in two beam patterns – spot and flood. Spot beams provide a narrow, focused light perfect for distance. Flood beams offer a wider, more diffused light, ideal for illuminating larger areas. Some LED pods combine both patterns for versatility.
Size and Fit: Ensure the LED pods fit your vehicle or intended mounting spot. Consider the size and shape of the pods and check compatibility with your vehicle or mounting surface.
Build Quality: Look for LED pods with sturdy construction. Good quality lights should have high-grade, durable materials like aluminum housings and should be rated for water and dust resistance (look for IP ratings).
Brand Reputation and Warranty: Choose a reputable brand that offers a warranty. This ensures that you get a quality product and support in case of any issues.
LED Lights: LED Pods or LED Light Bars?
When it comes to choosing between LED pods and LED light bars, it boils down to your specific needs and installation space.
LED Pods are compact and can be installed in small or tight spaces, like the grilles or bumpers of a vehicle. Their small size makes them versatile for a variety of applications, not just in vehicles but also in outdoor settings like camping or boating. They're ideal for those who require focused lighting in specific areas.
LED Light Bars, on the other hand, are longer and provide a more extensive spread of light, making them suitable for illuminating larger areas. They are perfect for off-road driving, providing a broad view of the road ahead and the surrounding environment. Their size makes them more suited for mounting on the roof or above the windshield of a vehicle.
Note that for normal road driving, you will want to check your state's laws. In some states, an LED light bar or pod system cannot be used as a driving light because it will dazzle other drivers.
Top LED Light Pods
The Black Oak LED pods are perfect off-road lighting solutions for your outdoor adventures. They come with mounting brackets for easy installation. Add a few super bright pods as a complement to your driving lights or pair them with an LED light bar to really brighten up your world.
Black Oak LED Pro Series 2.0 - 20w or 40w CREE XM-L2
The Black Oak LED Pro Series 2.0 is a compact yet powerful LED light pod available in 20w or 40w configurations, using high-quality Osram or Cree XM-L2 LEDs. It is designed for a variety of applications, offering options for both spot beam pattern and flood lights.
Specifications:
- Construction Material: Durable Dynamax housing with 360° Ceramic Protection
- Bulb Type: 5 watt Osram LEDs or 10 watt Cree XM-L2 LEDs
- Lumens: 3,120
- IP Rating: IP69K (dust tight and protected against high-pressure water jets)
- Power Usage: 20w or 40w options
- Price: $92.65 (for the base model)
Use Cases & Installation:
- Ideal for fog light replacements, bow lights on boats, ditch lights on trucks/UTVs
- Suitable for trailer lighting, front bumper lights, and auxiliary motorcycle lights
- Can be mounted virtually anywhere, with all necessary hardware included
PROS
- Enhanced visibility with 60% more light output
- Strong, waterproof seal with Hydrex Seal Lock IP69
- Versatile for both marine and off-road use
- Upgraded hardware for increased durability
CONS
- Could provide too much bright illumination and make life safer
- Higher price point compared to easily breakable basic models
Black Oak LED Pro Series 2.0 Flush Mount LED POD Light: 40w CREE XM-L2 - Flood or Diffused
The Black Oak LED Pro Series 2.0 Flush Mount LED POD Light is a highly durable and powerful lighting solution, featuring 40w CREE XM-L2 LEDs. It's designed for a range of applications, offering both flood and diffused lighting options in a compact, flush-mount design.
Specifications:
- Construction Material: Dynamax Housing with 360° Ceramic Protection
- Bulb Type: 10 watt Cree XM-L2 LEDs
- Lumens: 3,120
- IP Rating: IP69K (excellent protection against harsh conditions)
- Power Usage: 40 watts
- Price: £102.00
Use Cases & Installation:
- Ideal for front bumper lighting in trucks and Jeeps, reverse lights, work lights, and headache rack lights.
- Suitable for a variety of vehicles including ATVs, RZRs, jeeps, and trucks.
- Easy to mount with complete wiring harness, brackets, and necessary hardware included.
PROS
- Exceptionally durable and weather-resistant.
- Compact size with powerful light output.
- Versatile for multiple vehicle applications.
- Easy installation with complete hardware provided.
CONS
- Your eyes will get lazy since the light's brightness means no more squinting at night
- Too much positive attention from how attractive this makes your vehicle
GoPod - Marine Clamp On Spot Light - Black Oak LED Pro Series 2.0
The GoPod - Marine Clamp On Spot Light from Black Oak LED's Pro Series 2.0 is an exceptional lighting solution tailored for marine use. Its robust design and powerful illumination capabilities make it a must-have for boat owners seeking reliable and versatile lighting.
Specifications:
- Mounting: Unique Clamp On design, adaptable to 1" - 1.875" Tubes or Any Flat Surface
- Light Angle: 15° spot beam with a reach of 780m
- Lumens: Over 3,000 raw lumens
- Power Source: 12v Socket Harness, standard wiring harness included
- Material: Heavy Dupont Powder Coated Aluminum with UV Inhibitor
- Lens: UV Resistant Lexan
- IP Rating: IP68 & IP69K
- Price:
Use Cases & Installation:
- Perfect for identifying channel markers, traps, buoys, and ensuring safe night navigation.
- Ideal for docking and as a removable spot light.
- Offers a versatile lighting solution that doesn't require permanent mounting or hardwiring.
- Easy to install and remove, making it suitable for different boats or locations.
PROS
- Powerful and focused lighting enhances safety and visibility in dark or challenging conditions.
- Durable and weather-resistant design, suitable for harsh marine environments.
- The clamp-on feature allows easy installation and removal without the need for permanent alterations to the boat.
- Efficient power usage ensures minimal battery drain.
- Versatile for various marine activities, providing high-end functionality.
CONS
- Given its specific design, it may not be as suitable for non-marine applications.
- The high intensity of the light might require careful positioning to avoid dazzling others on the water.
Overall, the GoPod - Marine Clamp On Spot Light is an invaluable tool for marine enthusiasts, offering a blend of power, durability, and versatility. Its ability to illuminate surroundings with ease makes it an essential accessory for safe and enjoyable boating experiences.
GoPod - Suction Cup Flood Light - Black Oak LED Pro Series 2.0
The GoPod Suction Cup Flood Light from Black Oak LED Pro Series 2.0 is a versatile and robust lighting solution. Its unique suction cup mounting base and portable design make it an ideal choice for a variety of lighting needs, particularly in outdoor and remote locations.
Specifications:
- Mounting: Innovative Suction Cup Base for Any Flat Surface
- Light Angle: 45° flood beam reaching up to 580m
- Lumens: High-intensity illumination
- Power Source: 12v Socket Harness with a 20-foot wiring harness for extended reach
- Material: Heavy Dupont Powder Coated Aluminum with UV Inhibitor
- Lens: UV Resistant Lexan
- IP Rating: IP68 & IP69K
- Price:
Use Cases & Installation:
- Suitable as a forward-facing light on vehicles, for jobsite lighting, marine navigation, and as a portable floodlight.
- Easily mounted on any flat surface, making it perfect for outdoor activities and work in remote areas.
- The long wiring harness allows for flexible placement and lighting adjustment.
PROS
- High mobility due to the suction cup mounting, making it easy to move and reposition.
- The floodlight provides extensive coverage, making it ideal for lighting up large areas.
- Durable and weather-resistant, suitable for use in various environments.
- Low power consumption ensures minimal battery drain.
- Versatile for multiple applications, providing reliable and strong lighting.
CONS
- The suction cup mount may limit the light's use on surfaces that are not flat or smooth.
- Sudden brightness might show you the scary gators in the swamp or the bears in the woods.
Overall, the GoPod - Suction Cup Flood Light is a practical and efficient lighting solution for those who need a portable and powerful light source. Its easy mounting and strong illumination make it an essential tool for various outdoor activities, work sites, and marine use.
Conclusion: Black Oak LED Pods are the Winner
We're biased, of course. We are proud of Black Oak LED. We are proud of the top-quality products we put on the market and how well they match up against any competitor. We've included two of our top sellers. The standard LED light pod will work for most people and is super flexible. The flush mount LED pod is great for slim, stylish installations suitable for your car, truck, or other vehicles. If these don't suit what you want, check out our other LED Light Pods.
FAQ
Do LED pod lights get hot?
Not really, no. LED lights are much cooler than standard lights. Most light pods don't have enough LEDs in them to get significantly hot. LED light bars or more powerful spot lights with multiple LEDs could get warm enough to warrant a fan, but this is pretty unusual.
What are the brightest off road lights?
Brightness is a matter of lumens and color temperature. Yellow lights may not feel as bright as a white light. But both can be very effective. The brightest off road lights are between 3,100 raw lumens and 12,000 raw lumens. Buying multiple lights with a different beam pattern will be mroe effective than a single source of light.
What are the best LED light pods?
Black Oak LED make the best LED light pods. They are IP69k certified, making them ideal for off roading. Their robust Dynamax housing is super tough and protects your investment. They also come with mounting hardware and fit easily to most vehicles.
