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Quick answer
9005 and 9006 look alike, but OSRAM lists them with different bases and wattage. The 9005 (HB3) uses a P20d base at 60 W nominal. The 9006 (HB4) uses a P22d base at 51 W nominal. Buy the number your owner's manual lists for each position.
Basic halogen 2-packs (Sylvania):
Sylvania H11 Basic 2-pack Sylvania 9005 Basic 2-pack Sylvania 9006 Basic 2-packThe numbers
| Bulb | Other name | Base (OSRAM) | Nominal wattage (OSRAM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9005 | HB3 | P20d | 60 W |
| 9005XS | HB3A | P20d | 60 W |
| 9006 | HB4 | P22d | 51 W |
| 9006XS | HB4A | P22d | 51 W |
| 9012 | HIR2 | PX22d | 55 W |
The "HB" names and the four-digit numbers are two labels for the same bulb, so a pack marked 9005 and one marked HB3 are the same size. The XS and A versions share the base of their parent bulb in OSRAM's table, but they are listed as separate products, so check your manual before swapping one for the other.
Why the wattage label can differ
OSRAM's table lists 60 W nominal for the 9005, while Philips' HB3 datasheet title says 12 V, 65 W. The two makers state different figures, so don't use the wattage on the box to decide whether a bulb fits. Use the bulb number.
Which goes where?
That depends on the car. Philips lists high beam, low beam and front fog as uses for its HB3. Your owner's manual has the chart for your model.
Replace in pairs. Sylvania says always replace bulbs in pairs to keep brightness and color equal. Its 9005 and 9006 Basic bulbs come as 2-packs.
How we work: bases and wattage come from OSRAM's ORIGINAL LINE table. We don't test bulbs ourselves. Sources are listed below.
Questions people ask
Is 9005 the same as 9006?
No. OSRAM lists 9005 (HB3) on a P20d base at 60 W and 9006 (HB4) on a P22d base at 51 W.
Is HB3 the same as 9005?
Yes. OSRAM's table lists 9005 and HB3 as the same bulb, and 9006 and HB4 as the same bulb.
What about 9012?
OSRAM lists the 9012 (HIR2) on a PX22d base at 55 W, a different base from both 9005 and 9006.
Sources
Last checked Oct 23, 2026. Bases and wattage come from OSRAM's spec table. Sylvania says replace bulbs in pairs and never touch the glass. Follow your owner's manual for bulb access.
