3157 vs 3057 Bulbs: Which Is Best For Your Car in (2024)

Car lighting systems are diverse and require different light bulbs to accomplish various tasks. When searching for the most suitable bulb for a particular application, such as brake lights, you must consider brightness, efficiency, and voltage specifications. Many people are confused by the interchangeability of 3057 and 3157 light bulbs, which are common in the automotive industry. To get a better perspective on the differences between 3057 and 3157, let’s look at 3057 versus 3157.

The debate over 3157 vs. 3057 is quite common now! 3057 and 3157 are mainly different in terms of their dim filaments. In contrast, the 3057 bulbs have only 32/2cp dim filaments, while the 3157 bulbs have more than 32/3cp dim filaments

The only difference between them is that they use D.F. wedge bases and dual filament bulbs. The only difference between them is that they use D.F. wedge bases and dual filament bulbs.

Let’s dive into this article to understand every crucial aspect of the difference between the two bulbs, 

3157 Vs 3057 Bulbs [Major Difference]

The main difference between 3157 and 3057 bulbs is the base type. 3157 bulbs have a wedge base, while 3057 bulbs have a screw base. They also have different wattages and voltage ratings, with the 3157 being slightly higher in both cases. Both bulbs can be used in a variety of automotive and household applications.

What Is The 3057 Bulb Used For?

What Is The 3057 Bulb Used For

3057 bulbs work with a broad spectrum of car lights, and they are ideal for use as backup lights, brake lights, parking lights, taillights, and turn signals. It is not dim, but its intensity is low, making it ideal for headlights and fog lights in the vehicle’s back instead of the front. It’s compact, has a long life between 1200 and 5000 hours, and is an excellent choice for city streets due to its intensity.

In addition to being utilized in automobiles, you may also find 3057 in other areas such as aviation, marine technology, and railroad equipment. There are several 3057 bulbs in the market, and you should look for the best ones if you want to gain maximum illumination. 

3057 Bulb Specs and Features

SYLVANIA - 3057 Long Life Miniature - Bulb


The 3057 bulb is 2.1-inches long and features a wedge-shaped plastic base with two filaments. This bulb has a glass globe with a 1-inch diameter and is classified as a straight-sided bulb.

This bulb has two different bases, a W3x16q and a double filament. Hence you need to remember that it’s plastic with a wedge shape rather than a round or metal base. The bulb bases and sizes matter a lot while purchasing one; hence be mindful to ask the store owner before purchasing it.  

If you are searching for a clear, light blue, red, or amber glass bulb with a black or gray base, you will likely find one of these colors. On either side of the base, you should see the contact wire as it’s the central element of the bulb. The contact wire connects to the energy source.

What Is The 3157 Bulb Used For?

The 3157 bulb is comparable to the 3057 bulbs because you can use it for all kinds of lights, including brake lights, taillights, parking lights, and turn signals. One significant difference between 3157 and 3157+ is using 3157 for daytime running lights. Brighter and longer-lasting than other bulbs, this bulb lasts a long time.

A 3157 light bulb of the best quality ensures you will receive the best service, and you will be in compliance with traffic laws in your state. This C-6 dual filament light bulb comes in many different brands.

3157 Bulb Features And Specs

Philips Automotive Lighting 3157LLB2 3157 Longer Life Miniature Bulb


Besides tail lights, you can also use LED replacement bulbs to replace brake lights, reverse lights, turn signals, and side marker lights. This dual-contact, 3157 bulb has 28 LEDs (0.5-watt SMD) configured to create a 360° viewing angle for brighter light coverage and fewer hot spots.

Designed for your car, truck, SUV, or van, this efficient bulb operates in a wide range of D.C. voltages from 9-14.8V—25 times longer than an incandescent bulb.  It features a tower-style base with a 16-mm wedge for simple plug-and-play installation. From cool white to natural white to amber to red, you have four colors to choose from. These do not come in pairs. Thus they are sold individually.

Difference Between 3057 vs 3157 Bulb

The difference between the two light bulbs is where their debate reaches its peak. Compared to the 3157 bulbs, the 3157 bulb is brighter. The 3057 has a candle power of 32/2, while it has a candle power of 32/3. In addition, they differ in electricity consumption, with the 3157 using more energy at a maximum of 26.9 watts. Another bulb, which consumes 26.88 watts, is not very far from this one.

Another area where there are variances is in the application. You can use these bulbs for car lights such as taillights, brake lights, parking lights, turn signals, and backup lights. The 3157, however, is the only bulb that you can run in the daytime, along with other running lights. There are differences in length, with the 3157 being shorter at 1.25 inches.

A significant difference between the two bulbs is also seen when you look at their life expectancy, with the 3157 being more durable with a life of 2000 to 10000 hours, longer than the 3057’s 1200 to 5000 hours. An incandescent bulb is the 3157, and a halogen light is the 3158.

What is the best of 3057 and 3157? You can select the light bulb that best suits your preferences based on the differences between the two light bulbs. In addition to producing more light than the 3157, it has a long life and is easy to use. 

As well as the other light, the 3057 is quite bright, although not as much as the other one. A low wattage suggests that it consumes little power from the car battery. With a difference of roughly one unit, they do not differ much from each other.

1. Size

It is recommended to occasionally use both bulbs since they have similar plastic D.F. bases. While considering sizes, there may be some distinctions in their diameter and lengths, but that makes the slightest difference in their working. They are S-8 shaped miniature bulbs.

There is one difference between the two models in length, where the 3157 measures 1.25 inches, compared to the 3057’s 2.09 inches. There is no difference in diameter between the two models. As they can fit into their respective sockets, you can use them instead of the other wedge D.F. base.

2. Brightness

3157 vs 3057 - Brightness

A light bulb’s brightness is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing one, as it should provide enough illumination to ensure the safety of everyone on the road. Compared to the 3057, the 3157 has a higher candle power, with a rating of 32/3, while the 3057 has a rating of 32/2. 

Furthermore, the 3157 produces more light with the same amount of energy. Most likely, it operates in daytime running lights because of its brightness. The 3057 light bulb has a lifespan of 1200 to 5000 hours, while the 3057 has an operating life span of 1200 to 3000 hours.

3. Life Span or Durability

It is more durable and has a longer lifespan, lasting between 2000 and 10000 hours, meaning more durable. City lights made with these bulbs perform well, primarily used for brake lights or taillights. 

With both types of bulbs, you can choose between halogen and incandescent types. Halogen bulbs are most efficient since they consume little energy yet produce more light. Their lifespan also exceeds that of incandescent bulbs. 

A notable difference between the 3157 and 3057 is the 3157 consumes more current with a wattage of 26.9/8.3, compared to 26.88/6.72 for the 3057.

4. Use of Energy

Compared with the 3057 bulbs, the 3157 uses more energy. The 3057 bulb consumes 6.72 watts, compared to the 3157, which consumes 8.3 watts. Between the 3057 and 3157 bulbs, the 3157 emits brighter light due to its higher current and greater power. 

Additionally, 3057 bulbs produce 2.1/5.93 ampere current, while 3157 bulbs produce 2.1/5.93 ampere current.

5. Price

3157 bulbs can cost between $5 and $5.3, while 3057 bulbs can cost between $5.3 and $8, depending on the brand. Therefore, the 3157 is comparatively more affordable than the 3057. 

Additionally, 3157’s cost-effectiveness and high performance make it a better choice than 3057.

What Are The Similarities Of The 3057 Vs 3157 Bulb

1. Shapes

An S-8 bulb is the same shape in both 3057 and 3157 bulbs. Furthermore, they have a wedge-shaped D.F. mounting base for mounting. Because of their similar shapes, you can easily swap them without even noticing.

2. Dual Filament

Each 3057 and 3157 bulb has a dual filament and is a C-6 bulb. Furthermore, both bulbs have filaments that have 32 candlepower.

3. Voltage

Each bulb is powered by the same voltage, 3057 and 3157. Furthermore, they run on a voltage of 12.8/14. In addition, both bulbs have the same circuitry to be reversed.

4. Mounting Wedge

Most car lighting systems can mount either 3057 or 3157 bulbs with the same wedge D.F. fittings. In this way, they can be installed together in the same holder and are interchangeable. However, you may need to check their sizes since sometimes they are of different lengths. 

There are times when the 3157 appears smaller than the 3057 with 1.25 inches and 2.09 inches, respectively. They are powered by the same circuit and have reversible bulbs, making them interchangeable. Furthermore, because of their similar wedge base mounting, each can be used instead of the other. Moreover, each can be placed in the other’s socket.

5. Size

The dimensions of the 3057 and 3157 bulbs are the same. They have a diameter of one inch and a length of 2.1 inches, respectively. However, there may be differences in height in some variants. Moreover, the 3157 may be smaller in some designs at 1.25 inches than the 3057’s 2.09 inches.

FAQs

How Many Watts Is A 3057 Bulb?*

With the 3057 bulbs, you can replace any backup light, brake light, parking light, tail light, or turn signal light. This bulb has a relatively long lifespan of 1200 to 5000 hours, making it ideal for city roads. Also, this bulb combines efficiency and brightness. I believe you should choose the 3057 bulbs with the best lighting capability, among so many options. Moreover, it has low-intensity lighting, so it’s perfect for the back of a car. The 3057 bulb has a wattage of 26.88. 

How Many Watts Is A 3157 Bulb?

3157 bulb usage is not limited to brake lights, taillights, parking lights but also for turning signal lights. Furthermore, its brightness makes it suitable for use as a running light during the daytime. Moreover, this bulb ensures that you follow all the traffic rules in your area and provide you with the best service. The filaments and gas mixtures can offer more reliable performance than others. There are 26.9 watts in the 3157 bulb.

Are 3157 And 3057 Bulbs Interchangeable?

Both the 3157 and 4157 use the same wedge base so that you can use either one instead of the other. It is impossible to distinguish between the two devices in light production capabilities, but the 4157 lasts longer than the 3157.

What bulbs are compatible with 3157?

Bulbs that are compatible with 3157 include 3057, 3457, 4057, and 4157. These bulbs have the same base design and can be used interchangeably, though their wattage and brightness might differ.

What bulbs are compatible with 3057?

Bulbs that are compatible with 3057 include 3157, 4057, and 4157. These bulbs can be interchanged due to their similar base design, but their wattage and brightness might vary.

Can you put a 3157 bulb in backwards?

A 3157 bulb has a unique base design that prevents backward installation. The bulb should only fit one way, ensuring proper installation and function.

Wrapping Up

Looking at the similarities and differences between 3057 and 3157, you might find that they differ in brightness and longevity. Nevertheless, the two items are interchangeable since they are similar in size and shape. 

You can use these bulbs as brake lights, taillights, parking lights, and turn signal lights. A 3157 bulb provides an additional benefit of being used as running lights during the daytime. We also discussed how incandescent bulbs and LED bulbs differ in this article. 

With this knowledge of the differences and similarities between 3057 and 3157, you will know which one needs replacement. Moreover, make sure your car has a suitable bulb and stay safe while driving.

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