When it comes to automotive lighting options, you have your work cut out for you. So, how do you know which one is the best for your vehicle? We’ll go over the integral information and give our recommendation on what 3057 bulb to buy.
Contents
What Does a 3057 Bulb Look Like?
A 3057 bulb is a 2.1-inch long S-8 glass bulb with a plastic double filament wedge base. Note that this bulb is classified as a straight-sided bulb with a 1-inch diameter glass globe.
The base of the bulb is a W3x16q base or a double filament base. Just keep in mind that it’s made of plastic with a wedge shape compared to a round or metal base.
Typically, look for a clear, blue light, red, or amber glass finished bulb with a black or grey plastic base. You should be able to see a contact wire on each side of the base.
What Is a 3057 Bulb Used For?
A dependable, solid bulb, the 3057 bulb is an automotive bulb, often called a miniature bulb. It’s most commonly used in all kinds of cars. Find them in boats and other watercraft, planes, and different types of train cars as well.
The 3057 bulb has a lower intensity than other comparable options. It’s not dim by any means, with a clear bulb that shines white. The brightness and intensity level makes it perfect for rear vehicle lights, such as turn signal lights, backup lights, taillights, and parking lights.
Size of the Bulb
You must know the length and diameter of both bulbs and the base type, especially if you are replacing another bulb with a 3057 bulb. Considered a miniature bulb, the 3057 is 2.1 inches in length from tip to base with a 1-inch diameter bulb.
3057 Bulb General Performance
Below we’ve provided a basic overview of the specifications for this bulb. Check them out:
| Specs for 3057 Bulb | |
| Brightness | 402 lumens |
| Energy Consumption | 12.8/14.0 volts; wattage of 26.88 |
| Candlepower | 32/2 |
| Filament | Double filament, C-6/C-6 |
| Bulb Technology | Halogen technology and clear bulb finish |
Now let’s go over each specification in detail, so you have all the information to make the best choice for you:
Brightness
At 402 lumens, the 3057 bulb is an extremely bright white light from clear glass. Like we mentioned before, this bulb is used for rear automotive lights.
Look for them in brake lights, reverse lights, tail lights, and turn signal lights. The clear glass bulbs are perfect for all uses and are usually seen behind red film brake lights.
There are brighter wedge base bulbs that are brighter, such as the 3157 or 4057 bulbs. Because of its decent brightness, The 3057 bulb is ideal for cars used in urban settings with more common street lighting.
Energy Consumption
This bulb has a wattage of 26.88 with a 12.8 to 14.0-volt output. The 3057 bulb draws a moderate current compared to other bulbs in its category. This wattage and voltage mean that while it certainly is a bright bulb, it’s not considered the biggest energy consumer in its bracket.
Candlepower
With a candle power of 32/2, the 3057 has a less intense light. This particular bulb is not recommended for frontal vehicle lights but is perfect for rear light uses.
Filament
Like other miniature bulbs, the 3057 contains a C-6 design double filament. The C-6 design is a single-coil filament made of tungsten metal is a robust and durable filament commonly used in these types of bulbs.
Bulb Technology
Both incandescent and LED 3057 bulbs are available. There are also halogen 3057s to consider that are more energy-efficient than regular incandescent bulbs. However, halogen bulbs are actually a type of incandescent bulb, so we’ll stick to comparing the two latter options.
If you have a vehicle that calls for incandescent bulbs, check with your manufacturer before switching to LED. If you have a vehicle that uses LED light bulbs, you can switch between the two as you wish.
Durability
When it comes to durability, the 3057 bulb is a sturdy miniature bulb. Its wedge base is made to tolerate high vehicle vibration and shock. Brands like Philips and Sylvania promise a lengthier life with their halogen 3057 bulbs, but it all really depends on how these bulbs are used.
Lifespan Rating
The lifespan of the 3057 bulb is rated for an average of 1200 to 5000 hours. Lifespan truly depends on factors that include application, consistency of use, and environment.
Keep in mind that automotive bulbs are typically sold in pairs. The power of a bulb will eventually deteriorate no matter the use. Guarantee the quality and balance of your vehicle’s lighting system over time by replacing bulbs together. This may feel like a waste, but you can be sure that when one bulb dies, the other will soon follow it.
3057 Bulb Compatibilities
The 3057 bulb is compatible with many different vehicle lights. With its high intensity and low candle power, it’s ideal for many rear lighting needs that you may have. Use a 3057 as a tail light bulb, a reverse light bulb, a brake light bulb, or a turn signal light bulb.
In comparison to similar bulbs, the 3057 is compatible with a few models:
- 3157
- 4057
- 4157
The 3057 bulb is less bright than its counterparts. Always use a brighter bulb for front daytime lights over a dimmer 3057 bulb, which should only be used for rear lighting.
3057 Bulb Mounting Wedge
All four of these models have the same mounting wedge base. The alternatives to the 3057 bulb can be used in its place.
3057 Bulb Socket Base Size
With the 3057 base being a W3x16q base or double filament wedge base, they can all be used interchangeably without issue.
What Vehicle Does a 3057 Bulb Fit?
3057 bulbs are popular because they fit on a wide range of vehicles and have a variety of uses. If you are unsure of the best bulb fit for your particular make and model, contact your manufacturer for recommendations. Try using the helpful bulb replacement finder on the Philips Automotive website, as well!
Average Cost of a 3057 Bulb
Do a quick search on prices for a name brand 3057 bulb, and you notice a few things:
- 3057 bulbs typically come in singles, pairs, or bulk.
- You will pay an average of $5 for a pair of incandescent name brand bulbs or anywhere in the range of $20-$40 for a couple of LED bulbs.
- There are countless brands, but the tried and true name brands are the most accessible and reasonably priced.
How much you pay for a 3057 bulb depends on your purpose and viewpoint on investment. For example, while Sylvania Zevo LED 3057 bulbs cost an average of $20 for a pair, they come with a lifetime warranty. Also, LED bulbs are guaranteed energy savers.
Recommended 3057 Bulb Brands
Stick with the classics when it comes to 3057 bulb brands. Sylvania and Philips are the top contenders. You can find many competitors to these, but why do you need to look further?
The Sylvania LongLife 3057 bulbs boast a lifespan twice as long as the typical 3057 bulbs. Philips’ CrystalVision 3057 bulbs offer an ultra-cool white light for your automotive needs. As an exception, consider NAPA Auto Parts 3057 bulbs for only $1 each on their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are a few commonly asked questions when it comes to the 3057 bulb. Let’s go over them here.
Will a 3057 bulb work for 3157?
The answer depends on how you are using it. It’s not recommended to use a 3057 bulb as a daytime running light. Use the brighter 3157 bulb here.
Are 3057, 3157, and 4057 bulbs interchangeable?
Because they all have the same wedge base, they are all interchangeable. We suggest trying to stick with the same wattage where you use any of these bulbs.
What is the difference between a 3157 and a 3057 bulb?
The 3157 bulb has more candle power at 32/3 over the 3057 bulb with a candle power of 32/2. This makes the 3157 significantly brighter for similar wattage and energy output. For this reason, 3157s are recommended for daytime lights, whereas 3057s are not.
