Neon vs. LED Underglow

In the world of aftermarket customization, automotive enthusiasts have taken to lighting up the night with undercar lights, also called "underglow". Tuners can choose between neon or LED light to bring a splash of light and color to their ride, but the two underglow lights are not made equal.

Underglow

Undercar lighting, or underglow, light underneath the body of the car. Usually, the lights are bright, colorful and coordinated to match the vehicle they're installed on.

Neon Underglow

Neon has been the standard for underglow for years, providing bright, sharp colors to match an aftermarket enthusiast's needs. Neon lights can be set to interface with the car's stereo and strobe to the beat of the music, among other effects.

LED Underglow

A more popular choice in recent years is LED underglow. LED lights provide a number of difference from their neon counterparts, including more spectacular effects such as fading, chasing, pulsating and having multiple colors per tube.

Neon vs LED

Neon and LED underglow are similar, but not identical. Neon underglow tends to be brighter, although newer LED kits include more lights for brighter underglow. LED kits offer a wider range of effects, and LED light tubes are considerably hardier than their neon counterparts, offering better durability and protection from damage.

Legality

Whether you choose neon or LED underglow, consult local law enforcement as to the laws regarding undercar lights in your area. Some areas ban them entirely, while others only ban lights of a certain brightness, color or location on the car.

References

• Urban Neon Car Lights: Car Light FAQ