Let’s say you want to add an LED light bar for more illumination. But when you start shopping, you come face-to-face with a decision to make. Should you choose a single-row or double-row light bar? Each choice has advantages and disadvantages. Here are some thoughts to guide you to the best decision for your needs.
Reasons to choose a single-row LED light bar
Low profile: Single-row light bars have a slim and less noticeable appearance. Sometimes people want that simply for appearance reasons, but other times it’s for practical reasons like need to fit the light into a confined area.
Less obstruction: Any light bar is going to add some airflow-blocking obstruction. A single-row light bar simply adds less than a double-row counterpart. Single-row bars produce less drag and wind noise than double-row ones.
Sufficient lighting:: The reason to add a light bar is to produce more lighting, but sometimes a single-row model gives you what you need without overdoing it. There is no point in adding excessive lighting when you don’t need it.
Less power consumption: The more lights you’re powering, the greater the drain on your battery and alternator. If a single-row light bar serves the purpose, you don’t want to use more electrical power than necessary.
Reasons to choose a double-row LED light bar
Maximum lighting capacity: Double-row LED light bars produce more light. If that’s what you need, double-row models are the best choice.
Off-roading: If you’re going off-road, having the most light possible is a benefit. Obstacles and hazards can be present on trails and in fields. The sooner you see them, the more time you have to react.
Sufficient electrical capacity: If you have the capacity to power your lights and all other electrical systems needs, you may want the full illumination capacity of a double-row bar. It never hurts to have more lighting than you need, but there are definite disadvantages to having less lighting than you need.
Good mounting location: Many people choose a single-row lightbar because they have space limitations. If you don’t have such limitations, choosing a double-row light bar gives you more freedom to choose the model you want.
Bold appearance: Some people choose light bars for a low-profile look, but others want just the opposite. They want something that looks bigger and more bold in appearance. Double-row light bars accomplish that preference.
Equipping your vehicle with the right LED light bar
Like any purchase, you need to consider your needs and the benefits of each choice. Both single-row and double-row light bars have advantages and disadvantages. Knowing the difference and choosing the one that meets your needs will result in the best outcome.
