LED Watermelon Lights vs Incandescent Lights: Which Upgrade is Better?

21st Feb 2025

Watermelon lights are commonly used for functional purposes like side marker lighting or cab roof lighting, and sometimes just for aesthetic appeal like grille accents or underglow effects.

They are also wildly popular at truck shows and add a ton of style to most class 8 heavy-duty trucks while serving a useful, functional purpose.

However, plenty of semi-truck drivers opt for the classic-looking glass incandescent lights as well. These lights emanate a softer and less saturated hue.

Between these two options, which aftermarket lighting upgrade is better for your big rig?

Where Can Watermelon Lights be Mounted on a Semi Truck?

Depending on the size, color, and bezel setup, you can mount them nearly anywhere, including the roof, visor, bumper, sleeper cab (interior and exterior), and on the frame as underglow lighting.

Some people ask, can watermelon lights be used as rear brake lights? They cannot be used as brake lights due to their light beam and wire setup. Watermelon lights can be used as stop/tail/turn lights, however.

What Should You Choose?

Driver Type	Best Option	Why
Long-haul OTR	LED	Longevity + reduced maintenance
Local delivery	Either	Depends on style preference
Classic truck restoration	Incandescent	Authentic look
Show truck	LED	Color versatility + saturation
Extreme cold climates	LED	Better durability in vibration + temp swings

Pros & Cons of LED Watermelon Lights

LEDs are considered the industry standard, since they are more durable, longer lasting, and have a water-tight seal to prevent moisture build up.

Pros:

Longer lifespan – LEDs can last up to 50,000 hours.
Energy-efficient – significantly lower power draw than incandescent bulbs.
Brighter and sharper colors – available in a variety of hues (amber, red, orange, purple).
Durable – more resistant to vibrations and weather conditions.

Cons:

Higher upfront cost – more expensive than incandescent lights.
Some LEDs lose the classic "glow" – can look too sharp or unnatural.
Compatibility – may require additional wiring or voltage adjustments.

Learn a bit more about glass watermelon LED lights:

Breakin' It Down With Bossman - Legendary Glass Watermelon LED Lights

Pros & Cons of Incandescent Watermelon Lights

The glass light lenses have an old-school, classic look to them. Most drivers love them because they throw a unique pattern against the body of the truck.

Pros:

Vintage, warm glow – matches classic rigs and older truck models.
Lower upfront cost – generally cheaper than LED options.
Easy to replace – widely available at truck stops and parts stores.

Cons:

Shorter lifespan – typically lasts around 1,000-2,000 hours.
Higher power draw – puts more strain on the truck’s electrical system.
Heat generation – can contribute to wear and tear.

Incandescent vs. LED Watermelon Lights Comparison

Brightness

Incandescent: warmer, lower lumen
LED: brighter sharp colors

Lifespan

Incandescent: 1,000 - 2,000 hours
LED: 50,000 + hours

Power Usage

Incandescent: higher energy consumption
LED: lower energy consumption

Durability

Incandescent: sensitive to intense road vibrations
LED: slightly better shock-resistant housings

Aesthetic

Incandescent: classic look, softer glow
LED: modern, vibrant look

Price

Incandescent: low upfront cost
LED: higher cost, but longer-term value

Light Lenses: Glass vs. Acrylic vs. Polycarbonate

Glass lenses produce an iconic, vintage glow which is perfect for running a show truck or a custom build. They're heavier than polycarbonate lenses, but are more fragile and come at a slightly higher cost. Acrylic lenses are more budget-friendly and lightweight. Polycarbonate lenses are more impact resistant, but don't give the same type of soft, warm glow that glass lense do.

Which One is the Best Choice for Your Rig?

For Classic Truck Enthusiasts & Vintage Look

Incandescent lights provide that nostalgic, warm glow.

For Owner-Operators Focused on Longevity & Efficiency

LEDs save power and last longer.

For Show Trucks & Customization

LEDs offer more color options and better brightness for night displays.

Fleets Managing Multiple Trucks

LEDs for reduced maintenance costs over time.

Top Suggested Watermelon Lights to Consider

Legendary Glass Watermelon Lights with Stainless Steel Bezel LEDs

Amber LED Watermelon Cab Light

Top Suggested Incandescent Lights

Incandescent Watermelon Lights for Front Air Cleaner Bracket

Flush Mount Glass Watermelon Light with Mounting Base

Shop for Legendary Watermelon Lights at 4 State Trucks

Install some of the top-performing aftermarket watermelon lights to accentuate your big rig’s look. If you need help finding the perfect cab or marker lights for your truck model, give us a call.

21st Feb 2025