5 Best RAM 1500 Headlights | Brighter Without the Blinding

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Sequential signals and dual LED strips that give your Ram a premium look without blinding oncoming traffic.

The AlphaRex PRO-Series transforms your 2016 Ram’s front end from utilitarian to modern. It features top and bottom LED daytime running lights plus switchback sequential turn signals (meaning the amber signal sweeps outward in sequence instead of blinking all at once). Buyers report an easy install under 1 hour, and the halogen bulbs that come with it deliver good spread and brightness without creating glare for other drivers.

At 26 pounds versus 25.4 pounds for the standard AlphaRex PRO-Series (880563), the extra weight comes from the dual-projector design and the sequential signal module. The smoke-black lens gives the truck an aggressive look while still being DOT (Department of Transportation) and SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) compliant, meaning it meets federal safety standards for beam pattern and reflector design. Note that this model does not fit factory projector Rams without additional adapters, and you will likely need a fuse tap for the DRL feature — reviewers mention using alphaOBD to clear any light-out errors when switching to LEDs.

The beam pattern from this MODIFY STREET version is similar to the AlphaRex 880563, but the lens setup on the DRL strips is different. For the price jump above the AKKON, you get modular H7 bulb sockets (replaceable without baking the headlight open) and a sharp cutoff line that actually keeps light out of oncoming lanes.

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A patented rectangular projector lens that creates a razor-sharp cutoff line designed for American roads.

The AlphaRex 880563 is the projector specialist here. Its rectangular projector lens is patented and built to produce a clean cutoff line that meets LHD (left-hand drive) regulations — meaning the beam pattern keeps your light aimed at the road and out of oncoming traffic. At 25.4 pounds versus 26 pounds for the MODIFY STREET AlphaRex PRO-Series, the compact dimensions (24 x 26 x 14 inches) reflect a slightly different internal layout.

One buyer who replaced failing factory projectors on a 2017 Ram 1500 reported excellent build quality and zero moisture after 5 months — the housing includes a desiccant bag (a moisture-absorbing pouch) to handle any internal humidity. The unit uses replaceable H7 bulbs (halogen bulbs are included in the box), and the sequential turn signal looks OEM-grade. The same reviewer noted that the sharp cutoff line is a clear step up from the older factory projectors.

This headlight does require you to remove the grille during installation, and trucks with factory single-plug projectors will need the ARX810003 adapter harness (sold separately). Unlike the AS or OEDRO budget picks, this is a true projector housing with a replaceable bulb, not a reflector bowl. The trade-off versus the MODIFY STREET version is that the 880563 has a simpler DRL layout (top and middle strips) and weighs slightly less, but the light projection quality is arguably sharper.

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An affordable way to add an LED tube accent and projector housing without spending AlphaRex money.

The AKKON headlight brings a modern LED daytime running light tube to your 2016 Ram at a price well below the premium AlphaRex models. The black housing with the clear polycarbonate lens gives it a clean, dark look. It fits 2009-2018 Ram 1500 and 2500/3500 trucks with quad-beam halogen headlights, and it is compliant with DOT and SAE safety standards. One reviewer with a 2015 Ram 3500 reported a ~2-hour install, noting that the wiring for the LED strip requires tapping into a switched power source — they grounded to the power steering bolt and used the fuse box for ignition-switched power.

There are a few things to know before ordering. The AKKON headlight uses H11 low-beam and 9005 high-beam bulbs (not included), which is the standard quad-beam setup — but it does not include any bulbs, and the LED tube wiring requires some electrical work. Another reviewer pointed out that the LED strip color leans slightly yellow compared to the main headlight beam, so if you install cold-white LED bulbs, the mismatch is noticeable. The beam adjustment is also done from behind the assembly, meaning you have to partially remove the headlight to tweak the aim.

Compared to the OEDRO chrome assembly, the AKKON gives you a projector housing and an LED DRL tube at a higher price. But it lacks the patent-pending rectangular lens of the AlphaRex 880563, and the beam quality out of the reflector projector is less defined. Still, for the price, it is a solid entry into LED-accented lighting without the premium price tag.

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An OEM-style chrome reflector headlight that bolts on like factory for a fair price.

The OEDRO headlight is the straightforward choice: chrome housing, clear polycarbonate lens, and amber reflector. It is designed to look and function exactly like the stock 2016 Ram 1500 quad-beam headlight, so your truck keeps its original appearance while getting a fresh, clear lens. It uses H11 low-beam and 9005 high-beam bulbs (not included), and the one-way vent helps prevent moisture buildup. Buyers consistently mention that the fit and finish are excellent, and one owner with a white truck specifically noted how good the clear lens looks against a lighter paint color.

One reviewer did flag a real issue: the spring clip on the bulb socket was too wide, requiring removal and pinching with pliers to fit the bulb — wasting about 30 minutes. They pre-shaped the other side for a smooth install, which is worth doing before you mount the assembly. Another reviewer mentioned that the blacked-out look (on the darker housing variant) does not reduce visibility, but they worry about long-term yellowing or flaking similar to a previous set. So far, the current set is moisture-sealed and holding up.

Compared to the AS headlight assembly, the OEDRO has a chrome housing that more closely matches the factory look for owners who do not want a blacked-out front end, and it gets consistently higher customer ratings. It is heavier and feels more substantial than the AS unit, and the installation is genuinely plug-and-play if you check the spring clip fit beforehand.

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A direct-fit replacement headlight with IP65 sealing at an entry-level price point.

The AS headlight assembly is the most budget-friendly option in this list, but it still covers the essentials. It is IP65 certified (fully sealed against dust and water jets), meaning it can handle rainy days and snowy mountain roads without fogging internally. The reflector bowl is made from BMC (Bulk Molding Compound), which the manufacturer claims provides a 98% reflection rate for better light output from your standard 9005 and H11 bulbs. At 5.8 kilograms (roughly 12.8 pounds) versus 25.4 to 26 pounds for the AlphaRex units, it is easier to box and handle, but some owners may prefer the heft of a premium assembly.

The AS headlight is designed for a 15-minute or less install according to the manufacturer, with no modification or cutting needed. It includes both driver and passenger sides in the box. However, unlike the OEDRO, there are no verified customer reviews in the available data to confirm real-world fitment or longevity — so consider this a starting point if you are on a tight budget and need a known basic spec. The one-year warranty provides some confidence if issues come up.

Compared to the OEDRO, the AS lacks the chrome housing detail and the one-way vent of the OEDRO. The IP65 rating is a real plus at this price — the AS is the only budget model that explicitly lists an IP waterproofing standard. If you need a sealed, functional headlight that costs as little as possible, this is it. Just manage expectations: it is a basic reflector housing, not a projector, and the beam pattern will match a factory halogen setup.