The 5 Best Tacoma Headlights on the Market
Last Updated: 26th September 2026
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The best Tacoma headlights depend on your truck's generation, budget and the features you want. For 3rd-gen Tacomas, our TCMBST TRD Pro-Style headlights (built by AlphaRex) and the Morimoto XB Evo are the standout choices.
AlphaRex also covers 2nd-gen and 4th-gen trucks, while Spyder Auto provides more affordable options for earlier Tacomas.
There's no question that the Toyota Tacoma is one of the best, most complete trucks you can buy. Straight from the factory, Tacomas are well-equipped for just about anything you might throw at them. From hauling mulch to reaching remote off-road locations to transporting kids to and from school, the Toyota Tacoma is the perfect do-it-all mid-size truck.
Even with its superb design and equipment, many Tacoma owners find it fun to modify their trucks to improve certain features and make the vehicle more their own.
Whether your Tacoma comes with halogen or LED headlights, opting for aftermarket lights is a popular choice among enthusiasts. From unique designs to increased light output, there are a number of reasons to swap your factory headlights for aftermarket alternatives.
If you find yourself considering this simple yet impactful modification, you've come to the right place. At TacomaBeast, we've been able to do hands-on testing with numerous aftermarket Tacoma headlights and determine which are the best. Read on for our top 5 picks for the best Tacoma headlights.
| Headlight | Generation fit | Beam type | DRL style | DOT compliance | Price bracket |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spyder Auto Projector | 3rd Gen, 2016-2023 | Projector | DRL + sequential turn signal | DOT/SAE approved | $ |
| Alpha Owls Quad-Pro | 3rd Gen, 2016-2020 | Quad projector | LED DRL | DOT/SAE approved | $$ |
| Morimoto XB Evo | 3rd Gen, 2016-2023 | Bi-LED projector | LED DRL + sequential or standard turn signal | DOT/SAE approved (standard config)* | $$$ |
| AlphaRex TCMBST TRD Pro-Style | 3rd Gen, 2016-2023 | LED projector | DRL + sequential turn signal | DOT/SAE approved | $$$ |
| Spyder Auto Multi-Beam | 3rd Gen, 2016-2023 | Multi-beam LED | DRL + sequential turn signal | DOT/SAE approved | $$$ |
Price brackets: $ = under $500 · $$ = $500-$1,000 · $$$ = $1,000+
*The Morimoto XB Evo meets DOT, SAE and FMVSS108 standards in its standard configuration. The optional Supercharged Drivers increase light intensity but are identified by the manufacturer as non-compliant and not intended for on-road use in the USA or Canada.
What Makes a Great Aftermarket Headlight?
When considering new headlights for your Toyota Tacoma, it can be difficult to narrow down all of the options and determine which is best for you.
While there are many Tacoma aftermarket headlights that get the job done, we've found that the best ones strike a balance between the following four factors: ease of installation, light features, light output, and price.
Fitment is another important consideration. Tacoma headlights vary between generations, and some products have different applications depending on the truck's factory headlight configuration. Always verify your Tacoma's model year and factory headlight setup before ordering.
The lights that made our list of the best Toyota Tacoma headlights excelled in all four categories to varying degrees, giving you a spectrum to choose from depending on your needs.
The Best Tacoma Headlights
Based on the criteria above, we installed and tested the top 5 Tacoma aftermarket headlights in a head-to-head comparison. Each of the lights excelled in its own way, with a few rising to the top of our list as the comparison progressed. In order of price from lowest to highest, the Tacoma headlights included in this comparison were as follows.
- Spyder Auto Projector Headlights w/ Sequential Turn Signal
- Alpha Owls 2016-2020 Quad-Pro LED Projectors
- Morimoto XB Evo LED Headlights
- AlphaRex TCMBST TRD Pro-Style LED Projectors
- Spyder Auto Multi-Beam LED Headlights
Spyder Auto Projector Headlights for Toyota Tacoma
The most budget-friendly Tacoma headlight on this list checks in at just over $400 and is listed for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacomas.
While the adage of getting what you pay for often holds true, this headlight performed admirably in our testing. The daytime running light (DRL) left a lot to be desired, but when it came to the light output that matters to most buyers, these headlights held their own against the stock Tacoma LEDs.
Both the low and high beam measurements were comparable to the factory lights, and close to the middle of the pack, despite these headlights being the most affordable by far.
Alpha Owls Quad-Pro Tacoma Headlights
With a unique design that sets them apart from other options, the Alpha Owls Toyota Tacoma Headlights are an excellent choice for those looking to add a little flair to their truck.
They are listed for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacomas and available for trucks with or without factory LED DRL headlights.
These headlights also tested in the middle for most light measurements, making them a solid choice at a reasonable price. While their appearance may be polarizing, there is no doubt that they are a solid option in the sub-$1000 range.
Morimoto XB Evo LED Headlights for Tacoma
The XB Evo uses dual Bi-LED projectors and features configurable white or amber daytime running lights. The turn signals can be configured for sequential or standard operation, and the headlights include a heating system designed to minimize frost buildup in cold, wet conditions.
In its standard configuration, Morimoto meets DOT, SAE, and FMVSS108 standards. The optional Supercharged Drivers increase light intensity but are specifically identified as non-compliant and not intended for on-road use in the USA or Canada.
With a five-year limited warranty and a premium feature set, the XB Evo is a strong choice for Tacoma owners looking for a high-end LED headlight.
AlphaRex TCMBST TRD Pro-Style Toyota Tacoma Headlights
Neck and neck with the Morimoto headlights in terms of performance and arguably the most similar in appearance, the TCMBST TRD Pro-Style LED Projector Headlights are a stellar option for 2016-2023 Tacoma owners.
If you're comparing the two, check out our AlphaRex vs. Morimoto Tacoma Headlights comparison for a closer look at how these popular options stack up.
They ranked in the middle to upper echelons of our testing while also providing some unique lighting features that set them apart from the pack. They even topped the DRL brightness test when it came to aftermarket options. The startup sequence, for example, feels like the truck is greeting you as you approach. It's a small touch that demonstrates the thoughtfulness that AlphaRex put into their design.
Fitment is particularly important with these headlights. A harness is required for SR/SR5 models and for 2021-2023 Tacoma TRD models with full LED headlights.
Spyder Auto Multi-Beam Headlights for Toyota Tacoma
When it comes to brightness, no other headlight came close to matching the Spyder Auto Multi-Beam Tacoma Headlights. These headlights are a premium option for 2016-2023 Toyota Tacomas.
The low beams and high beams proved to be the brightest tested, making these lights a great option for anyone on the hunt for the most powerful headlights for the Tacoma. When it comes to design, these headlights have perhaps the most unique turn signal of all the lights we compared, giving them a bit of novelty that identifies them as top-of-the-line.
The headlights are not compatible with Tacomas equipped with the factory LED high- and low-beam headlight system.
Best 1st Gen Tacoma Headlights
The first-generation Tacoma covers 1995-2004, with different headlight applications depending on the model year. TacomaBeast currently carries Spyder Auto Projector Headlights for 1997-2000 Tacomas and 1-Piece Crystal Headlights for 2001-2004 models. Browse the full 1st gen Tacoma headlights range to see what fits your truck.
Best 2nd Gen Tacoma Headlights
The second-generation Tacoma covers 2005-2015, with TacomaBeast offering AlphaRex, Morimoto, and Spyder Auto headlights across different model-year applications. Options include AlphaRex PRO, LUXX, and NOVA-Series headlights, along with Morimoto XB Hybrid and Spyder Auto options. Browse our 2nd gen Tacoma headlights to see the available options for your truck.
Fitment varies between model years and factory headlight configurations, so check your exact application before purchasing.
Best 3rd Gen Tacoma Headlights
The third-generation Tacoma covers 2016-2023 and has the largest selection of aftermarket headlights in the TacomaBeast lineup. Browse our 3rd gen Tacoma headlights to see the full range of available options. Current options include Spyder Auto, AlphaRex, Alpha Owls, Morimoto, and Oracle Lighting.
For a premium upgrade, the Morimoto XB Evo is a strong choice, while the TCMBST TRD Pro-Style headlights offer TRD Pro-inspired styling. For a more affordable option, the Spyder Auto Projector Headlights are worth considering.
Best 4th Gen Tacoma Headlights
The fourth-generation Tacoma covers 2024 and newer models, with TacomaBeast currently offering AlphaRex NOVA-Series and LUXX-Series headlights, including OG-Style versions.
The NOVA-Series uses a three-projector design, while the LUXX-Series uses two projectors. Both feature LED tubes that function as daytime running lights and sequential turn signals, with white or amber DRL options. The NOVA-Series is the higher-end option, while the LUXX-Series provides a more affordable alternative. See the full 4th gen Tacoma headlights range.
The Best Headlights for Toyota Tacoma
If you have a Tacoma and are interested in replacing your factory headlights with aftermarket alternatives, there are several quality options available. We hope you found the results of our testing helpful as you weigh the pros and cons of the top 5 headlights for Toyota Tacomas. The good news is that you can't go wrong with any of the headlights on this list!
You can find all of the headlights mentioned here, along with a host of other Tacoma headlights and tail lights, on our website.
If you would like more guidance on your journey to the perfect headlights for your truck, feel free to reach out to us. Our team is knowledgeable and ready to help you reach your vision for your dream Toyota Tacoma.
In the meantime, don't forget to check out our YouTube channel for more informational, entertaining, and inspiring Tacoma content. You can even visit our blog for exciting written pieces like this. Just remember, it's all about the Taco!
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