When upgrading the tail lights on your pickup truck, SUV, or Jeep, two premium options stand out – the Alpharex Luxx and Nova Series LED tail lights. Both are designed to provide maximum visibility and custom style, but use different technology and design approaches.
This detailed comparison examines the Alpharex Luxx and Nova to help you select the best LED tail lights.
Brief Comparison Table
| Category | Alpharex Luxx | Nova Series |
| Technology | Reflector-enhanced LEDs | LED arrays |
| Light Pattern | Directional “wings” | 180° spread |
| Customization | Limited color options | Endless combinations |
| Price Per Pair | ~$300 | ~$400-700+ |
| Build Quality | Durable plastics | Thick polycarbonate |
| Warranty | 1 year limited | 2 year electrical |
Overview Of Alpharex And Nova Tail Lights
Alpharex is a leading brand of advanced LED vehicle lighting known for their unique “Omega-Shape” LED technology. The Luxx tail lights utilize precision-engineered reflex reflectors for maximized visibility. They are made in Taiwan.
Nova Series specializes in custom LED tail lights made in the USA and based on a hybrid design combining LEDs with OEM-style reflectors. The Nova lights offer extensive finish and color personalization options.
Both Alpharex and Nova tail lights are ECE, DOT, and SAE compliant but take different technological approaches to improving tail light visibility over stock. The choice ultimately depends on your priorities for design, light signature, and customization.
Visibility And Light Signature
The most important role of tail lights is enhancing visibility and light output to alert drivers behind you. Here is how the Alpharex Luxx and Nova Series compare:
- Reflectors Vs. LEDs: The Luxx uses engineered reflectors to magnify LED light while Nova relies more on dense LED arrays.
- Light pattern: The Nova LEDs produce a uniform dot pattern. Luxx reflectors create a signature “angel wing” pattern.
- Brightness: Both are extremely bright when illuminated. Luxx scores slightly higher lumens but Nova LEDs project farther.
- Field of vision: Nova LEDs disperse 180 degrees. Luxx reflectors focus directionally for better distance visibility.
- Conspicuity: The Nova dot pattern grabs attention. Luxx has bolder “wings” that stand out.
Overall, both deliver excellent visibility that far surpasses dull stock tail lights. The Nova LEDs flood a wide area while the Luxx reflectors prioritize reaching farther down the road.
Also Read: Eagle Lights Vs. Hogworkz: The Best Motorcycle LED Headlights
Styling, Design, And Customization
Alpharex Luxx tail lights feature smooth, distinctive teardrop or wing shapes for an attention-grabbing style. Luxx models come with either red or smoked blackout lenses.
In contrast, the Nova Series places emphasis on nearly endless customization and finish options. Choices include:
- Lens colors: Red, black, smoke, clear
- Housing finishes: Black, chrome, carbon fiber, etc.
- Color changing “sequential” turn signals
- Custom badging and logos
- Accent light strips and halos
- Hybrid LED/reflector designs
With vastly more ways to customize the look, Nova tail lights edge out Luxx models for personalization. But the Luxx delivers bold style straight out of the box.
Build Quality And Longevity
Both Alpharex and Nova tail lights are well-constructed from quality materials to withstand the elements. Key durability differences include:
- Housings: Nova uses thicker polycarbonate while Luxx uses ABS plastic. Both resist impacts.
- Lens coatings: Luxx lenses have a harder nano-coating for improved scratch resistance.
- Waterproofing: Fully sealed electronics and gaskets keep both waterproof in heavy rain or when washing.
- Vibration resistance: Nova’s silicone mounting pads and tight tolerances better withstand shaking.
- Hardware: Stainless steel hardware on Nova resists corrosion better.
Overall, Nova grades slightly higher for enduring tough conditions and standing the test of time. But both deliver excellent build quality if properly installed.
Prices And Value
Both Nova and Alpharex command premium pricing:
- Alpharex Luxx: ~$300 per pair
- Nova Series: $400-$700+ per pair depending on customization
The Nova lights cost considerably more but offer greater personalization. Luxx delivers excellent visibility and style at a more affordable price point. Carefully weigh the value of custom features against budget.
Also watch this video about Nova!
Customer Reviews And Support
The brands take different approaches when it comes to customer support:
- Warranty: Alpharex provides a limited 1 year warranty. Nova offers 2 years for electrical components.
- Customer service: Nova Series earns consistent praise for helpful support. Alpharex receives mixed reviews.
- Product reliability: Both have overwhelmingly positive feedback on product performance when properly installed.
While less proven than Nova, the 1 year Alpharex warranty provides adequate coverage on these premium lights. But Nova does edge out in customer service reputation.
FAQs
Alpharex lighting products are designed and engineered in Southern California, but manufactured in Taiwan where the company closely oversees production and quality control.
Luxx LED lighting is a brand owned by Alpharex. So like all Alpharex products, Luxx lights are designed in the USA but manufactured in Taiwan.
Yes, Alpharex tail lights like the Luxx models are street legal. They meet DOT, ECE, and SAE regulations for tail light visibility, brightness, and light patterns when properly installed. However, state laws vary, so verify legality for your location.
Also Read: Eagle Lights Vs. Custom Dynamics: Better LED Motorcycle Light
Conclusion
For customizable style, Nova Series LED tail lights are hard to beat. But expect to pay more for American-made personalization. For radically improved visibility in a striking design straight from the box, Alpharex Luxx taillights deliver excellent illumination at a more affordable price.
Think carefully about your priorities for visibility, style, budget, and longevity. Don’t underestimate the importance of professional installation for ensuring legality and maximizing the benefits of upgrading your tail lights. Whether you pick Nova’s endless customization or Luxx vision-enhancing technology, switching to premium aftermarket tail lights substantially boosts rear visibility and safety.