K&N vs AEM

Cold Air Intake Debate

Overview

Aftermarket Cold Air Intake Systems are a popular/easy upgrade that will not break the bank. Stock Intake Systems limit engine power and efficiency in an effort to reduce engine noise. Cold Air Intake brings in much cooler air to increase engine power and efficiency - more horsepower. It doesn't hurt that it sounds great as well. They are easy to install with no drilling, a few simple tools, and about 30 to 90 minutes of time. Two brands dominate the industry: K&N and AEM.

How did they get here?

K&N Cold Air Intake started as a family owned business in Riverside, California in 1969. They are a leader in product testing in the air filtration industry so that they produce the top products on the market. K&N is committed to an innovative intake systems that last a lifetime and reduce waste. They are the market leader in sales and have offices that stretch from the USA to the UK and Netherlands.

AEM Cold Air Intake began back in 1987 in Compton, California as a tuning shop. They helped cars get ready to street race or other racing events. After their cars won a few races, AEM earned the cover of Turbo Magazine in the 90's and that was the beginning of a mainstream brand. They worked side by side with K&N in 1999 to design new air filters. AEM has developed and improved many of the intake products that are on the market today.

Who's Better?

Among many things that K&N does to make their product better - they also are an environmentally friendly company. Their filters boast a lifetime warranty - made of cotton - they never have to be replaced. Every K&N filter that is bought takes out a few of those disposable filters that will end up in our landfills in the USA. These filters initially cost more but since they will never need to be replaced, they save money over time. The High Flow Technology of K&N helps your vehicle breath. It will replace your stock intake's warm air with cold air that sounds great and increases your horsepower and acceleration. K&N has sold more than 30 million washable/reusable performance air filters and continues to be the industry leader.

AEM, with a history of testing their products on the race track, continues to compete at a high level in the intake systems industry. They are always looking to increase vehicle performance by adding horsepower. All of the AEM Cold Air Intakes come with their lifetime DRYFLOW Synthetic air filter. All AEM Intake Systems are made in the USA and guaranteed for the life of your vehicle. The filters are cleanable and also made to last a lifetime. They will catch up to 99% of harmful contaminants and outstanding performance no matter what terrain you choose.

Wrap Up

In March of 2009, K&N and AEM joined services as K&N took over the sales and manufacturing of all products. They still have all of their different lines and will continue competing while the debate still exists all over the forums. It is obvious now that either will be a great choice when looking to upgrade your vehicle with a cold air intake system. AEM and K&N continue to be the top searched/sold in the intake system industry by a mile. The outlook seems to be great for both - testing and coming out with new products that enhance your vehicle.