What is the difference between Shell Helix Gray and Blue?
2 Answers
The difference between Shell Helix Gray and Blue engine oils is: Gray Shell is a fully synthetic oil, while Blue Shell is a semi-synthetic oil. Their oil grades are different, and so are their prices. Blue Shell SM grade has a viscosity of 10w-40 and belongs to semi-synthetic oil, with an efficiency in removing sludge and carbon deposits twice that of mineral oil; Gray Shell SM grade has a viscosity of 5w-40 and belongs to fully synthetic oil. Specific details are as follows: 1. Gray Shell: Shell Helix Ultra Gray HX8 fully synthetic oil, SAE viscosity/API grade: 5W-30/SL, 5W-40/SN. Features: Cleans and protects the engine, keeping it in optimal condition. Provides drivers with a perfect driving experience through Shell's top-notch power cleaning technology, continuously removing deposits on the engine and offering the best protection for the engine. 2. Blue Shell HX7 semi-synthetic oil, SAE viscosity/API grade: 5W-40/SN. Features: Synthetic technology lubricant. Cleans and protects the engine, making driving smoother and more responsive. Special power cleaning technology continuously removes deposits on the engine, offering better protection than conventional mineral oil. Outstanding oxidation stability provides 19% better protection performance than other leading synthetic technology oils tested.
As someone who has been driving for several years and frequently uses Shell Helix Ultra (gray bottle) and Shell Helix HX7 (blue bottle), I feel that the Helix Ultra is a fully synthetic oil with higher quality, making it more suitable for protecting high-performance engines. Especially during long-distance highway driving, the oil viscosity is maintained for a longer time and is less prone to thinning, ensuring smoother engine operation. However, the downside is its higher price—each oil change costs around 300-400 RMB. On the other hand, Helix HX7 is a semi-synthetic oil with slightly weaker protection, making it suitable for daily commuting, such as short city drives, where it performs adequately. It is also more affordable, costing just over 200 RMB per change. My suggestion is that if you don’t drive aggressively or frequently on highways, Helix HX7 is more economical. But if you often drive in hot weather or mountainous areas, Helix Ultra provides better engine protection and extends engine life. Additionally, Helix Ultra allows for longer oil change intervals, reducing the need for frequent visits to the repair shop.
