8 Best Under Cabinet Lighting Options In 2023: Full Guide
Cooking is a vital part of life. Whether we do it to satisfy our hunger, participate in our family’s culture and traditions, or please our taste buds, cooking, and food are a big part of what makes us human. Every home cook understands the importance of lighting when it comes to cooking and food prep. […]
Cooking is a vital part of life. Whether we do it to satisfy our hunger, participate in our family’s culture and traditions, or please our taste buds, cooking, and food are a big part of what makes us human.
Every home cook understands the importance of lighting when it comes to cooking and food prep. This is because you’ll need adequate lighting to see what you’re doing, whether cooking breakfast early or dinner late.
In this article, I will present the top eight under-cabinet lighting options, their importance in the kitchen, and other vital factors when making the right purchase decision.
Let’s get started!
If you are looking for an ever-reliable under-cabinet light, then Litever can help you with its under-cabinet lighting kit, which offers six pieces for $53.98.
This under-cabinet lighting essential has 2000 lumens, which means it offers bright light bars in either warm white or daylight white (depending on your purchase).
The light bars are also made of light-emitting diode (LED) sources known for their durability, flexibility, and low-voltage operation.
Also, you do not have to worry too much when you install under-cabinet lighting because this kit contains all of the following components which are essential for installation:
In the list of the best under cabinet lights, you should take advantage of the Lightkiwi E7574 dimmable under cabinet lighting kit for $74.99.
This LED panel is UL-listed, which means it has passed globally-recognized third-party testing for quality and standards.
Moreover, this Lightkiwi model is made of an aluminum body for greater light reflectivity, which complements its 1120 lumens to produce more beneficial brightness. The aluminum material also improves dust and moisture resistance.
After trying out this product, what piqued my interest was its inline electric dimmer switch. This feature made it easy to adjust the lighting, from the brightest possible light to my preferred one with ease.
However, the lighting set-up could use more flexibility as you can only dim the light fixtures as a circuit and not individually.
As brilliant as the bar lights above were, the Brilliant Evolution 8.5-inch under-cabinet lighting fixtures offer a similar bright warm glow for only $11.99.
The warm white glow benefits those with sensitive eyesight who prefer a more natural approach to their kitchen environment.
You are also assured that these battery-operated lights (using AA batteries) can last long as they have a 100-hour run time.
This means you can use them for 100 straight hours on a single set of batteries, providing you with the necessary kitchen visibility without increasing your energy bill.
Based on my experience, the most helpful feature that made these battery-powered bars more accessible was the tap-to-switch option, where you tap the lens with your palm or backhand and switch it on or off immediately.
As brilliant as these lights are, you must use adhesive tape and screws when mounting, as neither alone can keep the Brilliant Evolution under-cabinet light battery-powered bar secure.
Ambient lighting is everything. The Philips shape smart light strips are designed to give you ambient light that is aesthetically pleasing and entirely functional.
It can serve as your best under-cabinet light buddy for $99.99.
These Philips shape smart light strips are Bluetooth-enabled, which means you can change the colors through an app on your phone, and it can even work through Amazon Alexa (voice user interface) and Google. Talk about accessibility!
Not only that. The package also has a Wi-Fi router hub, so you can just plug and play. This feature has made it a stand-out, leading to it being showered with positive consumer feedback in the United States.
Yet, what drove me nearer to this product is its double insulation. The double insulation feature provides a preventive barrier between you and the live wire, making it safer to use.
That said, it does come at a high price for a two-meter strip light.
If you are the type that likes damage-free mounting for your under-cabinet lighting fixtures, then this Ecolight model has all you need for $15.98.
To install an under-cabinet lighting system, you will usually need screws to mount it on your cabinetry securely. However, this Ecolight model only needs adhesive strips to seal the deal.
Moreover, it has a built-in auto timer that instantly deactivates the light bar once it reaches your set time, whether a minute, five, or 15 minutes. Turning it back on requires only a tap.
These are also wireless lights, so you don’t need to worry about wire organizers, proper placing to hide wires, or hiring a professional electrician.
What made me love this light bar is its 6-year manufacturer’s warranty which showcases how much Ecolight trusts its highest-quality products and respects its consumers.
One downside, however, is it’s non-rechargeable, so it’s best to consider that factor.
A motion sensor has its perks, especially with its accessibility and added safety features for your kitchen.
The good news is that you can have it with this Lepotec motion sensor cabinet lighting system that retails for $30 a pack.
Aside from the reliable motion detection (from its integrated motion detector), you can also permanently set the Lepotec cabinet light on or off. However, it lasts only three hours in the “on” state.
If you think this is a problem, you also need to know that this safe lighting kit has a USB rechargeable battery (lithium-ion battery).
What I liked most was the built-in magnet that makes installation easy on any iron surface. If you have non-iron platforms, the packaging also comes with adhesive tape and an iron sheet for your convenience.
Brilliant Evolution surely knows its way around lighting systems, as it also offers puck lights for your under cabinet lighting at $39.99 for a set of six.
What made these LED under-cabinet lights a must-have is their wireless remote control that can control 12 LED cabinet lights at a time. Its battery-operated remote only needs three AA batteries to operate.
Aside from that, you can also use the light tap option of these LED under-cabinet lights if you find it more convenient. An auto-off timer is also available as a safe and cost-effective measure.
However, compared to other LED under cabinet lighting kits, these puck lights do not give the same level of bright illumination as each only has 55 lumens.
You don’t need to complain about your under-cabinet lights when you have the ever-reliable Wobane strip lights at your service for $19.99 (six pieces).
The Wobane LED strip lights can provide energy-efficient accent lighting with just a simple plug-in, providing power to its 180 light sources. More than that, you can easily control the under-cabinet lighting by simply clicking the remote.
Aside from that, it comes in flexible strip lights that have already been pre-cut for your convenience. All that is left for you to do is place it on the kitchen cabinets near the wall outlet.
However, its adhesive may be weaker than advertised. With that, you may need some additional screws to tighten the LED lamp’s kitchen cabinet placement.
The Top 8 Under Cabinet Lighting Options Available Today
The right under-cabinet lighting can help you spot even mess and potential hazards on your countertop and under kitchen cabinets, especially when your kitchen lighting fixtures do not reach those places. To help you out, here are eight of the best under-cabinet lightings you can buy today.1. Litever Under Cabinet LED Lighting Kit – Best Overall
Sale
Under Cabinet LED Lighting Kit Plug in or Hardwired, 6 pcs...
- 【Super Bright】 ---31W bright warm white cabinet lighting...
- 【Easy to Install】---Sufficient self-adhesive pads,...
What I like
- The high lumen capacity of its LED lights
- The complete installation package
- The 24-month warranty
What I don’t like
- Sometimes, the lights are not synchronized when dimmed
- Power Supply
- Dimmer
- Extension Cables
- Mounting Clips
- Screws
- Self-adhesive pads
Lumens: 2000 | Type: Bar | Material: Plastic, Metal | Voltage: 12 | Dimensions: 11.93″ x 0.98″ x 0.39″
2. Lightkiwi E7574 Dimmable Under Cabinet Lighting Kit – Best Value for Money
Lightkiwi E7574 Dimmable LED Under Cabinet Lighting 4 Panel...
- PROFESSIONAL GRADE LIGHTING QUALITY: We focus on the Quality...
- EXPANDABLE: Lightkiwi modular LED under cabinet lighting kit...
What I like
- The UL listing
- The aluminum body
- The inline electric dimmer light switch
What I don’t like
- The lack of flexibility when dimming each light bars
Lumens: 1120 | Type: Bar | Material: Metal | Voltage: 24 | Dimensions: 11.75″ x 1.30″ x 0.35″
3. Brilliant Evolution 8.5-Inch Under Cabinet Light Bar – Best Budget Option
Sale
Brilliant Evolution Wireless Ultra Thin LED Light Bar 1 Pack...
- MOUNTING TAPE & SCREWS INCLUDED - Install your new Brilliant...
- ON/OFF TAP LIGHT - This under counter light is touch...
What I like
- The warm white light
- The 100-hour run time
- The tap-to-switch option
What I don’t like
- The adhesive tape inclusion is not as strong
Lumens: 65 | Type: Bar | Material: Plastic | Voltage: 3.6 | Dimensions: 2″x 8.5″ x 0.9″
4. Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance LED Shape Light Lightstrip Base Kit – Best Accessible Accent Lighting
What I like
- The Bluetooth-enabled feature
- The color-changing LED strip lights
- The double insulation
What I don’t like
- It’s expensive
Lumens: 1700 | Type: Strip lights | Material: Silicone | Voltage: 100 to 240 | Dimensions: 0.22″ x 78.7″ x 0.57″
5. Ecolight 12-in Battery Under Cabinet Light Bar – Best Damage-free Mounting
Ecolight Battery-Operated 12-inch LED Tap Bar Light
- Convenient tap on/off activation makes it easy for anyone to...
- Built-in auto timer features a selectable continuously on or...
What I like
- The built-in auto timer
- The wire-free lighting fixtures
- The 6-year manufacturer’s warranty
What I don’t like
- Non-rechargeable
Lumens: 80 | Type: Bar | Material: Plastic injection molded | Voltage: 120 | Dimensions: 12″ x 2.5″ x 1.1″
6. Lepotec 54-LED Motion Sensor Cabinet Light – Best Motion Sensor
Sale
54-LED Motion Sensor Cabinet Light,Under Counter Closet...
- 1、★【New upgrading】: This led closet lights with 54...
- 2、★【EASY TO INSTALL】Built-in Magnet to Stick on Any...
What I like
- The USB rechargeable batteries
- The built-in magnet for installation
- The motion sensor
What I don’t like
- The battery life is not that long
Lumens: 300 | Type: Bar | Material: Plastic, aluminum | Voltage: 5 | Dimensions: 12.5″ x 1.6″ x 0.4″
7. Brilliant Evolution Stick-On Lights 6 Pack – Best Puck Light
Sale
Stick on Lights 6 Pack with Remote - Wireless LED Under...
- MOUNTING TAPE, SCREWS & BATTERIES INCLUDED - Install your...
- WIRELESS REMOTE & SELECTABLE DIMMER – Use the wireless...
What I like
- The wireless remote control
- The tap light option
- The auto-off timer
What I don’t like
- It does not have high lumens for bright light
Lumens: 55 | Type: Puck lights | Material: Plastic | Voltage: 1 | Dimensions: 3.4″ x 3.4″ x 1.25″
8. Wobane Under Cabinet LED Lighting Kit – Best Flexible Strips
Sale
WOBANE Under Cabinet LED Lighting kit, 6 PCS LED Strip...
- DIY LED light strip: 6 PCS pre-cut strips, total 9.8ft, many...
- Super Bright & Brightness adjustable: Super bright LED...
What I like
- The flexible light strips
- The plug-in power supply
- The remote control dimmer
What I don’t like
- The adhesive tape may need screw-backup
- Must be near a wall switch
Lumens: 1500 | Type: LED strip lights | Material: Plastic | Voltage: 110 | Dimensions: 3.15″ x 1.57″ x 3.15″
Comparing The Top Under Cabinet Lighting Options
| Top Under-Cabinet Lighting | Lumens | Type | Material | Voltage | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Litever Under Cabinet LED Lighting Kit | 2000 | Bar | Plastic, Metal | 12 V | 11.93 x 0.98 x 0.39 inches |
| Lightkiwi Dimmable Under Cabinet Lighting Kit | 1120 | Bar | Metal | 24 V | 11.75 x 1.30 x 0.35 inches |
| Brilliant Evolution 8.5-Inch Under Cabinet Light Bar | 65 | Bar | Plastic | 3.6 V | 2 x 8.5 x 0.9 inches |
| Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance LED Lightstrip | 1700 | Strip lights | Silicone | 100 to 240 V | 0.22 x 78.7 x 0.57 inches |
| Ecolight 12-in Battery Under Cabinet Light Bar | 80 | Bar | Plastic Injection Molded | 120 V | 12 x 2.5 x 1.1 inches |
| Lepotec 54-LED Motion Sensor Cabinet Light | 300 | Bar | Plastic, Aluminum | 5 V | 12.5 x 1.6 x 0.4 inches |
| Brilliant Evolution Stick-On Lights 6 Pack | 55 | Puck lights | Plastic | 1 V | 3.4 x 3.4 x 1.25 inches |
| Wobane Under Cabinet LED Lighting Kit | 1500 | LED strip lights | Plastic | 110 V | 3.15 x 1.57 x 3.15 inches |
What is Under Cabinet Lighting?
Under-cabinet lighting, as the name implies, is a type of lighting placed under kitchen cabinets (or other cabinets) to provide the following:- Visibility when reading food recipes
- The convenience of seeing ingredients during food preparation
- Clarity when reading food labels (e.g., expiration dates)
- Providing overhead lighting for cooktops (e.g., electric or gas stoves)
Tip
Check out the article on the best 20-inch gas ranges to know what will fit your chosen under-cabinet light.
Different light types are used for under cabinet lighting, and the main groups are the following:
- Fluorescent lights
- Incandescent lights
- LED lights
- Puck lights
- Rope lights
- Tape lights
- LED bar light
- Strip lights
Benefits and Advantages of Under Cabinet Lights
If you are still doubting whether to buy under-cabinet lighting for your kitchen cabinets, don’t worry because I got your back. Based on my experiences with under-cabinet lighting, here are some benefits and advantages of purchasing one for your space.Increase the Visibility of Under Kitchen Cabinets
The first perk of under-cabinet lighting is the increased visibility of the direct space under your kitchen cabinets. These spaces where under cabinet lighting can provide brightness can be your meal preparation area, cooktop, pantry shelves, and even appliance corner. What is most important is if you choose the most appropriate under cabinet lights for a specific area, you can have ample lighting and better viewing conditions, which makes preparing and cooking easier.Easy Installation
Under-cabinet lighting also has easy installation because most under-cabinet lights can be securely placed using adhesive pads and tapes. Although sometimes, you need to give extra effort to make the under cabinet lighting steady and reliable through screws. Moreover, some under-cabinet lights are also wireless. Most are battery-powered (e.g., battery-operated puck lights), so you do not need to consider connecting electric wires near the wall outlet (or power outlet). Given that the electrical installation can be out of the way for most under-cabinet lights, the other installation tasks are easy-peasy, and you can do it yourself!Elevates Kitchen Style
Besides the functionality and ease of installing under cabinet lighting, another perk that will indeed have you installing one for your kitchen cabinets is that it adds to the overall kitchen aesthetic. In this case, an under-cabinet light accentuates your kitchen cabinets, defining the space and complementing your kitchen’s overall design. Proper placement, rope lights, LED lighting, tape lights, and even a puck light can elevate your kitchen’s value and overall home improvement. Nevertheless, to be more accurate in your kitchen style, you also need to consider the proper installation of appliances that you put along with your lights.Types of Under Cabinet Lighting
As I mentioned earlier, under-cabinet lights come from different light sources. I have enumerated the strengths and definitions below to know what each power type entails.LED Lights
Light-emitting diodes or LED lights give super bright lights through their tiny sources inside the bulbs or light fixtures with the help of electricity moving across a microchip. More importantly, LED lights are known to be more energy-efficient than most of the types in this list. Also, the light from LEDs is known to be durable and long-lasting. Yet, what will make you identify LED lighting from others is that when its life is almost nearing the end, it does not automatically shut off. It undergoes a lumen depreciation phase where brightness gradually diminishes.Halogen Lights
After LED lighting are halogen lamps or lights, part of the bigger group of incandescent light bulbs and lamps. Based on my research, halogen lights are inefficient at energy production, which means more weight on your electric bills, but with a lower day or night light brightness. Not just that, they also emit a larger carbon footprint in every use, which means that using halogen has a more significant possibility of causing harm to the environment.Xenon Lights
Unlike halogen bulbs, xenon lights are energy-efficient, producing lights in the white-to-blue spectrum range. Along with LED lighting, xenon lights are popular kitchen appliance lights. Yet, it is most known as luxury cars’ best lighting companion.Fluorescent Lights
Another lighting option that offers energy efficiency is fluorescent lighting. Fluorescent lights are also known for being cost-effective and for their longevity and durability. However, fluorescent bulbs (and even fluorescent lamps) contain mercury, which is famous for its toxicity, affecting the following when ingested:- Nervous system
- Digestive system
- Immune system
Factors to Consider When Choosing Under-Cabinet Lights
Buying under-cabinet lighting is not a one-and-done deal, as you also need to consider different essential factors that will affect a lighting option’s efficiency, utility, and beauty. To know each of the factors, read through the listed factors below.Voltage
First in line for consideration is the voltage. Voltage is the measurement that characterizes how bright or dim your under-cabinet lighting can be. The range of under-cabinet lighting is split into two, with line voltage and low voltage. On the one hand, line voltage gives off warm lights, perfect for a nightcap, and on average, is known to be 120 volts. On the other hand, low voltage leans more into the natural light spectrum, fitting for those who prefer brighter under-cabinet lights, with 12 and 24 volts as its identifying signature.Types (Puck Lights vs Strip Lights vs Bar Lights)
Then, you MUST always consider the type of under-cabinet lighting that you want to incorporate into your kitchen cabinetry. The most common types are puck, strip, and bar lights. To help you choose, here are some of their notable differences:- Puck lights, named after a hockey puck, are circular, similar to a spotlight, and perfect for emphasizing accents on your cabinet lighting.
- Strip lights, also known as tape lights and rope lights, are long and flat rectangular strips with small LED light sources primarily used for accent and task lighting.
- Bar lights are like rectangular panels with multiple bulbs embedded in their interior, which are used for accent task lighting similar to LED strip lights.
Tip
Different types of lights complement different cabinets and appliances. To know more about what you can pair with your lights, check out the best range hoods and best range hood brands articles.
Dimmers
If you prefer varying light conditions in a single appliance, you should also consider dimmers. The dimmers come in different control panels; some are controllable through a remote. When choosing the suitable dimmers for you, always select the ones you feel most comfortable with, which enhance convenience and accessibility.Energy Efficiency
An undeniable factor that should always be considered is the energy efficiency of under-cabinet lighting, whether accent or task lighting. Being efficient in energy means performing standard or above-standard practices without exhausting too much electrical energy. With this, you can have functionality, cost-efficiency, and eco-friendliness in one go. The most power-efficient ones are those made of light-emitting diodes or LEDs.Ease of Installing Under-Cabinet Lighting
Last but not least, you must consider the ease of installation. The best easy installation options are those that can be securely pinned to the wall using adhesives. Battery-powered (AA batteries) under-cabinet lighting is easier to install than hardwiring under-cabinet lighting because you do not have to fumble with electrical wiring, electrical connectors, a power cord for the plug-in, or a wall switch. Nevertheless, you can still find great lighting options that need screws to install, as they can be more reliable when securing the lights.FAQs Related To Under Cabinet Lighting
With everything that I have mentioned in this article, I am sure you have some queries in mind. I answered some of your under-cabinet lighting-related FAQs in this section for your convenience.
Where Should I Place Under Cabinet Lighting?
It depends on the purpose of your under-cabinet lighting. On the one hand, if it is for task lighting, you should place the medium or super bright light near the middle front edge of your set-up.
On the other hand, lights should be placed near the middle to back edge spaces for accent lighting.
How Long Do LED Under Cabinet Lighting Last?
On average, LED lighting can be used for almost 50,000 hours. However, it will still depend on the following factors:
- If it is consistently turned on
- If you use super bright lighting rather than dimmed lights
- If the auto-off feature is functioning
- The brand of your LED
Should Under Cabinet Light Be Warm or Cold?
The color temperature depends on the purpose. If you are using them as task lights, opt for cooler-toned lights. While for accent or ambient lighting, warm or natural lights are the best ones to get.
Is Under-Cabinet Lighting Worth It?
Yes, under-cabinet lighting is worth it to increase your kitchen’s aesthetic value and functionality.
However, it can only be possible if you choose lighting options that are efficient, durable, reliable, and equipped with modern technologies.
