Previously, we have discussed the table lamp for your bedroom, today we are going to introduce another important task lighting – Under Cabinet Lights. Before we start, in addition to the bedroom, think about what’s the other space that we spend most of the time on it?
Kitchen! Of course!
When it comes to the kitchen, it involves so many of our activities and task, such as storing, preparing, and cooking food (and completing related tasks like dishwashing, dining, or entertaining). To support these activities, under cabinet lights are one of the most important aspects. Not only does it provides functional task lighting for chopping vegetables, frosting cookies, or stirring in the pot, it also defines the unique style and feels of your kitchen space.
While overhead lighting provides general ambient lighting, the well-placed under cabinet lighting makes a kitchen look more complete. It layers kitchen lighting to make cooking, preparation, and recipe reading a breeze.
In this article, you will learn about the importance of choosing the right quality of lighting and how to buy suitable lighting fixtures for your kitchen. There are tons of good options, we compare various types of under cabinet light fixtures, and come up with helpful advice and important features for you to consider when looking for the best under cabinet lights.
Note that under cabinet lights is not just for the kitchen. You can use it wherever you have installed cabinets, be it your basement bar or dining room, etc. And, it can be also used as LED closet lighting.
16 Best Under Cabinet Lights Overview
 |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. GETINLIGHT 12W Dimmable Under Cabinet Light | 2. Litever Super Bright Under Cabinet Lighting Kit | 3. TORCHSTAR 45° Mounted Showcase Light Strips | 4. Lightkiwi Premium Modular Under Cabinet Lights | 5. EShine Hand Wave Activated Under Cabinet Lights | 6. WOBANE Flexible Under Counter Strip Lights | 7. AIBOO Remote Control Under Cabinet Puck Lights | 8. Lighting EVER Stick On Under Cabinet Lighting Fixtures | 9. Phonar Ultra Long Under Cabinet LED Lights | 10. LEDVANCE Sylvania Adjustable Color Temp Cabinet Light | 11. UltraPro Slim Design Under Cabinet Lightng | 12. BLS Battery Powered Under Cabinet Light Kit | 13. Otinlai Rechargeable Magnetic Cabinet Light | 14. HARRRRD Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Light Fixture | 15. Britelum Superior Under Cabinet Lights 3-in-1 Color Temp | 16. PARMIDA Adjustable Lens Angle Under Cabinet Light |
| √ Easy to install: Plug & Play, √ 2 Ways of mounting: Stick-on or Screw-in, √ Full dimming(0%-100%) & memory features, √ 2 Ways to Link. | √ Easy Installation, √ Dimmable 0~100%, √ 2 ways of mounting: Stick-on or Screw-in, √ Diffused light cover, no LED dots, no light glaring. | √ 45° sides to fit in corners and shine into the safe, √ Sensitive motion detector, √ App control works with Alexa, √ Extension cords. | √ Premium light quality, √ Beautifully crafted aluminum body, √ Dimmer switch, UL listed, √ Modular design, connect seamlessly. | √ Hand Wave Activation, √ Touchless Dimming Control, √ Extra-long up to 40 inches, √ Easy installation. | √ Flexible strip lights, thin and small, √ DIY with the connectors, √ UL listed adapter, √ Easy installation. | √ Linkable, compact puck lights, √ RF remote control, wireless dimmable, √ Easy installation, by screw or sticker. | √ Extremely lightweight and thin, √ Touch Dimmable, 4 brightness levels, √ Easy installation, by screw or sticker. | √ Ultra-long, up to 48 inches, √ Built-in touch sensor, √ Quick and simple installation, by screw or sticker. | √ Adjustable color temperature, √ Compatible with ZigBee hub, √ Voice control. | √ Slim design, √ 2 linkable options, √ Very bright up to 2040lm. | √ Battery-powered, USB Plug, √ Motion sensor activated, √ Auto/On/Off 3 Modes, √ 180° adjustable mount angle, √ Black or White color. | √ USB Rechargeable, Portable √ Build-in magnet, √ Motion Sensing/On/Off 3 Mode. | √ Very bright up to 1150lm, √ On/Off Switch, √ Dimmable (need a dimmer switch), √ 4 lengths: 12″, 18″, 21″, 24″, and 36″ | √ 3 Color Temperatures, √ On/Off Switch, Color Slide Switch, √ Dimmable&Linkable, √ Hardwired or Plug-In, √ 4 length options. | √ Adjustable Beam Angle, √ 3 Color Temperatures, √ 6 length options √ On/Off Switch, Color Slide Switch, √ Dimmable & Linkable. |
1. GETINLIGHT 12W Dimmable Under Cabinet Light
This GETINLIGHT cabinet light kit comes with 3 (or 6) separate 12 inch light strips, a dimmer, a switch, and two different kinds of connectors for attaching one strip to the other. You can connect each strip with a flexible wire in any configuration, or connect them seamlessly with the included hard connectors to make one long strip.
And, the installation was a snap, the LED strips are made well with an aluminum extruded base which makes it easy to snap into the mounting clips. You can attach them to the desk or wall with the screwed-in clips, or with the provided double-sided tape, or both.
Furthermore, the cable has two switches along its length. One is an on/off switch and the other is a dimmer that dims all 3 light strips at the same time. You can choose any brightness level you want (from 0% – 100%) and it remembers that setting every time you turn the lights back on. Plus, the dimmer also acts as a rotary switch, you can switch off the light with dimmer too.
| Brand / ASIN: | GETINLIGHT / B089NJQKGZ |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 12W (3 Bar) / 12V |
| Dimension: | 11.73 x 0.82 x 0.27 inches |
| Color Temp: | Soft White 3000k |
| Installation: | Stick-on or Screw-in |
| Features: | Dimmable, Switch On/Off |
2. Litever Super Bright Under Cabinet Lighting Kit
These Litever dimmable light kits add light right where you need it most. The light bars that come with this kit have diffusers so you don’t see multiple lights shining down and anti-glare. It looks like a solid bar of light rather than a bunch of LEDs.
It comes with the power supply and additional extension cables. And it is with clips that can either be screwed to the cabinet or self-adhesive to hold the light bars. And plenty of wire clips to rout the wire and keep them tucked away and out of sight.
Additionally, there is an alternative power cable that can be swapped out and attaches to the AC adapter that has intentionally exposed wires on one end. This allows you to directly wire your lights to a wall switch or even inside a wall outlet box if that works for your application.
| Brand / ASIN: | Litever / B01L6W7F3U |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 31W (6 Bar) / 12V |
| Dimension: | 11.9 x 1 x 0.4 inches |
| Color Temp: | 3000k or 5000k |
| Installation: | Stick-on or Screw-in |
| Features: | Dimmable, Switch On/Off |
3. TORCHSTAR 45° Mounted Showcase Light Strips
If you’re looking for a triangle shape showcase light, that can be mounted at a 45-degree angle rather than only shine straight down, this TORCHSTAR light strip is for you. It comes with a 45-degree angle that allows you to mount them to the front face of the underside so that they shine down but towards the back.
The 3M strips are designed to attach to the bottom of the cabinet and to the back or front, resulting in the light being directed downward at a 45-degree angle. It eliminates the ugly strip hanging in the center of the cabinet and keeps them hidden.
Besides, if you buy the sensor version instead of the manual switch, the light turns on automatically when motion detected and off after no movements. The sensor seemed to be a bit picky but a little trial and error and you’ll find the right “spot” in your kitchen where it seems to be the most beneficial.
Furthermore, it’s also with App control version that can work with Alexa and voice control available, allow you to control the light smartly.
| Brand / ASIN: | TORCHSTAR / B01FDAET80 |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 9W (6 Bar) / 12V |
| Dimension: | 11.8 x 0.6 x 0.4 inches |
| Color Temp: | 3000k or 5000k |
| Installation: | 45° mounted stick-on or screw-in |
| Features: | App Control, Motion-activated |
4. Lightkiwi Premium Modular Under Cabinet Lights
This is a professional-looking under cabinet lighting system from Lightkiwi, modern in its presentation, thin yet sturdy, and easy to install. If you compare to other light strips, you’ll find that this light quality is great, it’s a very clear pleasant, and even light. The light color is perfect for task work. They provide just the right amount of illumination for the workbench without creating too much glare.
Furthermore, the included dimmer switch works great, it has a red light that is bright enough to guide you to the On switch, and there are multiple levels of brightness. At the highest level, it is bright enough to see in the middle of the day. The lowest setting is really low, dim enough to give a romantic glow (for accent lighting), What is worth mentioning is that it remembers the brightness setting when you turn it off.
Plus, we like the modular design – the four light bars could be placed all separately with a connecting wire plug in each, or any or all of them can be placed in-line together with the simple plug attachment (also provided) to have as little as one connecting wire plug.
Few tips: The connectors, including the 4-Way Splitter Module, are all “plug and play”. There is no way to connect them incorrectly. In addition, you will want to mount the dimmer switch in a place where you can SEE it. Since it’s with a 3 push-buttons design, so if you don’t want to squat and bend to see it under the cabinet, you’ll need to mount it in a vertical position.
| Brand / ASIN: | Lightkiwi / B00BCR87BE |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 12W (4 Bar) / 24V |
| Dimension: | 18 x 3.9 x 2.1 inches |
| Color Temp: | 3000k or 6000k |
| Installation: | Screw-in or Stick-on (Available for modular connection) |
| Features: | UL listed, Dimmer Switch and 4 Way Splitter |
5. EShine Hand Wave Activated Under Cabinet Lights
Have you considered a kitchen lighting solution that allows full control without you having to touch a thing? And also can dim the light without having to use an extra dimmer switch? Well, this EShine hand wave activated cabinet light can fulfill all of that!
Equipped with an IR sensor, you’re able to turn these cabinet lights on and off with a simple wave – it’s as easy as that! Better still, you can also adjust the brightness of these lights by holding your hand over the sensor, allowing you to create the perfect atmosphere in your kitchen with ease. No fumbling with an awkward switch or button with dirty hands! And, it’s with the memory function that it will remember the last brightness setting.
What’s more, the EShine under cabinet light has an extra-long version: 20″ or 40″. If you complain before about your short kitchen lighting that cannot light up the whole area, this extra-long light bar will definitely solve your problems.
In summary, these inexpensive LED lights are simple to mount, have an elegant hand wave activation that makes turning on/off the light a breeze, and look great.
| Brand / ASIN: | EShine / B06WGL7YHB |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 12W (1 Bar) / 12V |
| Dimension: | 19.7 x 1.1 x 0.4 inches |
| Color Temp: | 3000k or 6000k |
| Installation: | Screws or 3M Sticker |
| Features: | Hand Wave Activated, Touchless Dimming Control, Extra-Long |
6. WOBANE Flexible Under Counter Strip Lights
This is flexible under counter strip light which comes with no aluminum profile, perfect for the space that is small and quite shallow. The light strip is thin and does not take up a great deal of space depthwise. It’s very easy to install, just lay it out on a flat surface to make sure you have all the connections in the right order, then stick it onto a clean surface.
Better still, this WOBANE light gives you DIY to layout the light. Each set has three “U” style connectors and extension connectors that can be disconnected and reconfigured via the accompanying hardware. You can connect them continuously to form 2m long light strips or make it into four lines connecting, working as a 10*20in panel light.
Be aware that these strip light bars are not dimmable. It comes with an in-line ‘On/Off’ switch only and plugs into a standard outlet. And it’s without screw installation, it only uses 3M adhesive tape to stick on the surface, such as cabinets, closet, under counter, bookshelf, wardrobe, workbench, etc.
| Brand / ASIN: | WOBANE / B07BF5PB4G |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 12W (4 Bar) / 12V |
| Dimension: | 5.9 x 4.2 x 1.6 inches |
| Color Temp: | 3000k or 6000k |
| Installation: | 3M tape stick on |
| Features: | Flexible light strips, “U” type connectors |
7. AIBOO Remote Control Under Cabinet Puck Lights
If you want a cabinet light to focus on an item or you have a small space in the kitchen, check out these AIBOO under cabinet puck lights. They consist of 6pcs puck lights with connectors attached, allow you to connect them one by one, and give you more than enough to make the wire run in different sections.
The RF remote works fine, it has a small red light to indicate the signal is being sent. With its mounting magnet, it’s great to leave on the fridge. Although you can adjust the brightness incrementally, there are also 25%/50%/100% brightness buttons to dim the lights quickly. It can also have a blinking mode for the holiday or party celebration.
In addition, these AIBOO under cabinet puck lights set can either be hardwired or wall plug-in installed, flexible for you to choose one way to install according to actual requirement. And, if you’re not a fan of adhesive tape, it’s with screws for drill mounting.
| Brand / ASIN: | AIBOO / B075J7RF4P |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 12W (6 lights) / 12V |
| Dimension: | 2.4 x 2.4 x 0.3 inches |
| Color Temp: | Daylight White |
| Installation: | Adhesive tape or Screw-in |
| Features: | RF remote control |
8. Lighting EVER Stick On Under Cabinet Lighting Fixtures
This is another set of under cabinet puck lights with a minimal profile, produced by Lighting EVER. It’s extremely lightweight, stylish(exactly as shown in the photo), mounts easily, and lights up the under cabinet area exactly as we wanted them to.
The lens is frosted plastic and gives off a more diffused illumination. The cords from the lamp are all about eight feet, long enough that you shouldn’t have any trouble reaching different cabinets. And there is a terminal box to plug them into one (they don’t link together in series), then the terminal box connects to the light switch.
Also, it’s with touch dimmable function that is with 4 brightness levels: 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%. Just a quick press to set the brightness and turn it on/off, when you turn it off it will remember the brightness setting so next time it’s the same brightness when it’s on.
Be note that if you did not want to drill holes in the top of the cabinet, use the heavy-duty double-sided tape and it worked great, especially since the lights are very light.
| Brand / ASIN: | Lighting EVER / B074BR4RHQ |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 12W (6 lights) / 12V |
| Dimension: | 2.4 x 2.4 x 0.3 inches |
| Color Temp: | 3000K or 6000K |
| Installation: | Adhesive tape or Screw-in |
| Features: | Touch Dimmable with 4 brightness levels |
9. Phonar Ultra Long Under Cabinet LED Lights
Most of the under cabinet lights are available for interconnection with the attached connectors or extended cables. It allows you to run continuous light but the bulky mess of cables is also very annoying. What if there is an under cabinet light bar that is long enough and without the mess of too many cords?
Check out this Phonar ultra-long under cabinet lighting, you are free to choose between 12 inches, 24 inches, 36 inches, and maximum of 48 inches. In this long length, there are no linkable cables required, so installation is more simple and quick, just plug and play.
In addition, the built-in touch sensor is a pleasant addition to this under counter light. You can switch the light on or off with just a tap, or leave it always on – it all depends upon the end you plug the transformer in to. Installation is also easy, you can screw it in or tape it up: use two screws from both ends or a double-sided sticky mounting strip to install the light.
| Brand / ASIN: | Phonar / B01I943IN4 |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 12W /12V |
| Dimension: | 0.4 x 1 x 36 inches |
| Color Temp: | 3000K or 4000K |
| Installation: | Adhesive tape or Screw-in |
| Features: | Touch Sensor, Ultra-long |
10. LEDVANCE Sylvania Adjustable Color Temp Cabinet Light
If you are building a smart home, this LEDVANCE Sylvania adjustable color temp cabinet light is a must. These paired instantly with Smartthings hub, and are easily turned on/off, dimmed with Alexa. Its nice dimming feature and the ability to link them save you from always having to find outlets and hide cords.
Better still, of all the under cabinet lights we saw in the market, this is the only one with adjustable white color temperature (2700K 6500K) capability, so you can choose between warm or cool white lighting, allow you to create the best lighting experience for your specific needs.
Additionally, you can also integrate voice control by pairing an Echo or Google Home smart speaker to your compatible ZigBee hub. And enjoy the benefits of hands-free lighting control by asking to turn the lights on and off, dim, and more
| Brand / ASIN: | LEDVANCE / B01M7NFPO7 |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 8W / 120V |
| Dimension: | 18 x 2.6 x 0.3 inches |
| Color Temp: | 2700K to 6500K |
| Installation: | Screw-in |
| Features: | Adjustable White Color, Smart control, Voice control |
11. UltraPro Slim Design Under Cabinet Lightng
This is a slim design under cabinet light from UltraPro, merely 0.51″ (1.29cm)wide. They are a set of six led strip pre-installed into an aluminum housing. These slim strips can be directly connected together or if you want gaps they include 5 linkable wires that are about a foot long each to space them out
The connecting ends are made of a hard PCB board that is just a flexible material with a copper negative and positive. There are sliding plastic pieces that cover the ends to protect it. To connect you simply slide the male to female end.
Furthermore, the lights are controlled by a power box with an on/off rocker switch so they can be used in a none switched outlet. And the power supply cord has a decent length that is about 5ft long. Be aware that although they are very bright, they are non-dimmable.
| Brand / ASIN: | UltraPro / B07VX8HZB3 |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 20.5W (6 Bars) / 120V |
| Dimension: | 10 x 0.51 x 0.23 inches |
| Color Temp: | 2700K |
| Installation: | Screw-in |
| Features: | Slim design, End-To-End Connection or Linkable Cords |
12. BLS Battery Powered Under Cabinet Light Kit
If you want to free from the sockets or you don’t like the mess of the cords underneath your cabinet, think about this BLS battery powered under cabinet light (or LED closet light). They make life much more convenient since it can either run on 3 AA batteries or you can use the 37″ USB plug that comes with it.
What’s more, it has an adjustable motion detector so you can change the sensitivity setting. The Auto/On/Off 3 modes are available for different occasions. It can be set to come on at night only or night and day, it can stay on always or automatically.
Better still, the mount is adjustable for the desired angle (up to 180°), it lets you change the direction of the illumination. Plus, it could be wall mounted if needed. Quite impressive! Additionally, the adhesive works great – however when the batteries need to be changed or you want to fiddle with the settings, the light has to be ripped off the wall. But if you’re using USB power or screw in, this is not a problem.
| Brand / ASIN: | BLS / B07353W4V2 |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 2W (180 lm) / 1.5V |
| Dimension: | 14.7 x 2.6 x 1.1 inches |
| Color Temp: | 6000K |
| Installation: | Screw-in or Stick-on |
| Features: | Run on battery or USB plug, Motion Sensor, Adjustable Angle |
13. Otinlai Rechargeable Magnetic Cabinet Light
This is another hot sell rechargeable cabinet light from Otinlai, especially it features an extra magnetic function that can absorb on any iron surface. Just use the provided double back tape to a magnetic strip then the light attaches magnetically to the strip.
So when the time comes to recharge them, you simply remove them from the magnetic strip, charge them, then put them back on when fully charged. The ease of recharging is a relief! And the ability to place these under cabinet lights just about anywhere is fantastic.
Additionally, the motion sensitivity is perfect, they can either sense darkness and come on, or come on with a wave of the hand, or can be left on all the time. 3 operation modes give you more flexibility to run the light and save your electricity.
| Brand / ASIN: | Otinlai / B074TL2ZRJ |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 2W (100 lm) / 3.7V |
| Dimension: | 7.5 x 1.3 x 0.5 inches |
| Color Temp: | 3000K or 6000K |
| Installation: | Stick-on or Absorb to the surface |
| Features: | USB Rechargeable, Portable, Motion Sensing/On/Off 3 Modes |
14. HARRRRD Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Light Fixture
If you had been looking for a replacement LED under counter fixture to replace an existing florescent, search no more. This HARRRRD light was very similar in looks and design to the fluorescent with LEDs. It provides plenty of size options from 12″ to 36″ and is slim enough to hide behind the sauna without touching it.
They throw some good backlight behind it and worked on the existing on/off switch. It is dimmable, but only via a separate dimmer switch that you’d need to connect to. Since this is hardwired under cabinet light fixture, installation is a little bit complicated and takes time.
To install you need to remove the plastic light cover and then the internal cover plate (not easy). To remove the internal cover you have to squeeze the light. This releases the cover from 3 metal tabs in the body of the light, inside you will find all the pieces you need. Mount the metal hardware to the wall first then put it back in the piece of metal with the light cover assembly.
Overall it’s a great light but installation takes more time and is not very easy.
| Brand / ASIN: | HARRRRD / B06XXSR7CQ |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 16W (1150 lm) / 120V |
| Dimension: | 24 x 3 x 1 inches |
| Color Temp: | 3000K |
| Installation: | Hardwired |
| Features: | On/Off Switch, Dimmable, Gives off bright light up to 1150lm |
15. Britelum Superior Under Cabinet Lights 3-in-1 Color Temp
This is an excellent under cabinet light fixture with versatile functions to use with. Manufactured by Britelum, it’s with 3 color temperatures in one fixture. Yes! You buy one light but get 3 color temperatures available: 2700K/3500K/4000K, the built-in color slide switch allows you to switch the color temperature freely.
And, it’s with high CRI up to 95 while other cabinet lights are only 80, creating color displays that are more natural, true, and vibrant. What’s more, it’s dimmable from 10% to 100%, compatible with most Leviton & Lutron LED In-Wall Dimmer, and can work with Amazon Alexa to support dimming through voice control or smartphone.
Better still, it has 2 installation methods for you to choose with: hardwired or plug in. If you find hardwired is complicated or take up too much energy to do the installation, you can just use the plug-in installation. Simply use the 5ft Plug-in power cord to any 120v electrical outlet for any easy Plug-N-Play installation.
Last, it’s also linkable, can link multiple units together up to 500 watts on a single run. You can either connect it end to end form a seamless connection or use the 6-inch linking extension cord to provide a gap between units.
| Brand / ASIN: | Britelum / B078H9ZBS3 |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 7W (360 lm) / 120V |
| Dimension: | 14 x 4 x 1 inches |
| Color Temp: | 2700K/3500K/4000K |
| Installation: | Hardwired or Plug In |
| Features: | 3 Color Temps, 2 Installations, Dimmable, Linkable, On/Off Switch, |
16. PARMIDA Adjustable Lens Angle Under Cabinet Light
We are amazed at the quality and versatility of these PARMIDA under cabinet light fixtures. Like the other light fixture we mentioned above, this one is also well made and has so many nice features built into one fixture – dimmable, linkable, and with 3 color temperatures to adjust: 3000K/4000K/5000K.
However, what makes it outstanding is its swivel feature, it has an adjustable lens angle up to 130 degrees. Because the light swivels, you can mount the fixture anywhere under the cabinet and still have the light “focused” where you want it. Quite practical and useful!
Additionally, this PARMIDA under cabinet light includes mounting and installation accessories for both plug-in or hardwired, so no worry about the installation. And the included inline connector/linking cable allows you to link multiple fixtures to one outlet. For instance, for 8 inch fixture, you can link up to 50pcs; for 42 inch, it can be linked up to 13pcs.
In a word, if you want an all-powerful under cabinet light but spend less money, this is it.
| Brand / ASIN: | PARMIDA / B07WRDD72H |
| Wattage / Voltage: | 18W (1080 lm) / 120V |
| Dimension: | 32.43 x 5.1 x 1 inches |
| Color Temp: | 3000K/4000K/5000K |
| Installation: | Hardwired or Plug In |
| Features: | Adjustable Beam Angle, 3 Color Temps, 2 Installations, Dimmable, Linkable, On/Off Switch, |
Buyer’s Guide
Finding the best under cabinet lights for your kitchen is not an easy task. There are plenty of under cabinet lighting in the market, but what should be taken into consideration before buying it, Installation? Connections? Operation? Configuration? or other functions you’re looking at?
To help you buy with more confidence, we have summarized all the possible questions or queries you may have while searching the under cabinet fixtures, with details and buying guidance. Keep reading, you will be sure to find out what you need and pick the most suitable light for your situation.
1. What is under cabinet lighting?
Under-cabinet lighting is often added to kitchen and pantry cabinets to provide task lighting on the countertops that are complementary to the general lighting of the room. The underneath of cabinets provides an ideal location for task lighting because the light source is near the task and can be easily concealed to avoid glare. It’s unlike a traditional lightbulb-style fixture because it’s designed to be hidden and space-saving, concealed by the cabinet trim so all you see is the light’s effect.
Under-cabinet lighting also can reduce shadows cast by the cabinets from the overhead lighting. Illumination on the backsplash creates a bright surface that enhances the appearance of the kitchen. In some instances, under cabinet lights also doubles as a night light, especially if the light is dimmable or if the fixture has a low light level for this purpose.
Most types of under cabinet or under counter lighting are designed as a system. These systems contain multiple individual components, including lights, plugs, drivers, cords, mounting kits, and more, and they’re configurable so you can place them where they will benefit you most.
2. Types of LED Under Cabinet Lights
Now with the developed LEDs technology, cabinet lights are in a variety of shapes and designs. That being said, the variety of lighting fixtures available can make it hard to choose what is best. Especially each type of under cabinet lighting features its own and performance vary widely.
As the social center of the home, kitchens are often the primary location for family activities and parties. And, under-cabinet lighting should be considered the workhorse of the kitchen, but it is too often underestimated in relation to the benefits it can provide. It should be smooth, uniform illumination for a variety of tasks and purposes ranging from reading the faded handwriting on an old recipe, to mincing and dicing meats and vegetables, to simply displaying a colorful blown glass decanter or a piece of kitchen art. So, getting a well-fitting cabinet light is all the thing you need to do first.
In this section, we will discuss the most common types of under cabinet lights and how you can get the best light fixture available for kitchen counters, closets, etc, and benefit from it.
#1. LED Under Cabinet Linear Light Bar
This type is the most common one we can see, it’s normally made with aluminum housing and diffused cover, sturdy and last a long time. It has a slim design that can be easily installed and hidden underneath the cabinet or counter. Installation is easy and quick, simply just plug and play, no additional wiring required.
Also, they are offered in different lengths, from 6 inches to 48 inches. So you can pick one light bar and make a single run or you can also buy several bars and connect them together. The under cabinet light bar can be linked seamlessly via end-to-end connectors or can also use the linkable extension cords to provide a gap between units.
Most of the LED light bars are dimmable so you can adjust the brightness level based on your actual working conditions. And it’s with an on/off switch to control the light easily. Some premium ones are with sensor functions as well.
#2. LED Under Cabinet Strip Lights or Tape Lights
LED Under Cabinet tape lights are flexible LED strip lights, they are a fantastic choice if you have an extremely shallow or flat under cabinet recess. Because of its no aluminum housing and light cover design, just a light strip with 3M adhesive tape in the back, it’s pretty slim and thin, making them easy to conceal and fit into unusual locations or tight spots like under your countertops.
LED flexible strip lights typically come in rolls. They are field-cuttable, at specific locations on the strip, so you can DIY the right amount of light and light up the areas where it needs exactly. Most of the strip lights are not dimmable or it requires an additional dimmer switch.
Thanks to their peel-and-stick adhesive and standard plug, they are a quick and easy installation option, just stick-on and connect, no screws required. One of the drawbacks is the tape light might fall off over time. And since it’s without light cover, it’s easy to get dust on the LEDs and make the lights look dim.
#3. LED Under Cabinet Puck Lights
Puck lights are round, similar in appearance to a hockey puck, good for cabinet and display lighting. They are low-profile (less than 2-inch depth) and can be concealed under cabinets easily. Because of the nature of their design, puck lights can create scallops, spots, or pools of light, rather than even illumination across the counter, especially when spaced far apart from each other.
They are a popular choice because they are often battery-operated (or plug-in), with installation requiring nothing more than sticking them to the underside of your cabinet, often using adhesive tape. Some puck lights can be mounted in different positions to aim the light either straight down or at the backsplash.
Generally, when installing puck lights underneath the cabinet, place them every 8 – 12 inches of cabinet length. This spacing will provide the best uniformity and distribution of light without pooling and avoid any dark areas under the cabinets.
#4. LED Under Cabinet Light Fixtures Hardwired
Hardwired under cabinet lights fixtures are more versatile though the installation is a little bit complicated. They are typically 120 Volts and wire into your household power supply. They are either installed direct wired or plugged into a nearby plug (make sure it has a plug-in function).
They can be dimmable using dimming compatible LED drivers and it’s also color temperature adjustable (make sure you check before you buy), so you can not only dim the light but also change the color temperature from warm white to cool white.
Hardwired under cabinet light fixtures provide more bright, uniform shelf lighting and task lighting. And they are linkable, giving you a continuous strip of under cabinet lights. In most cases, they last longer than other under cabinet lightings.
3. How to Install LED Under Cabinet Lights?
As noted, each type of under cabinet lights has a different requirement for installation and wiring. The most popular and quick installation method is either installed by way of adhesive tapes or screws. Adhesive is an ideal option if you’d like to avoid drilling, but if you ever want to remove it, it’s a bit of an involved process. For lighting that needs to be mounted with screws, you’ll have to take special care with measurements to avoid permanent damage to cabinets.
In regard to wiring, there are three basic types of wiring used with under cabinet lighting; hard-wire, simple plug-in, and battery-run. For most homeowners, plug-in and battery-operated lights are quick and easy to do. But keep in mind that plug-in lights will require access to an outlet and battery-operated lights should be easily accessible in order to make switching out batteries as simple as possible. On the other hand, hardwired lights will need to be installed by a skilled electrician. The hardwired under cabinet lighting can leave you with a more professional look. However, most light bars plug into an outlet.
Let’s illustrate it:
- Plug-in
Lights that are plugged into regular outlets are easy to maintain and cost-effective. You’ll need direct access to the outlet, and if you intend to hide its power cord, you’ll have another small project on your hands. Simply connect all the lamps with the connectors or extension cords, and plug them into the outlet, then you’re done.
- Battery-powered
Battery-powered under cabinet lights allow you to place it where there is no electric outlet or it’s too far away to connect, such as place it in the closet, under the counter, wardrobe, etc. Just put it to the place where you want extra light, then you’re done, quick and no wiring is required. Unfortunately, you’ll burn through batteries pretty often if you intend to leave the light on regularly or forget to turn it off.
- Hardwire
Hardwire under cabinet light fixtures need to be direct-wired inside your walls. Installation can be challenging, especially if you’re new to projects of this nature. Confident DIYers may be able to tackle this project, but it’s hard to go wrong with a licensed electrician for such technical installations.
4. How to Buy the Best LED Cabinet Lights?
There are two main criteria for good task lighting: the amount of light falling on the work surface, called illuminance level, and the evenness of the lighting, called uniformity.
The illuminance of a kitchen will depend on the lights you use, how many light fixtures you installed, and how many lumens of the lights. If the lamps are with the same wattage but with different lumens, go with the high lumen one. It’s more energy-efficient and reduces the use of light fixtures.
Uniformity is a measure of the evenness of the lighting. Uniform lighting is easier to work under because the surface has a constant illumination, rather than “pools” or “spots” of light and dark areas. Considering the fixture spacing and the design of the fixture itself, generally, LED Linear Lights have a better light uniformity compared to LED puck lights.
Here are three key considerations to keep in mind when deciding which type of under cabinet lighting is best suited to your needs:
#1. Placement & Available Space
Other Things To Think Of
Once you have decided on which type of lighting you need, you can begin to consider the details of each piece. Here are a few points for further consideration:
- Color and finish are important stylistic elements. While some of these lights are well hidden out of sight, others can be viewed from various angles. Choose materials and colors that coordinate with your cabinetry for the most seamless look.
- Features such as smart control, voice control, or compatibility with Alexa are trending now and popular. But few lights are with these features, make sure the lights are “smart” before making a purchase.
- Interconnection ability is one of the great features for under cabinet lights, it reduces the wiring time and makes installation easy. But do not surpass the maximum service power while connecting the cabinet lights. For instance, if 1 light bar is 5w and maximum service power is 30w, then you can connect at most 6 light bars for continuous running. If over the maximum power, it might cause safety problems.
Conclusion
Now, I am pretty sure you’ve learned a thing or two about these under cabinet light fixtures. Before making a buying decision, consider each style of lighting based on your unique needs, you will never go wrong with that. Of course, if you have other questions, leave your comments below and we are love to help you out. And, if you want to learn more lighting knowledge, please read here.
Resources: Getting Good Lighting for Your Kitchen Counters (PDF)
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you share the really valuable information this is helpful for my upcoming project. hope you add more in future also
I’m confused. I did not see rope lighting which is continuous which I like. I need fifteen feet. How do I get that when I am rounding a corner?
Rope lighting, as well as LED strip lights, are both continuous run. They are flexible so you can shape them to round a corner, or you can also use the included accessories such as L shape connectors to place to corner.
Thanks for sharing the detailed information about under cabinet lights, we had our undercabinet lights installed for just a few days now. They are very easy to install, in a hardwired condition, quick and the light effect is superb.