Ever feel like your kitchen is a little dim, even with the main lights on? You chop veggies, but shadows make it tricky. Or maybe you’ve admired kitchens in magazines where the countertops just seem to glow. That’s the magic of under-cabinet lighting, and it can totally transform your cooking space.
Choosing the right lights can be confusing. There are so many types, like LEDs, puck lights, and strips. You might wonder about brightness, color, and how to install them. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure where to start. But don’t worry, this post is here to make it simple!
By the end of this read, you’ll understand the different lighting options and how to pick the best ones for your kitchen. We’ll break down what makes good under-cabinet lighting and guide you toward a brighter, more functional kitchen. Let’s get started on creating that perfect glow!
Our Top 5 Lighting Under Kitchen Cabinets Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting with Charging Station | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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Under Cabinet Lighting | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
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GE Wireless LED Puck Lights | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Lighting Under Kitchen Cabinets Detailed Reviews
1. MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of fumbling for light switches in the dark? The MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting offers a smart and convenient solution for any home. This 2-pack of rechargeable lights brings brightness and ease to your kitchen, closets, stairs, and more, all without complicated wiring.
What We Like:
- Smart Motion Sensing: The lights automatically turn on when they detect movement within 10 feet in dark areas. This is super helpful for late-night trips to the kitchen or navigating dark hallways. They also turn off after about 20 seconds of no motion, saving energy.
- Versatile Modes: You can set the lights to motion-sensing mode, or choose an “always-on” mode. The always-on feature makes them great for reading, camping, or even as a flashlight when you need focused light.
- Adjustable Brightness: These lights have 5 different brightness levels. This means you can make them bright for cooking or dim them down for a soft night light that won’t disturb anyone. They use energy-saving LEDs and have a frosted cover to protect your eyes.
- Easy Wireless Charging: The lights come with built-in rechargeable batteries that you can easily charge using a USB-C cable. No more buying batteries or dealing with messy wires! A single charge lasts a long time in motion sensor mode.
- Simple Installation: Strong magnets are built into the lights, so you can stick them directly onto metal surfaces. If you don’t have a metal surface, you can use the included adhesive metal plates. They are also easy to take down for charging.
- Wide Range of Uses: These lights are perfect for under cabinets, inside closets, pantries, basements, on stairs, in hallways, and even on bookshelves.
What Could Be Improved:
- USB Wall Adapter Not Included: You’ll need to have your own USB wall adapter to charge the lights.
These MCGOR under cabinet lights are a fantastic, user-friendly upgrade for any home. They provide customizable lighting exactly where and when you need it.
2. Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright
Rating: 9.4/10
Illuminate your home with the Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable. This 2-pack of lights is super bright with 84 LEDs and offers a lot of cool features. They are easy to install and can be recharged, making them a smart choice for any room.
What We Like:
- Super bright with 84 LEDs and a strong aluminum alloy body.
- You can choose from three different light colors (warm, cool, and mixed) to set the mood.
- Five brightness levels let you pick exactly how bright you want the light.
- Four modes, including motion sensing, save energy and make them convenient.
- The motion sensor works from up to 10 feet away and turns off automatically.
- USB-C rechargeable with a long-lasting battery that holds a charge for weeks in sensor mode.
- Easy to install magnetically on metal surfaces or with included adhesive plates.
- Versatile for use in kitchens, closets, stairs, and many other areas.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “Always On” mode might drain the battery faster than other modes.
- While the motion sensor is good, it might not detect very slow-moving objects.
These Gritin under cabinet lights are a fantastic upgrade for your home. They offer great lighting and convenience, making them a practical and stylish addition to any space.
3. EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting with Charging Station
Rating: 9.5/10
Tired of fumbling in the dark? The EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting is here to brighten your life! These rechargeable, wireless lights are a game-changer for your kitchen, closet, or any dim corner. With smart motion sensing and customizable color temperatures, they make everyday tasks easier and safer. Plus, the handy charging station keeps them ready to go.
What We Like:
- Three versatile modes: Night Motion, All-Day Motion, and Always-On, catering to all your lighting needs.
- Three color temperatures (3000K, 4500K, 6500K) and stepless dimming offer perfect lighting for any task, reducing eye strain.
- Long-lasting 2000mAh batteries provide up to 40 days of use in auto mode, and the 3-slot charging station powers three lights at once.
- The included remote control lets you adjust brightness, change modes, and set timers from up to 16 feet away.
- Tool-free, damage-free installation with strong magnets or 3M adhesive makes setup a breeze on almost any surface.
- The lights remember your last settings, so you don’t have to re-adjust them every time.
What Could Be Improved:
- The motion sensor range is 10 ft, which might be a bit short for very large areas.
- While the charging station is convenient, the charging time for the lights isn’t specified.
These EZVALO lights offer fantastic convenience and customization for any home. They are a smart addition to your living space, making it brighter and more functional.
4. Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of fumbling in the dark? This 2-pack of 14.7″ rechargeable under cabinet lights offers a smart solution for any dimly lit space in your home. With motion-sensing technology, dimmable brightness, and easy wireless installation, these lights are designed to make your life easier and your home safer.
What We Like:
- The upgraded motion sensor turns lights on automatically when you enter a dark area, making it safer to navigate stairs or find things in closets.
- You can choose to have the lights always on, which is handy for reading or when you need a portable light source.
- The brightness is adjustable across five levels, so you can set it perfectly for tasks or as a gentle night light.
- They are USB-C rechargeable, so no more buying batteries or dealing with messy wires.
- Installation is a breeze with built-in magnets or included adhesive metal plates.
- These lights are great for kitchens, closets, hallways, pantries, and even camping.
What Could Be Improved:
- The motion sensor range is 10 feet, which might be a bit short for very large areas.
- The USB wall adapter is not included, so you’ll need to use your own.
These under cabinet lights provide convenient, customizable lighting for many areas of your home. They are a practical upgrade for anyone seeking better visibility and ease of use.
5. GE Wireless LED Puck Lights
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of fumbling in dark closets or struggling to see under your kitchen cabinets? The GE Wireless LED Puck Lights are here to brighten your world! This handy six-pack of battery-operated lights offers a simple and effective solution for adding light exactly where you need it. They’re perfect for all sorts of spots, from pantries and laundry rooms to garages and bookshelves. Installation is a breeze, and you can control them with a simple touch.
What We Like:
- These puck lights are super easy to install. You get both double-sided tape and screws, so you can stick them on or screw them in.
- Turning them on and off is as simple as tapping the lens. No switches to find in the dark!
- Each light gives off 20 lumens of clean, bright light. This is enough to see what you’re doing without being blinding.
- They stay cool to the touch, which is great for safety, especially if you have kids or pets around.
- Being wireless means no messy wires to deal with. Just pop in some AAA batteries (not included), and you’re good to go.
- The six-pack gives you plenty of lights to go around your home.
What Could Be Improved:
- The lights require 3 AAA batteries each, which can add up over time.
- While 20 lumens is good for accent lighting, it might not be bright enough for tasks that need a lot of light.
These GE Wireless LED Puck Lights offer a convenient and affordable way to add light to those hard-to-reach or dim areas in your home. They’re a great DIY lighting solution for everyday needs.
Light Up Your Kitchen: The Best Under-Cabinet Lighting Guide
Tired of cooking in dim light? Under-cabinet lighting can make a huge difference! It brightens your countertops, makes your kitchen look more stylish, and helps you see what you’re doing. This guide will help you choose the perfect lights.
Why Install Under-Cabinet Lighting?
You get better task lighting for chopping and preparing food. It also adds a nice glow to your kitchen, making it feel warmer and more inviting. It’s a simple upgrade that makes a big impact.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, keep these important features in mind:
- Brightness (Lumens): More lumens mean brighter light. For kitchens, you want about 300-400 lumens per foot for good task lighting. Some lights let you adjust the brightness.
- Color Temperature (Kelvin): This tells you if the light looks warm or cool.
- Warm White (2700K-3000K): This is like a cozy, soft light. It’s good for a relaxing feel.
- Cool White (3500K-4500K): This is a brighter, more natural light. It’s great for seeing details when you cook.
- Daylight (5000K+): This is very bright and blue-toned. It’s best for tasks that need the most clarity.
- Type of Light:
- LEDs: These are the most popular. They use less energy, last a long time, and don’t get very hot.
- Fluorescent: These are older. They can be cheaper but use more energy and don’t last as long as LEDs.
- Halogen: These are bright but get hot and use a lot of energy. They are not as common anymore.
- Control Options:
- Switches: Simple on/off switches are common.
- Dimmers: These let you change the brightness.
- Motion Sensors: Lights turn on when you enter the room.
- Remote Controls: You can control the lights from across the room.
- Ease of Installation: Some lights are plug-and-play, while others need to be wired.
Important Materials
Most under-cabinet lights use durable materials:
- Plastic: Many light covers and housings are made of plastic. It’s light and affordable. Look for good quality plastic that won’t yellow over time.
- Aluminum: This is often used for the housing of LED strips. It helps keep the lights cool and makes them last longer.
- Glass: Some older or decorative fixtures might use glass. It can look nice but is more fragile.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things affect how good your lights are:
- Build Quality: Sturdy construction means the lights will last longer. Cheap plastic can crack. Good wiring ensures safety.
- Light Quality: Look for lights with good color rendering. This means they show colors accurately, which is important when you’re cooking.
- Heat Output: LEDs produce very little heat. Lights that get too hot can damage your cabinets or be a fire hazard.
- Energy Efficiency: LEDs save you money on your electricity bill. They also help the environment.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often offer better quality and customer support.
User Experience and Use Cases
Under-cabinet lights are easy to use and have many uses:
- Cooking and Prep: This is the main use. Bright, clear light helps you see everything on your counter.
- Ambiance: Dimmed lights can create a cozy mood for dining or relaxing in the kitchen.
- Safety: Lights make your kitchen safer by illuminating walkways and potential trip hazards.
- Showcasing: They can highlight your backsplash or countertops, making your kitchen look more upscale.
- Easy Installation: Many people install these lights themselves. Plug-in options are very simple. Hardwired options might need an electrician.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the easiest type of under-cabinet lighting to install?
A: Plug-in LED strips or puck lights are usually the easiest. You just stick them under the cabinets and plug them in.
Q: How many lights do I need?
A: It depends on the size of your cabinets. Measure the length of your countertops and divide by the length of the light fixture or the recommended spacing for puck lights.
Q: Can I dim under-cabinet lights?
A: Yes, many LED under-cabinet lights come with dimming features. You might need a separate dimmer switch or a remote control.
Q: Are LED lights safe for my kitchen cabinets?
A: Yes, LEDs produce very little heat, so they are safe to install under cabinets. They won’t damage your wood.
Q: What color temperature is best for a kitchen?
A: A cool white (3500K-4500K) is often recommended for task lighting because it helps you see details clearly. Warm white can be nice for ambiance.
Q: Do I need an electrician to install these lights?
A: For plug-in lights, no. For hardwired lights, it’s best to hire an electrician to ensure they are installed safely.
Q: How long do LED under-cabinet lights last?
A: LEDs are very long-lasting. They can last for 20,000 to 50,000 hours, which is many years of use.
Q: Can I connect multiple light bars together?
A: Many LED light bar systems allow you to connect multiple bars together for a continuous look. Check the product details.
Q: What is “color rendering index” (CRI)?
A: CRI measures how accurately a light source shows the true colors of objects. A higher CRI (90+) is better for kitchens so your food looks its real color.
Q: How do I clean under-cabinet lights?
A: Turn off the power first. Then, gently wipe the fixtures with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.