Ever feel like your kitchen is a little too dark, even with the main lights on? You chop vegetables, but shadows make it hard to see. Or maybe you’re trying to bake, and the counter is just… dim. It’s a common problem! Choosing the right under cabinet lighting can feel overwhelming. There are so many types, colors, and ways to install them. It’s tough to know where to start.
But what if you could instantly transform your kitchen into a bright, functional, and even beautiful space? Imagine your countertops perfectly lit, making cooking easier and your kitchen look more inviting. This post is here to help you cut through the confusion. We’ll explore the best options for under cabinet lighting, making it simple to find the perfect fit for your kitchen and your budget. Get ready to brighten your workspace and boost your kitchen’s style!
Our Top 5 Under Cabinet Lighting For Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright | 9.5/10 | Check Price |
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Under Cabinet Lighting | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
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EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting with Charging Station | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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MCGOR 14.7inch Under Cabinet Lighting | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Under Cabinet Lighting For Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright
Rating: 9.3/10
Brighten up your home with the Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting! This 2-pack set brings super bright light to any space, making it easier to find what you need. With smart features and easy installation, it’s a great upgrade for your kitchen, closets, or any area needing extra light.
What We Like:
- Super bright with 84 LEDs for excellent illumination.
- Adjustable 3-color temperatures (warm, cool, mixed) and 5 brightness levels to fit any mood or task.
- Four lighting modes, including motion sensor, so the lights turn on when you need them and save energy.
- Motion sensor has a wide view and detects movement from up to 10 feet away.
- Long-lasting rechargeable battery (1800mAh) that lasts up to 8 hours on high brightness or 45 days in sensor mode.
- Easy USB-C charging with included cables.
- Simple installation with strong magnets or included adhesive iron plates.
- Durable aluminum alloy and ABS plastic construction.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “Always On” mode might drain the battery faster if used for extended periods.
This Gritin under cabinet lighting is a fantastic solution for adding convenient and efficient light where you need it most. It’s a smart choice for a brighter, more functional home.
2. Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 9.4/10
Illuminate your home with this convenient 2-pack of Under Cabinet Lighting. These 14.7-inch lights are rechargeable and feature motion sensors, making them perfect for any indoor space that needs a little extra light without the hassle of wires.
What We Like:
- The upgraded motion sensor automatically turns the light on when it detects movement within 10 feet in dark areas. This is great for safety, especially on stairs or in hallways at night.
- You can also set the lights to stay on all the time, which is handy for tasks like reading or when camping.
- These lights offer 5 levels of brightness, allowing you to adjust the light from bright for cooking to dim for a soft night light. The frosted cover prevents glare.
- They are rechargeable via USB-C, so no more buying batteries. A single charge lasts a long time on motion sensor mode.
- Installation is super easy thanks to the built-in magnets. You can stick them directly onto metal surfaces or use the included adhesive metal plates.
- They are versatile and work well in kitchens, closets, pantries, basements, stairs, and hallways.
What Could Be Improved:
- The USB wall adapter is not included, so you’ll need to have one on hand to charge the lights.
These lights offer a smart and simple lighting solution for many areas of your home. They are easy to use and provide just the right amount of light when you need it.
3. EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting with Charging Station
Rating: 8.6/10
The EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting with Charging Station brings smart, wireless lighting to your home. These rechargeable lights are perfect for kitchens, closets, and stairs, offering convenience and customizable illumination.
What We Like:
- Smart motion sensing with three modes: Day, Night, and Always On. This means the lights turn on when you need them, saving energy and avoiding disturbances.
- Three color temperatures (3000K, 4200K, 5700K) and adjustable brightness (30%, 60%, 100%) let you create the perfect lighting for any task.
- Long-lasting 2000mAh batteries and a handy 3-slot charging station keep your lights ready to go. The charging station can even power up your phone!
- A remote control allows you to adjust all lights at once, setting brightness, modes, and timers. Individual buttons on each light offer extra control.
- Easy, tool-free installation with magnets or adhesive tape makes setting them up a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- The motion sensor range, while good, might not cover every corner of a very large space.
- While the battery life is good, the “Always On” mode drains it quickly, so it’s best used for shorter periods.
These lights offer a fantastic blend of smart features and user-friendly design. They’re a great way to upgrade your home’s lighting with minimal effort.
4. MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of fumbling in the dark for light switches? The MCGOR 10-inch Under Cabinet Lighting set offers a smart and convenient solution. This 2-pack of rechargeable, motion-sensing lights brings effortless illumination to your kitchen, closets, stairs, and more, all without the hassle of wires.
What We Like:
- The motion sensor is smart. It turns on when you’re near and off after a short time, saving energy and preventing stubbed toes.
- You can adjust the brightness! Choose from five levels, perfect for bright task lighting or a soft night light.
- It has an “always-on” mode. This lets you use the lights for reading or as a portable flashlight.
- No batteries to buy! They recharge with a USB-C cable, and one charge lasts a long time.
- Installation is a breeze. Strong magnets stick them to metal surfaces, or you can use the included adhesive plates. They’re also easy to remove for charging.
- They look great under cabinets, in closets, or on stairs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The USB wall adapter is not included, so you’ll need to provide your own.
These MCGOR lights are a fantastic upgrade for any home, providing customizable and hands-free lighting where you need it most. They make everyday tasks easier and your home safer.
5. MCGOR 14.7inch Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 9.4/10
Illuminate your home with the MCGOR 14.7inch Under Cabinet Lighting. This 2-pack set of rechargeable motion sensor lights offers convenience and versatility for kitchens, closets, stairs, and hallways.
What We Like:
- Smart motion sensor automatically turns lights on and off.
- Always-on mode is great for tasks and as a flashlight.
- USB-C rechargeable battery means no more battery replacements.
- 5 dimmable brightness levels let you set the perfect mood.
- Easy magnetic installation, no tools needed.
- Works great in kitchens, closets, hallways, and more.
What Could Be Improved:
- USB wall adapter is not included.
- Battery life in always-on mode could be longer.
These lights make it easy to see without fumbling for switches. They are a fantastic addition to any home looking for smart and simple lighting solutions.
Illuminate Your Kitchen: The Ultimate Guide to Under Cabinet Lighting
Tired of shadowy countertops while you chop veggies or mix ingredients? Under cabinet lighting can transform your kitchen, making it brighter, safer, and more stylish. This guide helps you pick the perfect lights for your cooking space.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for under cabinet lights, keep these important features in mind.
Brightness (Lumens)
Lights are measured in lumens. More lumens mean brighter light. For task lighting, where you do a lot of prep work, aim for lights with at least 300-400 lumens per fixture. For accent lighting, which just adds a nice glow, fewer lumens are fine.
Color Temperature (Kelvin)
Color temperature affects the mood of your kitchen.
- Warm White (2700K-3000K): This is like the light from old-fashioned incandescent bulbs. It’s cozy and inviting.
- Cool White (3500K-4100K): This light is brighter and more neutral. It’s good for seeing details clearly.
- Daylight (5000K+): This light is very bright and mimics natural sunlight. It’s great for busy kitchens.
Dimming Capability
Being able to dim your lights is a big plus. You can lower the brightness for a relaxed dinner or crank it up for late-night snacks. Look for lights that come with a dimmer or are compatible with dimmers.
Ease of Installation
Some lights are super easy to install, while others need a bit more work. Many stick-on lights are perfect for renters or those who don’t want to drill holes. Hardwired lights offer a cleaner look but require more effort.
Style and Design
Under cabinet lights come in many shapes and sizes.
- Strip Lights: These are long, flexible lights that run along the cabinet edge.
- Puck Lights: These are small, round lights that can be placed individually.
- Bar Lights: These are short, rigid fixtures that offer a more focused beam.
Choose a style that matches your kitchen’s look.
Important Materials
The materials used in under cabinet lights affect their durability and appearance.
Aluminum Housing
Many good quality lights use aluminum. Aluminum is strong and helps to keep the lights cool, which makes them last longer. It also gives lights a sleek, modern look.
Plastic Diffusers
Most lights have a plastic cover, called a diffuser, over the LEDs. This softens the light and prevents glare. Look for diffusers that are made of good quality plastic that won’t yellow over time.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make your under cabinet lights better or worse.
LED Quality
High-quality LEDs last longer and produce a more consistent light. Cheaper LEDs might dim or change color over time.
Build Quality
Check how well the lights are put together. Do they feel sturdy? Are the wires well-protected? Good build quality means they’ll last longer.
Brand Reputation
Brands that have been around for a while and have good reviews often make better products. They usually stand behind their products with warranties.
Heat Dissipation
Lights that get too hot can burn out faster. Lights with good heat sinks (usually made of aluminum) help to keep them cool.
User Experience and Use Cases
Under cabinet lights are more than just pretty. They make your kitchen work better for you.
Task Lighting
This is the most common use. Bright lights under cabinets shine down on your countertops. This makes chopping, cooking, and cleaning much easier and safer. You can see every detail without shadows.
Ambient Lighting
Softer, dimmable lights can create a cozy atmosphere. They’re perfect for when you’re not cooking but want a warm glow in the kitchen. This can make your kitchen feel more welcoming.
Accent Lighting
Some people use lights to highlight specific features, like decorative backsplashes or shelves. This adds a touch of elegance to the kitchen.
Easy Navigation
In a dark kitchen, under cabinet lights help you find your way around without turning on the main overhead lights. This is great for late-night trips for a glass of water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How many under cabinet lights do I need?
A: It depends on the size of your cabinets and how much light you want. Measure the length of your cabinets. Most strip lights come in lengths like 12 inches, 24 inches, or 48 inches. You can also use multiple puck lights.
Q: Are under cabinet lights hard to install?
A: Many are very easy! Stick-on lights are simple. Hardwired lights need more tools and knowledge, but many people can do it themselves. Some kits come with all the parts you need.
Q: Can I use under cabinet lights in a rented kitchen?
A: Yes! Look for lights that don’t require drilling or permanent wiring. Battery-powered or stick-on lights are great options for renters.
Q: What’s the difference between LED and other types of lights?
A: LEDs use much less energy than old-fashioned bulbs. They also last a lot longer and don’t get as hot. This makes them a better choice for under cabinets.
Q: How do I clean under cabinet lights?
A: Turn off the power first! Then, you can gently wipe them with a soft, damp cloth. For stubborn marks, use a little mild soap on the cloth.
Q: Do I need a special dimmer switch?
A: Some under cabinet lights work with standard dimmer switches, but others need special LED dimmers. Always check the product description to make sure.
Q: Can I cut LED strip lights?
A: Some LED strip lights can be cut. They usually have a marked line where you can safely cut them. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: What if one light stops working?
A: If you have a set of lights connected together, one bad light might cause others to flicker or go out. Check the connections and try replacing the faulty light.
Q: Are under cabinet lights energy efficient?
A: Yes, LED under cabinet lights are very energy efficient. They use a fraction of the electricity compared to older lighting technologies.
Q: Can I mix different types of under cabinet lights?
A: You can, but it might look a bit mismatched. It’s often best to stick with one type or brand for a consistent look and feel.
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.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!