Do you ever feel like your kitchen is missing a little something? Maybe the lighting is too dim when you’re trying to chop vegetables, or perhaps the overall ambiance just feels a bit… flat. You’re not alone! Transforming your kitchen with under-cabinet LED lights is a popular way to brighten things up and add a touch of modern style. But let’s be honest, stepping into the world of LED strips and puck lights can feel overwhelming. There are so many choices for brightness, color, and how they’re controlled!
Choosing the right LED lights for under your kitchen cabinets can be tricky. You want something that looks good, works well, and doesn’t break the bank. It’s easy to get lost in technical terms or end up with lights that aren’t quite what you envisioned. But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll feel much more confident about selecting the perfect under-cabinet lighting. We’ll break down what you need to know so you can easily pick the best LEDs for your kitchen, making meal prep a breeze and your kitchen a more inviting space.
Our Top 5 Led Lights For Under Kitchen Cabinets Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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Govee White LED Strip Lights | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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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 | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Led Lights For Under Kitchen Cabinets Detailed Reviews
1. MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of fumbling in the dark for light switches? The MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting offers a smart and simple solution for any home. This 2-pack of rechargeable lights brings convenience and safety to your kitchen, closets, stairs, and more. With advanced motion sensing technology and adjustable brightness, these lights make your life easier and brighter.
What We Like:
- The upgraded motion sensor works great. It turns on automatically when you walk by and turns off after 20 seconds, saving energy and preventing you from tripping in the dark.
- You can choose to have the lights on all the time. This is handy for reading, camping, or even as a temporary flashlight.
- The lights have 5 brightness levels. This means you can make them brighter for cooking or dim them for a soft night light without disturbing anyone.
- They are easy to charge with a USB-C cable, so no more buying batteries. A single charge lasts a long time, up to 45 days on motion sensor mode.
- Installation is a breeze! The strong magnets let you stick them to metal surfaces, or you can use the included adhesive plates. They are also easy to remove for charging.
- They are perfect for many places like kitchens, closets, pantries, hallways, and bookshelves.
What Could Be Improved:
- The USB wall adapter is not included, so you’ll need to use your own or buy one separately.
These MCGOR under cabinet lights are a fantastic addition to any home, offering smart features and easy installation. They provide convenient lighting exactly where and when you need it.
2. Govee White LED Strip Lights
Rating: 9.3/10
Transform your space with the Govee White LED Strip Lights. These upgraded 16.4ft dimmable lights provide a bright, daylight white glow, perfect for any room or holiday decoration. With 300 LEDs and easy installation, you can quickly add ambiance and functionality to your home.
What We Like:
- The 300 LEDs offer a super bright, 6500K daylight white light. It makes everything look clear and vibrant.
- You can easily adjust the brightness with 6 different levels. This makes them great for any mood or occasion, from focused task lighting to cozy holiday vibes.
- Setup is a breeze! Just peel and stick the strong adhesive tape. The lights are also cuttable, so you can fit them perfectly where you need them.
- The 16.4ft length is flexible and easy to bend. You can shape them to light up mirrors, under cabinets, or around your bedroom.
- These lights are very safe to use. They run on low voltage and have built-in safety features, meaning they stay cool to the touch.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the adhesive is strong, it might not stick well to very textured or dusty surfaces without extra prep.
- The daylight white is great for brightness, but some users might prefer warmer white options for different atmospheres.
These Govee LED strip lights are a fantastic and safe way to brighten up your home. They offer versatile lighting that’s easy to install and customize for any need.
3. Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright
Rating: 9.0/10
Illuminate your home with the Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting. This rechargeable light set comes with 84 super bright LEDs and offers versatile lighting options to fit any need. It’s designed for easy installation and long-lasting use, making it a fantastic upgrade for your home.
What We Like:
- 84 super bright LEDs provide excellent illumination.
- Three color temperatures (3000K, 4500K, 6000K) and five brightness levels let you customize your light.
- Four lighting modes, including motion sensing, save energy and add convenience.
- Motion sensor has a wide 120° angle and 10ft detection range, automatically turning off after 20 seconds of no movement.
- Built-in 1800mAh battery offers up to 8 hours of use on high brightness and 45 days on sensor mode.
- Easy USB-C recharging means you won’t need to charge them often.
- Strong magnets and included adhesive iron plates make installation a breeze on any surface.
- Durable aluminum alloy and ABS plastic construction ensures longevity.
- Perfect for kitchens, closets, pantries, stairs, and more.
What Could Be Improved:
- The motion sensor might be a bit sensitive in very busy areas, potentially triggering more often than needed.
- While the battery life is good, for constant use in a very high-traffic area, frequent charging might still be necessary.
These Gritin lights are a smart and practical solution for adding convenient, customizable lighting to any space in your home. They offer excellent functionality and ease of use, making them a worthy addition to your household.
4. Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of fumbling in the dark? This 2-pack of 14.7-inch rechargeable under-cabinet lights brings smart, wire-free illumination to your home. With motion-sensing technology, they light up automatically when you enter a room, making it safer and more convenient to navigate your kitchen, stairs, or hallways. You can also set them to stay on for tasks or use them as portable lights. These lights are easy to install and adjust, offering a simple solution for better visibility.
What We Like:
- Smart motion sensor turns lights on when you’re near and off after a short time in the dark.
- Always-on mode is handy for reading or camping.
- Brightness is adjustable with 5 levels, protecting your eyes and letting you set the perfect mood.
- Rechargeable with a USB-C cable, so no more buying batteries or dealing with messy wires.
- Easy magnetic installation sticks to metal surfaces or uses included adhesive plates.
- Versatile use in kitchens, closets, pantries, hallways, and more.
What Could Be Improved:
- The USB wall adapter for charging is not included.
These under-cabinet lights offer a practical and stylish way to brighten your home. They are a fantastic addition for anyone seeking convenience and improved safety.
5. EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting with Charging Station
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of fumbling in the dark for your keys or struggling to see while prepping dinner? The EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting is here to brighten your life! This set of six wireless, rechargeable lights brings smart illumination to any space, from your kitchen cabinets to your closets and even your stairs. With motion sensing, adjustable color temperatures, and a handy charging station, these lights make everyday tasks easier and safer.
What We Like:
- The upgraded motion sensor works great, turning on when you need it and saving battery.
- You can pick the perfect light color: warm for cozy, natural for everyday, or cool for bright tasks.
- The brightness is easily adjustable, so you can get just the right amount of light without glare.
- The rechargeable batteries last a long time, and the 3-slot charging station is super convenient.
- The remote control lets you change settings easily from a distance, and the timer is a nice bonus.
- Setup is a breeze – just peel and stick, no tools or complicated wiring needed.
What Could Be Improved:
- The motion detection range, while good, might not cover very large areas without multiple lights.
- While the “Always-On” mode is useful, the battery drains much faster in this setting.
These EZVALO lights offer a simple yet effective solution for adding light where you need it most. They’re a fantastic upgrade for any home looking for convenience and smart lighting.
Brighten Your Kitchen: The Ultimate LED Under Cabinet Light Buying Guide
Tired of shadowy countertops? LED lights for under your kitchen cabinets can transform your cooking space. They add both style and practical light. This guide helps you pick the best ones.
Why Choose LED Under Cabinet Lights?
- Better Visibility: See what you’re doing when you chop veggies or mix ingredients.
- Ambiance: Create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Energy Efficient: LEDs use less electricity than older bulbs. This saves you money.
- Long Lasting: They last a very long time. You won’t replace them often.
Key Features to Look For
1. Brightness (Lumens)
Brightness matters. Look for lights with enough lumens to properly light your workspace. For task lighting, aim for at least 200-400 lumens per foot. Some lights have adjustable brightness, which is a great feature.
2. Color Temperature (Kelvin)
Color temperature affects the mood of your kitchen. It’s measured in Kelvin (K).
- Warm White (2700K-3000K): This gives a cozy, yellowish light. It’s great for creating a relaxed feel.
- Cool White (4000K-5000K): This gives a brighter, bluer light. It’s good for task areas where you need to see clearly.
- Daylight (5000K+): This mimics natural sunlight. It’s very bright and good for detailed work.
3. Type of LED Light
There are a few common types:
- LED Strips: These are flexible and stick to surfaces. They offer a continuous line of light.
- LED Puck Lights: These are round and small. You can place them where you need light most.
- LED Bar Lights: These are rigid and often slim. They provide focused light.
4. Power Source
Consider how the lights get power:
- Plug-in: Easy to install. You just plug them into an outlet.
- Battery-powered: Good for renters or places without nearby outlets. You’ll need to replace batteries.
- Hardwired: These connect directly to your home’s electrical system. This offers a clean look but requires installation.
5. Control Options
How will you turn them on and off?
- Manual Switch: Simple on/off buttons on the fixture.
- Remote Control: Lets you control lights from across the room.
- Motion Sensor: Lights turn on automatically when you enter the area. This is convenient and saves energy.
- Smart Home Compatibility: Control lights with your voice or phone app.
Important Materials
Most under cabinet lights use durable materials.
- Aluminum Housing: This helps dissipate heat, making the LEDs last longer. It also looks sleek.
- Plastic Diffusers: These spread the light evenly and reduce glare.
- Adhesive Backing: For strip lights, strong adhesive is important for them to stay put.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters:
- High CRI (Color Rendering Index): A CRI of 80+ shows colors accurately. This is important for food preparation.
- Even Light Distribution: No dark spots or harsh glare.
- Good Heat Dissipation: Prevents LEDs from overheating and failing early.
- Durable Construction: Feels solid and well-made.
Quality Reducers:
- Flimsy Materials: Lights that feel cheap might not last.
- Uneven Lighting: Creates shadows and looks unprofessional.
- Poor Adhesive: Lights that fall down are frustrating.
- Limited Brightness or Color Options: Less flexibility for your needs.
User Experience and Use Cases
LED under cabinet lights are very easy to use. Most install in minutes. They are perfect for:
- Task Lighting: Illuminate your countertops for cooking and food prep.
- Accent Lighting: Highlight decorative items or create a mood.
- Night Lights: Gentle light for navigating the kitchen at night.
- Renters: Battery-powered or plug-in options are ideal.
A good set of lights makes a big difference. They improve your kitchen’s look and function.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How many LED lights do I need for under my cabinets?
A: It depends on the size of your cabinets and how much light you need. Measure the length of your cabinets. Most manufacturers provide coverage guides.
Q: Are LED under cabinet lights difficult to install?
A: Most are very easy! Strip lights often have adhesive backing. Puck lights might use screws or adhesive. Plug-in options are the simplest.
Q: Can I cut LED light strips?
A: Yes, many LED strips can be cut. Look for marked cut points. Always check the product instructions before cutting.
Q: How long do LED under cabinet lights last?
A: LEDs are very long-lasting. They can last 25,000 to 50,000 hours or more. This is many years of use.
Q: What’s the difference between warm white and cool white light?
A: Warm white is yellowish, like an old incandescent bulb. Cool white is brighter and bluer, like daylight.
Q: Should I choose plug-in or battery-powered lights?
A: Plug-in lights offer consistent power and don’t need battery changes. Battery-powered lights are great if you can’t reach an outlet or are renting.
Q: Do LED under cabinet lights get hot?
A: They produce very little heat compared to older lights. Aluminum housing helps keep them cool.
Q: Can I dim LED under cabinet lights?
A: Many models offer dimming features. You might need a compatible dimmer switch or remote.
Q: How do I clean LED under cabinet lights?
A: Turn them off and unplug them. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe them clean. For tougher spots, a slightly damp cloth can be used, but make sure they are dry before turning them back on.
Q: Are LED under cabinet lights worth the cost?
A: Yes! They save energy, last a long time, and significantly improve your kitchen’s look and usability.
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!