Ever feel like your kitchen is missing something? Maybe it’s a little dim when you’re chopping vegetables or trying to find that spice jar in the back. You’re not alone! Many kitchens have dark spots that make cooking and cleaning a little less enjoyable. It’s a common problem, and it can be tough to figure out which under cabinet lights are the best for your space.
Choosing the right under cabinet lights can feel overwhelming. There are so many types, like LED strips, puck lights, and bar lights. Then you have to think about brightness, color, and how easy they are to install. It’s a lot to consider, and you want to make sure you get lights that look good and work well without breaking the bank.
But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to look for. We’ll break down the different types of under cabinet lights, what features matter most, and even give you tips on how to install them. Get ready to transform your kitchen into a brighter, more inviting space!
Our Top 5 Under Cabinet Lights For Kitchen Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Under Cabinet Lights For Kitchen Detailed Reviews
1. Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright
Rating: 8.6/10
Illuminate your home with the Gritin 10.2-inch Under Cabinet Lighting. This rechargeable light set, featuring 84 super bright LEDs, offers versatile lighting for any space. With three color temperatures and five brightness levels, you can create the perfect ambiance for kitchens, closets, and more. Its motion sensor automatically lights your way, making it a convenient and energy-saving solution for your home.
What We Like:
- Super bright with 84 LEDs and adjustable brightness.
- Three color temperatures (warm, cool, mixed) to suit any mood or task.
- Four lighting modes, including motion sensing for convenience and energy saving.
- Long-lasting rechargeable battery with USB-C charging.
- Easy installation with strong magnets or included adhesive plates.
- Durable aluminum alloy and ABS plastic construction.
What Could Be Improved:
- Motion sensor detection distance is good, but could be longer for larger areas.
- While stepless dimming is a nice touch, the 5 preset levels might not be enough for everyone.
The Gritin under cabinet lights are a fantastic upgrade for any home. They provide excellent lighting and are incredibly easy to use and install.
2. MCGOR 14.7inch Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of fumbling for light switches in the dark? The MCGOR 14.7inch Under Cabinet Lighting set offers a smart and convenient solution for your home. This 2-pack of rechargeable, motion-sensing lights brightens up your kitchen counters, closets, hallways, and more without you lifting a finger.
What We Like:
- Smart Motion Sensing: Lights turn on automatically when you enter a dark area and turn off after 20 seconds of no movement, saving energy and preventing trips.
- Versatile Lighting Modes: Choose motion-sensing or always-on mode. The always-on option is great for tasks like reading or camping.
- Easy USB-C Charging: No need for batteries! Simply recharge the built-in 2500mAh battery with a USB-C cable. One charge lasts weeks in motion sensor mode.
- Adjustable Brightness: Five dimmable brightness levels let you set the perfect mood, from bright task lighting to a gentle night light.
- Simple Installation: Strong magnets and included adhesive metal plates make installation a breeze – no tools or electricians needed. They’re also easy to remove for charging.
- Wide Application: Perfect for kitchens, closets, cabinets, pantries, basements, stairs, hallways, and bookshelves.
What Could Be Improved:
- USB Wall Adapter Not Included: You’ll need your own adapter to plug in the USB-C cable for charging.
These MCGOR lights are a fantastic upgrade for any home needing a touch of modern convenience and safety. They provide excellent illumination where you need it most, with effortless installation and charging.
3. UltraPro 24 inch Hardwired Under Cabinet Lights
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your kitchen with the UltraPro 24 inch Hardwired Under Cabinet Lights. These lights provide perfect illumination for your countertops. You can easily change the color temperature to match your mood or task. They are also dimmable, so you control the brightness. Installation is straightforward, making it a great DIY project.
What We Like:
- Choose Your Light: You can pick between warm white (2700K), cool white (4000K), or daylight (5000K). This lets you set the right mood for any activity.
- Control the Brightness: The lights are dimmable when used with an in-wall LED dimmer. You can easily adjust how bright the lights are.
- Simple to Install: Everything you need for hardwired installation is included. Push-in connectors make connecting wires quick and easy.
- Long-Lasting: These are LED lights. They use less energy and won’t need new bulbs for a very long time.
- Fits Your Space: These lights also come in other sizes: 12in., 18in., 36in., and 48in. You can find the perfect fit for any cabinet.
- Peace of Mind: A limited lifetime warranty is included, so you don’t have to worry.
What Could Be Improved:
- Hardwired Installation: These lights require a hardwired connection, which might be a bit tricky for some people to install without help.
Overall, the UltraPro Under Cabinet Lights are a fantastic way to brighten and improve your kitchen’s look and feel. They offer great flexibility and long-term value.
4. Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 9.2/10
Brighten up your home with this convenient 3-pack of motion-sensing under cabinet lights. These rechargeable lights are perfect for kitchens, closets, pantries, and anywhere else you need a little extra light without the hassle of wires.
What We Like:
- Adjustable Brightness: Choose from three brightness levels to suit your needs, from bright task lighting to a soft nightlight.
- Smart Motion Sensor: Lights automatically turn on when motion is detected in dark areas and turn off after 20 seconds of no movement, saving energy.
- Easy Rechargeable Battery: Each light charges quickly via USB-C and lasts for weeks in motion sensor mode, no more buying batteries!
- Simple Installation: Mount them easily with built-in magnets or adhesive metal plates – no tools needed.
- Versatile Use: Use them as kitchen lights, closet lights, stair lights, or even emergency lights during power outages.
- Sleek Design: The ultra-thin and stylish design blends seamlessly with your cabinets.
What Could Be Improved:
- Darkness Required for Auto Mode: The motion sensor only works in low-light conditions, so it won’t activate in a bright room.
- Sensor Obstruction Warning: Make sure not to cover the sensor head during installation for optimal performance.
These under cabinet lights offer a smart and easy way to add lighting where you need it. They are a great addition to any home for added convenience and safety.
5. EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting with Charging Station
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of fumbling in the dark? The EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting is here to brighten your life, literally! This set comes with rechargeable lights that detect motion, perfect for when your hands are full. They’re super easy to install and even come with a charging station. Plus, you can pick the perfect light color and brightness for any room.
What We Like:
- Super responsive motion sensing, so lights turn on when you need them most.
- Three different light color options (warm, natural, cool) let you set the mood.
- Brightness is adjustable, helping you save energy and protect your eyes.
- Long battery life means less frequent charging.
- A handy charging station powers up to three lights at once.
- One remote controls all the lights for easy adjustments.
- Installation is a breeze with magnets or adhesive tape – no tools needed!
- Works great in kitchens, closets, stairs, and more.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “Always On” mode drains the battery quickly.
- Motion detection range might be a little sensitive for some areas.
These EZVALO lights are a fantastic way to add convenience and style to your home. They make everyday tasks easier and create a more pleasant atmosphere.
Brighten Your Kitchen: The Ultimate Guide to Under Cabinet Lights
Why You Need Under Cabinet Lights
Tired of shadowy countertops? Under cabinet lights are your kitchen’s best friend. They make cooking safer and your kitchen look amazing. These lights shine down on your workspace. This means you can see your ingredients clearly. They also add a warm glow to your kitchen. It makes the whole room feel cozier.
Key Features to Look For
1. Brightness (Lumens)
Lumens tell you how bright a light is. More lumens mean a brighter light. For kitchen task lighting, aim for lights with 150-300 lumens per foot. This gives you enough light to chop veggies and read recipes.
2. Color Temperature (Kelvin)
Color temperature affects the light’s color.
- Warm White (2700K-3000K): This looks like natural sunlight. It makes your kitchen feel cozy.
- Cool White (3500K-4500K): This light is brighter and more crisp. It’s good for tasks that need sharp focus.
- Daylight (5000K+): This is a very bright, blue-ish light. It’s best for very detailed work.
Most people like warm white for kitchens. It creates a welcoming atmosphere.
3. Type of Light
There are a few main types of under cabinet lights:
- LED Strips: These are flexible and easy to install. You can cut them to fit. They offer a continuous line of light.
- LED Puck Lights: These are small, round lights. You can place them where you need light most. They are good for accent lighting.
- Bar Lights: These are rigid bars. They offer a more focused beam of light.
LEDs are the best choice because they last a long time and use less energy.
4. Dimmer Functionality
Lights with a dimmer are great. You can adjust the brightness. Use bright light for cooking. Dim it down for a softer mood when you’re relaxing.
5. Ease of Installation
Look for lights that are easy to install. Many come with adhesive backing or simple mounting clips. Some plug into an outlet. Others are hardwired, which might need an electrician.
Important Materials
Most under cabinet lights use plastic or metal for the housing.
- Plastic: It’s lightweight and affordable.
- Metal (like aluminum): It’s more durable and can help with heat dissipation.
The light itself is usually LED. LEDs are energy-efficient and last a very long time.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Boosters:
- Good Brand: Buying from a trusted brand often means better quality and customer support.
- High Lumens: Brighter lights are more useful for task lighting.
- Even Light Distribution: Lights that spread light evenly look better and are more functional.
- Durable Materials: Metal housings and good quality LEDs will last longer.
Quality Reducers:
- Flickering Lights: Cheap LEDs can flicker, which is annoying and bad for your eyes.
- Poor Color Rendering: Lights that don’t show colors accurately make food look unappetizing.
- Difficult Installation: If it’s hard to put up, you might not use them.
- Short Lifespan: Lights that burn out quickly are a waste of money.
User Experience and Use Cases
Under cabinet lights are a game-changer for cooking. They make it easy to see what you’re doing. Chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients, and reading recipes become much simpler. They also make your kitchen look more stylish. You can use them to highlight backsplash designs or create a soft ambiance in the evening. For example, someone might use bright cool white light while prepping dinner. Later, they might dim them to a warm glow while enjoying a meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How many under cabinet lights do I need?
A: It depends on the length of your cabinets. You usually want lights every 1-2 feet for good coverage. Measure your cabinets to figure this out.
Q: Are LED under cabinet lights worth the cost?
A: Yes! LEDs use less electricity. They also last much longer than old light bulbs. This saves you money over time.
Q: Can I install under cabinet lights myself?
A: Many lights are designed for DIY installation. They often use adhesive or simple clips. If you’re not comfortable with wiring, choose plug-in options.
Q: What is the best color temperature for my kitchen?
A: Most people prefer warm white (2700K-3000K) for a cozy feel. Cool white (3500K-4500K) is good if you need bright task lighting.
Q: Do I need a dimmer switch?
A: A dimmer is optional but highly recommended. It lets you control the brightness for different tasks and moods.
Q: How do I clean under cabinet lights?
A: Turn off the lights. Gently wipe them with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Q: Can under cabinet lights be cut?
A: LED strips can usually be cut to the desired length. Check the product details for specific cutting marks.
Q: What’s the difference between puck lights and strip lights?
A: Puck lights are individual round lights you place as needed. Strip lights are long, flexible strips that create a continuous light source.
Q: How long do LED under cabinet lights typically last?
A: Good quality LED lights can last 25,000 to 50,000 hours or more. That’s many years of use.
Q: Where is the best place to buy under cabinet lights?
A: You can find them at home improvement stores, electronics stores, and online retailers like Amazon.
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!