Does your kitchen feel a little dim, even with the main lights on? You’re not alone! Many kitchens lack the bright, focused light needed for cooking and prepping. This can make tasks harder and the whole room feel less inviting. Choosing the right lighting for under your kitchen cabinets can seem tricky with so many choices out there – from bright LEDs to warmer glows.
But what if we told you that a few simple lights could completely transform your kitchen? We’re going to dive into the world of under-cabinet lighting. You’ll learn how to pick the perfect style and color of light to make your countertops shine. Get ready to discover how easy it is to add both beauty and function to your kitchen.
Let’s get your kitchen looking its best and making cooking a breeze.
Our Top 5 Lighting Under Kitchen Cabinets Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Lighting Under Kitchen Cabinets Detailed Reviews
1. Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright
Rating: 8.7/10
Illuminate your spaces effortlessly with the Gritin 10.2-inch Under Cabinet Lighting. This rechargeable LED lighting set is super bright and packed with features to make your life easier. With its sleek design and powerful performance, it’s the perfect upgrade for any home.
What We Like:
- Super Bright & Versatile Lighting: 84 LEDs provide excellent illumination. You can choose from three color temperatures (warm, cool, and balanced) and five brightness levels, including stepless dimming, to create the perfect ambiance for any task or mood.
- Smart Motion Sensing: The 120° wide-angle motion sensor detects movement up to 10 feet away and automatically turns off after 20 seconds of inactivity, saving energy and preventing you from fumbling in the dark.
- Four Convenient Modes: Switch between OFF, Night Sensing (motion in darkness), Daytime Sensing (motion anytime), and Always On modes to suit your specific needs.
- Long-Lasting & Easy Recharging: The built-in 1800mAh battery lasts up to 8 hours on high brightness and an amazing 45 days in sensor mode. Recharging is a breeze with the included USB-C cables.
- Effortless Installation: Strong magnets allow for easy attachment to iron surfaces. For other areas, use the included adhesive iron plates. The lights are also easy to remove for charging.
- Durable and Stylish Design: Made with aluminum alloy and ABS plastic, these lights are built to last and look great under cabinets, in closets, pantries, or on stairs.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the motion sensor is great, it might be too sensitive in very busy areas, triggering more often than desired.
- The “Daytime Sensing Mode” could be clearer in its description of when it activates.
These Gritin under cabinet lights offer a fantastic combination of brightness, smart features, and ease of use. They are a practical and stylish solution for enhancing the lighting in your home.
2. MCGOR 14.7inch Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 9.1/10
Say goodbye to fumbling in the dark! The MCGOR 14.7inch Under Cabinet Lighting, a 2-pack set of rechargeable motion sensor lights, offers a smart and convenient way to brighten your home. These wireless lights are perfect for kitchens, closets, stairs, and hallways, providing light exactly when and where you need it.
What We Like:
- The motion sensor is a lifesaver. It turns on automatically when you walk by and off after 20 seconds, so you never have to search for a switch.
- You can also set it to stay on all the time, which is great for reading or when you need a light for a longer task.
- Recharging is super easy with the included USB-C cable. No more buying batteries!
- The brightness is adjustable with five different levels, so you can make it brighter for cooking or dimmer for a soft night light.
- Installation is a breeze. They stick to metal surfaces with magnets or you can use the included adhesive metal plates. They’re easy to take down for charging too.
- The frosted cover makes the light soft and easy on your eyes, not harsh at all.
What Could Be Improved:
- The USB wall adapter is not included, so you’ll need to have one of your own to plug them in for charging.
These MCGOR lights are a fantastic addition to any home, offering smart features and easy use. They’re a simple solution for better lighting in all those tricky spots.
3. EZVALO 5 Pack Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of fumbling in the dark for light switches? The EZVALO 5 Pack Under Cabinet Lighting set is here to make your life easier! These smart, rechargeable lights offer a sleek and modern solution for lighting up your kitchen cabinets, closets, and any other space that needs a touch of illumination. With motion-sensing technology and adjustable color temperatures, these lights are designed to provide convenience and ambiance exactly when and where you need them.
What We Like:
- The motion sensor is super fast, turning on in just 0.1 seconds and shutting off automatically after 20 seconds of no movement. No more stubbing your toes in the dark!
- These lights are rechargeable with a USB-C cable, meaning no annoying battery changes or messy wires. A single charge lasts a long time, up to 45 days on motion sensor mode.
- You can choose from three different light colors (warm, natural, and cool white) and adjust the brightness from 10% to 100% to create the perfect mood.
- They have four handy modes: always on, motion sensing day mode, motion sensing night mode, and off. A small indicator light shows you which mode it’s in.
- Installation is a breeze! Strong magnets let you stick them to metal surfaces, or you can use the included adhesive strips for other areas. No tools needed!
- The aluminum alloy and ABS plastic build makes them strong and long-lasting.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the motion detection range is good at 12 feet, it might not cover extremely large areas perfectly.
- The “Always-On” mode might drain the battery faster than expected if used continuously for extended periods.
These EZVALO lights are a fantastic upgrade for any home, offering smart features and easy installation. They provide a simple yet effective way to brighten up your living spaces.
4. EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting with Charging Station
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your home with the EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting. These rechargeable wireless lights bring convenience and style to any space. They have motion sensors, making them super helpful when your hands are full.
What We Like:
- The motion sensor has three smart modes. It can turn on in the day, only at night, or stay on all the time.
- You can pick from three different light colors: warm white, natural white, and cool white. This is great for different tasks in the kitchen.
- You can change how bright the lights are. There are three brightness levels: 30%, 60%, and 100%.
- The lights have a long battery life, lasting up to 45 days on auto mode.
- The charging station can charge up to three lights at once using USB-C. It can also charge your phone or headphones.
- One remote controls all the lights. You can change brightness, modes, and set timers for up to 120 minutes.
- Installation is super easy. You can stick them on metal surfaces with the built-in magnets or use the included adhesive tape. No tools are needed.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “Always On Mode” only lasts for 11 hours on maximum brightness.
- While the remote is convenient, if you want to use the lights in separate rooms, you might need to adjust them individually.
These lights are a fantastic addition to your home, offering smart features and easy installation for any room. They provide the right light for every situation.
5. 2 Pack Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 8.9/10
Illuminate your home with the Auxoda 2 Pack Under Cabinet Lighting. These rechargeable lights offer smart features like gradual brightness changes for eye comfort and three color temperature options to suit any mood. They are perfect for kitchens, closets, and any indoor space needing a touch of light.
What We Like:
- The “Fade In & Out” feature gently adjusts brightness, which is much easier on your eyes than sudden changes.
- You can easily switch between warm, natural, and cool white light to match your preference.
- The brightness is adjustable from 10% to 100%, letting you create the perfect atmosphere.
- There are three lighting modes: a night mode that only activates in the dark, and a day mode that works in any light.
- The lights are rechargeable via USB-C and last over 60 days on a single charge with normal use.
- Installation is super easy with a built-in magnet and included adhesive pads; no tools are needed.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the motion sensor is good, it might occasionally trigger if there’s a lot of movement nearby.
- The “day mode” for the motion sensor could be more sensitive to ensure it always turns on when needed, even in slightly brighter conditions.
Overall, these under cabinet lights are a smart and convenient solution for adding light where you need it most. They offer great flexibility and ease of use for any home.
Brighten Your Kitchen: The Ultimate Under Cabinet Lighting Guide
Having good lighting in your kitchen makes a big difference. It helps you see better when you’re cooking. It also makes your kitchen look nicer. Under cabinet lighting is a popular choice. It adds a cozy glow and useful light to your countertops. This guide will help you pick the best lights for your kitchen.
1. Key Features to Look For
Brightness (Lumens)
Lumens tell you how bright a light is. More lumens mean a brighter light. For under cabinet lights, you want enough brightness to see clearly. Look for lights that offer around 100-200 lumens per foot. This is usually enough for most tasks.
Color Temperature (Kelvin)
Color temperature is how warm or cool the light looks. It’s measured in Kelvin (K).
- Warm White (2700K-3000K): This light is cozy and yellow. It’s good for creating a relaxed mood.
- Cool White (3500K-4000K): This light is more neutral. It’s good for seeing details when you cook.
- Daylight (5000K+): This light is very bright and blue. It’s best for task lighting where you need to see everything clearly.
Dimmability
Lights that can be dimmed give you control. You can make them brighter for cooking. You can dim them for a softer, evening glow. This feature is very useful.
Energy Efficiency (LEDs)
LED lights are the best choice. They use less electricity than older types of bulbs. This saves you money on your energy bill. LEDs also last a very long time. You won’t have to change them often.
Ease of Installation
Some lights are easy to put up yourself. Others might need a bit more work. Look for lights with simple instructions or plug-in options if you’re not a DIY expert.
2. Important Materials
Plastic vs. Metal Housings
The case of the light is important. Plastic cases are usually cheaper. Metal cases are more durable. They often look more stylish too. Both can work well, but metal might last longer.
Diffusers
A diffuser is a cover that spreads out the light. It makes the light look softer. It stops you from seeing the bright LED bulbs directly. This makes the light easier on your eyes.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Brand Reputation
Buying from well-known brands can mean better quality. These companies often stand behind their products. They might offer longer warranties.
Customer Reviews
Reading what other people say is very helpful. Reviews can tell you about the light’s real-world performance. They can warn you about any problems.
Warranty
A good warranty shows the company believes in its product. A longer warranty means you’re protected if something goes wrong.
Heat Output
Good quality lights don’t get too hot. This is important for safety. It also means they won’t damage your cabinets over time.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Task Lighting
This is the main use for under cabinet lights. They shine light directly onto your countertops. This makes chopping vegetables and other cooking tasks easier and safer.
Ambient Lighting
When dimmed, these lights create a warm, inviting atmosphere. They can make your kitchen feel cozier. This is nice for relaxing in the evening.
Accent Lighting
Some people use them to highlight decorative items on their counters. They can also make the backsplash of the kitchen stand out.
Types of Under Cabinet Lights
- LED Strips: These are thin, flexible strips of LEDs. They are easy to hide. They give a smooth, continuous light.
- LED Puck Lights: These are small, round lights. They can be mounted individually. They are good for specific task areas.
- LED Bars: These are longer, rigid lights. They offer more focused light.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best type of light for under kitchen cabinets?
A: LED lights are the best choice. They are energy efficient and last a long time.
Q: How bright should under cabinet lights be?
A: Look for about 100-200 lumens per foot for good task lighting.
Q: Should I choose warm white or cool white light?
A: Warm white (2700K-3000K) is cozy. Cool white (3500K-4000K) is better for task lighting.
Q: Can I install under cabinet lights myself?
A: Many under cabinet lights are designed for easy DIY installation. Some plug in, and others might need to be wired.
Q: Do I need a dimmer switch?
A: Dimmable lights are great because they give you control over the brightness. It’s a useful feature.
Q: How do I clean under cabinet lights?
A: Turn off the power first. Then, gently wipe them with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Q: Are LED lights safe for my cabinets?
A: Yes, LEDs produce very little heat. This makes them safe for cabinets and prevents damage.
Q: How many lights do I need?
A: This depends on the length of your cabinets and how much light you need. Measure your space and plan your layout.
Q: What is the lifespan of under cabinet lights?
A: High-quality LED under cabinet lights can last for 50,000 hours or more.
Q: Can I connect multiple lights together?
A: Many under cabinet lighting systems allow you to connect several lights in a series. Check the product specifications.
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.