10 Best Under Cabinet Lighting 2022: Top Picks

Coziness and warmth are what define a house as a home. Lighting is incredibly important in creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere anywhere, especially in the kitchen, even more so than the residents themselves. Lighting not only adds warmth to a space but also increases the brightness and sharpness of vision.

The best under cabinet lighting brings greater efficiency to your cooking, a bit of class to your kitchen, and even connectivity with smart-home devices for optimal control and energy savings.

All of the products discussed here are among the best in their respective categories. Keep reading!

Best Under Cabinet Lighting: Our Top Pick

• 1. Litever Under Cabinet LED Lighting Kit: Best Overall
• 2. HARRRRD Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Task Lighting
• 3. Lightkiwi E7574 Dimmable Under Cabinet Lighting Kit
• 4. Lighting EVER LE LED Under Cabinet Puck Lights Kit
• 5. BLS T01L LED Closet Light
• 6. Wobane Under Cabinet Flexible LED Strip Lights
• 7. TORCHSTAR LED Safe Lighting Kit
• 8. Brilliant Evolution Wireless Ultra Thin LED Light Bar
• 9. HIBOITEC Under Cabinet Lighting – Motion Sensor Night Light
• 10. LEPOTEC Under Cabinet Lighting – Battery-Powered

Best Under Cabinet Lighting Reviews

1. Litever Under Cabinet Led Lighting Kit: Best Overall

This lighting system produces 2000 lumens of brightness, which is more than enough for kitchen tasks, and the light is diffused through a cover so that the brightness is consistent across your countertop. Warm white light is attractive to anything it illuminates. The under-cabinet bar lights can be fastened with screws or backing adhesive. In addition to having an on/off switch for the best control, this LED system is fully dimmable from 0% to 100%.

Our testing revealed that the dimmer switch offers flexibility in static lighting versus dimmable lighting depending on the placement of the switch; placing the switch next to the on/off switch allows for dimmable control of all connected light bars, whereas placing it in between light bars along the run results in static light from those near the switch and dimmable for those connected after the dimmer. This can be very useful for producing ambient lighting that can be dimmed and focused lighting for specific tasks.

Despite being a low-voltage system with only 12 volts, it provides flexibility with two different power cables: one runs from a wall outlet, through an AC adapter, and to the lights, and the other can be wired directly into your electrical system before passing through an AC adapter to create under-cabinet lighting. With both options available, you can decide between a straightforward installation and wiring the light directly into your electrical system to conceal the cords and control it with a standard light switch.

Pros

• Up to six light bars for extensive coverage
• Bars light enough for adhesive mounting
• Wide variety of layout options
• Dimmer switch placement provides unique lighting options

Cons

• The instruction manual is very simplistic
• Dimmer can be awkward to turn

2. Harrrrd Hardwired Led Under Cabinet Task Lighting

Although hardwiring under-cabinet lighting can be challenging, the finished product gives a kitchen a clean, neat appearance without the need for cords to plug into outlets. For those choosing to hardwire their lighting, this 120V line-voltage under-cabinet LED bar light system is perfect because of its sleek design and five different length options (12 inches, 18 inches, 21 inches, 24 inches, and 36 inches). It also seamlessly integrates with the decor in any room. It offers only what users require for kitchen under-cabinet lighting; those who favor sleek lines may find the simple, minimalist design appealing.

With a frosted cover that diffuses the light’s 1250 lumens of brightness, it provides a uniform appearance. Although the bar light has an on/off switch and is dimmable, a dimmer switch is not included. Being hardwired, adding a dimmer switch, or even installing this unit itself might require professional assistance.

Pros

• No wires dangling under the cabinet
• Easy on/off switch
• Glare-free cover

Cons

• Might require professional installation
• Instructions are not very clear
• Dimmer switch is not included

3. Lightkiwi E7574 Dimmable Under Cabinet Lighting Kit

Four light bars in this under-cabinet LED lighting system have a brightness of 800 lumens each. The slender, strong light bars can be linked directly or via a cord to provide customized coverage. The two installation options are using screws or peel-and-stick backing adhesive. Keep in mind that the on/off and dimmer is on the same unit and must be installed closest to the AC adapter, potentially limiting the customization options.

A power outlet must be plugged into the 24-volt low-voltage Lightkiwi Dimmable Under Cabinet Lighting Kit. You can adjust the brightness output with a dimmer switch, and a low-energy red light stays on so you can locate the on/off switch in the dark. Until you decide to change it, the dimmer’s memory function keeps it at the previous brightness setting. In our testing, we discovered that the dimmer doesn’t completely dim; the bars remain lit at a level that may be too high for users who prefer a very soft light.

Pros

• Dimmer switch memory
• Red light for switch detection
• Easy to use a dimmer switch

Cons

• Doesn’t dim completely
• No option to dim individual lights

4. Lighting EVER LE LED Under Cabinet Puck Lights Kit

The Lighting EVER LE LED Under Cabinet Puck Light Kit, an affordable option for decorative under-cabinet lighting, comes with six puck lights, each with an 8-foot cord that connects to a terminal box. The greatest value can be found there. Since the lights don’t need to be installed in a series, customization is maximized. Furthermore, not every light in the kit needs to be used to complete a circuit; the terminal box functions perfectly with just a few of them. The 12-volt low-voltage puck lights are simple to install with screws or backing adhesive and are connected to a wall outlet via the terminal box. The puck lights are extremely lightweight, making adhesive attachment simple.

Users can adjust the brightness of the LED under-cabinet lighting to one of five levels: 0, 25, 50, 75, or 100% using a touch-dimming system. Although each puck’s 500-lumen output is too low for task lighting when installed separately, if two or more are grouped together, they can produce enough lumens for food preparation tasks. Finding the ideal pressure to activate the puck lights and cycle through the brightness levels can be challenging because the tap control can be a little finicky.

Pros

• 8-foot cords allow customization
• Tap controls are easy for those with limited hand mobility
• Several lighting levels

Cons

• Lights must be paired for better task lighting
• Hiding cords can be difficult

5. BLS T01l LED Closet Light

This wireless option is the best choice if you want under-cabinet lighting that turns on when you walk into your dark kitchen or that just adds some simple accent lighting to your appliances or dishware. The moderate 1.5-volt system only produces 180 lumens of brightness, and the light is harsher than the others we tested; it is good for task lighting but not so good for the atmosphere.

BLS Super Bright Under Cabinet Lighting eliminates the need to deal with unsightly cords or difficult installation. It can be mounted quickly using mounting screws or backing adhesive and runs on three AA batteries. The LED bar light can be powered by the 37-inch USB cord if you don’t like batteries; there is also a hardwire option. The USB wall adapter is not a part of the light kit, as should be noted.

The under-cabinet lighting is only secured at two points, allowing it to rotate downward for additional lighting angles. It is also possible to do so without having to take the light apart thanks to this feature. This system has automatic motion detection that can be turned on or off and its sensitivity can be changed. Additionally, it may be set to be on, off, on only at night, or only in the daytime. After 20 seconds of no motion, the light turns off, giving you plenty of time to exit the kitchen with this bar illuminating your path.

Pros

• Easily adjustable motion sensor
• Variety of options for sensor or steady light
• Multiple power options

Cons

• Harsh light
• The motion sensor can be finicky

6. Wobane Under Cabinet Flexible Led Strip Lights

The cost-effective, adaptable Wobane Under Cabinet Flexible LED Strip Lights system is an excellent example of why LED lighting is the best choice for under-cabinet lighting. The powerful adhesive backing on the LED strip lighting allows for a quick installation and an impressive brightness of 1100 lumens. Its 12-volt low-voltage system plugs directly into your power outlet, negating the need to hire an electrician for installation or future battery replacement.

The flexible under-cabinet strip light is incredibly thin, making it ideal for tucking up on the underside of cabinets where only the illumination is visible. Additionally, due to its flexibility, it is simple to install around curves and corners. The strip can also be cut into four pieces of equal length for even more customization options. The fact that these lights only have an on/off switch and cannot be dimmed is their lone flaw. We were thrilled to learn, however, that the light is incredibly warm, reminiscent of candlelight, and ideal for creating a soothing atmosphere.

Pros

• Very light; will not come out of place
• Exceptionally warm lighting
• Very easy to install

Cons

• Not dimmable
• Operates only with the wall outlet

7. Torchstar LED Safe Lighting Kit

The Torchstar LED Safe Lighting Kit connects to Amazon Alexa for completely customizable brightness control. From 0 to 100, you can change the brightness using your voice or an app. You can also set a timer to turn the lights off periodically. Some people might find the instructions for this lighting system confusing because it requires the use of a smartphone app. This lighting set offers incredibly fine control from mood lighting to bright task lighting once it is installed and connected. Additionally, there is a straightforward on/off button that can be used to control the lights without an app, but this severely limits the variety of options this light provides.

With backing adhesive, the under-cabinet LED bar lighting is simple to install and can be mounted at a 45-degree angle so that it doesn’t shine down directly. The 900 lumens of brightness from this 12-volt low-voltage lighting system, which plugs directly into your power outlet. With this system, you even get motion detection that you can disable or leave on auto to light up the space whenever someone enters.

Pros

• Very fine control over dimmable light
• Pairs with voice assistants
• Easy-mount lights can be adjusted for different angles

Cons

• Requires the use of an app
• Instructions might be difficult to understand

8. Brilliant Evolution Wireless Ultra Thin LED Light Bar

This uncomplicated product from Brilliant Evolution offers the simplicity of a wireless light with the bright task lighting required for simple meal preparation, making it the best for small spaces. Its dimensions of 2 inches wide by 8.5 inches long by less than 1 inch deep give you a wide range of placement options under kitchen cabinets. Strong adhesive strips are necessary, but once in position, it will remain in place. Use screws to install it for increased security.

A simple tap on the frosted screen activates the 65 lumens, and four LED lights fill the room with a warm, luminous glow. It’s a little bit too harsh for ambient lighting, but it works wonders in tight spaces like a countertop nook. It uses three AA batteries, which are not included, and works just as well with alkaline batteries as it does with rechargeable ones. In either case, plan on a runtime of up to 100 hours. The simplicity and size of this light make it beautiful; it provides sufficient lighting exactly where it is required and does the job well.

Pros

• Can be mounted anywhere, no outlet required
• Offers up to 100 hours of light
• Uses rechargeable or alkaline batteries

Cons

• Needs strong adhesive
• Not good for ambient lighting

9. Hiboitec Under Cabinet Lighting – Motion Sensor Night Light

What is superior to a straightforward under-cabinet light? a light that detects motion. With their LED motion sensors, these cabinet and closet lights are a perfect fit for cabinets, closets, wardrobes, stairs, and more.

They are brighter than other comparable lights on the market because they have 20 LEDs instead of 10 in each bar. In addition, they offer two different installation options, i.e., magnet and adhesive. Use the magnetic mode to mount it to an iron surface, or simply peel off the tape and stick it to any surface if you don’t have any iron surfaces.

Pros

• Motion sensor technology
• Lifelong free replacement
• Rechargeable battery
• Longer LED life than most other products

Cons

• Each package only contains 3 bars

10. Lepotec Under Cabinet Lighting – Battery-powered

Although pucks and strips may currently rule the world of lighting fixtures, the classic sconce still reigns supreme. A modernized motion sensor sconce is something even better than a sconce.

Soft, bright light without any glare is provided by this wireless, USB-rechargeable kitchen light. Along with being used as regular on-and-off lights, these lights can also be used as motion sensors. Each light comes with a built-in magnet so you can attach it to any iron surface, or you can attach it to any non-iron surface with adhesive tape.

Pros

• 30 LED super bright lights
• Easy to install with multiple installation methods
• Rechargeable via USB
• Motion sensor technology

Cons

• Does not work well in humid environments

Our Verdict

Both the Lever and the Lightkiwi Dimmable Under Cabinet Lighting Kits had brilliant and adaptable lighting, which we loved. Although every kit has its flaws, these had so few that they were easily outweighed by the kit’s value for both ambient and task lighting.

Read More: Cabinet Lighting Ideas

Different Types Of Under-cabinet Lighting

The aesthetics and maximum efficiency rating of your under-cabinet lighting will depend on the LED, fluorescent, halogen, or xenon type you select.

Led Lighting

The most popular and energy-efficient type of under-cabinet lighting is light-emitting diode (LED) lighting. Even LED lighting systems that are compatible with smart homes are now more affordable. Initially, LED lighting was expensive and only provided directional lighting. They remain the most expensive option out of the four types, though. The most recent LEDs also provide diffused lighting that can be used throughout a room and can be installed in overhead fixtures in place of conventional incandescent bulbs.

LED bulbs last twice as long as regular bulbs, despite being more expensive initially. On a purely aesthetic level, they can generate millions of colors on the spectrum and produce less heat, which is very advantageous in the kitchen. With all of these advantages, LED under-cabinet lighting is becoming increasingly popular among consumers who choose LED lights with the proper lumen rating (the brightness measurement unit).

Fluorescent Lighting

Although compact fluorescent lighting (CFL) is energy-efficient and doesn’t generate a lot of heat, there are some unpleasant aspects to it. These tube bulbs frequently emit a buzzing noise and harsh light. They cannot be used with a dimmer function, and frequent on/off use can reduce their lifespan. Furthermore, because they use both mercury vapor and a phosphor coating to convert UV light to visible light, you can’t just throw these bulbs in the trash when they’re done using them; instead, you must dispose of them in accordance with EPA regulations.

Halogen Lighting

Halogen lights use a gas compound with halogen vapor inside the bulb. The compound reacts to create bright, white light when electricity is applied to the filament. Halogen lights, however, heat up quickly and shouldn’t be used in locations where they might be accidentally touched. Halogen bulbs are more energy-efficient than fluorescent bulbs and several steps better than incandescent bulbs, using between 25 and 80 percent less energy. In most categories, they are inferior to xenon bulbs and far inferior to LED lighting, but they are still a good midrange option that will offer decent lighting at a reasonable price.

Xenon Lighting

While halogen bulbs use a filament, xenon lighting doesn’t and instead emits a clear, white light. Instead, light is produced by the excitation of electrons that occurs when an electrical current is passed through the xenon gas inside the light bulb. Xenon lighting is more efficient than halogen lighting and feels cooler to the touch. It also lasts two to three times longer. With the exception of price, LED lights are superior to xenon and halogen lights in every way, but xenon bulbs are the next-best choice in terms of brightness and lifespan.

Factors To Consider When Looking For Best Under Cabinet Lighting

Do I want under-cabinet lighting for ambiance or kitchen work? is a crucial question to ask before purchasing lights for your kitchen cabinets. Once you have the answer to that, you should start considering the following aspects:

Fixture Type

When purchasing an under-cabinet light, the type of fixture is the first thing to think about. Typically, puck lights, strip lights, tape lights, and rope lights are used for under-cabinet lighting. Additionally to these, bars and sconces are offered. Therefore, pick the one that complements your kitchen’s decor and fits the space under the cabinet.

Operation

You might want to consider the under-cabinet lighting’s operating modes in addition to the fixture type. Batteries, hardwire, and plug-in power is typically available for these lights. While DIYers can install plug-ins and battery-powered lights, a qualified professional is needed to install hardwired lighting. Make sure you’re purchasing the item that meets your needs.

Bulb Types

The type of bulb affects the atmosphere of the space as a whole. Additionally, it affects both the amount of electricity used and light intensity. Fluorescent, xenon, and LED bulbs are all available for under-cabinet lighting.

Lighting Temperature

The color of your cabinets and countertops depends on the color temperature of the light source. Generally speaking, bulbs with a temperature range of 500 to 5,000 Kelvin produce cool light, while those between 2,700 and 3,500 Kelvin produce a warm glow. Warm lights are great for ambient lighting; however, if you need task lighting, choose cooler tones.

Lighting Placement

Maintaining your kitchen’s aesthetic appeal requires the proper placement of lighting. Therefore, before making any purchases, make sure the fixture fits exactly how you want it to. Correct positioning is essential for minimizing glare and reflection on any surface.

Benefits Of Under-cabinet Lighting

By enabling you to use high-efficiency lights to illuminate one area at a time, under-cabinet lighting installation can reduce energy costs. In addition to saving energy, this will increase the amount of light available for cooking and food preparation. In addition to illuminating activities like food preparation on countertops, under-cabinet lighting can draw attention to a backsplash pattern that might otherwise be obscured by shadows and/or improve a mood—low brightness during dinner, for instance, to create a relaxing atmosphere. By eliminating shadows that make a room appear small, under-cabinet lighting can also increase the value of the interior of the house.

• An inexpensive and simple way to modernize a kitchen is with under-cabinet lighting.
• It can reduce a home’s energy use and lower the cost of the electric bill.
• By emphasizing distinctive style elements and minimizing shadows, it raises the interior value of the house.

How To Maintain Under Cabinet Lighting?

For under-cabinet lighting to last a long time, regular maintenance is necessary. Keep the following instructions in mind to improve efficiency and longevity:

Xenon Lights Maintenance

If you keep your xenon lights dim, you can use them for four times longer. When xenon lights are dimmed by 25% or 75%, respectively, the energy consumption drops by 20% and 60%. Therefore, only use the full brightness of your xenon under cabinet lights while cooking.

Fluorescent Lights Maintenance

Frequent on-and-off operations can shorten the electrode lifetime of a fluorescent light, which will reduce the lamp’s life. In light of this, exercise caution when using fluorescent lighting on a regular basis.

LED Lights Maintenance

When it comes to under cabinet lighting, LED lights have the longest lifespan. However, these lights do not do well in the heat, so try to position them in your kitchen so that they are not in direct contact with heat.

FAQs