best under cabinet lighting

Lighting the Way: Best Solutions for Under Cabinet Illumination

Exploring Under Cabinet Lighting

Selecting the right under cabinet lighting can significantly enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of any kitchen or workspace. Understanding the popular options available and the key considerations for selection can help homeowners and DIY enthusiasts make informed decisions.

Popular Lighting Options

Under cabinet lighting comes in various forms, each with its unique benefits. Some of the most popular options include LED lights, puck lights, fluorescent lights, and xenon lights.

Lighting Type Key Features Suitable For
LED Lights Energy-efficient, long-lasting, customizable brightness levels and color temperatures. Under cabinet LED lighting
Puck Lights Small, round fixtures providing focused light, ideal for highlighting specific areas. Under cabinet puck lighting
Fluorescent Lights Bright and economical, producing a cool light that spreads evenly. General task lighting
Xenon Lights Warm, bright light, but produces more heat and consumes more energy. Accent lighting

For those looking for customizable and energy-efficient solutions, LED lights are often the preferred choice. They can be cut to desired lengths, making them ideal for tailored installations.

Considerations for Selection

When choosing the best under cabinet lighting, several factors should be taken into account to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with your space.

  • Brightness and Lumens: Consider the level of brightness required for your tasks. LED lights, for instance, can offer various lumens levels, with options like the Litever 6-Pack Light Bar Kit providing up to 2,000 lumens.
  • Energy Efficiency: LED lights are not only energy-efficient but also long-lasting, making them a cost-effective option over time (Just a Girl and Her Blog).
  • Installation and Maintenance: Some lighting options, such as the Holkpoilot With Remote Control, offer easy installation and remote control features, simplifying maintenance tasks.
  • Heat Emission: LED lights emit minimal heat compared to xenon bulbs, making them safer for prolonged use.
  • Color Temperature Choices: The color temperature of the lights can affect the ambiance of your space. LED options offer a range of color temperatures from warm to cool whites.

By evaluating these considerations, homeowners and DIY enthusiasts can select the most suitable under cabinet lighting solutions for their needs. For more detailed guidance on installing under cabinet lighting and specific product recommendations, visit our comprehensive guides and product review sections.

Best Under Cabinet Lighting Picks

Choosing the best under cabinet lighting can significantly enhance the functionality and ambiance of your kitchen or living space. Here are some top picks to consider.

Litever 6-Pack Light Bar Kit

The Litever 6-Pack Light Bar Kit is an excellent overall choice for under cabinet lighting. This kit produces 2,000 lumens of brightness with uniform light distribution. The dimmable LED lights ensure you can adjust the lighting to your desired level.

Feature Spec
Brightness 2,000 lumens
Type LED
Dimmer Yes

For those aiming for both functionality and aesthetic appeal, this kit is an outstanding option. If you’re interested in learning about other LED lighting options, check out our guide on under cabinet LED lighting.

Lightkiwi 12-Inch LED Lighting

The Lightkiwi 12-Inch Modular LED Under Cabinet Lighting is a strong runner-up. Each light bar provides 1,120 lumens of brightness and comes with a dimmer switch and memory function (Bob Vila).

Feature Spec
Brightness 1,120 lumens per bar
Type LED
Dimmer Yes
Memory Function Yes

This is a great choice for those seeking high-brightness LED bars that are versatile and easy to control.

Holkpoilot With Remote Control

For those on a budget, the Holkpoilot Under Cabinet Lights with Remote Control offer fantastic value. These battery-operated lights come in a pack of four and are equipped with six LEDs each. They offer adjustable brightness levels and timer settings.

Feature Spec
Power Battery
Control Remote
LEDs 6 per light
Timer Yes

This kit is perfect for those looking for a cost-effective yet efficient solution for under cabinet lighting.

Harrrrd Hardwired LED Lighting

The Harrrrd Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Task Lighting is recommended for those preferring a hardwired solution. This 120V line-voltage LED bar light features a glare-free frosted cover and is compatible with dimmers (Bob Vila).

Feature Spec
Voltage 120V
Cover Frosted
Dimmer Compatibility Yes

For tips and tricks to install this type of lighting, visit our guide on how to install under cabinet lighting.

BLS LED Motion Sensor Lighting

The BLS LED Motion Sensor Under Cabinet Lighting is the best wireless option. Equipped with motion sensor activation, this light offers simple installation and can be powered by batteries or USB (Bob Vila).

Feature Spec
Activation Motion Sensor
Power Battery or USB
Installation Simple

If you prefer wireless solutions, this lighting kit is ideal. Discover more about wireless under cabinet lighting on our site.

Each of these options provides various features and benefits, making it easier to find the perfect under cabinet lighting for your needs. For more information on different lighting types, check out our section on types of under cabinet lighting.

Types of Under Cabinet Lighting

There are several options available for under cabinet lighting, each with unique benefits. Here, we’ll explore LED lights versus halogen lights, LED light strips, and the choices of color temperature.

LED Lights vs. Halogen Lights

LED Lights

LED lighting has become the preferred choice for under cabinet illumination in modern kitchens due to its energy efficiency and customizable features (Just a Girl and Her Blog). LEDs are low-voltage, long-lasting, and provide consistent light quality.

Feature LED Lights
Energy Efficiency High
Lifespan 15,000 – 50,000 hours
Heat Emission Low
Cost Higher initial cost, lower long-term cost

Despite being more expensive upfront, the long-term savings due to lower energy consumption make LEDs a cost-effective solution. However, LEDs driven hard for cost reasons may fail quickly due to poorly designed power supplies.

Halogen Lights

Halogen lights were popular in the past due to their better energy efficiency compared to incandescent bulbs. However, with the affordability and benefits of LED lighting, halogen lights are less favored today (Just a Girl and Her Blog).

Feature Halogen Lights
Energy Efficiency Moderate
Lifespan 2,000 – 4,000 hours
Heat Emission High
Cost Lower initial cost, higher long-term cost

Halogens emit a significant amount of heat, making them less energy-efficient and potentially hazardous under cabinets.

LED Light Strips

LED light strips are versatile and easy to install, making them an excellent choice for under cabinet lighting. They can be cut to size, offer various color options, and typically come with adhesive backing for simple installation.

Feature LED Light Strips
Flexibility High (can be cut to fit)
Installation Complexity Low
Customization High (various colors and brightness levels)
Application Under cabinets, shelves, and more

For more on under cabinet LED strip lighting, visit our detailed guide on under cabinet LED strip lighting.

Color Temperature Choices

Color temperature is a critical decision for under cabinet lighting as it affects the ambiance and functionality of your space.

Color Temperature Description Best Use
2700K – 3000K Warm white Cozy, relaxed settings
3500K – 4100K Neutral white Kitchens, workspaces
5000K – 6500K Cool white Bright, invigorating settings

The authors of Just a Girl and Her Blog chose a 3000K color temperature for their LED light strips to match their kitchen’s existing lights. This neutral hue balances warmth and brightness, creating an inviting yet functional space.

When selecting the best under cabinet lighting, consider factors such as energy efficiency, the environment’s heat tolerance, and the desired ambiance, which can be impacted significantly by color temperature. For more information on selecting and installing under cabinet lighting, explore our comprehensive guides on under cabinet lighting and how to install under cabinet lighting.

Factors to Consider

When selecting the best under cabinet lighting for your home, several key factors should inform your decision. These include brightness, energy efficiency, and the ease of installation and maintenance.

Brightness and Lumens

Brightness is a critical factor in ensuring that your under cabinet lighting provides sufficient illumination for tasks and enhances the overall ambiance of the space. Lumens measure the amount of visible light emitted by a source. For under cabinet lighting in the kitchen, a range of 200 to 500 lumens per foot is typically recommended. For detailed tasks such as chopping or reading recipes, higher brightness may be necessary.

Lighting Type Lumens Range
Litever 6-Pack Light Bar Kit 2,000 total
Lightkiwi 12-Inch LED Lighting 175 per bar
Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus 1,600 total

For more information on specific products, visit our kitchen under cabinet lighting page.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is an important consideration, not only for saving on electricity costs but also for environmental reasons. LED lights are known for their efficiency, consuming significantly less power compared to traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs. However, it’s important to be aware of the quality of the LED drivers, as poorly designed power supplies can lead to faster aging and failure of the LEDs.

Energy-efficient options are also available in the form of low voltage and battery-powered under cabinet lighting, which offer versatility and convenience without compromising on brightness.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Ease of installation and maintenance is another crucial factor. Here are some tips to consider:

  1. Installation Method: Determine whether you prefer hardwired under cabinet lighting, plug-in, or wireless options. Hardwired lights offer a seamless look but may require professional installation. Wireless and plug-in lights are more DIY-friendly.

  2. Mounting Options: Choose between adhesive mounts, screw mounts, or magnetic mounts based on your surface and preference. Adhesive mounts are simple to install but may not be as secure as screw mounts.

  3. Maintenance: LED lights generally require less maintenance compared to other types. However, be prepared to replace LED strips or bars after a few years as their lifespan may be shorter than initially expected.

  4. Hide Wires: To achieve a clean look, consider ways to conceal the wires. Refer to our guide on how to hide under cabinet lighting wires for practical solutions.

Whether opting for a high-tech solution like the Philips Hue Lightstrip Plus or a budget-friendly option like the Wobane LED Lighting Kit, taking these factors into account will help you achieve the perfect balance of functionality and style in your under cabinet lighting. Visit our page on how to install under cabinet lighting for step-by-step installation guidance.

Top Under Cabinet Lighting Recommendations

Finding the best under cabinet lighting solutions can transform your kitchen or workspace into a well-lit, stylish area. Here are some of the top picks that cater to various needs and preferences.

Commercial Electric Tunable White Lights

The Commercial Electric LED Tunable White Tape Light Kit is widely regarded as the best overall option for under-cabinet illumination. This versatile light kit emits a soft white light at 3000 Kelvins and uses only 36 watts of electricity. It boasts a 36,000-hour lifespan and offers practical dimming settings to create cozy ambiance or bright task lighting. The tape light can be easily shaped to fit various cabinet designs and includes a remote control for adjusting the settings.

Feature Specification
Color Temperature 3000K
Power Consumption 36W
Lifespan 36,000 hours
Dimmable Yes
Control Remote

Brilliant Evolution Wireless Light Bar

The Brilliant Evolution Wireless Ultra Thin LED Light Bar stands out as the best budget option. Priced under $20, this light bar delivers a super bright, warm white glow. It is powered by three AA batteries, offering a run time of over 100 hours, and is easy to install using adhesive tape or screws. However, users should be cautious, as the adhesive can peel off the paint or finish of cabinets upon removal.

Feature Specification
Power Source 3 AA batteries
Runtime 100+ hours
Installation Adhesive tape or screws
Brightness Super bright
Price <$20

Philips Hue Smart Lightstrip

For those looking to splurge on smart lighting, the Philips Hue Bluetooth Smart Lightstrip is an excellent choice. This flexible light strip can be placed almost anywhere and controlled via phone or voice commands. It offers a variety of color options to match any ambiance. The base kit includes an 80-inch light strip that can be extended up to 32 feet with additional extensions from the same brand and model (BHG).

Feature Specification
Control Phone, voice
Length 80-inch (extendable to 32 feet)
Color Options Multiple colors
Additional Extensions Yes

UltraPro 48-Inch LED Light Fixture

The UltraPro 48-Inch Direct Wire LED Light Fixture is highly recommended as the best hardwired option. This fixture provides diffused LED light with three color settings (2700K, 3000K, 5000K) and features a clean, non-bulky design that is perfect for most kitchen cabinets (BHG). Professional installation may be necessary for those unfamiliar with wiring.

Feature Specification
Color Options 2700K, 3000K, 5000K
Installation Hardwired
Design Non-bulky
Installation Requirement Professional possible

Szokled Wireless Lighting

The Szokled Wireless Under Cabinet Lighting is ideal for those seeking a rechargeable option. It offers four lights with both pure white and warm LEDs. The lighting system includes 10 levels of brightness, a timer function, and a magnetic strip for easy installation without tools. The lights require four lithium-ion batteries (included) and take about two hours to fully recharge.

Feature Specification
LED Colors Pure white, warm
Brightness Levels 10
Timer Function Yes
Installation Magnetic strip
Recharge Time 2 hours

These under cabinet lighting recommendations cater to different needs and preferences, making it easier for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts to enhance their living spaces. For more information on lighting options, visit our articles on under cabinet led lighting, kitchen under cabinet lighting, and low voltage under cabinet lighting.

Versatile Lighting Options

When it comes to illuminating spaces under cabinets, versatility is key. Various lighting solutions can cater to different needs, from practicality to aesthetics.

LED Light Bars

LED light bars are an excellent choice for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts looking for efficient under cabinet lighting. These can be hardwired, plug-in, or battery-powered, allowing flexibility based on the installation requirements and personal preference. Battery-powered light bars are the simplest to install and operate as they do not require an electrical outlet and are portable (Lowe’s).

Type Installation Pros
Hardwired LED Light Bars Professional installation Seamless look, no visible wires
Plug-in LED Light Bars Easy DIY install No need for professional installation
Battery-powered LED Light Bars Very easy install Highly portable, no wiring needed

Puck Lights Spacing Tips

Puck lights provide focused light and are ideal for task lighting in kitchens, offices, and workspaces. It’s recommended to space one puck light for every 8 to 12 inches of cabinet space to create even lighting and avoid pooling or scalloping (Lowe’s). For efficient and energy-saving options, consider LED puck lights.

Cabinet Length (in) Number of Puck Lights
8 – 12 1
16 – 24 2
32 – 36 3

For more insights on properly setting up puck lights, check out our guide on under cabinet puck lighting.

Customizable Tape Lights

Tape lights are a space-saving and flexible solution for under cabinet lighting. These come with tiny LEDs embedded in a strip that adheres to the cabinet’s bottom. They are available in different lengths, making them customizable for irregular cabinetry. It’s advisable to choose linkable fixtures if installing multiple light strips, allowing control through one parent fixture.

When considering tape lights:

  • Look for linkable versions for seamless control.
  • Choose the appropriate voltage (normal or low voltage) based on the setup.

For detailed installation tips, refer to our article on under cabinet LED strip lighting.

Utilizing Rope Lights

Rope lights, which consist of LED string lights encased in plastic tubing, offer another versatile solution for under cabinet illumination. These are available in 12-, 24-, and 120-volt variants, providing options based on the required brightness and application. It’s important to assess the light output and color temperature in-store to ensure consistent color throughout the kitchen.

Voltage Application
12V Low brightness, accent lighting
24V Medium brightness, general use
120V High brightness, task lighting

For more comprehensive tips on wiring and installing these lights, visit our guide on installing under cabinet lighting.

By understanding and utilizing these versatile lighting options, homeowners can achieve optimal kitchen under cabinet lighting solutions that blend functionality with aesthetic appeal.

Budget-Friendly Lighting Choices

Transforming your kitchen or workspace with affordable under cabinet lighting can make a significant difference in both aesthetics and functionality. Below are some budget-friendly options with excellent reviews and features.

Wobane LED Lighting Kit

The Wobane LED Lighting Kit is a go-to choice for budget-conscious homeowners. It offers a simple and effective way to illuminate your countertops with bright, energy-efficient LED strips. The kit typically includes multiple light strips, connectors, and a power adapter. It is easy to install and can be controlled via a remote for convenience.

Feature Specification
Type LED Strip
Number of Lights 4 Strips
Control Remote
Brightness Adjustable
Installation Adhesive

GE Color Select Three-Pack

The GE Color Select Under Cabinet Three-Pack offers a versatile and economical solution. This pack includes three light bars that can be surface- or recess-mounted. It features three color temperature options: Warm White, Cool White, and Daylight. The lights are dimmable, adding flexibility to your lighting needs.

Feature Specification
Type LED Bar
Number of Lights 3 Bars
Color Temperature Warm White, Cool White, Daylight
Brightness Dimmable
Lifespan 50,000 hours
Linking Cables 3 x 12-inch
Power Cord 60-inch

Utilitech Hardwired Light Bar

The Utilitech Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Light Bar is a bestseller known for its slim design and efficient illumination. Ideal for those who prefer a hardwired solution to eliminate visible cords, this model delivers a wide beam of light to illuminate your counter space effectively.

Feature Specification
Type LED Bar
Sizes Available 12, 18, 24, 36 inches
Lumens 477
Installation Hardwired
Design Slim, easily hidden

For guidance on installing this type of lighting, check out our article on hardwired under cabinet lighting.

Value in Brilliant Evolution Lights

The Brilliant Evolution Wireless Ultra Thin LED Light Bar is an excellent value option, especially for those who prefer a wireless setup. This light bar is less than an inch thick and can run for up to 100 hours on batteries. It turns on and off with a simple tap and can be mounted using screws or adhesive tape.

Feature Specification
Type Wireless LED Bar
Number of Lights 1 Bar
Control Tap
Battery Life Up to 100 hours
Installation Screws or Adhesive Tape
Brightness Warm White Glow

For more ideas on wireless under cabinet lighting, explore our dedicated articles.

Choosing from these budget-friendly options can help you brighten up your home without breaking the bank. Each of these products is designed to provide quality lighting and ease of use, making them excellent choices for any homeowner. For additional tips and how to install under cabinet lighting, check out our helpful guides.