We Tested the Best Under-Cabinet Lighting to Illuminate a Kitchen
Hello, my friend, hello again; today we come together to talk about We Tested the Best Under-Cabinet Lighting to Illuminate a Kitchen and hope the blog can help you.
Increase kitchen functionality with the extra illumination that under-cabinet lighting provides.
Talk about a bright idea! Bright light fixtures installed directly underneath the kitchen cabinets illuminate the countertops below for safer, more functional food prep and brighter small-appliance storage. We conducted hands-on testing of every product here, closely following testing guidelines and putting the lighting kits through rigorous use to help narrow down the contenders to the best on the market right now.
We spoke with Thom Cloppert, who co-owns Fog Remodeling with Jud Cloppert in Loveland, Ohio, and has over 25 years of experience in kitchen, bathroom, and basement remodeling. He says about 70 percent of his clients request under-cabinet lighting, but once he discusses its benefits, he says that about 95 percent of clients have it installed. Why is it such a good idea? “Under-cabinet lighting is indirect, not glaring, and creates an ideal countertop workstation,” he says. “Most are dimmable, energy efficient, and have multispectrum LED lights to provide options for ambience.”
Under-cabinet lighting is also considered a decorative element since the lower height of the light fixtures can show off a backsplash pattern better, just as puck lights can highlight workspaces in the kitchen. Cloppert explains that “if an uninterrupted backsplash is desired, the lights can also be selected with integrated outlets. And, if the light protrudes below the cabinet, most cabinet manufacturers offer an option of light rail molding.”
Additional areas of light can make a kitchen appear larger as well. The best under-cabinet lighting brings greater efficiency to a cooking space, a bit of class to a kitchen, and even connectivity with smart-home devices for optimal control and energy savings. The products tested and reviewed here are all top-notch in their respective categories.
- BEST OVERALL: Litever 6-Pack Under Cabinet Light Bar Kit
- RUNNER-UP: Lightkiwi 12-Inch Modular LED Under Cabinet Lighting
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Holkpoilot Under Cabinet Lights With Remote Control
- BEST HARDWIRED: Harrrrd Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Task Lighting
- BEST WIRELESS: BLS LED Motion Sensor Under Cabinet Lighting
- BEST LED: Wobane Under Cabinet Lighting Kit
- BEST HIGH-TECH: Torchstar Smart LED Safe Lighting Kit
- BEST FOR SMALL SPACES: Brilliant Evolution Wireless LED Ultra Thin Light Bar
- BEST FOR KITCHEN: LepoTec Wireless Motion Sensor Cabinet Lights
How We Tested the Best Under-Cabinet Lighting
We performed hands-on testing of each product in this guide. We did so by closely following testing guidelines specific to these types of lights and assigning number values to help ensure each product met certain standards of quality and ease of use, and to keep our results fair and equitable.
We looked at a variety of factors for testing, including a light’s versatility, the output each lighting set provided, whether the light was controllable (such as through a dimmer), and the ease of installation. We even looked at how easily the on/off switch or dimmer moved to produce the desired lighting result, as well as the warmness (or not) of the light, thus reflecting whether it was designed for task lighting, ambient lighting, or both.
Testing Stats | |
Products tested | 9 |
Time spend testing | 3 hours per light fixture |
Tests performed | 2 |
Price range | $15 to $60 |
Our Top Picks
The top-rated products below were chosen for quality, price, and customer satisfaction to help pinpoint the best under-cabinet lighting for kitchens. We performed extensive hands-on testing on each to help ensure the products lived up to their promises.
Best Overall
Litever 6-Pack Under Cabinet Light Bar Kit
Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Quality 5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Lumens: 2,000
- Power: AC adapter or hardwired
- Volts: 12
Pros
- Up to 6 light bars for extensive coverage and brightness in small and large kitchens
- Emits a warm-white light; suitable for cooking, cleaning, or entertaining
- Wide variety of layout options and adhesive mounting for excellent versatility
- Dimmer-switch placement provides unique lighting options
Cons
- Instruction manual is simplistic; may not be detailed enough for some users
- Dimmer can be awkward to turn; adjustability may be limited
This lighting system produces 2,000 lumens of brightness—more than enough for kitchen tasks—and the light is diffused through a cover so that the brightness is uniform across a countertop. The light is a warm white, flattering to anything it illuminates. The under-cabinet bar lights can be installed with backing adhesive or affixed with screws. A light-emitting diode (LED) system that is fully dimmable from 0 to 100 percent, it also has an on/off switch for optimal control.
We found that the dimmer switch offers flexibility in static lighting versus dimmable lighting depending upon the placement of the switch. Placing the dimmer next to the on/off switch allows for dimmable control of all connected light bars, while placing it between light bars along the run results in static light from those near the switch and dimmable for those connected after the dimmer. We found this quite helpful in creating targeted lighting for tasks as well as dimmable lighting for atmosphere.
Though it’s a low-voltage system at just 12 volts (V), it offers the flexibility of two different power-supply options: One runs from the wall outlet, through an AC adapter and to the lights, and the other can be wired directly into an electrical system and then flow through an AC adapter to produce under-cabinet lighting. Having both options means choosing between a simple, straightforward installation or wiring directly into an electrical system to hide the cords and operate the light using a household light switch.
Get the Litever under-cabinet lighting at Amazon.
Runner-Up
Lightkiwi 12-Inch Modular LED Under Cabinet Lighting
Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Quality 4/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Lumens: 1,120 per bar
- Power: AC adapter
- Volts: 24
Pros
- Produces 1,120 lumens of light for cooking, cleaning, or entertaining
- Comes with a peel-and-stick-backing adhesive; can also be installed with screws
- 24V low-voltage system can be plugged into a standard wall outlet
- Memory function keeps the user’s preferences for convenience
Cons
- Doesn’t dim completely; may not be ideal for some users
- No option to dim individual lights to match lighting to users’ tasks and preferences
- May not be as versatile as some wireless options
This under-cabinet LED lighting system of four light bars produces 1,120 lumens of brightness per bar. The thin, sturdy light bars can be connected directly or linked through a cord for customizable coverage. They can be installed via peel-and-stick-backing adhesive or by using screws. Users will want to keep in mind the on/off switch and dimmer are on the same unit and must be installed nearest the AC adapter, which potentially limits the options for customization.
The Lightkiwi is a 24V low-voltage system that plugs into a power outlet. A dimmer switch controls the brightness output, and a low-energy red light remains lit so that the on/off switch can be found in the dark. We liked that the dimmer has a memory function that sets it to the previous brightness level until we decided to change it. During our testing, we found that the dimmer doesn’t dim all the way; the bars remain lit at a level that might be too much for users who want a very mellow light.
Get the Lightkiwi under-cabinet lighting at Amazon.
Best Bang for the Buck
Holkpoilot Under Cabinet Lights With Remote Control
Our Ratings: Installation 4/5; Quality 3/5; Value 3/5
Product Specs
- Lumens: 100
- Power: AAA batteries
- Volts: 4.5
Pros
- Variable light intensity allows for ample customization and ease of use
- Adjustable timer can set to turn lights off when desired; ideal for closets and pantries
- Very competitive price point compared to other options available
Cons
- Adhesive strength can vary; may not be as durable as some comparable options
- Batteries not included with purchase; may need to be purchased separately
An affordable option for decorative under-cabinet lighting, the Holkpoilot under-cabinet light set includes four battery-operated lights, plus a remote control. Each compact unit is just 3.5 inches in diameter, so they are easy to position. At full brightness, they provide plenty of illumination thanks to the use of six LEDs, where many competitors only install three. The lights also can be set to 10, 40, or 80 percent when ambient lighting is required.
In our testing, we found that the Holkpoilot puck lights were easily controlled by touch or via a convenient handheld remote. The remote can also be used to set the timer that automatically turns them off, a feature we enjoyed so it’s not necessary to remember to turn them off manually. The lights can be programmed to stay on for either 10, 30, 60, or 120 minutes.
Each puck light requires three AAA batteries, and we found it frustrating that these were not included. Additionally, the lights are meant to attach to surfaces using peel-and-stick adhesive tabs. While some users have found them almost impossible to remove, others thought the adhesive didn’t provide sufficient hold. We found they worked fine on a smooth, dry surface, but it’s important to note that they are not designed to be repositioned.
Get the Holkpoilot under-cabinet lighting at Amazon.
Best Hardwired
Harrrrd Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Task Lighting
Our Ratings: Installation 3/5; Quality 3/5; Value 3/5
Product Specs
- Lumens: 1,250
- Power: Hardwired
- Volts: 120
Pros
- No wires dangling under the cabinet; ideal for those with children and pets
- Easy on/off switch integrated into the construction for quick adjustments
- Glare-free frosted cover provides a luxurious look with its warm white light
Cons
- Users might require professional help during the installation process
- Some users have reported that the instructions are not very clear
- A dimmer switch is not included with the purchase
Hardwiring under-cabinet lighting may be complicated, but the results—free of cords plugging into outlets—lend a clean, neat look that’s desirable in a kitchen. This 120V line-voltage under-cabinet LED bar light system is ideal for those choosing the hardwired route, as its slim design in five different lengths (12 inches, 18 inches, 21 inches, 24 inches, and 36 inches) blends right into existing decor. It provides what users need for kitchen under-cabinet lighting and nothing more; the simplistic, minimalist design could appeal to those who prefer sleek lines.
We found that the light affords a uniform look thanks to a glare-free frosted cover that diffuses the 1,250 lumens of brightness. The bar light has an on/off switch and is compatible with dimmers, but a dimmer switch is not included. Since this is hardwired, the addition of a dimmer switch or even the installation of this unit itself might require professional help.
Get the Harrrrd under-cabinet lighting at Amazon.
Best Wireless
BLS LED Motion Sensor Under Cabinet Lighting
Our Ratings: Installation 4/5; Quality 4/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Lumens: 180
- Power: AA batteries, hardwired, or USB adapter
- Volts: 1.5
Pros
- Easily adjustable motion sensor feature is ideal for kitchens, closets, and pantries
- Multiple power options allow for adjustability and energy-saving capabilities
- Variety of options for sensor or steady light
Cons
- Some users have reported that this option emits a harsh light
- Motion sensor can be finicky; this feature may not be ideal for long-term use
For under-cabinet lighting that activates when someone enters a dark kitchen, or that provides simple accent lighting to dishware or appliances, this wireless option is the way to go. The moderate 1.5V system produces only 180 lumens of brightness, and the white light is harsher than the light of some other products we tested. While this is good for task lighting, we found it less so for atmosphere.
Installation issues won’t be a problem, and we appreciated that there were no messy cords to look at with the BLS lighting. We were able to install it in just a few seconds with backing adhesive or mounting screws, and it operates with three AA batteries. If batteries aren’t an option, users can employ the 37-inch USB cord to power the LED bar light; there is also a hardwire option. Note that the USB wall adapter is not included with the light kit.
The under-cabinet lighting is attached at only two points, allowing the light to rotate down for additional lighting angles. This feature also makes it possible to change the batteries without detaching the light. The system includes automatic motion detection that users can adjust for sensitivity or turn off altogether. It can also be set to be on, off, on only during the night, or on only during the day. The light turns off after 20 seconds of sensing no motion, giving users ample time to leave the kitchen with this bar lighting the way.
Get the BLS under-cabinet lighting at Amazon.
Best LED
Wobane Under Cabinet Lighting Kit
Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Quality 4/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Lumens: 1,100
- Power: Wall outlet
- Volts: 12
Pros
- Very light; will not come out of place once affixed to a wall or cabinet
- Exceptionally warm white lighting provides enough light for cooking, cleaning, or washing
- Very easy to install; simply stick onto the desired surface and plug it in
Cons
- Not dimmable; may not be ideal for some users’ preferences
- Operates only with wall outlet; may not be as versatile as wireless options
LED lighting is the best option for under-cabinet lighting, and the affordable, versatile Wobane system exemplifies why. The LED strip lighting produces an impressive 1,100 lumens of brightness and can be installed in seconds using the strong adhesive backing. Its 12V low-voltage system plugs directly into a power outlet so there’s no need to hire an electrician to install it, nor will there be any need to change batteries in the future.
The flexible under-cabinet strip light is very thin, so it was perfect for tucking up on the underside of cabinets where only the illumination is visible. Its flexibility also allowed for installation around corners and curves with ease. Additionally, the strip can be separated into four equal-length pieces for more customization options. The sole drawback is that these lights are not dimmable and only operate via an on/off switch. However, despite these small drawbacks, we were delighted to discover that the light is very warm, reminiscent of candlelight, and perfect for setting a relaxing atmosphere.
Get the Wobane under-cabinet lighting at Amazon.