Under-cabinet lighting can make a dramatic difference in your kitchen’s ambiance and functionality. With the right lighting, you can illuminate your countertops properly for cooking tasks, highlight decorative backsplashes, and create a warm, welcoming mood in your kitchen. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find the best under-cabinet lights for your space.
What is Under-Cabinet Lighting?
Under-cabinet lighting refers to light fixtures that are installed underneath wall-mounted cabinets. This type of lighting serves several important purposes:
- It provides task lighting over countertops and other work areas where you need bright, focused illumination for cooking, washing dishes, etc. Quality under-cabinet lighting eliminates shadows and makes it easier to see small ingredients and chop precisely.
- It can create ambient lighting and a cozy atmosphere. Under-cabinet lighting typically provides a soft glow that accentuates the colors and textures of your backsplash, countertop and other decorative elements to create a warm, inviting mood in the kitchen.
- It highlights focal points and displays. Skillfully positioned under-cabinet lights can accentuate and draw attention to prized dishware in glass-front cabinets or a beautiful tile backsplash.
- It frees up counter space. Since the light fixtures mount underneath cabinets, they don’t take up valuable real estate on your countertops.
Different Types of Under-Cabinet Lights
There are several major types of under-cabinet lighting to choose from:
Fluorescent Lighting
Fluorescent under-cabinet lighting uses tubular fluorescent bulbs mounted inside a plastic or metal housing. This type of lighting is relatively affordable and provides an even, diffuse light. However, fluorescent lights have some downsides:
- They use more energy and don’t last as long as LED options
- The humming noise and flickering of fluorescent lights can be annoying
- The light quality tends to be more industrial than warm and inviting
Fluorescent under-cabinet lighting works best for utilitarian work spaces where you need extremely bright, uniform lighting. The light color tends to be very cool and bluish in tone.
LED Tape Lighting
LED tape lighting has become a popular under-cabinet lighting choice. It consists of a flexible, adhesive-backed strip that contains small individual LEDs. LED tape lighting offers these benefits:
- It comes in a variety of light colors, from warm white to natural daylight.
- Many options are dimmable to adjust the ambiance.
- It provides an even and continuous line of light that can be cut to fit any space.
- LEDs consume very little energy and last upwards of 50,000 hours.
LED tape lighting works beautifully for accent lighting, task lighting and creating an inviting mood. It can sometimes have a “hot spot” issue where the individual LEDs are visible. Higher quality LED tape eliminates this problem with more diffused light.
LED Puck Lights
LED puck lights are small, round LED light fixtures. They are designed to screw or mount directly onto the underside of cabinets. Puck lights work well for concentrated task lighting.
Benefits of LED puck lights include:
- Compact design doesn’t take up much space.
- Casts a dedicated, focused spotlight.
- Many options are dimmable.
- Easy to install anywhere with minimal wiring.
The light is more directed with puck lights rather than uniform. Smaller puck lights can create pronounced hot spots. Larger 3-4 inch LED pucks provide more diffused, broad task lighting.
Linear LED Lighting
Linear LED undercabinet lighting consists of slim LED light bars or strips housed in an aluminum channel. This provides sleek, streamlined contemporary lighting. Pros of linear LED lighting include:
- The durable aluminum channel protects the LEDs.
- Lights stay cooler, improving efficiency and longevity.
- Provides perfect uniform lighting without hot spots.
- Sleek, integrated design looks clean and modern.
Linear LED channels capture and direct the light precisely where you need it. This makes them ideal for providing bright, glare-free task lighting. The only downside is linear LEDs tend to be among the most expensive under-cabinet options.
Wireless LED Lights
Wireless LEDs represent an exciting new trend in under-cabinet lighting. These battery-powered LEDs mount with magnets or adhesive strips for incredible flexibility.
Key features of wireless under-cabinet lights:
- No hardwiring required for easy DIY installation.
- Portable, unlimited placement to position the light exactly where needed.
- Timer, motion sensor and remote control options available.
- Rechargeable batteries make them convenient and eco-friendly.
Wireless LEDs are perfect for renters and easy to move for cleaning or rearranging. The only tradeoff is having to occasionally recharge the battery.
Key Considerations for Under-Cabinet Lighting
Keep these factors in mind when selecting the best under-cabinet lighting solution:
Task Lighting vs. Ambient Lighting
Do you need focused task lighting over key countertop work zones? Or soft ambient lighting for overall illumination? This determines whether puck lights or linear strips work best. Combining both types can provide the perfect balance.
Light Color Temperature
Light color is measured in degrees Kelvin (K). Lower Kelvin ratings like 2700K-3000K provide a warm, inviting glow. Neutral white around 4000K is bright but less harsh. And 5000K+ emits a cooler blue-hued light ideal for visual tasks. Consider which color temperature best suits your goals.
Light Output
Light output is measured in lumens. Determine how much light you need over key areas. For example, high-traffic food prep zones may need 200+ lumens for excellent visibility. While less intense ambient lighting along the backsplash can be 50-100 lumens.
Lighting Controls
Look for dimmable under-cabinet lights that allow you to vary the intensity. Occupancy sensors, timers and remote controls provide added convenience. These controls help make the most of your new lighting.
Energy Efficiency
LED under-cabinet lights use a fraction of the energy of older lighting technologies and can save up to 80% in electricity costs. Plus they don’t give off heat, reducing HVAC strain. Choosing Energy Star rated LED fixtures ensures optimal efficiency.
Installation Type
Hardwired lights require professional installation but provide seamless operation. Adhesive tape or plug-in options are quick and easy DIY projects. And innovative wireless lights can be positioned anywhere without wiring.
Tips for Positioning Under-Cabinet Lights
Placement is key to maximizing your under-cabinet lighting. Follow these tips:
- Focus task lighting over countertops, islands, stoves and other key work zones where visibility is important. Long LED strips or multiple puck lights work well to eliminate shadows.
- Make sure there are no obstructions like hanging utensils or cabinets that could block light. Measure carefully.
- Use LED tape or linear lighting to accent and highlight your backsplash from end to end. This showcases the decorative tilework.
- Angle puck lights to provide both counter illumination and accent lighting on the backsplash area.
- For glass-front cabinets with display items, position lights to shine directly inside and accent your prized dishware.
- Consider lighting the underside of upper cabinets for a cozy ambient glow. Use LED tape or linear lighting around the cabinet perimeters.
- Use dimmers to adjust the mood and light intensity as needed. Bright for cooking, subdued for dining ambiance.
- Layer ambient and task lighting to get the best of both. Use soft LED tape perimeter lighting combined with puck lights over counters.
With smart positioning and choosing the right fixtures, your new under-cabinet lighting can make any kitchen shine both functionally and aesthetically.
Top Picks: Best Under-Cabinet Lighting
Based on extensive research and product comparisons, these are the top-rated options across the major under-cabinet lighting categories:
Best LED Tape Lighting: WAC Lighting LED Tape Light Kit
Perfect for DIY installation, this LED tape light kit includes everything you need for 20 feet of uninterrupted lighting. The flexible LED strip provides a nice uniform glow and the light warmth is customizable between 2700K and 5000K. Comes with dimmer, power supply, connectors and remote.
Best Wireless LED: Brilliant Evolution Wireless LEDs
These innovative battery-powered LED puck lights install in seconds with no wiring using the included 3M adhesive or magnets. The rechargeable lithium battery provides 20 hours of illumination. Dimmable with remote control.
Best LED Puck Light: Sunco Lighting Slim LED Puck Light
This 4-inch LED puck light mounts easily under cabinets with the integrated magnet. Provides 300 lumens of crisp natural daylight color light (5000K). Dimmable with a wide 120-degree beam angle to eliminate shadows.
Best Linear LED: WAC Lighting Infinity LED Light Bar
This ultra-slim 1.5 inch LED light bar has aircraft-grade aluminum housing to dissipate heat. Lights stay cool and deliver perfect glare-free illumination. Link multiple 4 foot segments for seamless long runs. 3000K light color.
Best for Dark Kitchens: Luminoodle Under Cabinet Lighting
This portable LED lighting strip provides an extreme 1600 lumens per foot for dramatically bright task lighting. Uses diffuser film for a nice even glow without hot spots. USB-powered and multi-mount options.
Best Auto-On LED: Amerelle LED Cabinet Lights
These battery-operated LED puck lights feature built-in motion and light sensors. Great under-cabinet solution for dark spaces. The lights automatically turn on when it’s dark and motion is detected to provide hands-free convenience.
Most Stylish: HitLights Aurora LED Strip Lights
Add a pop of color with these RGB LED tape lights that can glow in any hue. Control them via remote or smart home systems. Great for illuminating cabinets in vibrant tones. Includes power supply and connectors.
Best Value LED: OxyLED Stick-On LED Closet Lights
At just $16 for a pack of 10, these battery-powered LED puck lights are a bargain way to add under-cabinet lighting. LEDs offer 50,000 hours of illumination. Motion-activation provides hands-free lighting when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best color temperature for under-cabinet lighting?
For kitchen tasks like food prep and clean-up, opt for a natural white around 4000-5000K. It provides bright light for visibility but without an overly harsh or clinical vibe. For more ambient mood lighting, warmer 2700-3000K light creates a cozy feel.
How much light output do I need under kitchen cabinets?
As a general rule of thumb, aim for at least 100 lumens per square foot. Intensive food preparation zones and sinks should have closer to 200 lumens for optimal visibility. Ambient areas can be 50-75 lumens.
How do I choose between LED tape, puck and linear under-cabinet lights?
LED tape excels for uniform ambient lighting along cabinet perimeters. Multiple LED puck lights are ideal for concentrated task lighting. Sleek linear LED fixtures provide refined glare-free uniform task and accent lighting. Combine types for layered lighting.
What is the best way to install under-cabinet lighting?
Hardwired installation by an electrician provides the most seamless result with lights wired to a wall switch. For DIY-friendly options, look for plug-in or adhesive LED tape. Battery-powered wireless LEDs also install without any wiring.
Can I install under-cabinet lighting myself?
Absolutely! Adhesive LED tape lights, plug-in puck lights and wireless battery-operated LEDs are all designed for easy DIY installation. Use caution when hardwiring any lights yourself and consider consulting an electrician if you’re uncomfortable.
How do you avoid shadows with under-cabinet lighting?
Position lights as close to the front edge of the cabinets as possible. Keep them spaced evenly no more than a couple feet apart for continuous light. Use light diffusers or wider beam angles to spread the light out. Angle adjoining lights to overlap coverage.
Should under-cabinet lights be able to dim?
Dimmable lights are highly recommended. You’ll often want to adjust the intensity like dimming the lights for a cozy dinner ambiance or raising them for cooking visibility. Look for dimmable or adjustable brightness options when choosing fixtures.
How do you accent a backsplash with under-cabinet lighting?
Use LED tape or linear LED lighting to wash the entire backsplash area in a soft glow from end to end. If the backsplash has decorative tilework or patterns, position puck lights to highlight and accent certain areas. The lighting will make the details pop.
Can under-cabinet lights go inside cabinets too?
Absolutely. LED tape and puck lights work great inside cabinets to accent displays and illuminate contents. Place battery-operated ones inside hard-to-reach areas easily. Use illuminated cabinets over sinks for grooming tasks or as a decorative touch to showcase glassware.
Conclusion
The right under-cabinet lighting can make your kitchen safer, more beautiful, and a joy to work and entertain in. Take the time to determine how you want to use your new lighting—whether for clear food prep visibility, ambient atmosphere, or accenting architectural details. LED technology makes under-cabinet lighting energy-efficient, adjustable, and accessible for DIY installation. Follow the guidelines and recommendations above to choose fixtures that align with your needs and design vision. Then position and install them strategically to illuminate every corner of your kitchen in the perfect light.