Ever feel like your kitchen is a little… dim? You chop vegetables, mix ingredients, and try to find that one spice, but the shadows make it a guessing game. Good lighting isn’t just about seeing; it’s about making your kitchen a more enjoyable and functional space. But when it comes to LED lights for kitchen cabinets, the choices can feel overwhelming. What color should they be? How bright? Where do you even start?
Choosing the right LED cabinet lights can be tricky. You want something that looks good, works well, and doesn’t break the bank. It’s easy to get lost in all the technical terms and different styles. But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll help you understand the different types of LED lights, how to pick the perfect brightness and color, and even give you some ideas for installation.
Get ready to transform your kitchen from a shadowy workspace into a bright, inviting hub. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know, making the process simple and fun. Let’s dive in and discover how the right LED lights can make a world of difference under your cabinets!
Our Top 5 Led Lights For Kitchen Cabinets Recommendations at a Glance
Image | Product | Rating | Links |
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Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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MCGOR 14.7inch Under Cabinet Lighting | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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maylit 10 PCS Smart RGB Under Cabinet Lights Kit | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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DAYBETTER Under Cabinet Lights | 9.5/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Led Lights For Kitchen Cabinets Detailed Reviews
1. Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright
Rating: 9.5/10
Brighten up your home with the Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting. This two-pack set brings super bright LED light to any space. It’s rechargeable, has multiple color and brightness options, and even a motion sensor. Installation is a breeze with its magnetic design.
What We Like:
- Super bright with 84 LEDs and a wide 120° sensing angle.
- Offers three color temperatures (3000K, 4500K, 6000K) for different moods.
- Five brightness levels, including stepless dimming for perfect lighting.
- Four modes: OFF, Night Sensing, Daytime Sensing, and Always On, making it energy efficient.
- Long-lasting rechargeable battery (1800mAh) with USB-C charging.
- Easy installation with strong magnets or included adhesive iron plates.
- Versatile use in kitchens, closets, pantries, stairs, and more.
What Could Be Improved:
- The motion sensor’s detection distance of 10ft might be too far for some smaller spaces.
- While durable, the aluminum alloy and ABS plastic construction might not feel as premium as all-metal options.
The Gritin Under Cabinet Lighting is a smart and stylish way to add convenience and ambiance to your home. Its user-friendly features and easy setup make it a fantastic lighting solution for many areas.
2. MCGOR 14.7inch Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 8.7/10
Illuminate your home effortlessly with the MCGOR 14.7inch Under Cabinet Lighting. This 2-pack of rechargeable motion sensor lights offers smart, wireless lighting for various areas, making your life easier and safer.
What We Like:
- Smart Motion Sensor: The lights automatically turn on when they detect movement within 10 feet and a 120° angle in dark spaces. They also turn off after 20 seconds of no motion, saving energy and preventing you from fumbling for switches in the dark.
- Versatile Always-On Mode: Need light for a longer task? You can set these lights to stay on continuously. This makes them perfect for reading, camping, or even as a handy flashlight.
- Convenient USB-C Rechargeable: Forget about messy wires or constantly buying batteries. Each light has a built-in 2500mAh battery that recharges easily with a Type-C cable. A single charge can last from 7 to 30 days in motion sensor mode, or 8 hours on high brightness in always-on mode.
- Adjustable Brightness: These lights feature 5 levels of dimming, so you can choose the perfect brightness. Brighten them up for cooking or dim them down for a soft night light that won’t disturb anyone. The frosted cover provides eye-friendly, non-glare light.
- Easy to Install: Strong magnets mean you can stick these lights directly onto any iron surface. You can also use the included adhesive metal plates to place them anywhere you need them. They are also easy to remove for charging. They work great under kitchen counters, in closets, pantries, hallways, and on stairs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The USB wall adapter for charging is not included.
These MCGOR under cabinet lights provide a brilliant and practical lighting solution for your home. They are a great addition for both convenience and safety.
3. EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of fumbling in the dark? The EZVALO 6-Pack Under Cabinet Lighting offers a smart and versatile solution for illuminating your home. These rechargeable puck lights are packed with features, from customizable colors to intelligent motion sensing, making them perfect for kitchens, shelves, stairs, and even festive decorations.
What We Like:
- Versatile Lighting Options: Choose from 12 vibrant RGB colors or 3 crisp white light temperatures (3000K, 4200K, 6500K) to set the perfect mood. Dynamic modes like Flash and Fade add a fun touch for parties or holidays.
- Smart Motion Detection: The lights automatically turn on when they sense movement within a 120° angle and up to 10 feet away. You can choose to have them turn on anytime, only in the dark (acting as night lights), or disable the sensor entirely for continuous light.
- Long-Lasting Rechargeable Battery: Each puck light has a 1000mAh battery that lasts up to 8 hours on full brightness or 15-45 days in auto mode. A handy three-in-one USB-C cable charges three lights at once, saving you time and hassle.
- Convenient Remote Control: Easily control multiple lights with the included remote. Adjust colors, brightness, and set timers (15-120 minutes) without leaving your seat. You can also bypass the motion sensor and control the lights manually.
- Simple, Tool-Free Installation: Stick these lights anywhere effortlessly! They attach magnetically to metal surfaces, can be stuck on with included metal plates, or hung using the built-in hook. No tools are needed, making setup a breeze.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the remote offers group control, individual light control is not explicitly mentioned, which might be a minor limitation for some.
- The battery life in “Always-On” mode, while decent at 8 hours, might be shorter than some users desire for extended continuous use.
These EZVALO lights are a fantastic, adaptable addition to any space needing a little extra illumination and ambiance. They offer a user-friendly experience with a wide range of customization options.
4. maylit 10 PCS Smart RGB Under Cabinet Lights Kit
Rating: 8.6/10
The maylit 10 PCS Smart RGB Under Cabinet Lights Kit brings a splash of color and smart convenience to your home. You can easily light up cabinets, shelves, or even your TV area with these versatile LED strips. They work with Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can control them with your voice. Plus, you can change colors, adjust brightness, and even sync them to music for a fun atmosphere. Setting them up is a breeze, and they’re perfect for adding a special touch to many different spots in your house.
What We Like:
- Hands-free voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant makes turning lights on/off and changing colors super easy.
- You get 10 light strips and connectors, letting you arrange them however you want.
- You have four ways to control the lights: voice, a phone app, a remote, or a control box.
- Installation is simple with adhesive tape; no tools are needed.
- These lights are great for many places like kitchens, bookcases, closets, and behind your TV.
- The music sync feature adds a cool, dynamic effect to parties or movie nights.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 20-inch strip length might be a bit long for very small cabinets, requiring careful planning or cutting if possible (though not explicitly mentioned as an option).
- While the adhesive is easy, for very smooth or greasy surfaces, it might not stick as well long-term.
This maylit kit offers a fantastic and simple way to add smart, colorful lighting to your home. It’s a fun and functional upgrade that’s easy for anyone to set up and enjoy.
5. DAYBETTER Under Cabinet Lights
Rating: 9.3/10
Brighten up your home with the DAYBETTER Under Cabinet Lights! This set comes with six LED light strips and a remote, making it super easy to add light wherever you need it. You can use them in your kitchen cabinets, on shelves, or even behind your TV. They give off a warm or cool white light, and you can change how bright they are. Plus, they’re simple to put up and use.
What We Like:
- You can choose between warm white and daylight white light to match your mood.
- The lights are very bright and you can dim them down for a softer glow.
- You can control the lights with a remote or by touching them.
- The remote lets you dim the lights, set a timer, and choose different light effects.
- The lights remember your last setting, so you don’t have to set them up again.
- They are safe to use with a low voltage adapter and stick on easily with strong tape.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 9.8ft length might not be long enough for very large areas.
- Sometimes the remote control can be a little tricky to get to work from far away.
These DAYBETTER lights are a fantastic way to add both style and function to your home. They offer a lot of control and are easy for anyone to install.
Brighten Your Kitchen: The Ultimate Guide to LED Cabinet Lights
Transforming your kitchen is easier than you think! LED cabinet lights add style and functionality. They make your kitchen brighter and highlight your beautiful countertops and cabinets. This guide helps you choose the best LED lights for your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for LED cabinet lights, several features make a big difference.
Brightness (Lumens)
Lumens tell you how bright a light is. More lumens mean a brighter light. For under-cabinet lighting, you want enough light to see clearly while you cook and prepare food. Aim for lights with at least 300-500 lumens per foot.
Color Temperature (Kelvin)
Color temperature affects the mood of your kitchen. It’s measured in Kelvin (K).
- Warm White (2700K-3000K): This is like the light from old incandescent bulbs. It’s cozy and inviting, perfect for making your kitchen feel comfortable.
- Cool White (3500K-4100K): This light is brighter and crisper. It’s great for task lighting, making it easy to see while you chop vegetables or read recipes.
- Daylight (5000K-6500K): This light is very bright and mimics natural daylight. It’s excellent for detailed work but can feel a bit stark for some.
Dimmability
Dimmable lights let you adjust the brightness. This is super helpful! You can dim them for a soft glow in the evening or brighten them up for cooking. Look for lights that work with a dimmer switch.
Type of LED Light
There are a few popular types:
- LED Strips: These are flexible strips with many small LEDs. You can cut them to fit your cabinets perfectly. They offer even light.
- LED Puck Lights: These are small, round lights. You can install them individually. They are easy to install and great for spotlighting specific areas.
- LED Bar Lights: These are longer, slim lights. They provide a good amount of light and are easy to mount.
Ease of Installation
Most LED cabinet lights are designed for easy DIY installation. Many come with adhesive backing or simple mounting clips. Some might require basic wiring, so check the instructions.
Important Materials
The materials used in LED cabinet lights affect their durability and appearance.
Housing Material
The casing of the lights is usually made of plastic or aluminum. Aluminum is more durable and helps dissipate heat, which can make the LEDs last longer. Plastic is lighter and often cheaper.
LED Chips
The quality of the LED chips inside matters. Higher-quality chips produce better light and last longer. Brands often mention the LED chip manufacturer or quality.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make LED lights better or worse.
Brand Reputation
Trusted brands often use better components and have stricter quality control. This means their lights are likely to be more reliable and perform better.
Customer Reviews
Reading reviews from other buyers is a smart move. They can tell you about real-world performance, ease of installation, and any problems they encountered.
Warranty
A good warranty shows the manufacturer stands behind their product. Look for lights with at least a one-year warranty.
Heat Dissipation
LEDs produce heat. Good heat dissipation is important. Lights with aluminum housing or built-in heat sinks help keep the LEDs cool. Overheating can reduce the lifespan of the LEDs.
User Experience and Use Cases
LED cabinet lights are versatile and improve many aspects of kitchen use.
Task Lighting
The most common use is task lighting. They shine light directly onto your countertops. This makes it much easier to chop, mix, and measure ingredients. You can see every detail without shadows.
Ambiance and Mood Lighting
Warm-toned, dimmable lights create a cozy atmosphere. You can use them for evening meals or when you want a relaxing feel in your kitchen. They make your kitchen feel more welcoming.
Highlighting Features
LEDs can showcase your beautiful cabinets and countertops. They draw attention to your kitchen’s design elements. This makes your kitchen look more polished and professional.
Energy Efficiency
LEDs use much less energy than older types of lights. This saves you money on your electricity bills. They also last a very long time, so you won’t have to replace them often.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How many LED lights do I need for my kitchen cabinets?
A: It depends on the size of your cabinets and how much light you want. A good rule of thumb is to place lights every 1-2 feet. You can also use more lights for brighter task lighting.
Q: Are LED cabinet lights difficult to install?
A: Most LED cabinet lights are designed for easy DIY installation. Many come with adhesive tape or mounting clips. Some might need minor wiring, but instructions are usually clear.
Q: Can I cut LED light strips?
A: Yes, most LED light strips can be cut. Look for the cut marks on the strip. Only cut at these designated spots.
Q: What is the difference between warm white and cool white LED lights?
A: Warm white is a softer, yellowish light, good for a cozy feel. Cool white is a brighter, bluer light, better for tasks where you need to see details clearly.
Q: How long do LED cabinet lights last?
A: High-quality LED lights can last for 50,000 hours or more. This means they can last for many years with normal use.
Q: Do I need a special dimmer switch for LED lights?
A: Yes, if you want to dim your LED lights, you need an LED-compatible dimmer switch. Not all dimmer switches work with LEDs.
Q: Can I use LED cabinet lights outdoors?
A: Most LED cabinet lights are designed for indoor use. If you need lights for outdoors, look for ones specifically rated for outdoor use and weather resistance.
Q: How do I clean LED cabinet lights?
A: Unplug the lights first. Then, gently wipe them with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, use a cloth slightly dampened with water. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Q: Are LED cabinet lights safe to use in a kitchen?
A: Yes, LED lights are very safe. They produce very little heat compared to older lights, reducing the risk of fire. They are also energy-efficient and long-lasting.
Q: Where is the best place to install LED cabinet lights?
A: The most common and effective place is under the upper cabinets, facing down onto the countertops. You can also install them inside glass-front cabinets to display items.
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.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!