Ever feel like your kitchen is missing a little something, a special sparkle? You chop veggies, mix ingredients, and cook delicious meals, but the space itself might feel a bit dim or uninspired. That’s where the magic of under-cabinet LED lights comes in!
Choosing the perfect LED lights for under your kitchen cabinets can feel like a puzzle. There are so many types, colors, and features out there. Do you want bright task lighting for chopping or a soft glow for evening ambiance? It’s easy to get lost in the choices, and sometimes the process feels overwhelming.
But don’t worry! By reading on, you’ll discover exactly what makes under-cabinet LEDs a game-changer for your kitchen. We’ll break down the different options, explain what to look for, and help you find the lights that will transform your workspace into something truly special. Get ready to brighten up your kitchen and make cooking even more enjoyable!
Our Top 5 Led Lights For Under Kitchen Cabinets Recommendations at a Glance
Image | Product | Rating | Links |
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MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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DAYBETTER Under Cabinet Lights | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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maylit 10 PCS Smart RGB Under Cabinet Lights Kit | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
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Govee White LED Strip Lights | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Led Lights For Under Kitchen Cabinets Detailed Reviews
1. MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting
Rating: 8.5/10
Brighten up your home with the MCGOR 10-inch Under Cabinet Lighting! This 2-pack of rechargeable lights is perfect for adding light exactly where you need it, without any fuss. They’re great for kitchens, closets, stairs, and anywhere else you need a little extra glow.
What We Like:
- Smart Motion Sensor: The lights automatically turn on when they sense movement within 10 feet in the dark. They also turn off after about 20 seconds of no movement, saving energy.
- Always-On Option: You can set the lights to stay on constantly, which is handy for tasks like reading, camping, or even using it as a flashlight.
- Adjustable Brightness: These lights have 5 brightness levels, so you can make them brighter for working or dimmer for a softer night light. This means no more waking people up in the middle of the night!
- Easy Rechargeable Design: They have a built-in battery that you can recharge using a USB-C cable. No need for messy wires or buying batteries.
- Simple Installation: You can easily stick these lights anywhere using the included magnets or adhesive metal plates. They’re also easy to take down for charging.
- Versatile Use: These lights work great under kitchen cabinets, in closets, pantries, hallways, and on stairs.
What Could Be Improved:
- USB Wall Adapter Not Included: You’ll need to have your own USB wall adapter to charge the lights.
These MCGOR lights are a fantastic and convenient way to add light to your home. They offer smart features and easy installation, making them a must-have for any household.
2. DAYBETTER Under Cabinet Lights
Rating: 8.8/10
Brighten up your space with the DAYBETTER Under Cabinet Lights! This 6-piece set of LED strip lights is perfect for your kitchen, bedroom, or any area you want to add a touch of light. You can easily control the brightness and color temperature, from cozy warm white to crisp daylight white. These lights are super easy to install and come with everything you need to get started.
What We Like:
- You can choose between warm white (2700K) and daylight white (6500K) to set the perfect mood.
- The brightness is adjustable, so you can make it as dim or as bright as you like.
- You get two ways to control the lights: a handy RF remote or by touching the lights themselves.
- The remote lets you dim, set timers, and choose different lighting effects.
- The lights have a memory function, so they remember your last settings.
- Installation is a breeze with the strong adhesive tape.
- The 12V low voltage makes them safe to use.
- The lights have good heat dissipation, meaning they won’t get too hot.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 9.8ft length might be too short for very large areas, requiring multiple sets.
- While the adhesive is strong, for very smooth or textured surfaces, additional mounting might be needed over time.
These DAYBETTER Under Cabinet Lights offer a great way to add versatile and adjustable lighting to your home. They are a practical and stylish solution for many different needs.
3. maylit 10 PCS Smart RGB Under Cabinet Lights Kit
Rating: 9.4/10
The maylit 10 PCS Smart RGB Under Cabinet Lights Kit is a fantastic way to add some fun and useful lighting to your home. You can control these lights with your voice using Alexa or Google Assistant, or through a handy app on your phone. They can even change colors to the beat of your music! Plus, setting them up is super easy, with no tools needed.
What We Like:
- Hands-free voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant makes it simple to turn lights on or off and change colors.
- You get 10 light strips, each 20 inches long, with connectors so you can arrange them just how you like under cabinets or on shelves.
- You have four ways to control the lights: voice, app, remote control, and a control box.
- Installation is a breeze thanks to the adhesive tape; no tools are required.
- These lights are great for many places in your home, like under kitchen cabinets, on bookshelves, or behind your TV.
- The music sync feature adds a cool party vibe.
- You can set a timer for the lights to turn on or off automatically.
- The brightness is adjustable, so you can create the perfect mood.
What Could Be Improved:
- The adhesive might not be strong enough for all surfaces, so some users might need stronger tape.
- While the app offers many features, it could be more intuitive for some users.
This maylit Smart RGB Under Cabinet Lights Kit offers a lot of bang for your buck, bringing smart, colorful lighting to any room. It’s a fun and functional upgrade for your home décor.
4. Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright
Rating: 8.5/10
Illuminate your home with the Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting. This set of two rechargeable lights offers super bright illumination with 84 LEDs each. They are designed for easy installation and provide versatile lighting options for various spaces in your home.
What We Like:
- Super bright with 84 LEDs per light.
- Three color temperatures (warm, cool, balanced) and five brightness levels let you customize the light.
- Four modes, including motion sensing, make them energy-efficient and convenient.
- Long-lasting battery life, rechargeable via USB-C.
- Easy installation with magnets or adhesive iron plates.
- Durable aluminum alloy and ABS plastic construction.
What Could Be Improved:
- The motion sensor’s detection distance might be limited for very large areas.
- While versatile, the design is primarily functional, not decorative.
These Gritin under cabinet lights are a fantastic upgrade for any home, offering both convenience and customizable lighting. They are a practical and bright solution for many household needs.
5. Govee White LED Strip Lights
Rating: 8.7/10
Brighten up your space with the Govee White LED Strip Lights! This 16.4-foot strip offers a crisp, daylight white glow, perfect for adding a clean and modern touch to any room. Whether you’re looking to highlight your kitchen cabinets, add some flair to your bedroom mirror, or create festive Christmas decorations, these lights are a versatile choice. They’re easy to install and customize, making them a fun way to personalize your home.
What We Like:
- Super bright illumination with 300 LEDs and 6500K color temperature.
- Adjustable brightness with 6 levels to set the perfect mood.
- Easy to set up in minutes with strong adhesive and included clips.
- Flexible design allows for installation in many different places.
- Safe to touch with low heat and built-in safety features.
- Cuttable design lets you customize the length for your needs.
What Could Be Improved:
- Only offers one color temperature (6500K Daylight White), limiting color options.
- Adhesive might not stick well to all surfaces, especially rough or dusty ones.
These Govee LED strip lights are a fantastic way to add bright, adjustable lighting to your home. They offer a simple yet effective way to enhance the look and feel of your favorite spaces.
Shine a Light on Your Kitchen: The Best Under Cabinet LED Buying Guide
Transform your kitchen with bright, stylish, and energy-saving LED lights!
Are you tired of dim countertops? Do you struggle to see while you chop veggies? Under cabinet LED lights are the perfect solution. They make your kitchen brighter, safer, and more inviting. This guide will help you pick the best lights for your home.
Key Features to Look For
Brightness (Lumens)
Look for lights with enough brightness for your needs. Lumens measure brightness. For task lighting, aim for 300-500 lumens per foot. If you want softer accent lighting, fewer lumens are fine.
Color Temperature (Kelvin)
Color temperature affects the mood of your kitchen.
- Warm White (2700K-3000K): This gives a cozy, inviting glow, like traditional light bulbs. It’s great for general ambiance.
- Cool White (3500K-4500K): This is brighter and more neutral. It’s good for task lighting where you need to see details clearly.
- Daylight (5000K-6500K): This is very bright and mimics natural daylight. It’s excellent for food prep areas.
Dimming Capabilities
Being able to adjust the brightness is a big plus. Dimmer switches let you set the mood for different activities, from bright task lighting to a soft evening glow.
Beam Angle
The beam angle determines how wide the light spreads. A wider beam angle (around 120 degrees) provides more even lighting across your countertops. A narrower angle focuses light in one spot.
Ease of Installation
Many under cabinet lights are designed for DIY installation. Look for options with adhesive backing or simple mounting clips. Some kits come with all the necessary hardware and clear instructions.
Energy Efficiency
LEDs are very energy efficient. They use less electricity than older lighting types, saving you money on your energy bills.
Important Materials
Housing Material
Most under cabinet lights have housings made of durable plastic or aluminum. Aluminum can help dissipate heat, which can make the lights last longer. Plastic is often lighter and less expensive.
Lens Material
The lens diffuses the light. Frosted lenses create a softer, more even light. Clear lenses might be brighter but can sometimes cause glare.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality of LEDs
Higher-quality LEDs last longer and maintain their brightness better over time. Brands that use reputable LED chips often produce a more consistent and pleasing light.
Build Quality and Durability
Check reviews for comments on how well the lights are made. Lights that feel flimsy or have loose connections might not last long.
Heat Dissipation
Good heat dissipation is important for LED lifespan. Lights that get too hot can burn out faster. Aluminum housings often help with this.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
Trusted brands often offer better quality products and customer support. A good warranty provides peace of mind if something goes wrong.
User Experience and Use Cases
Task Lighting
Bright, cool white LEDs are perfect for areas where you do a lot of cooking or food preparation. They illuminate your workspace clearly.
Accent Lighting
Warmer, dimmable lights can create a cozy atmosphere. Use them to highlight backsplash designs or add a soft glow in the evening.
Convenience and Safety
Under cabinet lights make it easier and safer to work in the kitchen. They reduce shadows and improve visibility, preventing accidents.
Aesthetics
These lights can significantly improve the look of your kitchen. They add a modern touch and make your cabinets and countertops pop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How many under cabinet lights do I need?
A: This depends on the length of your cabinets and how bright you want the area to be. Measure the length of the space you want to light and divide it by the length of each light fixture. You might also want to consider adding a light every 12-24 inches for even coverage.
Q: Are LED under cabinet lights hard to install?
A: Most LED under cabinet lights are designed for easy DIY installation. Many come with adhesive strips or simple mounting clips. Some plug into an outlet, while others are hardwired. Check the product description to understand the installation process.
Q: Can I control the brightness of LED under cabinet lights?
A: Yes, many LED under cabinet light kits come with dimming features. You can often control the brightness with a remote control, a touch-sensitive switch, or a dimmer knob.
Q: What is the difference between plug-in and hardwired LED under cabinet lights?
A: Plug-in lights connect to a standard electrical outlet, making installation very simple. Hardwired lights connect directly to your home’s electrical wiring, which usually requires an electrician but offers a cleaner look with no visible cords.
Q: How long do LED under cabinet lights typically last?
A: LEDs are known for their long lifespan. Most under cabinet LED lights can last 25,000 to 50,000 hours or more, which is much longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Q: What color temperature is best for my kitchen?
A: For task lighting and food preparation, a cool white (3500K-4500K) or daylight (5000K-6500K) is often preferred. For a cozier feel, warm white (2700K-3000K) is a good choice.
Q: Do I need a transformer for LED under cabinet lights?
A: Most LED under cabinet lights are designed to run on low voltage (usually 12V or 24V). They often come with a power adapter or driver that converts your home’s standard voltage (120V) to the required low voltage. You usually don’t need to buy a separate transformer.
Q: Can I connect multiple light bars together?
A: Many LED under cabinet light kits allow you to link multiple light bars together. This is convenient for lighting longer stretches of cabinets. Check the product specifications to see if they are connectable and how many can be linked.
Q: Are there different shapes and styles of under cabinet lights?
A: Yes, you can find various styles, including slim light bars, puck lights, and strip lights. Light bars are very popular for their sleek look and even light distribution.
Q: How do I clean and maintain my under cabinet LED lights?
A: It’s best to unplug the lights before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away dust. For tougher grime, you can use a slightly damp cloth, but make sure no moisture gets into the electrical components.
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!