The under-cabinet lights have the ability to make your kitchen more functional and appealing. However, finding the best LED under cabinet lighting can be an overwhelming experience, if you don’t know the right features to explore.
There are great options in these lights, starting from hardwired, battery-powered, etc. Plus, you also get amazing effects like dimmable, blinking lights to add more amazement to everyday living.
This review will walk you through the latest and top models in under-counter kitchen lighting and how you can select the best ones.
In this post:
- Things To Check Before Buying LEDs Under Cabinet Lighting
- How to Install Under Cabinet Led Lighting
- 10 Best LED Under Cabinet Lighting Reviewed
- 1. GetInLight IN-0210-3-SN (Best Overall)
- 2. Wobane CL02-2700 (Best Budget)
- 3. Aiboo AMUS-BQNBFA010 (Best Hardwired)
- 4. Brilliant Evolution BRRC135 (Best Wireless)
- 5. Litever LL-008-3W (Top-Rated)
- 6. EShine EL3006DC (Best Dimmable)
- 7. Phonar SL-1601-24-4000 (Best Energy Efficient)
- 8. Harrrrd L/UC12/12/XU/830/LKM1 (5-year Warranty)
- 9. Albrillo LL-LG25 (Durable)
- 10. LightKiwi E7574 (Standard)
- Conclusion
Things To Check Before Buying LEDs Under Cabinet Lighting
Well, this section of LED under cabinet lighting review is dedicated to the buying tips. This guide will help you understand different types of lights and other related features.
1. Power Source
Technically, these lights have two kinds of power source, batteries or corded-electric hard-wiring.
Well, the standard choice of a lot of users is hardwired or corded-electric LED light which is more reliable, performance-centric and dependable. Since there is continual supply of electricity to source these lights, you can expect better brightness and amazing features.
The downside with these lights is the installation which we suggest should be done by an expert. Hard-wiring is a complex task and if you go wrong with it, the result could be unimaginably gruesome. Moreover, hiring a professional can cost you a lot.
But on the bright side, these lights are more dependable and last for a minimum of 30,000-hours. They are also followed by amazing warranties as well.
One of the best hardwired lights that you can consider for a purchase are the Aiboo AMUS-BQNBFA010 under-cabinet lighting.
Alternatively, some people will favor battery powered lights because in that case, they don’t have to look for an electric output socket and source the light. Definitely, the battery-powered ones seam handy and quick, but they don’t have the same level of brightness and effectiveness as their counterpart. Plus, their life is way smaller.
However, if your heart is set on a battery-powered model then your best bet will be the Brilliant Evolution BRRC135 under-cabinet light. This one is pretty intriguing in performance and does not demand constant supply of electricity to work.
2. Brightness
The brightness of LED lights can be evaluated in lumens. As the number of lumens increases, the brightness of a light also magnifies.
You can find lumens in as low number of 30 and it can go up to 2500 lumens as well in a LED light. Depending on the size of your kitchen and the target area that you are trying to illuminate, make sure to pick a suitable light.
The Aiboo AMUS-BQNBFA010 under-cabinet lighting is the brightest LED light on our list as it comes with 1800 Lumens. If you have a spacious kitchen and need something extra brightening then go with this model.
3. Style
Among other things, you should also be careful about the style you pick in these lights. Normally, you find puck and linear lights in which, the linear lights offer more uniform and evenly distributed light.
Puck on the other hand create a more concentrated beam of light. Since these lights have a smaller profile, it will be convenient to customize a layout.
As far as style is concerned, you should focus on the kind of lights that will be compatible with your kitchen. Most of the lights that you can find online have different tones of white, but there are other finishes available too like matte bronze and brushed nickel.
4. Color Temperature
The color temperature is to identify the tones of light. It is a scale that help you establish the lights in their warmer, neutral, or cooler tones.
The ones that falls in 1000 – 3000 Kelvins are the warmer tones, like the golden candle-flame color. These are most liked ones because they can create amazing ambience around you. Plus, they have meagre sharpness.
Then you go up to 5000 kelvins which falls in the category of neutral tones. To help you understand better, these lights reflect the same tone of sunlight during noon time. These are extremely bright and have blueish tone mostly.
Lastly, the ones that are around 6000 kelvins are cooler tones, mostly like washed-out tones and fluorescent colors. These have a very fine blue color that it emits on the counter.
5. Power Consumption
Most of these lights are not too high on power consumption. These don’t use more than 30 – 40 watts of energy.
Furthermore, there are some lights that consume as low as 9-watts of energy. One of the finest products with such small power consumption is the Phonar SL-1601-24-4000 under-cabinet led light.
6. Installation
Honestly, installation of the light is one such feature that is most overlooked. However, buyers face problems later on.
If you are planned to purchase a light which will require hard wiring, you better be prepared to spend some extra money on the installation.
If you don’t want to spare this amount then prefer going with the light strips that you will only have to fix by removing the tape. Make sure to understand more about the installation process before buying a LED light.
How to Install Under Cabinet Led Lighting
The installation of different under-cabinet led lights is different. Since there are variable styles like puck light or strip light, their installation process varies largely.
These are the lights that you can install yourself but if you are going with electric corded models that require hardwiring then best it to leave the job to the professionals.
In here, we will discuss the installation of strip and puck lights. Let’s take a look at them independently.
1. Strip Lights
The task begins with selecting the right strip light for your kitchen. Here, the first and most important feature to keep under consideration is the brightness of light, especially if the motive is not just to add the allure but to brighten the kitchen area.
However, all these lights come with dimmer function so even if you pick a brighter variant, you can dim them whenever required.
Installation of these lights is fairly simple. You can start by measuring the cabinet’s length where you want to install the light. Since you can cut and separate these lights, you can measure the length and bring the light to the appropriate measurement.
If you wish to connect a dimmer with these lights then prefer using extra low-voltage wires. Most of these strips have adhesive back in which, you simply have to remove the protective cover and carefully glue it on the cabinets, wherever planned.
If you have rougher platforms where the adhesive might come off, you can use extra adhesive to securely set the lights on. Some people also prefer using screw-in clips to fix the lights.
After setting up the strip, plug it into a power outlet and turn it on to enjoy the mesmerizing view.
2. Puck Lights
Puck lights are available in individual lights and the placement should be done strategically. Make sure you keep distance of 8 – 12-inches among all the lights.
The installation will require you to drill small holes on the surface. Make sure you don’t apply a lot of force and drill all the way into the cabinet.
By removing the mounting cap off the light, mark the area for better measurement. This way, you will be able to space them accurately.
Once the hole is done, install the mounting cap and secure it using the screws. Lastly, you have to twist the light in the cap.
There are also recessed puck lights that require you to cut through the cabinet using a hole saw.
By securing the mounting caps using screws, you can twist the puck light inside. The batteries that source power to these lights must be mounted along with, underneath the cabinet.
With either of the lights, you should install them in such a way that they stay hidden and concealed by the lights throwing on the cabinet can create a dramatic look. This is the best way of installing a LED light under the cabinet.
10 Best LED Under Cabinet Lighting Reviewed
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES |
|---|---|---|
 | 1. GetInLight IN-0210-3-SN (Best Overall) |
|
 | 2. Wobane CL02-2700 (Best Budget) |
|
 | 3. Aiboo AMUS-BQNBFA010 (Best Hardwired) |
|
 | 4. Brilliant Evolution BRRC135 (Best Wireless) |
|
 | 5. Litever LL-008-3W (Top-Rated) |
|
 | 6. EShine EL3006DC (Best Dimmable) |
|
 | 7. Phonar SL-1601-24-4000 (Best Energy Efficient) |
|
 | 8. Harrrrd L/UC12/12/XU/830/LKM1 (With 5-year Warranty) |
|
 | 9. Albrillo LL-LG25 (Durable Construction) |
|
 | 10. LightKiwi E7574 (Standard) |
|
1. GetInLight IN-0210-3-SN (Best Overall)
Photo: GetInLight
- Power Source: Corded-Electric
- Brightness: 720 lumens
- Color Temperature: 2700K Warm White, 3000 K Soft White, 4000 K Bright White
- Power Consumption: 12 Watts
This 24-inches LED light is an expressional product that comes with 3 changeable color tones, unlike any other product on the list. You get 2700K warm white, 3000 K soft white, and 4000 K bright white tones to play as per the mood and need.
This one is a dimmable light that effectively works with Caseta and Alexa. Shaped linearly, this is a magnificent light that consumes power of 12 Watts and has been energy star certified. The brightness of 720 Lumens illuminates the area effectively.
This light is compatible with hardwired or plugged-in installation. However, you should hire a professional for installation.
With 50,000-hours prolonged lifespan, this is definitely the best LED under cabinet light on the market except that there is no warranty with this product.
Pros:
- Comes with 3 changeable color tones
- Compatible with Alexa and Caseta
- Beautiful linear shape
- Effectively bright
Cons:
- No warranty
2. Wobane CL02-2700 (Best Budget)
Photo: Wobane
- Power Source: DC
- Brightness: 1100 lumens
- Color Temperature: 2700K Warm White
- Power Consumption: 12 Watts
For all the budget buyers out there, this is the best LED strip light for under cabinet. This is a performance product and gives brightness of 1100 Lumens. At the same time, this is quite energy efficient and only consumes 12 Watts of energy.
Being UL certified, you can count on these lights for safe-usage. You don’t just necessarily have to use it in the kitchen, but this is versatile enough that you can apply it anywhere in the house.
The installation of this product is pretty simple and does not require professional help. Plus, no tools are required for installation.
To secure your purchase, the company gives you 12-month replacement policy. Just one thing, it does not have an inbuilt dimmer. You will have to purchase separately.
Pros:
- Available on affordable price
- 12-month replacement
- Very easy to install
- Low on energy consumption
Cons:
- No in-built dimmer
3. Aiboo AMUS-BQNBFA010 (Best Hardwired)
Photo: Aiboo
- Power Source: Corded-Electric
- Brightness: 1800 lumens
- Color Temperature: 6000K Warm White
- Power Consumption: 20 Watts
So, this one is an exceptionally powerful light with best suited for hardwired installation. Basically, these are puck lights that can go with plug-and-play mechanism. This product comes in 10 puck lights.
Furthermore, this model has maximum brightness of 1800 Lumens, made of durable plastic material. Being circular in shape, this one has on-point lighting. You can operate this model with an RF remote.
Considering the brightness, these lights consume minimal power of 20 Watts. Also, you get interesting feature of blinking lights that create an amazing party vibe in the house.
This is certainly one of the best LED lights for under counter but the lack of warranty or replacement policy might disappoint some buyers.
Pros:
- Suitable for hardwired installation
- Comes in a pack of 10 lights
- Blinking feature for party vibe
- Exceptionally bright
Cons:
- Lacks in warranty
4. Brilliant Evolution BRRC135 (Best Wireless)
Photo: Brilliant Evolution
- Power Source: Battery
- Brightness: 55 lumens
- Color Temperature: 3000K Warm White
- Power Consumption: 3AA
If you have your heart set on a battery powered light then this is the best product you can find in the category. These are also puck lights available in 6-pieces that are powered by 3AA batteries.
These lights are circular and offer downward on-point directional focus of lights. Available in 3000 K warm white light, this will create ambience in the kitchen. However, due to poor brightness of 55 Lumens, you cannot use it for illumination purpose.
You can operate these lights with a remote control. It also has an auto off timer you can set for 15, 30, 60, or 120-minutes. The drawback of this product is the construction material is not so good.
Pros:
- Battery powered product
- Auto off timer
- On-point downward direction
Cons:
- Low brightness
- Construction material could have been matter
5. Litever LL-008-3W (Top-Rated)
Photo: Litever
- Power Source: AC/DC
- Brightness: 1100 lumens
- Color Temperature: 3000K Warm White
- Power Consumption: 20 Watts
Litever is the top-rated product in the niche with powerful brightness of 1100 Lumens. This one is a set of 3 12-inches lights that can be hardwired or installed using adhesives. The lights come with all the necessary accessories for installation like mounting clips, screws, self-adhesive pads, and wire clips.
The construction of these lights is done with robust aluminum alloy material. There is a rotatory switch dimmer to create ambience in the kitchen.
The linear light comes with natural anodized finish and it is shock and vibration-resistant. Also, it comes with a large lifespan of 50,000-hours. This is surely one of the best LED under counter lighting on the market and will win your heart. Sadly, there is no warranty covering the security of purchase.
Pros:
- Great brightness and performance
- Prolonged lifespan
- Durable material
- In-built dimmer
Cons:
- No warranty
6. EShine EL3006DC (Best Dimmable)
Photo: EShine
- Power Source: DC
- Brightness: 230 lumens
- Color Temperature: 3000K Warm White
- Power Consumption: 24 Watts
This is an amazingly functional LED light with touchless dimming control. Also, you can activate the lights with hand wave.
These sturdy and elegant lights come in 6 pieces, 12-inches in size. It is linear and spreads the light suitably. Unfortunately, the brightness is compromised because of 230 Lumens.
These are easy to install and you get all the accessories for installation. Also, there is a memory function that will remember previous lighting settings. Overall, this is a fine cabinet light to use.
Pros:
- Comes with touchless dimming control
- Available in 6-pieces
- Has memory function
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Low on brightness
7. Phonar SL-1601-24-4000 (Best Energy Efficient)
Photo: Phonar
- Power Source: Corded-Electric
- Brightness: 750 lumens
- Color Temperature: 3000 K Warm White, 4000K Neutral White
- Power Consumption: 9 Watts
If low power consumption is on your mind then this is an effective model to pick as it consumes a meager power of 9 Watts. The brightness of 750 Lumens is quite amazing and this model comes with two lighting modes of warm and neutral white.
The 24-inch linear light is quite intriguing. It has sensitive touch sensors and makes this model traditional in looks. The slick silver chrome design makes it look more appealing.
This is a wonderful product overall but does not come with a remote control. You will have to operate it manually.
Pros:
- Energy efficient
- Slick silver chrome design
- Two lighting modes
- Amazing brightness
Cons:
- No remote control
8. Harrrrd L/UC12/12/XU/830/LKM1 (5-year Warranty)
Photo: Harrrrd
- Power Source: Corded-Electric
- Brightness: 900 lumens
- Color Temperature: 3000 K Warm White
- Power Consumption: 12 Watts
With 5-years prolonged warranty, this model will definitely win brownie points as one of the safest purchases you can make.
This is an 18-inches long linear light with glare-free frosted lens that does not bother your eyes. It is an energy-efficient product and easy to install. Also, this model is compatible with most dimmers.
The 900 Lumens brightness is simply amazing and it comes with 50,000-hours of lifetime. Also, this is pretty reasonably priced. The downside is that this light creates weird buzzing noise.
Pros:
- Comes with 5-year warranty
- Glare-free light
- Energy efficient
- Large lifespan
Cons:
- Create buzzing noise
9. Albrillo LL-LG25 (Durable)
Photo: Albrillo
- Power Source: DC
- Brightness: 900 lumens
- Color Temperature: 3000 K Warm White
- Power Consumption: 12 Watts
This one is among the most durable lights. It is made of aluminum and plastic material, easy to install and operate.
The brightness of 900 Lumens is amazing and comes with full dimmable control. It comes with 3 light bars and are extremely energy efficient with 12 Watts overall power consumption.
You get all the accessories to install these lights. This is an affordable product but what might disappoint you are the harshness of the light. You might find it too harsh.
Pros:
- Made of durable material
- Energy-efficient
- Easy to install
- Affordable
Cons:
- Light might be too harsh for some users
10. LightKiwi E7574 (Standard)
Photo: LightKiwi
- Power Source: DC
- Color Temperature: 3000 K Warm White
- Power Consumption: 12 Watts
Well, if you are searching for a standard product then this is a considerable option. This is energy efficient with only 12-watt power consumption.
This product comes in 4 panels kits 12-inches in length. The product is UL certified and comes with a dimmer switch. The durability is ensured with aluminum material.
The light has low profile and looks beautiful. These have 35,000-hours lifespan and comes with 3-year warranty. The downside is the high price of this product.
Pros:
- Energy efficient
- Low-profile lights
- Durable construction
- Comes with a dimmer switch
Cons:
- Costly
Conclusion
Well, you have reached the end of the led under cabinet lighting review and we hope by now, you must have found the desired product.
We will help you nail down the best products with the GetInLight IN-0210-3-SN under-cabinet light being the best overall product with minimalist energy consumption, three changeable light tones, and amazing brightness.
If you want a great light with maximum warranty to secure your purchase then the choice should be of the Harrrrd L/UC12/12/XU/830/LKM1 under cabinet lighting.
This one comes with a prolonged warranty of 5-years and large overall life of 50,000-hours.