Best Under Cabinet Lighting – Buyer’s Guide

Best Under Cabinet Lighting is a solution for situations where you find yourself wanting to avoid turning those bright, singular overhead lights on when you really don’t need that much light (workshops, bathrooms and kitchens).

We created 3 comparison tables of top under cabinet lighting kits (click to jump there):

Also you can choose these comparison tables at right.

Best Under Cabinet Lighting of 2017-2018 with Manual Switch

1. LED Concepts Linkable LED T5 Light Bar – Under Cabinet Lighting Bar for Kitchen

Not all under cabinet lighting solutions are perfect for every application, of course. While there exist some flexible, diverse systems that specialize in nothing, those often fall short in the more “extreme” or demanding uses.

Bathrooms, closets and stove areas are more demanding, needing the lighting to be more central and the device more rugged. That’s where this model really has a good niche worked out for itself.

This singular light bar, modeled after the small scale fluorescent form factor already common to most people, mounts easily, and casts a solid, single soft light source.

It’s more rugged than some other LED lighting solutions, meaning it’s usually less susceptible to the heat and steam of stoves and bathrooms, and provides a uniform light ideal for closet spaces.

Packaging
This 12” light comes with four mounting brackets, a package of wall screws and a modular two-piece power cord. The switch is on the actual light itself. The power adapter is also internal, eliminating the noisome “wall brick” plug.

This light weighs a decent 9.6 ounces, due to being a heftier design than some.

Performance and Technical Issues
This light’s power switch is on the physical device itself, which some may find inconvenient depending on the application. To eliminate this, a motion sensor would have to be placed between it and the outlet on its circuit, or an outlet with a switch be used.

This is a bulkier design, which means it can’t go in some places more flexible light bars, strips and “puck” lights can be placed with no issue. This is probably not an ideal solution to light multiple countertops in a kitchen, nor for showcases.

Is it Recommended?
Unlike the previous kit, this one is unideal for some of the broader scenarios where under the cabinet lighting is required. However, it’s a good candidate for solutions where that kit wouldn’t likely hold up.

It’ll stand up better to heat and moisture, and is closer to an “appliance” light which means it’s probably more viable for working environments or those who like to cook in softer light.

FAQ About this Product
Q: Are extensions available for the cord?
A: No, unfortunately. Traditional extension cords would need to be employed to compensate for the limited length of the cord.

Q: Can this be hardwired to light switches, sensors or other sources?
A: It certainly can, if you know what you’re doing. Those less experienced in electrical work would be better suited to install an outlet with a light switch attached to it, rather than straight wiring and splicing.

Q: Can this be mounted on metal?
A: Using strong adhesive mounting like what 3M produces would be fine, as the light produces no real heat. Make sure it’s strong, like the outdoor or bathroom Command strips, though.

2. Albrillo LED – Dimmable LED Under Counter Kitchen Lighting

Homes aren’t the only places that need pleasant, low-voltage under cabinet lighting. Office spaces actually have a great many nooks and crannies that benefit from this kind of soft lighting.

Given the variety of people and work being done in these environments, a more industrially-minded design is probably a better choice.

Packaging
This pack of three LED light bars includes six mounting brackets, two end brackets, two patch cables, a dimmer switch, and a power cord. Each one weighs about 12 ounces.

Performance and Technical Issues
These light bars are larger and are probably a bit of an overkill solution for the average home kitchen, bathroom or closet. They’re almost definitely not suited to light the inside of cabinets or display cases either.
The cord is a bit short and utilizes the undesirable “wall brick” form factor.

Is it Recommended?
These are probably suited to houses with large kitchens with high ceilings and a lot of counter space, or office environments. Lighting an office kitchen with these is a breeze, and their soft light probably matches the professional atmosphere most companies want to keep up in such places.

These are not really suited for casual lighting, but may also be ideal for garage work shops.

FAQ About this Product
Q: Can more than three of these be linked to the same series?
A: It’s not physically impossible but finding a compatible power supply that works with the dimmer could be difficult.

3. Lux – Plug in Under Cabinet Lighting for Over Sink

Finding a singular, slim under cabinet solution suited for workshops and computer stations can be difficult. A lot of solutions are excessive or insufficient for this kind of thing.

Fortunately, whether intentional or not, this Lux Light solution is probably the most ideal.

Packaging
This solution is available in four lengths – 12, 24, 36, and 48” as well as two colors, warm white and clean white. It also includes two mounting screws and a power supply.

Performance and Technical Issues
This form factor is designed to be “monolithic”, meaning it isn’t intended to be used for a series of lighting in a large area. This makes it likely unideal for kitchens or bathrooms, and a bit much for closets.

The mounting is a bit primitive, and it may or may not be difficult to use adhesive mounting for it, depending on the environment and surface.

The cord is a paltry five feet and uses that “wall brick” design that, despite being obsolete and much-despised, is largely inescapable even now.

Is it Recommended?
This lighting solution is probably ideal for small work areas. This would probably suit a garage workbench, a computer station or small home office, or an area where traditional art is done.

This is not really an ideal solution for kitchens unless they are small and with limited counter space. However, the variety of sizes and the choice of something besides “bright white” does mean it may be worth getting a few of these to light larger areas if you want a softer, creamy white.

The touch switch to turn it on or off is a bit polarizing.

FAQ About this Item
Q: Do these get hot?
A: LEDs produce basically no heat. Technically, any light is a form of heat, but these can’t even melt ice.

Q: Do timers work with these?
A: If you use the appropriate end of the light to plug it in, it will.

Q: Can I turn this upside down to light a glass shelf?
A: You will be unable to access the onboard on/off switch if you do. But otherwise, there’s no reason you can’t.

4. LiteverUnder – Kitchen Under Cabinet Lighting for Granite Countertops

Large kitchens and closets can be a challenge too. While the Abrillo lights were more or less designed with this solution as the target goal, these might be a better alternative. Vast kitchens, bathrooms, and storage areas are tricky.

Packaging
This six-piece kit contains two brackets for each light, a dimmer switch, patch cables, ties and a power cord. The cord is fortunately not a “wall brick”, though the transformer block is still part of the cord. Each light weighs about 2.72 ounces.

Performance and Technical Issues
These lights have a similar issue that other series layouts with dimmers have, making it hard to patch more kits together on single circuits. The mounting on these has been known to be a little uncooperative, though once in place, said to be pretty solid.

The power converter isn’t a “wall brick” but is still obtuse being in the middle of the cord.

There are quite a lot of parts to this kit which can complicate things.

Is it Recommended?
This kit can be complicated, and there are a lot of parts that can have something go wrong.

However, their particular light diffusion and mounting capacity mean they would likely serve big, open areas, illuminating the nooks and crannies or reducing the need for overpowered ceiling or floor lighting.

They’ve got a bit more of an organic light to them, which is why these are recommended for home use over the Abrillo alternative.

FAQs About this Product
Q: How do I get longer connections?
A: The 4-piece 1-meter connections can be made into a single 4-meter cable. Aside from that, you’re out of luck.

Q: Can these be hard-wired?
A: There are both hard-wired kits and plug-in kits. Only the 6-piece version offers hard-wiring.

Q: Can extra parts like power supplies and so forth be purchased from the seller?
A: Yes.

Under Cabinet Lighting of 2020 with Remote Control

5. Brilliant Evolution Wireless – Wireless Battery Operated Under Cabinet Puck Lighting

Not all under cabinet lighting involves kitchens, bathrooms, or other indoor, semi-private locales. Those with patios, pool areas, and other mostly outdoor locations need distributed lighting like this as well.

Central lighting on the outside of houses and so on are harsh and make it difficult to enjoy the evening’s ambiance properly.

Packaging
This set of six wireless puck lights includes a remote control and 18 AAA batteries included. The pucks weigh a paltry 2.56 ounces, making them very compatible with adhesive mounting.

Performance and Technical Issues
These are wireless lights. This results in a lot of conveniences in them being able to be put basically anywhere. However, it also means they are difficult (but not impossible) to wire to central switches or sensors.

While they do get quite good battery life, they still use traditional AAA batteries. In an age of rechargeable Li-Ion power packs, these are becoming somewhat archaic and inconvenient.

They aren’t as bright or diffuse as some other lighting solutions on this list, meaning they really aren’t as ideal for kitchens or bathrooms.

The only way to turn them on or off is via the remote or the touch-lens, the latter being “nifty” but not as intuitive or reliable as it sounds.

Since one remote will work for multiple sets of lights, that means any remote for this system will work for any and all of the pucks in range. This is probably not usually an issue, but there are definitely cases where it could be.

Is it Recommended?
Being dim and battery-powered, these are probably less ideal for actually lighting kitchens or bathrooms. However, they would work probably work well for closets, garages, and sheds.

The most likely use for these, however, is outdoor areas where picnics, barbeques or pool parties are held.

FAQ About this Product
Q: Can I operate two sets of these with the same remote?
A: Yes. This can be seen as a possible inconvenience if many people are using these within close proximity, or many sets are close by when a remote is being used. It does mean replacing the remote isn’t a big deal, though!

Q: What kind of battery life do these get?
A: The included batteries are, to be honest, crummy generic ones. They may last 24-48 hours of constant use before they die. Grand name batteries can last up to 100 hours though this can vary wildly. A set of high-quality Lithium-Ion rechargeable AAA batteries is a good idea.

Q: Are these water-proof?
A: They’re pretty hardy against rain or being splashed. It’s not a good idea to submerge them, though if this happens accidentally, disposing of the batteries immediately, soaking the product in alcohol and allowing it to dry for 24 hours will probably ensure it will still work.

6. SUNTHIN – Under Cabinet Lighting with Wireless Remote Dimmer

Finally, we come to what’s more or less a special mention. This is an example of the more advanced (while remaining simplistic) lighting systems.

This one is an example of what will be common for most lighting in the near future, even the cheaper solutions offered on this very list.

Packaging
This is a set of four lighting units each with two mounting brackets and an end connector. AN RF remote, dimmer, and power supply are included.

Performance and Technical Issues
This one is actually pretty advanced, all things considered, meaning the only real issues are the horrible “wall brick” power plug (it’s back) and the remote which isn’t as secure as the one for the puck lights.

It’s also a pain to get multiple kits working together, as these form factors really don’t like being in series.

Is it Recommended?
This is probably a good solution for those who want to impress or do a lot of dynamic lighting as they appreciate atmosphere.

It’s not expensive for what it is, but is one of those kit types that’s a bit annoying to get wide distribution working with.

FAQ About this Product
Q: Can I buy two sets and link the 7th one to the first set?
A: Yes. However, these sorts of lights don’t like being in a long series, so do this sparingly.

Q: How long is the power supply cable?
A: About 2 feet, sadly.

Q: Does the remote come with a battery?
A: No, unfortunately.

Under Cabinet Lighting of 2017-2018 with Motion Sensor

7. Torchstar Led – Under Cabinet Lighting for Gun Safe

Under-cabinet lighting is of course not just for illuminating countertops. Many people also use these solutions to light showcases, tools or gun cabinets, and other such otherwise dark compartments. This is important for safety if nothing else.

This kit is designed with such diverse uses in mind. Making use of LED technology, which has revolutionized lighting as a whole, produces a soft but powerful, low-power form of illumination ideal for a lot of different scenarios.

Packaging
This kit includes 4 light bars, which you’d be surprised to know is more than sufficient for most small-scale illumination needs. It also includes a motion sensor and a power adapter.

They weigh a minuscule total of 13.6 ounces, most of the weight actually being the power supply’s “wall brick” – these hold a small but hefty transformer.

No real assembly is required, and they mount with almost no effort.

Performance and Technical Issues
These lights require a 100-240V – DC 12 V adapter which takes the form of a traditional “wall brick” plug. Unlike a lot of modern designs where this is done via a modular USB-capable adapter, this uses the traditional “big brick at the end of the cord”.

These are much maligned due to the space they take up on outlets and surge protectors.

The sensor can take up to 20 seconds to warm up when first plugged in, and after power outages or being unplugged for any real length of time. This may lead to minor accidents if you’re reliant on this sensor immediately after installation.

The sensor may also become annoying if the lighting is installed somewhere where you may not always want the lights to come on. Pets will also definitely set these lights off if the sensor is turned on.

Those especially interested in the sensor technology may find the 4-minute lights-on duration to be either too long or too short, depending on the application. The cords are a bit short, and extensions are sold separately.

Is it Recommended?
This is probably the all-around solution. This means it’s actually not perfect for anyone’s application but works satisfactorily for most uses that call for them. The light is soft and attractive but is a bland white which may make it undesirable in some home uses where colored light compliments the environment better.

The sensor works well, meaning the old problem of fumbling for light switches is a thing of the past where these are used. It also means a more or less guaranteed even lighting solution the moment lit cases, cabinets, pantries, or other enclosures are opened.

These focus on convenience and diversity/flexibility and they honestly achieve their goal. This is probably a “yes” if no other solution is more specialized to your needs.

FAQ About this Product
Q: Can I tie multiple sets of these together in series?
A: Up to 11 sets have been tested together in series with no issues. However, it’s better to set them up in parallel where possible for optimal results.

Q: Are these safe to install over sources of heat and moisture, such as a stove?
A: It’s not a good idea. LEDs are conductive plastic, and plastics, as we all know, don’t enjoy exposure to hot steam.

Q: Can additional sensors be purchased?
A: Unfortunately, the manufacturer and seller do not sell the kit’s items individually, meaning entire kits would have to be purchased for this.

Q: Are the lights dimmable? Can a dimmer switch be added?
A: The lights are not dimmable, which is a shortcoming many but not all LED lighting systems to have.

8. OxyLED Motion – Cordless Rechargeable Under Cabinet Lighting for Wardrobe

One of the recurring issues a lot of these kits have is that they’re expensive and not very versatile when trying to strategically place them.

The puck lights solve the flexibility of configuration, but they eat batteries. AAA form factor rechargeable batteries aren’t quite as retentive as true power packs, and the bells and whistles of that model make it costly.

This model, while less versatile than puck lights, solves some of the problems others have, and save a few bucks in the process.

Packaging
This pack of three 20-LED strips comes with a standard USB-micro charger cable, an adhesive mounting strop, and built-in standard bracket slots. It weighs 12 ounces.

Performance and Technical Issues
These are one of the more affordable solutions and are some of the modern “cost-effective” technology that’s become quite popular. The problem there is, USB rechargers can be unreliable at times, and are also at times fragile.

The cable is very short, and unless you want to dismount it to recharge it, it will still have to be adapted to a wall socket. These are cost-effective, but you get what you pay for.

The lifespan of these LEDs can be a tad hit or miss, though the shorter lifespan is still considerably longer than old fashioned incandescent or fluorescent lighting by far.

There is no practical way to replace the battery, meaning if it fails, the entire thing is dead.

Is it Recommended?
This is an affordable solution that can double as diverse, wireless lighting. Unfortunately, unlike the puck lights, this one isn’t going to hold up against outside conditions reliably. This means it’s really only good for indoor lighting.

Its luminance and distribution is right in the middle of the pack, meaning this light system can theoretically work as a cheap alternative to most solutions on this list, with some severe handicaps.

The use of these is actually as an emergency distributed lighting system in the case of power outages, or for lighting areas only rarely in need of it.  They might be good for camping, to add some comfortable lighting in tents.  

FAQ About this Product
Q: Can it withstand freezing temperatures?
A: Lithium batteries actually thrive in freezing temperatures. Just remember, USB ports don’t like nasty weather.

Q: Is this a gradual brightening light?
A: No, it goes to full brightness immediately.

Q: Is it easy to dismount if USB charging?
A: Magnetic mounts make it easy to dismount. Adhesive can wear out if torn off too often.

9. RXWLKJ – Small Rechargeable Under Cabinet Lighting

Sometimes smaller spaces need a little light shed on them. This may be small efficiency kitchens, drawers, hallways, compartments in closets, any number of places.

Expensive, large lighting like many of the models above are impractical for this due to a number of reasons.

Packaging
This pack of 2 USB lights includes a USB charger, adhesive mounting, and, for the batter-powered model, a pack of batteries as well. There’s not much to this one, which is the point. Each weighs 11 ounces.

Performance and Technical Issues
This is meant to be an on-the-fly lighting solution, and as a result, can be inelegant. The battery life is hit or miss at times, and the sensor has been said to sometimes not work by some consumers.

USB model is a chore to recharge.

Is it Recommended?
This is likely most suited for tiny kitchens or bathrooms, drawers, or small closets where just a little extra light is needed.

It lacks the ambient elegance many of these lighting solutions offer. However, this is probably another good one to have around in case of emergency.

FAQ About this Product
Q: Can this be used outside?
A: It doesn’t like wet weather, because USB ports are sensitive to it. Aside from that, sure.

Q: How long is the battery life?
A: Not very, about 10 hours per charge. This is one of the reasons this is ideal for less heavy use solutions.

Buyer’s Guide

Lighting is vastly more complicated than people tend to assume. It’s not just about how bright a light is. The type of light, the way it dithers, the source, how it’s powered, how it turns on and off, how the sources are distributed through space – all of these matters tremendously.

When choosing under the cabinet lighting, which we all know isn’t just for under cabinets, you have to consider the size of the room. Some kits may not be enough light to handle each area, while others may be overkill.

Some lights may be more difficult to mount, meaning you may need an adhesive, bracket, or magnetic depending on the situation.

Once you know what kind of actual light you need it to produce (home lighting in kitchens and bathrooms tends to be softer and muted, while offices or workspaces tend to be brighter but more diffuse), you need to factor in how it’s powered.

Battery-powered or rechargeable options may mean dismantling the thing to recharge it and could result in surprises when you thought you charged it but didn’t.

Finally, you really need to consider whether or not you want the light to come on by itself when it senses movement. In some cases, this is almost a requirement – drawers, closets, inside cabinets. In other cases, this could startle or annoy some people, especially if pets are around to casually set them off.

In the future, the IoT, or “internet of things” will be drastically changing the way we handle lighting in some respects. However, the variables of size, distribution, and light type itself will never change.