Under cabinet lighting is an essential component of any modern kitchen or workspace. It provides valuable task lighting that illuminates countertops, cabinets, and other work surfaces while also adding a decorative element to the room. With so many different types of under cabinet lighting available on the market today, it can be challenging to determine which one is right for your needs.
There are several factors to consider when choosing the best under cabinet lighting for your home or office. The type of bulb used in the fixture should provide bright and even illumination without creating harsh shadows or glare. LED lights have become increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and low heat output.
Another factor to consider is the installation process. Some under cabinet lights require hardwiring into your electrical system, while others use simple plug-and-play setups that don’t require professional installation services.
Finally, you’ll want to consider aesthetics when choosing under cabinet lighting fixtures. They come in a variety of styles and finishes that can complement any decor style – from sleek modern designs with clean lines and metallic finishes to more traditional looks with warm wood tones or ornate detailing.
In this article, we will explore some of the best under cabinet lighting options available on the market today. We’ll cover everything from basic plug-in models to high-end hardwired systems with advanced features like dimming controls and motion sensors. Whether you’re looking for functional task lighting or just want to add a little ambiance to your space, there’s an option out there that’s perfect for you!
Benefits of Under Cabinet Lighting
Under cabinet lighting is an essential component of any kitchen or workspace. It provides illumination to workspaces that are often shadowed by overhead cabinets and other obstructions. There are many benefits to having under cabinet lighting in your home or office:
- Better Visibility: Under cabinet lighting provides ample light for tasks such as food preparation, cooking, reading recipes, and working on projects.
- Ambiance: In addition to providing functional lighting, under cabinet lights can also create a warm and inviting atmosphere in the room.
- Ease of Use: Under cabinet lights can be easily controlled with switches or dimmers for optimal use throughout the day.
- Safety: Adequate lighting reduces the risk of accidents while using sharp knives or hot stovetops.
- Eco-Friendly Option: LED under cabinet lights consume less energy compared to traditional bulbs resulting in lower electricity bills over time. They also last longer and require less maintenance because they do not produce heat like incandescent bulbs which can cause damage over time.
In conclusion, installing under-cabinet lighting is an excellent investment that will provide numerous benefits in terms of functionality, aesthetics, safety and cost-efficiency. Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen or just looking for ways to improve your existing workspace at home or office; adding under-cabinet lights should be one of your top priorities!
Types of Under Cabinet Lighting
There are several types of under cabinet lighting available in the market today. Each type has its unique features and advantages, making it suitable for different purposes.
1. LED Lights – LED lights are the most popular type of under cabinet lighting due to their energy efficiency and long-lasting lifespan. They emit less heat than traditional bulbs and come in a range of colors, including warm white, cool white, and daylight.
2. Fluorescent Lights – Fluorescent lights are also energy-efficient but tend to have a shorter lifespan than LED lights. They produce a bright light that is ideal for task lighting and come in various lengths to fit different cabinet sizes.
3. Xenon Lights – Xenon lights produce an intense light that is similar to halogen bulbs but with significantly less heat output. They last longer than halogen bulbs but do consume more energy than LEDs or fluorescent options.
4. Halogen Lights – Halogen lights provide a bright white light that works well for showcasing artwork or decorative items on display shelves beneath cabinets; however, they get very hot when used continuously over time.
5. Puck Lights – Puck lights refer to small circular fixtures that can be placed anywhere beneath cabinets or even recessed into the cabinetry itself—these types of fixtures work best as accent lighting rather than primary illumination sources due to their softer glow.
When selecting under cabinet lighting, consider your specific needs such as brightness levels required for tasks performed at counterspace or whether you need dimmable options suited towards ambiance from overhead kitchen lighting during meal preparation times versus brighter kitchen counter focused areas during cooking sessions.. Additionally, choose the right color temperature (measured in Kelvin) based on your preference regarding warmth/cooler temperatures; typical ranges fall between 2700K-5000K depending on desired effect with warmer tones being cozier while cooler ones offer more clinical feel typical of commercial spaces.
LED Under Cabinet Lighting
When it comes to under cabinet lighting, LED lights are the most popular choice. These energy-efficient lights have several advantages over other types of lighting options. Here are some reasons why you should choose LED under cabinet lighting:
- Long-lasting: LED lights have a longer lifespan than traditional light bulbs, making them more cost-effective in the long run.
- Eco-friendly: LED lights consume less energy and produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to other types of lighting options.
- Brighter light: LEDs provide brighter and clearer illumination than incandescent bulbs, making your kitchen tasks easier and safer to perform.
- Cooler operation: Unlike halogen or xenon bulbs, LEDs don’t emit heat that can damage cabinets or countertops. This also makes them safer to touch and handle when they’re turned on.
In addition to their practical benefits, LED under cabinet lights come in various styles and colors that can complement any kitchen design. Some popular options include puck lights (small circular fixtures), linear strips (long narrow bars), and tape lights (flexible adhesive strips).
The installation process for LED under cabinet lighting is relatively simple as well. Most models come with mounting hardware or adhesive backing that allows you to secure them underneath your cabinets without drilling holes or damaging surfaces. Many also feature dimmable settings so you can adjust the brightness according to your needs – perfect for setting the mood during dinner parties or late-night snacking sessions!
If you’re looking for an efficient, stylish, and easy-to-install solution for illuminating your kitchen workspaces, consider investing in high-quality LED under cabinet lighting today!
Halogen Under Cabinet Lighting
Halogen under cabinet lighting is a type of lighting that uses halogen bulbs to provide bright and focused illumination to the area beneath kitchen cabinets. Halogen bulbs are known for their high quality of light, producing a warm, white light that is perfect for task lighting in the kitchen.
One advantage of halogen under cabinet lighting is that it provides excellent color rendering, making it easy to distinguish between different colors while cooking or preparing food. It also has a long lifespan, lasting up to 2,000 hours or more depending on usage.
Another benefit of halogen under cabinet lighting is its energy efficiency. Halogen bulbs use less electricity than traditional incandescent bulbs while still providing the same amount of brightness. This can result in lower energy bills and help reduce your carbon footprint.
Installation of halogen under cabinet lights can be done by either hardwiring them into your electrical system or by using plug-in fixtures. Hardwired systems require professional installation but offer a sleeker look with no visible wires or cords. Plug-in fixtures are easier to install yourself but may not look as clean and tidy as hardwired systems.
Overall, if you’re looking for bright and efficient task lighting in your kitchen, consider installing halogen under cabinet lights. With their high-quality light output and energy-efficient design, they’re an excellent choice for any home cook or chef looking to enhance their workspace’s functionality and aesthetics.
Xenon Under Cabinet Lighting
Xenon under cabinet lighting is a popular choice for those looking to add warm, subtle lighting to their kitchen or workspace. Xenon bulbs are similar to halogen bulbs in that they emit a bright, white light that is ideal for task lighting.
One of the benefits of xenon under cabinet lighting is its energy efficiency. These lights use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, making them an eco-friendly option for homeowners. Additionally, they have a longer lifespan than other types of bulbs, which means they won’t need to be replaced as often.
Another advantage of xenon under cabinet lighting is its versatility. These lights come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can choose the right option depending on your needs and space constraints. They also offer dimming options, which allows you to customize the brightness level based on your preferences.
If you’re concerned about heat output when using under cabinet lights for an extended period of time – such as when preparing dinner or working on a project – xenon might not be the best choice. While it’s true that these lights do emit some heat (more so than LED or fluorescent options), it’s typically not enough to cause any issues with overheating.
In terms of cost, xenon under cabinet lighting falls somewhere in between LED and fluorescent options. While it may cost more upfront than fluorescents (but less than LEDs), over time it will save you money due to its energy efficiency and long lifespan.
All things considered, if you’re looking for an attractive and efficient way to illuminate your kitchen or workspace while staying mindful of both functionality and style considerations alike; then installing Xenon Under Cabinet Lighting might just be what’s needed!
Fluorescent Under Cabinet Lighting
Fluorescent under cabinet lighting is a popular option for those who want an energy-efficient solution to their kitchen or work area. These lights use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they last up to ten times longer, making them a cost-effective choice over time.
In addition to being energy-efficient, fluorescent under cabinet lighting provides bright and even illumination that can make it easier to see what you’re doing in the kitchen or workspace. The light produced by these fixtures is cooler than other types of lighting, reducing the risk of heat damage to cabinets or countertops.
The installation process for fluorescent under cabinet lighting can vary depending on the type of fixture you choose. Some models are designed for easy plug-and-play setup with minimal wiring required, while others may require more advanced electrical work. It’s important to follow all safety guidelines when installing any type of electrical fixture and consult with a professional if necessary.
One thing that sets fluorescent under cabinet lighting apart from other options is its versatility in terms of color temperature. These lights come in different shades ranging from warm white (2700K) all the way up to cool white (5000K). This makes it possible to find a color temperature that suits your specific needs and preferences.
If you’re considering fluorescent under cabinet lighting for your home or workspace, there are many options available on the market today. Be sure to do your research and compare features like bulb life span, wattage usage, installation requirements and color temperature before making a purchase decision.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Under Cabinet Lighting
Under cabinet lighting is an essential component for many kitchens and other workspaces, providing valuable illumination for tasks such as food preparation, cooking, and cleaning. However, with so many options available on the market today, it can be difficult to determine which type of under cabinet lighting is best suited for your specific needs. Here are a few key factors to consider when choosing under cabinet lighting:
- Type of Lighting: There are several types of under cabinet lighting available on the market today, including LED strip lights, puck lights, and linear light bars. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of brightness level, energy efficiency, installation difficulty or ease etc.
- Brightness Level: The brightness level needed will depend largely on the task at hand. For example, if you’re using your kitchen counter primarily for chopping vegetables or doing other detailed work that requires precise vision then you might want brighter bulbs compared to simply making sandwiches.
- CRI (Color Rendering Index): CRI measures how well a light source shows colors in comparison to natural daylight; it ranges from zero up to hundred. A higher CRI value means better color rendering ability i.e., more accurate representation of true colors.
- Energy Efficiency: It’s important to choose an under cabinet lighting system that uses energy-efficient bulbs or LEDs as they consume less power than traditional incandescent bulbs.
- Retrofitting vs New Installation:If retrofitting is required then make sure that the fixture fits properly into existing space without requiring significant modifications before installation begins. If not possible then new installation may be necessary which could add extra cost but also provide greater flexibility in terms of customization options, brightness levels and energy efficiency.
- Size and Style: When it comes to under cabinet lighting, size and style matter. You’ll want to choose a fixture that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Look for fixtures that are the right size for your space & blend well with other design elements in the room like backsplash or cabinets etc.
In conclusion, choosing under cabinet lighting can be daunting but by considering factors such as type of lighting, brightness level needed, CRI rating, energy efficiency aspects retrofitting needs and physical dimensions along with aesthetics will help ensure that you select the best option possible for your workspace.
Top Picks for Under Cabinet Lighting
When it comes to under cabinet lighting, there are a wide variety of options available on the market. To help you navigate through the many choices, we’ve put together a list of our top picks for under cabinet lighting:
1. GE 24-Inch LED Premium Under Cabinet Light Fixture
This sleek and stylish light fixture from GE is perfect for those who want a high-quality and energy-efficient option. It features long-lasting LEDs that provide bright white light and can last up to 50,000 hours. The fixture also has an easy-to-use on/off switch and can be linked with other fixtures if you need more coverage.
2. WOBANE LED Under Cabinet Lighting Kit
If you’re looking for an affordable DIY solution, the WOBANE LED kit might be just what you need. It’s easy to install and comes with dimmable lights that give off warm white lighting, making it ideal for kitchen counters or workspaces where softer illumination is desired.
3. Brilliant Evolution Wireless Ultra-Thin LED Light Bar
If space is at a premium in your kitchen, then this ultra-thin light bar from Brilliant Evolution may be just what you need! The wireless design makes installation quick and easy (no drilling required), while the battery-powered operation means there are no cords to worry about either.
4. LEASTYLE Wireless LED Puck Lights With Remote Control
If versatility is key when selecting under cabinet lighting solutions then these puck lights from LEASTYLE should definitely make your shortlist! They come with an easy-to-use remote control so you can adjust both brightness level as well as color temperature depending on your needs.
5. Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance LED Light Strip
If you want the ultimate in customizable lighting, then look no further than the Philips Hue light strip. This high-end option allows you to adjust both brightness level and color with your smartphone or tablet, making it perfect for those who like to change up their atmosphere regularly.
No matter which option you choose from our top picks for under cabinet lighting, we’re confident that you’ll end up with a product that will help make your kitchen brighter, more functional and overall more enjoyable – happy shopping!
Conclusion
In conclusion, under cabinet lighting is a great way to enhance the ambiance of your kitchen and make it a more functional space. There are many options available on the market today, and choosing the right one for you will depend on your needs and preferences.
LED lights are by far the most popular choice due to their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and low heat output. They also come in a variety of colors to suit any kitchen décor.
When selecting an under cabinet lighting system, it’s important to consider factors such as brightness level, color temperature, installation method, and control options. Hardwired systems offer a cleaner look but require professional installation while plug-in systems can be easily installed by homeowners.
Finally, it’s essential to choose high-quality products from reputable manufacturers that offer warranties and customer support. Investing in good quality under cabinet lighting will not only improve your kitchen’s functionality but also add value to your home.

Ben is one of the founders and editor of Structured Living HUB. His interests are automotive and architecture. For over 10 years he worked as a modular house contractor in the United States.