The Best Under Cabinet Lighting Options

Lighting plays a pivotal role in any kitchen, and under-cabinet lighting is a game-changer. Not only does it enhance visibility, making kitchen tasks safer and more efficient, but it also adds an extra layer of style and ambiance. Whether you’re chopping vegetables, preparing meals, or simply enjoying a late-night snack, the right cabinet light can transform your kitchen into a functional and inviting space.

Under-cabinet lighting is particularly beneficial because it minimizes shadows that overhead lighting might create, helping to illuminate your countertops with focused, practical light. Additionally, it serves as a design element, elevating the look and feel of your kitchen cabinet area by highlighting backsplash details and setting the perfect mood.

With a wide variety of styles, colors, and technologies available, choosing the best under cabinet lighting can feel overwhelming. To help, we’ve broken down the most important factors to consider so you can find the perfect lighting option for your kitchen.

Types of Under Cabinet Lighting

First, consider the type of lighting you want. For example, do you prefer halogen, LED, or fluorescent lighting?

Fluorescent Lighting Fixtures

Fluorescent lighting is the most common and oldest lighting option. They are the least expensive but also have the shortest lifespan. Switching them on and off frequently reduces their life expectancy, and their CRI, or Color Rendering Index (CRI), is the lowest of any light source.

But because of their affordability, they are still popular. Today’s bulbs are much smaller, like T5 vs. T12, and don’t have the heat emission issues like halogen lights.

Pros:

• Doesn’t heat up like other options
• Can be connected for cohesive lighting work
• Can be hardwired
• Offers bright white light

Cons:

• Lower CRI
• Not as bright as other lighting options

Puck Lighting Fixtures

Puck lighting fixtures look like hockey pucks, hence the name. They come in various lighting options, including LED puck light and halogen. If you want a high CRI, halogen works well, but it heats up fast.

LED puck lighting gives off less heat, can be left on longer, and generally has a longer lifespan. These are perfect for renters or for those seeking lighting like accent lighting in specific areas. There are also cabinet puck options available for a streamlined install.

Pros:

• You can focus the light where you want it
• Affordable DIY project option
• Good for renters

Cons:

• Halogen can be dangerous
• Doesn’t provide continuous light; it’s focused on one area

LED Lighting Fixtures

LED under cabinet lighting is the most popular today, especially LED light bar and LED strip configurations. They’re energy-efficient, last up to ten years, and most are dimmable LED options.

Fixed LED light fixtures can be tricky for non-standard cabinets, whereas LED strip lights are flexible and can be cut to fit. LED cabinet lights come in many shapes, including light bar, tape light, and cabinet led strip models, giving you full control over your lighting solution.

Pros:

• Fully customizable (especially LED tape or strip light options)
• Long lifespan
• Affordable and energy-efficient

Cons:

• CRI can vary
• LED strips might not provide enough task light

What Color Light is Best for Under Kitchen Cabinets?

Choosing the right color temperature is key to effective counter lighting.

• 2700K: Typical of incandescent bulbs; very warm yellow tone.
• 3000K: Warm white light with a yellow-white tint. Ideal for cozy kitchens.
• 4000K: Neutral tone between yellow and blue. Offers bright, clean visibility.
• 6500K: Cool light, close to daylight. Usually unnecessary for cabinet lighting systems.

Aim for 3000K to 4000K for a balance of clarity and warmth in the kitchen.

CRI (Color Rendering Index)

For task lighting, choose lighting with a CRI of 95+. For accent or ambient purposes, 90 or lower can suffice. A high CRI ensures your food and surfaces appear true to color.

Understanding Light Placement

Proper placement of under-cabinet lighting maximizes its effectiveness:

• Front Placement: Directs light where you need it most.
• Even Spacing: Particularly for puck lighting to avoid dark spots.
• Hidden Fixtures: Keeps your space sleek and prevents glare.

Dimming and Smart Controls

For a modern kitchen, consider smart home features and remote control options:

• Dimming: Adjust brightness for cooking vs. mood lighting.
• Smart Controls: Control color temperature, brightness, and scheduling from your phone or voice assistant.

Final Thoughts

When choosing under-cabinet lighting, consider how you plan to use it. Will it be for prepping meals (task light) or enhancing ambiance (ambient lighting)?

Evaluate the type of cabinet light that fits your kitchen: continuous tape light, focused cabinet puck, or a sleek cabinet led strip. Also, think about installation methods: hardwired under cabinet lighting is sleek and permanent, while plug-in under cabinet lighting or rechargeable options are more DIY-friendly.

By considering your space, style, and functionality needs, you can pick the best under cabinet lighting to create a bright, beautiful, and efficient kitchen.

FAQ

What is the most energy-efficient under cabinet lighting?

LED under cabinet lighting is the most energy-efficient and long-lasting. Dimmable LED options are particularly good for managing brightness and energy use.

What kind of under cabinet lighting is best?

The best under cabinet lighting depends on how you use it. For task lighting, opt for high CRI and adjustable color temperature. Hardwired or hardwired led options are sleek, while battery powered or plug-in under cabinet lighting can be easier to install.

Should you use warm or white light under cabinets?

Use cool light (around 4000K) for prep areas and warm white (3000K) for ambiance. Choose based on your kitchen’s main light tone and usage needs.