Tired of cooking in the shadows? Imagine prepping dinner under bright, even light, where every chop and slice is perfectly visible. That’s the power of under-counter light fixtures! They can change the way you use your kitchen.
Choosing these lights can be tricky. There are so many types! You might feel lost when deciding what’s best for your kitchen. Picking the wrong ones can lead to uneven lighting or a complicated installation. This is a common problem for many homeowners. Don’t worry, we can help you!
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know. You’ll learn about the different types of under-counter lights, how to measure your space, and how to pick the best ones for your needs. By the end, you’ll be ready to light up your kitchen like a pro. Let’s get started and make your kitchen shine!
Our Top 5 Under Counter Light Fixtures Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Under Counter Light Fixtures Detailed Reviews
1. Under Cabinet Lights
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of fumbling in the dark? The Under Cabinet Lights, 40 LED Rechargeable Battery Operated Motion Sensor Light Indoor, 2 Pack Magnetic Dimmable Closet Lights, Wireless Under Counter Lights for Kitchen, Stairs is here to help! These lights are perfect for brightening up any space. They’re easy to install and use, making them a great addition to your home.
What We Like:
- Motion sensor mode turns the lights on automatically.
- You can choose the always-on mode for continuous light.
- The lights are dimmable with five brightness levels.
- They are rechargeable via USB-C, so you don’t need batteries.
- Easy to install with magnets or adhesive plates.
- Long battery life, lasting up to 30 days on motion sensor mode.
What Could Be Improved:
- A USB wall adapter is not included.
These under cabinet lights are a smart and convenient choice. They’re a great way to add light to your home in an easy and efficient way.
2. Maylit Under Cabinet Lights Plug in
Rating: 9.3/10
The Maylit Under Cabinet Lights are a great way to brighten up your space. This set includes three 12-inch lights that are easy to install. They are perfect for kitchens, closets, and workspaces. These lights offer bright, daylight white illumination and have a touch dimmer for easy control.
What We Like:
- Super bright LEDs provide plenty of light.
- The touch dimmer is easy to use and lets you adjust the brightness.
- The ultra-thin design makes the lights blend in well.
- Installation is simple with both tape and screws included.
- These lights are great for many different areas.
What Could Be Improved:
- No cons were found.
In conclusion, the Maylit Under Cabinet Lights are a solid choice if you need extra light. They are easy to install and offer many features.
3. UltraPro 24 inch Hardwired Under Cabinet Lights
Rating: 9.0/10
The UltraPro 24 inch Hardwired Under Cabinet Lights are great for kitchens. They offer adjustable color settings. You can choose from warm white, cool white, or daylight. These lights are dimmable. They also have a hardwired installation. This allows you to easily install them under your cabinets.
What We Like:
- White Select Bright Select lets you control the brightness. You can also pick the white color you like.
- Easy installation comes with mounting hardware. Push-in connectors make it quick to set up.
- The limited-lifetime warranty gives you peace of mind.
- LED lights last a long time. They save energy, so you don’t need to change bulbs often.
- You can choose the size you need. There are other sizes available: 12in, 18in, 36in, and 48in.
- The hardware is inside the wiring cavity.
What Could Be Improved:
- (No cons provided in the prompt)
These UltraPro under cabinet lights are a good choice for your kitchen. They are easy to install and offer different lighting options.
4. Enbrighten 22 Inch LED Premium Under Cabinet Light Fixture
Rating: 9.0/10
Need more light in your kitchen, home office, or garage? The Enbrighten 22 Inch LED Premium Under Cabinet Light Fixture is a great choice. This plug-in light is easy to install. It gives off bright white light. You can use it in many places. It helps you see better while you work. This light is energy efficient and lasts a long time. It is a good way to brighten up any space.
What We Like:
- Easy to install. There is no wiring needed.
- Saves energy. The LED lights use less power.
- Long-lasting. You don’t have to change bulbs.
- Safe to use. It is UL-listed.
- Comes with a warranty. You are covered if something goes wrong.
What Could Be Improved:
- Plastic housing may not feel as premium as other materials.
- Brightness might be too low for some.
This Enbrighten light is a good buy. It is a simple way to add light to your home. The light will help you see better.
5. MYPLUS 16 Inch Under Cabinet Lights with Hand Wave
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of fumbling for light switches? The MYPLUS 16 Inch Under Cabinet Lights are here to help. These LED lights easily install under your cabinets. They offer a modern and convenient lighting solution for your kitchen, office, or any space needing extra light. The hand-wave activation is a game-changer, making it simple to turn the lights on and off. These lights are also dimmable, allowing you to adjust the brightness to your liking.
What We Like:
- Hand Wave Activation: Easily control the lights with a simple wave of your hand.
- Adjustable Brightness: Change the brightness to fit your needs.
- Memory Function: The lights remember your favorite brightness setting.
- Versatile Use: Perfect for kitchens, offices, closets, and more.
- Sleek Design: The lights are thin and stylish, blending seamlessly into any space.
What Could Be Improved:
- Handwave Sensor Range: The sensor works best from about 1-3 inches away.
The MYPLUS under cabinet lights are a great way to improve your lighting. They are convenient and stylish, offering an easy way to brighten up any area in your home.
Shining a Light on Under Counter Lighting: A Buyer’s Guide
Looking to brighten up your kitchen or workspace? Under counter light fixtures are a great choice. They add light where you need it most. This guide will help you pick the best ones.
Key Features to Look For
You need to know what to look for. Here are some important features:
- Light Type: LED lights are the best. They use less energy and last a long time. Halogen lights use more energy, and they get hot.
- Brightness (Lumens): This tells you how bright the light is. More lumens mean a brighter light. Think about how much light you need.
- Color Temperature (Kelvin): This tells you how warm or cool the light is. A lower Kelvin number is warmer (yellowish). A higher number is cooler (bluish).
- Size and Shape: Measure the space under your cabinets. Make sure the lights fit. Consider if you want linear strips, puck lights, or other shapes.
- Control Options: Some lights have on/off switches. Others can be dimmed. Some can be controlled with a remote.
- Installation: Some lights are easy to install. Others need more work. Look for lights that are easy to install if you don’t want to hire an electrician.
Important Materials
The materials used matter. They affect the light’s look and how long it lasts.
- Housing: The housing holds the light and protects it. Common materials are metal or plastic. Metal is usually more durable.
- Lens: The lens covers the light source. It spreads the light evenly. Good lenses are made of clear plastic or glass.
- Wiring: Good wiring is important for safety. Make sure the wires are well-insulated.
- Mounting Hardware: This is what holds the light in place. Make sure it is strong and made of durable materials.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make lights better. Other things make them worse.
- Quality of LEDs: Better LEDs last longer and give off better light.
- Heat Dissipation: Lights get hot. Good lights have a way to get rid of heat. This makes them last longer.
- Water Resistance: If the lights are near water (like a sink), they should be water-resistant.
- Warranty: A good warranty shows that the company stands behind its product.
- Price: Price doesn’t always equal quality. Check reviews to see if the price is fair.
User Experience and Use Cases
Under counter lights are easy to use. They help you see better when you cook.
- Kitchens: These lights are great for chopping vegetables. They light up your countertops.
- Workspaces: They are good for desks and craft areas. They give you focused light.
- Ease of Use: Most lights are easy to turn on and off. Some have dimmer switches.
- Installation: You can install them yourself. Many lights come with everything you need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about under counter light fixtures:
Q: What type of light is best?
A: LED lights are the best. They are energy efficient and last a long time.
Q: How bright should the lights be?
A: The brightness depends on the use. For general lighting, around 300-600 lumens per fixture is good. If you want task lighting, choose lights with more lumens.
Q: How do I measure for under counter lights?
A: Measure the length of the space under your cabinets. Also, measure the width and depth. This way you can be sure the lights will fit.
Q: Can I install these lights myself?
A: Yes, many under counter lights are easy to install. They often come with everything you need.
Q: Are under counter lights safe?
A: Yes, most under counter lights are safe. Just make sure the wiring is good and follow the installation instructions. It is always a good idea to turn off the power before working on electrical projects.
Q: What is the color temperature?
A: The color temperature is measured in Kelvin. It tells you how warm or cool the light is. Lower numbers are warmer (yellowish), and higher numbers are cooler (bluish).
Q: What is the best way to clean under counter lights?
A: Use a soft cloth and a mild cleaner. Do not use harsh chemicals.
Q: Can I dim under counter lights?
A: Yes, many under counter lights are dimmable. Make sure the lights you choose are compatible with a dimmer switch.
Q: What is a lumen?
A: A lumen is a unit of measurement for how bright a light is. The higher the lumen number, the brighter the light.
Q: How long do under counter lights last?
A: LED under counter lights can last for many years. This is because they are energy efficient.
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.