Under Cabinet Lighting

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Under Cabinet Lighting for Your Kitchen and Beyond

If you’re looking to add both style and functionality to your kitchen or home, under cabinet lighting is one of the most effective upgrades you can make. These fixtures brighten workspaces, enhance visibility, and add a sleek, modern look to any room. From food prep to ambient lighting, under cabinet lights make everyday tasks easier while elevating your overall design.Under cabinet lighting isn’t limited to kitchens. It works just as well in dining rooms, basement bars, home offices, and anywhere cabinetry is installed.

Why Under Cabinet Lighting Matters

Under cabinet lighting does more than illuminate countertops—it improves usability, safety, and ambiance. Whether you’re cooking, entertaining, or simply navigating your space at night, under cabinet lighting makes tasks easier and enhances your home’s appearance.

LED under cabinet lighting is especially popular due to its energy efficiency, long lifespan, and low heat output. These fixtures work beautifully in kitchens but are also ideal for basements, bars, and dining spaces.

Key Considerations When Buying Under Cabinet Lights

If you’re new to under cabinet lighting or planning a refresh, here are the most important factors to consider.

1. Voltage Options: High vs. Low Voltage

Under cabinet lights are available in standard 120V and low-voltage options (12V or 24V). Both are energy efficient, but low-voltage under cabinet lighting offers some advantages. These fixtures are typically smaller, allowing for tighter placement in compact spaces, and they produce less heat.

Low-voltage systems require a transformer to reduce power from 120V to a safe operating voltage. Transformers are usually hidden inside cabinets or installed within the circuit.

2. Wiring Options: Plug-In vs. Hardwired

Under cabinet lighting is available in multiple wiring configurations:

• Plug-in lights are easy to install and budget-friendly, making them ideal for DIY projects. Simply plug them into a nearby outlet.
• Hardwired lights offer a clean, seamless appearance with no visible cords. These installations are more permanent and usually require a licensed electrician.
• Battery-powered options are also available and eliminate wiring entirely.

Each option offers flexibility depending on your budget, timeline, and installation comfort level.

3. Dimmable Lighting

Dimmable under cabinet lighting allows you to adjust brightness based on your needs. This feature is ideal for creating ambiance, saving energy, and reducing glare. Dimmable kitchen under cabinet lighting is especially useful for entertaining or late-night use, giving you full control over your space.

4. Types of Fixture Lenses

Fixture lenses play an important role in light distribution and glare reduction. Xenon and halogen fixtures tend to be very bright, so choosing models with built-in lenses helps diffuse light evenly and creates a more comfortable work environment.

5. Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is one of the most important factors when selecting under cabinet lighting:

• LED lighting is the most energy-efficient option. Some models use as little as 5 watts, last up to 50,000 hours, emit minimal heat, and are easy to dim.
• Xenon lighting provides a warm, attractive glow but consumes slightly more energy than LEDs.
• Fluorescent lighting offers low heat output and good efficiency, though dimming options may be limited.

6. Heat Output

Heat output matters, especially in kitchens. LED and fluorescent lights remain cool to the touch, while xenon and halogen produce more heat. If minimizing heat is a priority, LED or fluorescent under cabinet lighting is the best choice.

7. Ease of Installation

Installation difficulty varies by fixture type:

• LED strip lights are among the easiest to install.
• Puck lights, including plug-in and battery-powered models, are also beginner-friendly.
• Plug-in lights provide a balance between ease of installation and long-term stability.
• Hardwired systems typically require professional installation.

Recommended Under Cabinet Lighting Options

Top-Rated LED Under Cabinet Lighting

LED under cabinet lighting delivers excellent brightness, energy efficiency, and durability. Dimmable models provide added flexibility, while low heat output ensures comfort during extended use. Trusted brands such as EiKO and MaxLite offer reliable, high-performance solutions.

Low Voltage Under Cabinet Lighting

Low-voltage under counter lighting is ideal for small or tight spaces. These fixtures run cooler, are more compact, and allow for closer placement under cabinets without overcrowding the area.

Adding Flair with Interior Cabinet Lighting

In addition to under cabinet lighting, interior cabinet lighting can add a refined, modern touch to your kitchen. Installing lights inside cabinets highlights glassware, décor, and storage areas while providing subtle ambient lighting that enhances the overall look of your space.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the best type of under cabinet lighting?
Choose LEDs for energy efficiency and longevity. Xenon works well for warm ambiance, while fluorescents are ideal for low heat output.

Is LED the best option for under cabinet lights?
Yes. LEDs are long-lasting, energy efficient, produce minimal heat, and are available in multiple brightness and color temperature options.

Do I need a professional to install under cabinet lighting?
Professional installation is recommended for hardwired systems. Plug-in and battery-powered options are easy DIY solutions.

Are low-voltage under counter lighting options available?
Yes. Low-voltage lighting is popular for its compact size and cooler operation.

Top-Rated LED Under Cabinet Lighting Distributor & Supplier

Lighting and Supplies offers a wide selection of premium under cabinet lighting from trusted LED lighting brands  including EiKO, RAB Lighting, MaxLite, naturaLED, and Westgate Lighting.

Based in the U.S., Lighting and Supplies provides a 100% satisfaction guarantee, rebate programs, expert lighting design services, and bulk purchase options. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen or adding accent lighting to cabinets throughout your home, you’ll find reliable solutions backed by expert support.

For more information, call 888-325-4448 or email [email protected].