We compiled pointers from Herrera, then researched aesthetically pleasing illumination options with plug-in, battery-powered, and hardwired designs. Our top choice is the Philips Hue Shape Light Base Kit, a flexible tape-style strip with six color modes and smart controls. Scroll down for the best under-cabinet lighting available today. The Bluetooth-enabled design can be paired with a smart home assistant, like Alexa, Apple HomeKit, or Google Assistant. You can control it with voice commands or through the Philips Hue mobile app. This dimmable light strip has six color modes and several customizable settings, like turning on when the sun rises each morning. The kit requires the brand’s Hue Bridge hub, which you’ll have to buy separately. And while the price is steep for under-cabinet lighting, it’s backed by a two-year warranty. Price at time of publish: $75 The lightweight design can be screwed into the base of your cabinets or attached with the included heavy-duty adhesive. And since it’s relatively thin, it should hide under the lip. The long-lasting LEDs offer a warm white glow, and you can turn them on with a simple tap to the lens. Price at time of publish: $18 This LED tape light can be cut to size, then secured beneath your cabinets with the strong adhesive backing. You’ll also get a remote control for switching it on and off, dimming the illumination, and adjusting the color temperature. If you decide you want a cord-free look, you also have the option to hardwire the strip. Price at time of publish: $39 There’s an on/off switch on the light, but if you want to control it with a wall switch, you’ll have to buy that (or connect an existing one) separately. The LED bulbs offer energy-efficient illumination, and you can connect up to five units. Unless you’re experienced with this type of installation, you’ll probably want to hire an electrician to hardwire it. Price at time of publish: $70 You can mount this light with screws or the included adhesive Command Strips. We also like that it has a touch sensor for simple on/off activation. What’s more, this is one of the most affordable under-cabinet lighting options, and it’s backed by a generous six-year warranty. Price at time of publish: $15 These lights run on AA batteries (included). Bear in mind you’ll have to replace them often, and the pucks may die at different times. Still, we like that they can be mounted with screws or adhesive tape, both of which are included with the set. Price at time of publish: $35 This light tape is lightweight and conveniently flexible, and the stick-on design is easy to install. However, the adhesive backing isn’t very strong, so you may want to get some heavy-duty double-sided tape for extra grip. Price at time of publish: $31 This LED bar runs on a rechargeable lithium battery. If you only use it with motion activation, it’ll last two to four weeks, but if it stays on for several hours a day, it’ll die every few days. Luckily, you can charge it back up in about three hours with the included USB cable. The easy-to-install design attaches to metal with its built-in magnet, or you can use the included high-strength adhesive. Price at time of publish: $45 Price at time of publish: $50 Light bars come in various lengths to match your cabinet configuration, but 24 inches is a standard size. Some light bars are linkable, meaning you use a single switch to power a series of lights. Light strips and tape attach with an adhesive, and they can often be cut down to size.
Power source
Under-cabinet lights must be plugged into an outlet or hardwired, or use batteries for operation. Hardwired designs offer a neat, tidy appearance with no cords or the need to take up a wall outlet. “A hardwired under-cabinet light will need to be installed by a professional and is the most expensive option,” says Herrera. “The plug-in style won’t be as seamless, as you will see cords, but they are typically easy and fast to install.” Battery-operated lights eliminate the hassle of hardwired installation and don’t need to be plugged in. However, the batteries will require regular replacement or recharging.
Output
Choose under-cabinet lighting with a light output that matches your needs and purpose. Consider how bright you want the light to be, which is measured in lumens. Aesthetic under-cabinet lighting could measure as little as 40 lumens, while task lighting options might have 800 or more.
Ambiance and adjustability
“Under-cabinet lighting will bring your kitchen design goals to the next level,” says Herrera. It enhances the ambiance of your space just as much as (or more than) it illuminates it. You can choose lights with a specific color temperature—perhaps a soft, warm glow for ambiance or bright daylight bulbs for better visibility when working in the kitchen. Some under-cabinet lights give you the option of multiple light color temperatures. “You can also consider adding dimmers to help control the brightness levels,” Herrera adds.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Theresa Holland is a freelance copywriter, editor, and product tester specializing in home improvement and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed interior designer Elizabeth Herrera of Decorist, who offered buying tips and insight into the different styles and installation requirements for under-cabinet lighting. She chose products with multiple standout qualities, such as user-friendliness, easy mounting, versatility, and adjustability. Theresa covers light fixtures, home decor, and organizational solutions at The Spruce.
