5 Best Under Cabinet Lighting for Kitchen: Complete Review and Buying Guide
Under cabinet lighting has become an essential element of modern kitchen design, transforming both the functionality and aesthetics of your cooking space. These lights provide crucial task lighting for food preparation, create ambient illumination during entertaining, and add architectural interest to your kitchen. Whether you’re undertaking a kitchen remodel or simply want to upgrade your current setup, selecting the right under cabinet lighting system requires understanding the different installation methods, brightness levels, smart features, and color temperature options available. In this article we gonna go through the 5 Best Under Cabinet Lighting for Kitchen you can find on Amazon.
Table of Contents
Comprehensive Comparison Table
| Feature | EZVALO | TORCHSTAR | Ansen | GE Cync Reveal | LABOREDUCER |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Installation Type | Wireless/Adhesive | Hardwired or Plug-in | Hardwired Only | Hardwired or Plug-in | Hardwired |
| Power Source | USB Rechargeable | AC (plug or hardwired) | AC (120V hardwired) | AC (plug or hardwired) | AC Hardwired |
| Color Temperatures | 5700K only (dimmable) | 3K, 4K, 5K | 3K, 4K, 5K | 2000K-7000K + 16M colors | Cold White (dimmable) |
| Brightness/Lumens | Motion-activated + manual | 540-600 lumens | 666 lumens | 900-1500 lumens | Dimmable LED |
| Smart Features | Motion sensor | Manual control | Manual control | WiFi, Alexa, Google, Apple | Alexa, Google, App |
| Daisy Chain Support | No | Yes (multiple) | Yes (multiple) | Yes (up to 10) | Yes |
| Installation Effort | Minimal (adhesive) | Moderate (electrical) | Moderate (electrical) | Moderate (electrical) | Moderate (electrical) |
| Best For | Renters, quick setup | Budget-conscious | Color accuracy priority | Smart home enthusiasts | Value + Smart features |
| Price Range | Check Amazon | Check Amazon | Check Amazon | Check Amazon | Check Amazon |
List Of Our Best Under Cabinet Lighting for Kitchen
1. EZVALO Rechargeable Under Cabinet Light
The EZVALO Rechargeable Under Cabinet Light stands out as an exceptional budget-friendly option perfect for renters or homeowners seeking a quick installation solution without any electrical work. This wireless LED lighting system features a sleek, minimalist design with a 2000mAh rechargeable battery powered by USB charging. The motion sensor technology automatically activates the light when movement is detected within a 10-foot range, with automatic shutoff after 20-30 seconds of inactivity.
Standout Features:
The EZVALO lights excel in convenience and versatility. The adhesive mounting system requires absolutely no drilling or wiring—simply peel and stick to mount the lights under your cabinets, along hallways, or in closets. The magnetic clip design allows for easy removal and repositioning without leaving permanent marks or residue. Users praise the solid construction and high-quality materials that don’t appear flimsy despite the compact size. The dimmable brightness levels (10-100%) provide flexibility for different lighting needs, from nighttime navigation to full task lighting.
Customer Reviews:
Reviewers consistently highlight the ease of installation as a major advantage, with many noting the lights were functional within minutes of unboxing. The motion sensor performance receives strong praise for its sensitivity and reliable detection at various angles. Long-lasting battery life impresses users, with some reporting they’ve only needed to recharge the units once after several weeks of use. The rechargeable battery eliminates the frustration of constantly replacing disposable batteries, a significant quality-of-life improvement over older wireless lighting options.
2. TORCHSTAR LED Under Cabinet Lighting
The TORCHSTAR LED Under Cabinet Lighting represents an excellent mid-range option for homeowners seeking professional-quality hardwired or plug-in solutions. Available in both 12-inch and 22-inch configurations, TORCHSTAR lights deliver reliable task lighting with practical installation flexibility. These dimmable LED fixtures offer three selectable color temperature options (3000K warm white, 4000K neutral white, and 5000K cool blue white), allowing you to match your existing kitchen lighting or set the perfect ambiance for cooking and dining.
Standout Features:
The three-setting color temperature dial gives TORCHSTAR an advantage for homeowners who want multiple lighting moods without buying different fixtures. The brightness levels reach 540-600 lumens depending on the size chosen, providing ample illumination for counter work. The hardwired option integrates cleanly into your electrical system with a professional appearance, while the plug-in alternative offers flexibility if hardwiring isn’t feasible. Multiple daisy-chaining capabilities allow you to link numerous units together with provided extension cables, controlling them simultaneously or individually. The robust construction feels premium with solid aluminum housings that don’t appear cheap or temporary.
Customer Reviews:
YouTuber reviewers specifically praise TORCHSTAR’s dimmable features and the ability to adjust color temperature to match existing ceiling lights or create different moods for dining versus cooking. Installation reviews note that the process is straightforward, though hardwiring requires basic electrical knowledge or professional assistance. Users appreciate the ability to control multiple units with a single smart switch through platforms like Amazon Alexa or Google Home when integrated. The brightness consistency across the 12-inch and 22-inch models ensures you get appropriate illumination regardless of your cabinet depth.
3. Ansen Hardwired Under Cabinet Lighting
The Ansen Hardwired Under Cabinet Lighting targets discerning homeowners who demand professional-grade specifications and color accuracy in their under cabinet illumination. This system features premium performance metrics including CRI (Color Rendering Index) greater than 92 and R9 greater than 90, ensuring that food preparation areas display true colors under the lights. Available in 12-inch through 36-inch configurations, Ansen delivers 666 lumens at the base 12-inch size, scaling appropriately for larger widths.
Standout Features:
The exceptional color rendering properties (CRI>92, R9>90) make these lights superior for food preparation and presentation, as colors appear natural and vibrant. The three color temperature options (3000K, 4000K, 5000K) allow precise matching to kitchen color schemes. The 100%-to-5% dimmability range provides extensive control from full brightness task lighting down to subtle ambient illumination. Anti-glare optical design with UGR<16 ensures comfortable viewing without harsh light reflections or eye strain during extended kitchen work. The aluminum housing provides durability and a professional appearance that enhances kitchen aesthetics.
Customer Reviews:
Professional installers and renovators favor Ansen for its superior light quality and technical specifications. Homeowners completing kitchen remodels report satisfaction with the professional appearance and lighting quality. The hardwired installation requirement means most users work with qualified electricians, ensuring proper electrical integration. Users appreciate the consistent brightness and color rendering across multiple units when daisy-chained throughout extended counter spaces.
4. GE Cync Reveal Smart LED Under Cabinet Light
The GE Cync Reveal Smart LED Under Cabinet Light represents the premium smart home lighting option, merging advanced automation with superior brightness and color flexibility. This WiFi-enabled system connects directly to your smart home ecosystem through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, and Apple Home integration. The edge-lit design with diffused lighting produces beautifully vibrant, adjustable illumination reaching 900-1500 lumens depending on size and settings.
Standout Features:
The 16-million color options combined with tunable white light ranging from 2000K to 7000K provide virtually unlimited customization possibilities. The innovative “Reveal HD” setting enhances white light with improved contrast, particularly valued for food preparation work. The application includes 34 pre-programmed “light shows” with both color and animation effects, allowing you to create custom scenes for entertaining, cooking, or ambiance. The daisy-chaining capability supports up to 10 units, enabling synchronized control throughout your entire kitchen. The interface offers both physical buttons on each light and comprehensive app control through the GE Cync app, plus voice command compatibility.
Customer Reviews:
Tech-forward homeowners praise the GE Cync Reveal system for its smart home integration and extensive customization options. The app receives particularly high marks for its intuitive interface and advanced features that exceed standard smart home device capabilities. Users appreciate the scheduling functionality that automatically turns lights on at specific times or based on sunrise/sunset. The plug-in option appeals to renters and those avoiding hardwiring, while hardwired installation provides a cleaner aesthetic. However, reviewers note that Matter integration restricts some Cync app features, so Alexa and Google Home users benefit from fuller functionality than Apple Home users.
5. LABOREDUCER Under Cabinet Lighting
The LABOREDUCER Under Cabinet Lighting offers a practical smart home solution bridging budget concerns and feature-rich functionality. This hardwired system provides dimmable LED illumination with cold white color output and integrates with major smart home platforms including Alexa, Google Home, and proprietary mobile app control. The system allows multiple units to be daisy-chained together for comprehensive kitchen lighting coverage.
Standout Features:
The integration with Alexa and Google Home voice control adds convenience without the premium price tag of higher-end smart systems. The dimmable LED technology reduces energy consumption while providing variable brightness from full illumination down to subtle ambient levels. The hardwired installation option creates a clean, permanent solution without visible cords or temporary-looking tape adhesive. The removable AC plug driver provides flexibility in hiding the power supply under sinks or within cabinetry.
Customer Reviews:
Smart home enthusiasts value LABOREDUCER’s Alexa and Google Home compatibility at a reasonable price point. Users appreciate the straightforward hardwiring installation process for those comfortable with basic electrical work or working with electricians. The dimmable feature receives praise for creating appropriate lighting levels for different kitchen tasks and times of day.
Detailed Analysis of Each Product
EZVALO: Maximum Convenience for Quick Installations
The EZVALO rechargeable under cabinet light excels for renters, apartment dwellers, or homeowners who want professional lighting without permanent modifications. The adhesive mounting system means zero drilling, zero electrical work, and instant removal capability. The motion sensor technology adds automatic convenience—lights activate as you approach the kitchen at night. However, the single 5700K color temperature and lack of daisy-chaining options limit customization compared to other systems. The rechargeable battery requires periodic charging, though users report impressive battery life between charges.
Best for: Renters, temporary installations, small spaces, budget-conscious buyers, motion-activated lighting needs.
TORCHSTAR LED: Professional Performance at Mid-Range Price
TORCHSTAR occupies the sweet spot between the budget wireless options and premium smart systems, offering professional-quality lighting with practical flexibility. The three color temperature options provide significant versatility—warm 3000K for cozy dining ambiance, neutral 4000K matching most ceiling fixtures, or cool 5000K for precise food preparation work. The hardwired or plug-in flexibility addresses different kitchen configurations and electrical situations. The daisy-chaining capability with extension cables enables seamless coverage across extended counter spaces. YouTube reviewers consistently praise the brightness consistency and reliable performance across different unit sizes.
Best for: Homeowners seeking mid-range professional quality, kitchens with hardwiring access, those wanting color temperature flexibility, DIY installers with moderate electrical knowledge.
Ansen Hardwired: Superior Color Rendering for Food Preparation
Ansen stands apart with exceptional color rendering specifications (CRI>92, R9>90) that matter significantly for food preparation and presentation. When preparing meals and plating dishes, true color representation ensures food appears appetizing under the lights. The extensive dimmability (100%-5%) provides precise brightness control from full task lighting down to subtle ambient levels. The anti-glare design with UGR<16 ensures comfort during extended kitchen work sessions. The downside: Ansen requires hardwiring, making it unsuitable for renters and requiring professional installation for most homeowners.
Best for: Kitchen renovations requiring permanent installation, homeowners prioritizing color accuracy, those working with professional electricians, high-end kitchen designs.
GE Cync Reveal: Premium Smart Home Integration
GE Cync Reveal targets homeowners fully invested in smart home ecosystems who want unlimited customization and advanced automation. The 16-million color palette combined with tunable white lighting (2000K-7000K) provides complete flexibility for any kitchen design or mood. The 34 pre-programmed light shows with color and animation effects enable entertainment-focused lighting scenarios. The Reveal HD feature enhances white lighting contrast, a technical advantage when precise visibility matters for cooking. The comprehensive app control and voice integration with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings make this system the most connected option. However, the premium pricing ($150-200) and Matter integration limitations with Apple Home represent the main drawbacks.
Best for: Smart home enthusiasts, Alexa/Google Home users, entertainment-focused kitchens, homeowners valuing advanced customization, those seeking scheduling automation.
LABOREDUCER: Value-Oriented Smart Features
LABOREDUCER bridges the gap between basic hardwired systems and premium smart options, offering smart home integration at reasonable pricing. The Alexa and Google Home compatibility provides voice control convenience without premium pricing. The dimmable LED technology balances brightness intensity with energy efficiency. The hardwired installation creates permanent, clean integration into your electrical system. The removable AC plug driver simplifies installation logistics compared to fully integrated systems. The main limitation: the single cold white color temperature lacks the versatility of systems offering multiple color temperatures or color-changing capabilities.
Best for: Budget-conscious smart home integration, kitchens requiring hardwired installation, Alexa/Google Home users, energy-conscious homeowners, those prioritizing value over premium features.
Recommendations Based on Your Priorities
If installation ease matters most: Choose EZVALO. Zero electrical work, magnetic mounting, removable design, and motion-sensor convenience make this the simplest option. Perfect for renters or temporary installations.
If color temperature flexibility is crucial: Choose TORCHSTAR or Ansen. Both offer three selectable color temperatures (3000K, 4000K, 5000K) for matching different lighting scenarios and existing kitchen fixtures.
If food preparation color accuracy is essential: Choose Ansen for its superior CRI>92 and R9>90 specifications that ensure true color rendering when preparing and plating food.
If smart home integration excites you: Choose GE Cync Reveal for comprehensive smart home features and unlimited customization, or LABOREDUCER for smart home features at reasonable pricing.
If you want comprehensive kitchen coverage: Choose GE Cync Reveal (supports daisy-chaining up to 10 units) or TORCHSTAR for excellent multi-unit coordination across extended counter spaces.
If budget is the primary concern: Choose EZVALO ($30-50) for wireless convenience or LABOREDUCER ($50-80) for smart home features at budget pricing.
If professional kitchen remodel quality matters: Choose Ansen or TORCHSTAR for installation through professional electricians, ensuring proper integration with your home’s electrical system and maximum longevity.
Installation Positioning Tips from Professional Installers
Reddit discussions and professional installer feedback emphasize that under cabinet light positioning dramatically impacts functionality. The overwhelming consensus recommends positioning lights toward the front of the cabinet rather than the rear, particularly when visible cabinet reveals exist. Front positioning directs illumination directly onto the countertop workspace where you need task lighting most. Rear positioning frequently creates unwanted shadows on counter surfaces, defeating the primary purpose of task lighting.
For cabinet dimensions, experts suggest positioning the light so it illuminates approximately the center of the countertop below. This typically means placing the light 2-3 inches from the front of a standard 12-inch upper cabinet. This geometry ensures the downward light cone covers the entire working surface without excessive spillage to adjacent areas.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right under cabinet lighting system requires balancing installation method, brightness requirements, color temperature preferences, smart home compatibility, and budget constraints. EZVALO wins for convenience and quick installation without permanent modifications. TORCHSTAR and Ansen deliver professional-quality lighting with excellent brightness and color control at mid-range pricing. GE Cync Reveal provides unlimited customization for smart home enthusiasts willing to invest in premium features. LABOREDUCER offers smart home integration at accessible pricing for budget-conscious homeowners.
Consider your kitchen’s existing fixtures, your comfort with electrical work, whether you’re renting or own your home, and your desired level of automation when making your final decision. Most importantly, ensure your chosen system positions lights toward the front of the cabinet to avoid counter shadows and maximize task lighting functionality for all your kitchenask lighting functionality for all your kitchen activities.
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