How to Choose the Right Under Cabinet Light: A Complete Guide to Installation, Color, and Features

In modern homes, under cabinet lighting has become an essential upgrade for kitchens, wardrobes, and display cabinets. It not only makes your space brighter and more functional but also adds style and atmosphere.

With so many options on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed: Should you choose surface-mounted or recessed? How long should the lights be, and how many do you need? Warm white, cool white, or RGB? Do you need dimming, motion sensors, or touchless control?

This guide will walk you through installation methods, placement and sizing, color temperature, key features, power supply options, and common mistakes to avoid. At the end, you’ll also find a product comparison table with specific models to help you pick the best fit.

 

---

 

1. Installation Methods: Surface-Mount vs. Recessed

Surface-Mounted Lights

• Pros: Easy to install, no drilling, low impact on cabinets, simple maintenance.
  
  

• Types: Linear light bars, puck lights, rechargeable magnetic light strips.
  
  

• Best for: Already-finished kitchens, rental apartments, or quick upgrades.
  
  

Recessed Lights

• Pros: Hidden fixtures, sleek and minimalist look.
  
  

• Cons: Requires cutting grooves or pre-planning during cabinet construction.
  
  

• Best for: New builds or renovations with custom cabinetry.
  
  

👉 Tip: If your cabinets are already installed → choose surface-mounted. If you’re customizing new cabinetry → recessed lighting is worth considering.

 

---

 

2. Placement & Sizing: Where to Install and How Many to Buy

Placement Options

• Kitchen countertops: Mount under the cabinet front edge (2–5 cm from the front) to minimize shadows.
  
  

• Display/Bookshelves: Install along the front (direct illumination) or the back (backlighting effect).
  
  

• Wardrobes/Drawers: Inside side panels or under shelves; motion-sensor lights work best here.
  
  

Size & Quantity

• Linear lights: Available in 9–22 inches. Try to cover each surface with a single bar to avoid dark gaps.
  
  

• Puck lights: Place one every 12–18 inches for even coverage.
  
  

• Rechargeable strips: Start with 2–4 lights; expand if needed.
  
  

 

---

 

3. Color Options: Single, Dual, or RGB?

Color Temperatures

• 3000K Warm White → Cozy and inviting, great for dining or display cabinets.
  
  

• 4000K Neutral White → Balanced and natural, ideal for kitchen counters.
  
  

• 6000K Cool White → Bright and crisp, best for task lighting.
  
  

CCT Adjustable (3-in-1)

• Many models now offer 3CCT (3000K/4000K/6000K) so you can switch anytime.
  
  

RGB / RGBW Lights

• Perfect for decorative or mood lighting, not recommended as the main task light.
  
  

 

---

 

4. Extra Features: Dimming, Motion Sensors, and Smart Control

• Dimming: Adjust brightness for late-night cooking or soft lighting. Available as touch, knob, or wall dimmers.
  
  

• Motion Sensors: Automatically turn on when you open a cabinet or walk by—ideal for closets and storage.
  
  

• Wave/Touchless Control: A quick hand wave turns lights on/off without touching, perfect for messy hands in the kitchen.
  
  

• Memory Function: Keeps the last brightness or color setting after power-off.
  
  

• Smart Integration: Some models work with wall dimmers or connect to home automation.
  
  

 

---

 

5. Power Supply: Plug-In, Rechargeable, or Hardwired

• Plug-In (12V Adapter) → Reliable brightness, perfect for kitchen counters with long daily use.
  
  

• Rechargeable (USB-C Magnetic) → Cordless, flexible, easy to install, best for wardrobes, shelves, or renters.
  
  

• Hardwired (AC 110/220V) → Permanent, works with wall switches/dimmers, ideal for new builds or major remodels.
  
  

 

---

 

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Installing only a short segment → dark spots remain → Use full coverage for even light.
  
  

• Choosing overly cool light for kitchens → food looks unappetizing → Go with 4000K or 3CCT adjustable.
  
  

• Unshielded lights → glare and harsh brightness → Position toward the front edge or use a diffuser.
  
  

• Exposed wires → messy look → Plan wiring routes and hide cables neatly.
  
  

• Non-waterproof lights near sinks or steam areas → Always use waterproof-rated models for damp zones.
  
  

 

---

 

7. Recommended Models (Comparison Table)

Here are some recommended options from LEDLightsWorld Under Cabinet Lighting Collection:

 

---

 

Conclusion

When choosing under cabinet lighting, the key steps are:

1. Decide installation type (surface vs. recessed).
   
   

2. Plan placement and coverage length.
   
   

3. Select the right color temperature (or go with 3CCT for flexibility).
   
   

4. Consider extra features like dimming, sensors, or touchless control.
   
   

5. Match with the right power supply for your space.
   
   

If you want both functionality and atmosphere, go for 3CCT adjustable lights with dimming or motion sensing—they’ll fit almost any scenario.