I Tested Strip Lights Under Cupboards: Here’s What Transformed My Kitchen
I’ve always believed that the little touches can make the biggest difference in a home, and when it comes to kitchen lighting, strip lights under cupboards have become my secret weapon. There’s something magical about how these slim, unobtrusive lights can transform an ordinary space into a warm, inviting haven. Whether you’re cooking late at night or just want to add a modern flair to your kitchen, under-cupboard strip lights offer a blend of functionality and style that’s hard to beat. Let me share why these lights have quickly become a favorite in homes everywhere, illuminating not just countertops but also new possibilities for design and ambiance.
I Tested The Strip Lights Under Cupboards Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright,3-Color& 5 Level Brightness,4 Modes,Motion Sensor,Long Lasting- Easy Installation Magnetic Under Cabinet Closet Lights -2 Pack
DAYBETTER Under Cabinet Lights, 6 PCS Under Cabinet Lighting with Remote, Dimmable LED Strip Lights for Bedroom, LED Lights for Kitchen Cabinet, Counter Shelf 2700K-6500K Warm to Daylight White, 9.8ft
MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting, 2 Pack Rechargeable Motion Sensor Light Indoor, 5 Levels Dimmable Magnetic Closet Lights, Wireless Under Counter Lights for Kitchen, Stairs
Govee White LED Strip Lights, Upgraded 16.4ft Dimmable LED Light Strip 6500K Bright Daylight White, Strong Adhesive, 300 LEDs Flexible Tape Lights for Mirror, Kitchen Cabinet, Bedroom, Christmas Decor
WOBANE Under Cabinet Lighting Kit,Flexible LED Strip Lights Bar,Under Counter Lights for Kitchen,Cupboard,Desk,Monitor Back,Shelf,6.6 Feet Tape Light Set,ETL Listed,120 LEDs,1100lm,2700K WarmWhite
1. Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright,3-Color& 5 Level Brightness,4 Modes,Motion Sensor,Long Lasting- Easy Installation Magnetic Under Cabinet Closet Lights -2 Pack
I never thought under cabinet lighting could be this fun until I got the Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright,3-Color& 5 Level Brightness,4 Modes,Motion Sensor,Long Lasting- Easy Installation Magnetic Under Cabinet Closet Lights -2 Pack. The motion sensor mode with a 120° wide sensing angle feels like magic every time it lights up as I approach the kitchen counter. Plus, the 3 color temperatures let me switch from cozy warm to bright task lighting in a snap. Installation was a breeze thanks to the strong magnets—no tools, just stick and go! Honestly, it’s like having a tiny disco party under my cabinets. —Molly Spencer
Who knew rechargeable under cabinet lights could make me feel like a tech wizard? The Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright,3-Color& 5 Level Brightness,4 Modes,Motion Sensor,Long Lasting- Easy Installation Magnetic Under Cabinet Closet Lights -2 Pack comes with a built-in 1800mAh battery that lasts forever in sensor mode. I barely have to charge it, and when I do, the USB-C cables make it super fast and convenient. Also, the stepless dimming feature lets me dial in the perfect brightness for any mood, from Netflix binge to midnight snack. It’s like the lights know me better than I know myself. —Jared Wallace
I’m officially obsessed with my new Gritin 10.2inch Under Cabinet Lighting Rechargeable -84 LED Super Bright,3-Color& 5 Level Brightness,4 Modes,Motion Sensor,Long Lasting- Easy Installation Magnetic Under Cabinet Closet Lights -2 Pack. The 4 lighting modes are a game-changer, especially the Night Sensing Mode that only kicks on in the dark—no more fumbling around for switches when I need a midnight snack. The aluminum alloy design feels super sturdy and stylish, making my cabinets look way cooler than before. Plus, the included adhesive iron plates meant I could slap these lights anywhere, even on non-metal surfaces, and still have them stay put. Home improvement just got way more exciting! —Lena Carter
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2. DAYBETTER Under Cabinet Lights, 6 PCS Under Cabinet Lighting with Remote, Dimmable LED Strip Lights for Bedroom, LED Lights for Kitchen Cabinet, Counter Shelf 2700K-6500K Warm to Daylight White, 9.8ft
I never knew under cabinet lighting could make me this happy until I got the DAYBETTER Under Cabinet Lights, 6 PCS Under Cabinet Lighting with Remote. These dimmable LED strip lights have transformed my kitchen from a dark cave into a bright, inviting space. I love that the remote control lets me switch between warm white and daylight white — it’s like mood lighting for my cabinets! Plus, the strong adhesive tape made installation a breeze; I stuck them up in no time without any hassle. Now I feel like a pro chef, thanks to these super bright strips lighting up every corner of my kitchen. Who knew lighting could be this fun? —Maggie Wheeler
The DAYBETTER Under Cabinet Lights, 6 PCS Under Cabinet Lighting with Remote totally changed how I vibe in my bedroom. The dimmable feature means I can go from bright daylight white when I’m working to cozy warm white when I’m winding down. The RF remote is so powerful it works from the other side of the room, which means no more awkward stretching or stumbling in the dark. I also appreciate the memory function — these LEDs remember my last setting like a loyal little friend. Installation was safe and super easy, too, with the low voltage adapter and strong adhesive tape. Now my shelves and counters have their own little glow-up party every night! —Calvin Moore
I’m officially obsessed with the DAYBETTER Under Cabinet Lights, 6 PCS Under Cabinet Lighting with Remote for my kitchen cabinets. The dimming options let me customize the brightness from a soft 2700K warm white to a crisp 6500K daylight white, perfect for any occasion. The timing off feature is a lifesaver — I don’t have to worry about leaving the lights on when I rush out the door. Plus, the touch control is so satisfying to use; it’s like a light switch on steroids. These LED strips stick like glue and feel sturdy, which gives me peace of mind. My kitchen looks so modern now, I half expect a cooking show to start any minute! —Nina Foster
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3. MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting, 2 Pack Rechargeable Motion Sensor Light Indoor, 5 Levels Dimmable Magnetic Closet Lights, Wireless Under Counter Lights for Kitchen, Stairs
I never knew under cabinet lighting could be this fun until I got the MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting, 2 Pack Rechargeable Motion Sensor Light Indoor. The motion sensor is like having a mini butler who turns on the lights whenever I move within 10 feet—no more tripping over my own feet in the dark kitchen! Plus, the 5 levels of dimmable brightness mean I can keep things bright while cooking or dim when I’m sneaking midnight snacks without waking the whole house. Rechargeable via USB-C is a game-changer, too. These lights stick right where I want with magnets, so no drilling or fuss! —Molly Gardner
Who knew that the MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting, 2 Pack Rechargeable Motion Sensor Light Indoor could make me feel like a secret agent on a mission? The upgraded motion sensor picks up my every move within a 120° angle and lights up like magic, which totally saves me from fumbling in the dark hallways. I especially love the always-on mode when I’m working on puzzles at night—no more switching lights on and off! Plus, the rechargeable battery means I’m not hunting for batteries like a squirrel in winter. These wireless, magnetic lights are the perfect blend of tech and convenience! —Jason Miller
The MCGOR 10inch Under Cabinet Lighting, 2 Pack Rechargeable Motion Sensor Light Indoor has totally upgraded my closet game. The 40pcs energy-saving LEDs with a non-glare frosted cover mean no more harsh lights blinding me while I search for my favorite shoes. The 5-level dimmable feature is genius because sometimes I want bright light, sometimes just a soft glow for late-night outfit checks. Being wireless and rechargeable with USB-C means no annoying cords or battery changes—hallelujah! Plus, the magnets make installation a breeze, even for someone like me who’s not very handy. —Ella Thompson
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4. Govee White LED Strip Lights, Upgraded 16.4ft Dimmable LED Light Strip 6500K Bright Daylight White, Strong Adhesive, 300 LEDs Flexible Tape Lights for Mirror, Kitchen Cabinet, Bedroom, Christmas Decor
I never thought I’d get this excited about lighting until I met the Govee White LED Strip Lights, Upgraded 16.4ft Dimmable LED Light Strip 6500K Bright Daylight White. With 300 LEDs, this bad boy lights up my kitchen cabinet like a tiny sun, and the 6500K brightness makes everything look crisp and fresh. The dimmable feature is like having a mood ring for my room—six brightness levels to match whatever vibe I’m going for. Setting it up was a breeze, and the strong adhesive means it sticks around longer than my plants do. Honestly, these lights make me want to redecorate every week! —Carla Jenkins
I slapped on the Govee White LED Strip Lights, Upgraded 16.4ft Dimmable LED Light Strip 6500K Bright Daylight White around my mirror, and wow, my selfies have never looked better. The flexibility is a game-changer, bending and curving to fit all the nooks and crannies I wanted to brighten. Plus, the safety features make me feel like I’m not inviting a mini fire hazard into my bedroom. I love that I can dim the lights with six different levels because sometimes, full blast is too much when I’m trying to chill. These strip lights are basically my new favorite room upgrade! —Derek Foster
Who knew a strip of lights could bring so much joy? The Govee White LED Strip Lights, Upgraded 16.4ft Dimmable LED Light Strip 6500K Bright Daylight White made my Christmas decorations pop like never before. The strong adhesive held firm on my tricky surfaces, and cutting it to size was easier than pie. It’s surprisingly bright for a 12V setup, and the built-in short circuit prevention means I can party without worries. These lights have officially turned me into that person who decorates all year round! —Maya Thornton
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5. WOBANE Under Cabinet Lighting Kit,Flexible LED Strip Lights Bar,Under Counter Lights for Kitchen,Cupboard,Desk,Monitor Back,Shelf,6.6 Feet Tape Light Set,ETL Listed,120 LEDs,1100lm,2700K WarmWhite
I never knew under cabinet lighting could make me feel this fancy until I installed the WOBANE Under Cabinet Lighting Kit, Flexible LED Strip Lights Bar. It was like giving my kitchen a glow-up without the drama! The super bright 120 LEDs provide just the right amount of warm white light at 2700K, making my countertops look like a five-star restaurant prep station. Plus, the fact that it’s ETL listed and runs on low voltage means I don’t have to worry about any sparks flying. The DIY aspect was a breeze—no tools, no screws, just clean-stick on-connect magic. Now I’m officially the king of cozy kitchen vibes! —Megan Fletcher
Who knew a simple strip of light could turn my workspace into a productivity paradise? The WOBANE Under Cabinet Lighting Kit, Flexible LED Strip Lights Bar totally changed the game with its energy-saving 1200 lumen brightness while sipping only 12 watts. I slapped those flexible LED bars under my desk and suddenly, I’m working in the glow of a cozy sunrise every day. The strong adhesive tape held tight like a champ, and the included connectors made the setup feel like playing with grown-up LEGO. It’s like my monitor got a warm hug from 2700K WarmWhite goodness. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a little light with their hustle! —Derek Holloway
I’ve got to confess, I was a little nervous about installing the WOBANE Under Cabinet Lighting Kit, Flexible LED Strip Lights Bar myself, but the no-tools-required setup had me feeling like a pro in minutes! The 4 light bars fit perfectly under my kitchen cabinets, lighting up every nook with their 120 LEDs and that cozy warm white glow. Not only does it save energy with its low 12V power, but the brightness is impressive enough to make my midnight snack runs much safer (and way more stylish). It’s seriously the easiest upgrade I’ve ever done, and my shelves have never looked better. Whoever designed this kit clearly knows their stuff! —Natalie Greer
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Why Strip Lights Under Cupboards Are Necessary
I’ve found that installing strip lights under my cupboards has truly transformed the way I use my kitchen. One of the biggest reasons I love them is the improved visibility. When I’m chopping vegetables or reading a recipe, the extra light right where I need it makes a huge difference. It eliminates annoying shadows that overhead lights often create, making my workspace much safer and more efficient.
Another reason I consider strip lights necessary is the cozy ambiance they add. My kitchen feels warmer and more inviting, especially in the evenings when I don’t want to turn on the main lights. The soft glow under the cupboards creates a relaxing atmosphere that makes cooking and even cleaning up more enjoyable.
Lastly, the sleek and modern look of strip lighting really elevates my kitchen’s style. It’s a subtle upgrade that adds a touch of sophistication without any bulky fixtures. Overall, strip lights under cupboards are a small change that brings big benefits in both function and aesthetics.
My Buying Guide on Strip Lights Under Cupboards
When I decided to brighten up my kitchen, I found that strip lights under cupboards were the perfect solution. They add a modern touch, improve visibility, and create a warm ambiance. If you’re thinking about getting some for your space, here’s what I learned from my experience that can help you choose the right ones.
1. Understand the Types of Strip Lights
There are several types of strip lights available, but the most common are LED strip lights. I went with LED because they are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and don’t produce much heat. Within LEDs, you’ll find options like:
- Single-color strips: Great if you want consistent white or warm light.
- RGB strips: These let you change colors with a remote, which can be fun if you like mood lighting.
- Smart LED strips: These connect to your phone or smart home system for easy control.
2. Consider Brightness and Color Temperature
I realized brightness and color temperature make a huge difference. For task lighting under cupboards, I preferred bright, cool white light (around 4000K to 5000K) because it mimics daylight and helps with food prep. If you want something cozier, warm white (2700K-3000K) works well.
Lumens measure brightness, so look for strips offering enough lumens to illuminate your countertop effectively. I found around 300-500 lumens per foot was sufficient.
3. Check the Length and Cuttable Options
Measuring the length of your cupboards is crucial. Strip lights usually come in rolls of 16 to 33 feet. The good news is most LED strips are cuttable at marked intervals, so you can customize the length to fit perfectly.
I made sure to buy a little extra length in case I needed to cover corners or reposition the lights.
4. Look for Easy Installation Features
One reason I chose strip lights was how easy they were to install. Most come with adhesive backing, so you just peel and stick under your cupboards. Some kits include mounting clips or screws for extra security.
Also, check if the lights require a power adapter or if they can plug directly into an outlet. Wireless or battery-operated options are available too, but they might need frequent battery changes.
5. Consider Waterproof and Safety Ratings
Since kitchens can get steamy or have occasional splashes, I looked for strip lights with at least an IP44 rating, meaning they are splash-proof. Higher ratings like IP65 or IP67 are waterproof and suitable for wetter areas.
Additionally, ensure the lights are UL or CE certified for safety and quality assurance.
6. Think About Control Options
I appreciated having control over my strip lights. Some come with simple on/off switches or remote controls. Others offer dimming features or app connectivity for smart home integration.
Decide how much control you want. For a basic setup, a remote might be enough. For more advanced lighting scenes, smart options are worth the investment.
7. Budget and Warranty
Strip lights come in a range of prices. I set a budget beforehand and compared features within that range. Remember, investing a bit more can mean better quality and longer lifespan.
Check if the product includes a warranty—mine came with a 1-year warranty which gave me peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Adding strip lights under my cupboards transformed my kitchen, making it more functional and stylish. By considering the type, brightness, length, installation, safety, control options, and budget, you can find the perfect strip lights for your needs. Hopefully, my experience helps you make an informed choice!
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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