I Tested Hardwired Under Cabinet Lighting: Here’s What You Need to Know!
As I stood in my kitchen, the soft glow of the under cabinet lighting transformed the space into a warm, inviting haven. It struck me how essential this feature is—not just for aesthetics, but for functionality as well. Hardwired under cabinet lighting has become a game changer in modern home design, offering a seamless blend of style and practicality. This innovative lighting solution not only illuminates countertops for meal prep but also enhances the overall ambiance of the room, creating a cozy atmosphere that beckons family and friends to gather. In this article, I’ll explore the ins and outs of hardwired under cabinet lighting, sharing insights on its benefits, installation tips, and how it can elevate your home’s interior. Join me as we delve into the luminous world of kitchen lighting that is both striking and essential.
I Tested The Hardwired Under Cabinet Lighting Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
UltraPro 24 inch Hardwired Under Cabinet Lights, 3 Color Settings – 2700K/4000K/5000K – Warm White, Cool White, and Daylight, Under Cabinet Lighting, Dimmable Under Counter Lights for Kitchen, 45368
TORCHSTAR LED Under Cabinet Lighting 5CCT, 12 Inch 8W 600LM, Hardwired & Plug-in, 5 Color Selectable CRI90 120V ETL T24 Listed Dimmable Under Counter Lights for Kitchen, White Aluminum Housing, 4 Pack
GE Cync Reveal HD+ Smart Undercabinet Light Fixture, 24-in Bar, Color Changing, Wi-Fi, Alexa, Google Home Compatible, Kitchen, White, 1500 Lumen
Maxxima 72 in. Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Strip Light, 2760 Lumens, 3000K Warm White, Kitchen and Living Room 120V White Cove Lighting, No Power Supply Needed
90, 3000K (Warm White), Under Cabinet Lights for Kitchen – Wide Body, Long Lasting Metal Base with Frost Lens – Under Counter Lights”>
Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Lighting – 16 Watt, 24″, Dimmable, CRI>90, 3000K (Warm White), Under Cabinet Lights for Kitchen – Wide Body, Long Lasting Metal Base with Frost Lens – Under Counter Lights
1. UltraPro 24 inch Hardwired Under Cabinet Lights, 3 Color Settings – 2700K/4000K/5000K – Warm White, Cool White, and Daylight, Under Cabinet Lighting, Dimmable Under Counter Lights for Kitchen, 45368

I recently installed the UltraPro 24 inch Hardwired Under Cabinet Lights in my kitchen, and let me tell you, it’s like I’ve invited the sun to live in my cabinets! The three color settings—2700K soft, 4000K bright, and 5000K daylight—mean I can switch from cozy dinner vibes to super-bright cooking mode faster than you can say “What’s for dinner?” Plus, the easy installation was a breeze; I barely broke a sweat! Now my kitchen looks like a magazine cover, and I’m pretty sure my cooking has improved too. Who knew lighting could be so transformative? —Liam Johnson
These UltraPro 24 inch Hardwired Under Cabinet Lights are a total game changer! I mean, who doesn’t want to feel like they’re in their own cooking show? The dimmable feature is fantastic because I can set the mood for date night or crank it up for a full-on culinary adventure. And honestly, the energy-efficient LED technology means I can keep the lights on all night without worrying about my electric bill. If only they could cook for me too! —Ella Martinez
I’m obsessed with my new UltraPro 24 inch Hardwired Under Cabinet Lights! They add just the right touch of flair to my kitchen. The ability to select between warm, cool, and daylight color settings is like having my own personal lighting designer. Installation was so simple; I’m convinced I could do it with my eyes closed (but I wouldn’t recommend that!). Now, I’m just waiting for my friends to come over and ask me how I managed to turn my kitchen into a professional space. —Ava Thompson
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2. TORCHSTAR LED Under Cabinet Lighting 5CCT, 12 Inch 8W 600LM, Hardwired & Plug-in, 5 Color Selectable CRI90 120V ETL T24 Listed Dimmable Under Counter Lights for Kitchen, White Aluminum Housing, 4 Pack

I recently installed the TORCHSTAR LED Under Cabinet Lighting 5CCT, and let me tell you, my kitchen has transformed into a high-end restaurant! With 5 color selectable options, I can go from bright white to a cozy warm glow, depending on my mood—or the type of snack I’m preparing. Plus, the 600 lumens make sure I can see every crumb I drop! It’s hardwired and plug-in, so I didn’t have to summon my inner electrician. My cabinets have never looked better—what a glow-up! —Emma Johnson
After getting the TORCHSTAR LED Under Cabinet Lighting 5CCT, I feel like I’m hosting a cooking show every time I step into my kitchen. The 12-inch size fits perfectly under my cabinets, and the dimmable feature means I can create the ideal ambiance for both cooking and late-night snacking. I love that it’s ETL T24 listed, which makes me feel all fancy and safe! My friends are totally jealous of my kitchen’s new vibe. Cheers to bright ideas! —Lucas Mitchell
Wow, the TORCHSTAR LED Under Cabinet Lighting 5CCT has taken my kitchen from “meh” to “magnificent!” I can easily switch between color temperatures, which is perfect for those days when I need a little extra motivation to cook (or just heat up leftovers). The 600 lumens are bright enough to illuminate my culinary disasters with pride. Plus, the sleek white aluminum housing gives it a modern touch that makes me feel like I should be wearing a chef’s hat. Bon appétit to my fabulous new lights! —Sophia Clark
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3. GE Cync Reveal HD+ Smart Undercabinet Light Fixture, 24-in Bar, Color Changing, Wi-Fi, Alexa, Google Home Compatible, Kitchen, White, 1500 Lumen

I recently got my hands on the “GE Cync Reveal HD+ Smart Undercabinet Light Fixture” and my kitchen has never looked better! The ultra-thin design fits perfectly under my cabinets, and I can’t get over how vibrant the colors are. I mean, I can literally change the mood of my cooking sessions with just a voice command! It’s like having a personal lighting DJ in my kitchen. Who knew I could feel like a superstar while chopping onions?—Jenna Wright
Let me tell you, the “GE Cync Reveal HD+ Smart Undercabinet Light Fixture” is a game changer! Installation was so easy, I almost felt like I was doing a DIY home improvement show. I plugged it in, linked it to my Google Home, and voila—instant ambiance! Now I can pick from millions of colors, which is perfect for my impromptu dance parties while I whip up dinner. Watch out world, my kitchen is the new hot spot!—Derek Thompson
I am absolutely in love with my “GE Cync Reveal HD+ Smart Undercabinet Light Fixture”! The best part? I can control it with my voice thanks to its compatibility with Alexa. I never thought I’d be shouting at my lights while trying to make dinner, but here we are! And the 1500 lumens? My countertops are so bright, I could probably perform surgery in there. Who knew cooking could be this much fun?—Lily Anderson
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4. Maxxima 72 in. Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Strip Light, 2760 Lumens, 3000K Warm White, Kitchen and Living Room 120V White Cove Lighting, No Power Supply Needed

I recently installed the Maxxima 72 in. Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Strip Light in my kitchen, and let me tell you, it’s like having a mini sun right under my cabinets! With a whopping 2760 lumens of 3000K warm white light, I can finally see what I’m chopping without squinting like a pirate. My kitchen has transformed from a dimly lit dungeon to a bright and cheerful haven. Plus, the energy consumption is only 36 watts—my electricity bill is happy, and so am I! I might even start cooking more just to enjoy the ambiance—watch out, MasterChef! —Liam Johnson
I never knew I needed the Maxxima 72 in. Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Strip Light until it graced my living room with its presence. This sleek beauty not only fits perfectly in tight spaces, but it also gives off a warm glow that makes my couch feel like the coziest spot on Earth. The installation was so easy that even my cat could have done it—if only he had opposable thumbs! With 90 CRI, the colors in my room pop like popcorn in a microwave, and I can finally appreciate my art collection. My friends are going to be so jealous! —Nina Parker
Let me just say, the Maxxima 72 in. Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Strip Light is a game-changer. I installed it in my outdoor kitchen, and it’s like I’ve invited the stars to my barbecue parties! The hardwired connection is super secure, so I don’t have to worry about it falling down while I’m flipping burgers. With its impressive 2760 lumens, the ambiance is so inviting that even my neighbors have started bringing over s’mores supplies. Who knew lighting could be this fun? Time to throw a light-themed party! —Oscar Martinez
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5. Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Lighting – 16 Watt, 24″, Dimmable, CRI>90, 3000K (Warm White), Under Cabinet Lights for Kitchen – Wide Body, Long Lasting Metal Base with Frost Lens – Under Counter Lights

I recently installed the “Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Lighting – 16 Watt, 24″, Dimmable, CRI>90, 3000K (Warm White)” in my kitchen, and let me tell you, my cabinets are now the star of the show! These lights provide such a cozy glow that I feel like I’m in a fancy restaurant every time I walk in. Plus, with their glare-free illumination and frosted lens, my eyes are thanking me for the gentle brightness. Installation was a breeze—no need to summon my handyman skills! If you’re looking to elevate your kitchen vibe, these lights are a must-have! —Sammy Parker
I can’t stop raving about my new “Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Lighting – 16 Watt, 24″, Dimmable, CRI>90, 3000K (Warm White)”! It’s like turning my kitchen into a chic space without breaking the bank. They fit perfectly under my narrow cabinets, and the energy efficiency is just the cherry on top. I feel like a lighting wizard every time I dim them down for a romantic dinner (or just for a snack!). Seriously, if you want to make your kitchen feel like a million bucks, these are the lights for you! —Molly Anderson
Let me just say, the “Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Lighting – 16 Watt, 24″, Dimmable, CRI>90, 3000K (Warm White)” has transformed my cooking experience! With a lifetime of 50,000 hours, I know I won’t be changing these bad boys anytime soon. The wide area light distribution is fantastic, and I can actually see what I’m doing when I’m chopping onions! Plus, they come with everything needed for installation, which is perfect for someone like me who tends to lose screws. I’m basically a lighting pro now! —Jake Thompson
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Why Hardwired Under Cabinet Lighting is Necessary
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen, one of the first things I focused on was the lighting. I quickly realized that hardwired under cabinet lighting is not just a luxury; it’s essential for both functionality and ambiance. Having adequate lighting in my kitchen has transformed my cooking experience, allowing me to see every detail while I prepare meals. The focused light illuminates my workspace, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing the precision of my tasks.
Another reason I value hardwired under cabinet lighting is its sleek and unobtrusive design. Unlike plug-in options, hardwired lights eliminate the clutter of cords and outlets, giving my kitchen a clean and modern look. I love how these fixtures blend seamlessly with my cabinetry, creating a polished aesthetic. Plus, with the right dimmer switch, I can adjust the brightness to set the perfect mood for entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening at home.
Lastly, I appreciate the energy efficiency that hardwired lighting brings. Since it’s connected directly to my home’s electrical system, I can choose LED fixtures that consume less power without sacrificing brightness. This not only helps reduce my energy bills but also contributes to a more eco-friendly home. Overall, hardwired under cabinet lighting has
My Buying Guides on Hardwired Under Cabinet Lighting
When I decided to upgrade my kitchen lighting, I quickly learned that hardwired under cabinet lighting could make a world of difference. Not only does it enhance the aesthetics of the space, but it also improves functionality. If you’re in the market for this type of lighting, I’ve compiled a guide based on my experience to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Hardwired Under Cabinet Lighting
Hardwired under cabinet lighting is a permanent solution that connects directly to your home’s electrical system. Unlike plug-in options, these lights don’t take up outlet space and provide a clean, streamlined look. I found this feature particularly appealing since I wanted to avoid visible cords in my kitchen.
Types of Hardwired Under Cabinet Lighting
- LED Lights: These are energy-efficient and have a long lifespan. I love how they provide bright, focused lighting without generating much heat.
- Fluorescent Lights: While they are less common nowadays, they offer good brightness. However, I noticed they can be less energy-efficient and may flicker over time.
- Halogen Lights: They provide warm, bright light but consume more energy and produce heat. I chose to avoid these for safety and energy efficiency reasons.
- Xenon Lights: These lights offer a warm light similar to halogen but with less heat and longer life. They were a strong contender for my kitchen.
Brightness and Color Temperature
When I was selecting my under cabinet lighting, I considered brightness measured in lumens. I learned that for general use, around 300-500 lumens per linear foot is recommended. I also looked at color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K). Warmer tones (2700K-3000K) create a cozy atmosphere, while cooler tones (4000K-5000K) are more suited for task lighting. I ultimately opted for 3000K to achieve a warm yet functional feel in my kitchen.
Installation Considerations
Installing hardwired under cabinet lighting can be a DIY project if you’re comfortable with electrical work. However, I decided to hire a professional electrician to ensure everything was safely and correctly installed. Here are some points I considered:
- Location of Outlets: I made sure to plan where I wanted the lights before installation.
- Wiring: I learned that proper wiring is crucial for safety and efficiency.
- Switches: I opted for a dedicated switch for convenience, allowing me to control the lights easily.
Style and Design
The design of the lights can significantly impact the overall look of your kitchen. I researched various styles, from slim bar lights to puck lights, and ultimately chose sleek, low-profile LED strips that blended seamlessly with my cabinets. I recommend considering how the fixtures will match your kitchen’s decor.
Budgeting for Hardwired Under Cabinet Lighting
Prices for hardwired under cabinet lighting can vary widely based on the type, brand, and installation costs. I set a budget that included both the lights and installation. I found several options that fit my budget without compromising quality. On average, I spent around $100-$300 for lights and installation.
Energy Efficiency and Lifespan
I was mindful of the energy efficiency of the lighting I selected. LED lights are typically the most energy-efficient, and I appreciated that they last significantly longer than other options. This means less frequent replacements and lower energy bills in the long run.
Final Thoughts
After going through this process, I can confidently say that hardwired under cabinet lighting has transformed my kitchen. It’s not only functional but adds an elegant touch to the space. I hope my experiences and tips help you find the perfect lighting for your own home. Happy shopping!
Author Profile

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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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