Install Under-Cabinet Lights

Under-cabinet lights eliminate shadows on your work surface. Use the calculator below to estimate your costs.

Time Required

1-3 hours

Cost

$50-$300

Difficulty

Easy to Moderate

Under-Cabinet Light Calculator

Select Light Type

Total Cabinet Length

96inches

(8.0 feet)

Measure all cabinet sections you want to light

Power Option

Easiest install, cord runs to outlet

Select a light type above to see your estimate

$4-$8 per foot

Flexible tape with adhesive backing. Continuous even light. Easy to cut to length. Most popular option.

Dimmable optionsCuttable every 2 inchesEven light distribution

$30-$80 per bar (12-24")

Rigid fixtures that mount under cabinet. Clean look. Available in various lengths. Easy to link together.

Professional lookEasy installationLinkable

$5-$10 per puck

Small circular fixtures. Creates pools of light. Better for accent than task. Wireless options available.

Wireless availableAccent lightingEasy to reposition

$2-$5 per foot

Enclosed tube with LEDs. Softer glow. Good for ambiance but dimmer for task lighting.

Soft ambient glowFlexibleBudget-friendly

Plug-in: Easiest install. Cord runs to outlet. May have visible wire.
Hardwired: Cleanest look. Connects to switch. Requires electrical work.
Battery: No wires. Rechargeable or replaceable batteries. Limited brightness.
USB powered: Can plug into USB outlet or power bank. Low voltage, safe.

Front 1/3 of cabinet: Mount toward front to light counter edge where you work.
Valance/lip: Add a small trim piece to hide the light source from view below.
Continuous run: Linking lights across cabinets looks better than gaps.
Hide transformer: Put power supply inside cabinet or in corner where not visible.

Dimmable: Full brightness for cooking, low for nightlight or ambiance.
Color temperature: Match your other kitchen lighting. 3000K is popular.
Motion sensor: Turns on when you approach. Great for nighttime kitchen visits.
Smart control: WiFi-enabled options work with voice assistants and apps.
High CRI (90+): Makes food and colors look accurate.

•Clean surface before mounting: Adhesive won't stick to greasy cabinets. Use degreaser first.
•Use aluminum channel for strips: Diffuses light and looks more professional.
•Measure before buying: Total cabinet length determines how much strip/how many bars you need.
•Consider adding above cabinets too: Uplight creates beautiful ambient glow if you have space above.