Hardwired under-cabinet LED lights can brighten a kitchen worktop without leaving cords in view. The best fit depends on your cabinet space, preferred light color, dimmer setup, and whether you want a compact fixture or a longer, linkable run. These five options range from a short, direct-wire light to fixtures that can also be installed as plug-in lighting.
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison
| Product | Size and Output | Color Options | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ansen 12-Inch Hardwired LED Light | 12 in, 10W, 666.7 lumens | 2700K–5000K, five settings | Dimmable, high CRI, linkable with Romex |
| Leetdud 24-Inch LED Under-Cabinet Light | 24 in, 12W | 2700K–5000K, five settings | Hardwire or plug-in, linkable, ETL-listed |
| NSL 24-Inch Linkable LED Light | 24 in | 2700K, 3000K, or 4000K | Hardwire or plug-in, two brightness levels |
| ASD 9-Inch Direct-Wire LED Light | 9 in, 4W, 337 lumens | 2700K–5000K, five settings | Low profile, linkable, UL-listed |
| PARMIDA 16-Inch Hardwired LED Light | 16 in, 14W | 2700K–6000K, five settings | Dimmable, linkable, ETL-listed |
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Ansen 12-Inch Light: High Color Accuracy in a Compact Fixture
The Ansen is a 12-inch, 10-watt fixture that produces 666.7 lumens. Its five selectable color temperatures span 2700K to 5000K, so you can choose a warmer tone for a cozy kitchen or a cooler one for task lighting. A built-in switch provides on/off control at the fixture.
The aluminum alloy and plastic housing is designed to screw beneath a cabinet. The listed color-rendering figures are a CRI above 92 and an R9 above 90, useful specifications if you want food and countertop colors to look natural. It also supports smooth dimming from 100% to 5% with most LED dimmers, though the dimmer is not included.
This pick makes sense where a 12-inch fixture can cover a short work area and color accuracy matters. It can connect to other fixtures using Romex cable, but that cable is not included. Compared with the plug-in-compatible options below, the Ansen is aimed more directly at a hardwired installation.
Pros:
- Five color-temperature settings from 2700K to 5000K
- High listed CRI and R9 values
- Dimmable down to 5% with a compatible dimmer
- Linkable with Romex cable
Cons:
- Dimmer and linking cable are not included
- Its 12-inch length may leave gaps on longer cabinet runs
Verdict: Choose the Ansen if you want a compact hardwired fixture with flexible color settings and strong listed color-rendering specifications.
Leetdud 24-Inch Light: Flexible Hardwire or Plug-In Setup
At 24 inches, the Leetdud covers more cabinet length than the shorter fixtures in this group. It uses 12 watts and offers five color-temperature settings, from 2700K to 5000K. The fixture includes an on/off switch, and its high-CRI specification is above 90, with R9 above 50.
A key advantage is installation choice: the package includes accessories for both hardwired and plug-in setups. The light is also linkable with connectors, which can help create a longer run. It is listed as ETL-certified, and the product information states a 50,000-hour rated life. Dimming works with most in-wall TRIAC dimmers, which are sold separately.
This is a practical option if you want a longer fixture but have not settled on a direct-wire or plug-in installation. Its listed efficacy is 100 lumens per watt, though the provided product details do not state a total lumen output. Confirm the included connection accessories and your planned wiring arrangement before installation.
Pros:
- 24-inch length for broader counter coverage
- Includes accessories for hardwired or plug-in installation
- Five selectable color temperatures
- Linkable and compatible with most in-wall TRIAC dimmers
Cons:
- Dimmer is not included
- Total lumen output is not specified in the supplied product details
Verdict: The Leetdud is a good fit if you want a 24-inch light and the option to choose between hardwired and plug-in installation.
NSL 24-Inch Linkable Light: Even Illumination With Simple Settings
The NSL is a 24-inch, low-profile fixture with three selectable color temperatures: 2700K, 3000K, and 4000K. It also has two brightness levels, giving you a straightforward way to adjust the light without relying only on a separate dimmer.
Its edge-lit design is intended to spread light smoothly and reduce visible hot spots. The product supports either hardwired or plug-in installation, and included jumper cables and connectors allow fixtures to link together. The listed maximum linked load is 400 watts. NSL states a 50,000-hour rated life and includes a three-year manufacturer’s warranty.
This fixture suits shoppers who prefer a longer light bar and want a choice of installation methods. Its color range is narrower than the five-setting options from Ansen, Leetdud, ASD, and PARMIDA. The two brightness levels also offer less fine control than continuous dimming.
Pros:
- Long 24-inch fixture with a low-profile design
- Edge-lit construction designed for smooth, even light
- Hardwired or plug-in installation options
- Includes link connectors and has a stated three-year warranty
Cons:
- Offers three color temperatures rather than five
- Brightness control is limited to two levels
Verdict: Pick the NSL if even-looking light, a 24-inch form, and simple brightness settings matter more to you than fine dimming control.
ASD 9-Inch Direct-Wire Light: A Compact, Low-Profile Choice
The ASD is a small direct-wire fixture for spaces where a longer light bar may not fit. It measures 9 inches, draws 4 watts, and produces 337 lumens. A switch on the fixture selects among five color temperatures, from 2700K to 5000K, and the light is rated CRI 90+.
The housing is 1-1/8 inches thick and 3-1/2 inches deep, with a polycarbonate lens intended to provide glare-controlled light. It can link end to end with other units. The fixture dims from 10% to 100% with most modern LED TRIAC dimmers, which are sold separately. Mounting screws, wire connectors, and an NM-B cable connector are included, according to the product details.
ASD lists this model as UL-listed, damp-location rated, and rated for 50,000 hours, with a five-year limited warranty. Its shorter length and modest output make it a sensible choice for a small counter section or shelf; for broad work surfaces, you may need multiple fixtures or a longer model.
Pros:
- Compact 9-inch size with 337 lumens of output
- Five color settings and CRI 90+ specification
- Linkable and dimmable with a compatible TRIAC dimmer
- Includes mounting and wiring accessories; listed with a five-year limited warranty
Cons:
- Shorter length may require multiple units for a long counter
- Compatible dimmer is sold separately
Verdict: The ASD is a strong choice for a compact hardwired installation where low-profile design and five color settings are priorities.
PARMIDA 16-Inch Light: Broad Color Choice and Linkable Design
The PARMIDA is a 16-inch, 14-watt hardwired fixture with five selectable color temperatures: 2700K, 3000K, 4000K, 5000K, and 6000K. A built-in on/off switch provides direct control at the light. Its broad color range includes a 6000K setting, a cooler option than the other fixtures in this group provide.
The light can be dimmed from 100% to 10% with most compatible LED dimmers. It can also link to other fixtures using Romex cable, which is not included. The package includes mounting screws, screw-hole covers, and a conduit connector; the product information notes that accessories are stored inside the lens.
PARMIDA lists the fixture as ETL-listed, with a rated life of 30,000 hours or more and a five-year warranty. The product details do not provide a lumen figure, so it is harder to compare its brightness directly with the Ansen or ASD. It is best suited to shoppers who value multiple color choices and want a mid-length fixture.
Pros:
- Five color temperatures, including a 6000K setting
- Dimmable to 10% with a compatible LED dimmer
- Linkable with additional fixtures
- Mounting accessories included and five-year warranty stated
Cons:
- Romex cable and dimmer are not included
- Lumen output is not specified in the supplied product details
Verdict: Choose the PARMIDA if you want a 16-inch hardwired light with five color settings, including a cooler 6000K option.
How to Choose Hardwired Under-Cabinet LED Lighting
Measure the Cabinet Run and Fixture Length
Measure the underside of your cabinets and note where the light needs to cover the counter. A 9- or 12-inch fixture may suit a short section, while a 16- or 24-inch model covers more length. For a longer stretch, check whether the fixture can link to additional units and what cables or connectors are required. Think about where the fixtures will sit so that the light reaches the work area without the housings being too visible.
Compare Brightness, Not Just Wattage
Lumens indicate light output, while watts describe power use. Of the options here, the Ansen lists 666.7 lumens and the ASD lists 337 lumens. The other supplied product details do not state a total lumen output, so avoid comparing those models by wattage alone. Consider how much task lighting you need and whether you plan to use one fixture or a linked group.
Choose a Color Temperature That Fits Your Space
Color temperature, measured in kelvins, affects whether light looks warm or cool. Lower settings such as 2700K appear warmer, while higher settings such as 5000K or 6000K appear cooler. Selectable color temperature is useful if you are matching existing room lighting or are unsure which tone you prefer. Check the exact settings: the NSL offers three choices, while the other listed models offer five.
Check Color Rendering for Food and Finishes
CRI describes how naturally a light shows colors compared with a reference source. A higher CRI can be useful when preparing food or judging the color of countertops, paint, and tile. The Ansen lists CRI above 92, while the Leetdud lists CRI above 90 and the ASD lists CRI 90+. The supplied details do not give comparable CRI figures for the NSL or PARMIDA.
Confirm Dimming Compatibility
Some fixtures support dimming, but the required wall dimmer may be sold separately. Check the type of dimmer the product supports before buying; the Leetdud and ASD specify TRIAC dimming, while the Ansen and PARMIDA state compatibility with most LED dimmers. Also compare the stated dimming range if you want the lights to reach a low nighttime level. A fixture’s built-in on/off switch is not a substitute for a compatible dimmer.
Plan the Wiring and Installation
Hardwired models connect to building wiring, so consider the location of the power feed and whether you will hire a qualified electrician. Some options also include plug-in accessories, but not all do. Check which mounting and wiring parts are supplied, and note that accessories such as Romex cables or dimmers may need to be purchased separately. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local electrical requirements.
Review Safety Listings and Warranty Details
Look for the product’s stated safety listing and any location rating that matters for your installation. The Leetdud is listed as ETL-certified, the ASD as UL-listed and damp-location rated, and the PARMIDA as ETL-listed. Warranty terms and rated life also differ: the supplied details list a three-year warranty for the NSL and five-year warranties for the ASD and PARMIDA. Verify the full terms before purchasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are hardwired under-cabinet lights difficult to install?
Installation depends on the fixture and the existing wiring. These lights attach beneath a cabinet, but a hardwired model connects directly to household wiring. If you are not comfortable with electrical work, use a qualified electrician and follow the product instructions and local requirements.
Can these lights be connected to a wall dimmer?
Several models are dimmable, but you need a compatible dimmer. The Ansen, Leetdud, ASD, and PARMIDA list dimming support, while the NSL lists two brightness levels. Check the manufacturer’s compatibility information before choosing a wall dimmer.
What color temperature should I choose for a kitchen?
That depends on the look you want and the room’s other lighting. A setting around 2700K or 3000K gives a warmer appearance; settings such as 4000K or 5000K look cooler. Selectable CCT makes it easier to adjust the fixture to your cabinets, counters, and existing lights.
Can I link more than one fixture together?
Each of these products lists some form of linking, but the required connectors and cables vary. The NSL includes jumper cables and connectors, while the Ansen and PARMIDA specify Romex cables that are not included. Check the exact product instructions and maximum connection limits before planning a run.
Which option is best for a short cabinet section?
The 9-inch ASD or 12-inch Ansen may be easier to fit in a short space. The ASD lists 337 lumens, and the Ansen lists 666.7 lumens, so compare both the length and the light output with the area you need to illuminate.
Do all these lights include a plug-in option?
No. The Leetdud and NSL explicitly offer both hardwired and plug-in installation. The Ansen, ASD, and PARMIDA are described as hardwired fixtures in the supplied product details. Confirm the included accessories and installation method on the product page before ordering.
Final Recommendation
For a compact fixture with a stated 666.7-lumen output and high listed color-rendering values, the Ansen is a strong all-around choice. The Leetdud and NSL stand out if you want a 24-inch fixture and flexible installation options; choose the Leetdud for five color settings and continuous dimming, or the NSL for edge-lit construction and two brightness levels. The ASD suits small spaces, while the PARMIDA offers a mid-length fixture with a broad color-temperature range. Measure your cabinet run and confirm your wiring and dimmer needs before deciding.
