10Best.Guide

Recessed Lighting

Top Picks

Last Updated: October, 2023
Pros
  • Easy installation process
  • Lightweight design
  • Brightness and color tone are impressive
  • Good customer service and quick replacement
  • Cheaper than other options in the market
Cons
  • Compatibility issues with dimmer switches
  • Some lights may flicker or dim after a few months
Bottom Line
These recessed lights offer easy installation, impressive brightness, and good customer service. However, there may be some compatibility issues with dimmer switches and occasional quality issues with flickering or dimming lights. Overall, they provide a cost-effective option with a durable construction.
Pros
  • Easy to install compared to can lights
  • Good quality and dimmable
  • Bright and adjustable color temperature
  • Affordable compared to local contractors
  • Provides individual light intensity control
Cons
  • Some units may have color variation issues
  • Flimsy junction box
Bottom Line
These LED lights from Amico are a cost-effective and easy-to-install option for brightening up your home. They offer adjustable color temperature and dimming capabilities, providing flexibility in lighting preferences. While there may be some minor issues with color variation and the junction box, overall, these lights offer great value for the price.
Pros
  • Very easy to install
  • Quality springs
  • Well packaged
  • Clear instructions
  • Ability to choose temperature of light
Cons
  • Interferes with TV antenna signal
  • May have issues with power fluctuation
Bottom Line
Overall, these lights are easy to install, offer a variety of temperature options, and provide good value for the money. However, they may interfere with TV antenna signals and some units may have power issues. It's important to check the junction boxes for defects.
Pros
  • Good light quality
  • Easy to install
  • Different settings work well
  • Brightness is just right
  • Well packaged
Cons
  • Need to use strain relief connectors
  • May cause flickering issues
Bottom Line
These lights offer good light quality, easy installation, and adjustable settings. However, users should be aware of the need for strain relief connectors and potential flickering issues. The customer service is excellent, but there may be occasional issues with faulty lights. Overall, these lights provide a bright and adjustable lighting solution.
Pros
  • Inset lights for a more attractive look
  • Ability to control warmth color and dim the lights
  • Easy installation and tight seal with the ceiling
  • Bright with a warm tone
  • Recessed look for less glare
Cons
  • Requires lots of space for installation
  • Some units may arrive bent
Bottom Line
These LED recessed lights offer an attractive and energy-efficient lighting solution with the ability to control color and brightness. They are easy to install and provide a tight seal with the ceiling. However, they may require ample space for installation and some units may have quality issues, such as bent parts and flickering drivers.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Recessed Lighting

Overview

Recessed lighting is a popular and versatile lighting option that provides a sleek and modern look to any space. Whether you're renovating your home or designing a new one, this buying guide will help you navigate through the various types, key considerations, features, pricing, tips, and frequently asked questions about recessed lighting.

Types

1. LED Recessed Lighting: Energy-efficient and long-lasting, LED recessed lighting is a popular choice. It offers a wide range of color temperatures and dimming options, making it suitable for various applications.

2. Halogen Recessed Lighting: Known for their bright and warm light, halogen recessed lights are a cost-effective option. However, they consume more energy and have a shorter lifespan compared to LED lights.

3. Retrofit Recessed Lighting: Retrofit kits allow you to upgrade your existing lighting fixtures to recessed lighting without the need for major electrical work. They are a convenient option for those who want to add recessed lighting to their homes without extensive renovations.

Key Considerations

1. Ceiling Height: The height of your ceiling will determine the type of recessed lighting you should choose. For lower ceilings, consider using low-profile or shallow recessed lights, while deeper ceilings can accommodate standard or adjustable recessed lights.

2. Room Size: The size of the room plays a crucial role in determining the number and spacing of recessed lights. Larger rooms may require more lights or additional fixtures to ensure even illumination.

3. Lighting Needs: Consider the purpose of the lighting in each room. Task lighting is ideal for areas where focused illumination is required, while ambient lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Features

1. Dimmability: Opt for recessed lights that are compatible with dimmer switches to adjust the brightness according to your needs and mood.

2. Trim Options: Choose from a variety of trim styles, including baffle, reflector, and adjustable trims, to achieve the desired aesthetic appeal.

3. Color Temperature: Different color temperatures can create different moods. Consider warm white (2700K-3000K) for a cozy ambiance or cool white (4000K-5000K) for a more vibrant and modern feel.

Prices

The price of recessed lighting can vary depending on factors such as brand, type, features, and quantity. On average, LED recessed lights range from $20 to $100 per fixture, while halogen lights are typically cheaper, ranging from $10 to $50 per fixture. Retrofit kits can cost between $30 and $100 per kit.

Tips

1. Plan the layout: Before installing recessed lighting, create a lighting plan to ensure proper placement and spacing for optimal illumination.

2. Consider insulation: If you're installing recessed lights in insulated ceilings, choose fixtures that are IC-rated (insulation contact) to prevent heat buildup.

3. Consult a professional: If you're unsure about electrical work or need assistance with installation, it's best to consult a licensed electrician.

FAQs

Q: Can recessed lighting be installed in any ceiling?

Q: How many recessed lights do I need for my room?

Q: Are LED recessed lights worth the investment?

Q: Can I install recessed lighting myself?

Q: How do I choose the right trim style for my recessed lights?

A: Remember to optimize your content by incorporating the keywords naturally throughout the guide.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • 1) Quick and easy installation
  • 2) Variable output with selectable color temperature
  • 3) Well-designed and well-made product
  • 4) Affordable price compared to similar products
  • 5) Esthetic improvement over old fixtures
Cons
  • 1) Inaccurate color temperature (not as advertised)
  • 2) Difficulties with installation in certain types of cans
Bottom Line
The Sunco Lighting LED retrofit lights offer a quick and easy solution for replacing old fixtures. They provide variable output and an esthetic improvement at an affordable price. However, there may be issues with color temperature accuracy and installation in certain cans, and there have been reports of defective lights.
Pros
  • Easy to install
  • Super bright
  • Thin design
  • No shadows
  • Easy to slip into tight places
Cons
  • Housing doesn't have quick connect wiring
  • Some units were DOA or had issues
Bottom Line
These recessed lights are easy to install, super bright, and have a thin design that makes them easy to slip into tight places. However, some units were DOA or had issues, and the CRI is lacking.
Pros
  • Easy installation
  • Bright and well-lit
  • Adjustable color temperature
  • Smooth dimming curve
  • Comes with cut-out template and plastic connector
Cons
  • Some units have a bluish tint on the 5k setting
  • Some units may flicker and flash when turned on
Bottom Line
The ZOUZAI 6" LBT-6RPL-12 Recessed LED Panel Light units are easy to install and provide bright and adjustable lighting. However, there may be some issues with color temperature and flickering in certain units. It is recommended to check for missing parts and be cautious of the thin metal construction of the ceiling boxes. Overall, these lights offer convenience and versatility in installation.
Pros
  • Thin and easy to install
  • Good quality and no flickering
  • Multiple color temperature options
  • Bright and uniform lighting
  • Reliable and durable
Cons
  • Design flaw with cord placement
  • Some lights may have durability issues
Bottom Line
These lights are thin, easy to install, and offer good quality lighting options at an affordable price. However, buyers should be aware of potential design flaws and durability issues.
Pros
  • Excellent and easy installation
  • Bright and beautiful lights
  • Good price
  • Comparable to more expensive brands
  • Dimming feature works great
Cons
  • Top of junction box doesn't close well with plastic cable connectors
  • Metal knockout to wire the transformer doesn't come with a wire lock
Bottom Line
The product offers excellent value with easy installation and bright lights. However, there are some issues with the junction box and potential flickering with dimmers.
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