In our eyes, Barrina LED T5 is a good choice for the best lighting for the basement. Clear light, low budget, and longevity are the consideration to select this one as the first pick.
Alternatively, you can check on Sunco recessed or fixtures for the basement lighting system.
When looking for the best lighting for the basement, every buyer wants to get a lighting system that will suit his or her purpose for purchasing the light.
The only challenge is that there are many varieties of basement lights that one can easily get lost in making a choice.
What most buyers look out for is the functionality of the light as well as durability. Other things include the illumination, ease of installation, affordability, among others.
But that is not a problem since we have taken out time to review different basement lights to finally come up with the ones we consider fit to sit in your basement.
Contents
The Comparison Table of Top 10 Best Lighting for Basement
| Preview | Brand | Details |
|---|---|---|
  | Barrina LED T5 | |
  | Sunco LED Recessed | |
  | Sunco Lighting LED | |
  | Sunco LED Can Recessed | |
  | Hykolity LED Shop Light | |
  | Lithonia Lighting LED | |
  | LED T5 Integrated | |
  | Torchstar Recessed ceiling light | |
  | Tanbaby Basement Lighting | |
  | Lithonia Lighting |
Buying Considerations When Buying Best Lighting For Basement Fixtures
One important thing to read before making a purchase is to find out the areas to look out for, especially if you are looking at getting the best lighting for the basement or for any lighting fixture.
Here are 6 things to look out for when choosing a lighting system.
01. Illumination
This is one thing you will probably be on the lookout for before buying a basement light.
The brighter, the better as it will most likely cover more space and save you the need to buy multiple lighting fixtures.
However, some exceptions call for warm, bright light such as hotels, restaurants, and any other place that needs a gentle touch. But for a workplace, more colorful light will do.
02. Fluorescent or LED?
Both might be considered as white lights, but they have many differences. LED has a lot of advantages over fluorescent tubes.
LED is usually environmentally friendly because it does not emit as many UV rays as the former, and it sure lasts longer than fluorescent tubes.
And with LED, you won’t have to bother about heat because it uses lesser voltage in most cases.
03. Durability
One way to save cost is to go for lightings that will last the longest. Be sure to look out for the number of hours of light so that you don’t keep replacing bulbs after bulbs.
Speaking of durability, the material the light is made of is also essential. Usually, an aluminum or metal body makes for more durability.
04. Versatility
Some lighting can only be fixed on the wall, and some can only be set on the ceiling.
Except you are sure where you want to have it, it will be better to go for the one that can be fixed in both areas.
05. Multipurpose
Is the lighting limited to basement use, or can it use in other areas? From experience, it is better to go for lighting fixtures that can serve you in different areas of your home or office.
06. Ease of installation
A lighting fixture that you can fix without having to call a technician is much better than the one that requires you to get professional help.
However, some lights are sophisticated and made for unique places, and if that is the case, you can afford to go with them, such as long it meets your needs or taste.
Besides, most of the lights we reviewed are not just suitable for basements but other parts of your home or workplace. With that said, here is our top 10 choice to help you make an informed buying decision.
How many recessed lights are needed for the basement?
The exact number really depends upon basement to basement, but the easiest way is to think this way that basements are dark so you will need more light to keep illuminated.
If you are considering one room for illumination in the basement, then make sure that you divide that room into different sections and each section of the room would need lights.
How much space in lighting is needed in the basement?
The lighting in the basement depends upon the need. You can place downlights about 8 to 10 inches apart.
However, if the ceiling of the basement is lower than 8 inches then you can decrease the distance and have greater light.
If the lights are not strong enough then they will not be able to illuminate the basement even if they are properly placed.
You need to make sure that the lights are strong enough and are properly spaced to have the basement illuminated.
So, the placement and spacing of the lights in the basement are very important but along with that, the lights must be bright to provide illumination for the whole room.
10 Best Lighting For Basement Reviews 2021
01. Barrina LED T5 (pack of 6) Integrated single fixture – Best Basement Lighting
Highlighted Features
- Item weight – 4.95 pounds
- Number of lights – 6
- Product Dimensions – 46.1 x 0.9 x 1.4 inches
- Power – 20W
- Power source – corded electric
- Input voltage – AC85-265V
- Luminous flux – 100-110lm each watt
- Material – aluminum and PC
- CCT – 6500k
The Barrina LED T5 features a super bright white bulb that comes with 4ft, 20 watts low power consumption integrated single fixture.
Although made to serve as under the cabinet and ceiling light, this basement lighting comes with a corded electric and an accompanying On/Off switch.
The lighting allows you to save at least 65% on electricity bills and yet bright enough with its 2200 lumens output.
It allows for 8 bulbs tube bulbs with its extendable and linkable design and also its seamless connectors.
Barrina LED T5 is easy to install with its plug-and-play feature. All it needs is to be hanged up and the plug inserted to have the lighting up and running.
The lighting can serve in the garage, home, workbench, under cabinet, basement, or as general lighting for the office.
Although the Barrina LED T5 is a great basement lighting option, it usually interferes with radio frequencies and does not allow for remote control of things like garage doors, among others.
However, it is still a great option for people looking for efficiency and durability.
Pros
- Energy saving
- Durable with a lifespan of 50,000 hours
- Easy to install
Cons
- Interferes with the proper functioning of garage doors
02. Sunco Lighting (12-pack) LED Recessed Downlight – the perfect solution for large rooms
Highlighted Features
- Item weight – 8.65 pounds
- Product Dimensions – 17 x 12.5 x 17 inches
- Size – 12 pack
- Color – 3000k warm white
- Material – metal
- Power source – corded electric
- Power – 13W
- Luminous flux – 965.00
- Voltage – 120 volts
Sunco Lighting LED recessed downlight features a 12-pack 5/6 inch dimmable and baffle trim bulb with a 3000k warm white color. It allows for simple retrofit installation and can be used for general purposes.
It also allows for smooth dimming capabilities so that you can control the ambiance of wherever it is mounted.
The Sunco also features a wide flood beam angle of 90 degrees to cover a large room.
What this also means is that the light will be softer and more diffused so that it can serve in both homes and offices.
With all the good things about this lighting, some users have complained that the tension clip of the light usually pops off during installation.
Pros
- Dimmable
- Easy installation
- Adjustable
Cons
- Tension clips of the light might pop-off
03. Sunco Lighting (4-pack) LED Light – best lighting for unfinished basement ceiling
Highlighted Features
- Item weight – 3.45 pounds
- Product dimensions – 50 x 5.6 x 2.4 inches
- Size – 4 packs
- Material – metal
- Voltage – 120 volts
- Power source – corded electric
- Power – 40 watts
Sunco Lighting (4-pack) LED light features a 4ft, 40 watts utility shop light. It is a linkable integrated fixture with a frosted lens and pulls a chain that allows for suspension/surface mount. It is a commercial-grade that performs optimally and safely.
Additionally, if you are looking for a LED shop light that is linkable and allows up to 4 additional lights on just one power source, you can count on Sunco lighting.
It is energy-saving and can be used in both home and office spaces.
You won’t have to bother about re-lamping frequently because this light offers up to 50,000 hours.
It emits less harmful chemicals than what is obtainable with most lighting options.
But, for some people, this lighting option can be too bright for the eyes.
Pros
- 120 degrees angle beam
- Easy installation
- Can link additional 4 shop lights
Cons
- Light can be too bright
04. Sunco Lighting (6-pack) Remodel LED Can Recessed Lighting – Airtight and thermal protection lighting
Highlighted Features
- Item weight – 9.02 pounds
- Product dimensions – 16 x 6 x 13 inches
- Size – 6 packs
- Material – metal
- Voltage – 120 -227 volts
- finish – chrome
Sunco lighting (6-pack of 4 inches) features a thermally and airtight protected IC steel that allows for easy installation in your home or office ceiling.
It is insulated and, therefore, will not overheat or expose your space to a fire outbreak. The lighting, which comes with an LED bulb, does not allow heat or air conditioning to leak out of your home.
It comes with a TP24 connector so that it can be hung with bar hangers. The product is compliant with the Title 24 energy standards for efficiency to ensure that each product performs optimally and safely.
With the TP24 connector, you can also add 4 inches retrofits, and because it comes with an LED bulb, and you get to conserve energy and support the greener initiative movement.
One thing to bear in mind is that the clips that come with this lighting system may not clamp close on thick drywalls.
Pros
- Thermally-protected can
- Made for general purpose
- Thermal insulation
Cons
- Clips may not clamp
05. Hykolity 4ft LED Shop Light Fixture – for a commercial ceiling, home, and office garage
Highlighted Features
- Item weight – 17.7 pounds
- Product Dimensions – 47.4 x 5.5 x 2.6 inches
- Size – 4 lights
- Color – 5000k daylight
- Material – polycarbonate cover and rolled steel
- Power source – corded electric
- Power – 40W
- Luminous flux – 4000 lm
- Voltage – 100 – 277 volts
Hykolity LED Shop Light Fixture is a 4ft shop light fixture that features a 40 watts general purpose usage light.
It also features 4000 lumens output that ensures that you have ultra brightness to meet your lighting needs for the full application. You are assured of getting 5000k daylight with this light.
Operating at 100 – 277 voltage, Hykolity comes with integrated LED light bulbs so that you don’t always have to replace your bulbs often.
There is no need for ballast for installation since it can be mounted on ceilings or walls with the mounting hardware that is included.
Additionally, it is an ETL-certified product that promises to be of high quality.
The wraparound lights can be used in various places like the closet, kitchen, office, basement, stairwells, garage, or even under the cabinet.
Installing this may not be very easy for someone not experienced in mounting lights.
Pros
- Energy-saving
- 50,000 hours of light
- Uniform color distribution
Cons
- Difficult installation
06. Lithonia Lighting FMLWL 48830 LED 4ft Wraparound Flushmount – Lightweight standard 2 bulb replacement
Highlighted Features
- Item weight – 5 pounds
- Product Dimensions – 47.4 x 5.5 x 2.6 inches
- Size – 4-foot
- Color – 3000k bright white
- Material – metal
- Power source – corded electric
- Power – 40W
- Luminous flux – 2380 lm
- Voltage – 120 volts
Lithonia lighting FMLWL 48830 LED 4ft wraparound light features 1400 lumens bright LED light that can last for up to 50,000 hours.
The LED wraparound is made of a metal casing with end caps and decorative plastics. It is a thermal-formed diffuser for high-angle brightness and lamp image minimization.
Coming with mounting hardware, the Lithonia lighting 48830 is for ceiling or wall applications and also comes with a prismatic acrylic lens that is impact-resistant.
It can be used to replace T12 wraps or 2-light traditional fluorescent T8.
The lighting is perfect for offices, hallways, garages, stairwells, or anywhere that requires ambient light.
You may have to contend with the cover not being able to completely cover all the wirings. Some users said they had to use cello tape to tape the cover before they were able to hide the connecting wires.
Pros
- Super-bright lights
- Easy installation
- Multi-purpose
Cons
- Cover not big enough to conceal the electrical wires
07. LED T5 (Pack of 8) Integrated Single Fixture – the low maintenance lighting
Highlighted Features
- Item weight – 7.27 pounds
- Package dimensions – 46.8 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches
- Size – 8 lights
- CCT – 6500k
- Material – Aluminum and plastic
- Power source – corded electric
- Power – 20W
- Luminous flux – 100 – 110 lm
- Voltage – 120 volts
LED T5 (Pack of 8) integrated single fixture lighting features a 4ft and 20 watts power LED ceiling, under the ceiling, and utility LED light with corded electric.
Beaming at an angle of 270 degrees, it is made of good quality aluminum and a superior PC.
It provides 100 – 110 luminous flux per watt. It uses low thermal output and low energy consumption and is mercury-free.
With a long life span of up to 50,000 hours, there will be no need for replacement for a long time. This means you get about 10 times longer lighting than you get with conventional ones.
And, it is low-maintenance and suitable for lighting up work areas, garages, utility rooms, basements, among others. It can be used to replace fluorescent light and other existing fixtures you may already have.
Although it has great features, users have complained of it interfering with their radio frequency that could reduce internet speed and remote garage door control.
Pros
- Multipurpose use
- Lasts up to 50,000 hours
- Super bright light
Cons
- Emits radio frequency that interferes with garage doors
08. Torchstar Ultra-thin Recessed ceiling light – the perfect light for space-saving
Highlighted Features
- Item weight – 13.9 pounds
- Package dimensions – 17.1 x 11.2 x 6.6 inches
- Size – 12 lights
- Color – 3000k daylight
- Material – aluminum and PC
- Power source – AC
- Power – 12W
- Luminous flux – 850lm
- Voltage – 12 volts
Torchstar Ultra-thin recessed ceiling light features high brightness recessed light that takes up only 2 inches of ceiling space.
It consumes low power with its 12 watts and 100 – 130 voltage. With its 850lm brightness, it covers what you get with a 100w incandescent lamp.
Additionally, it features an anti-glare frosted lens and is also scratch-resistant. For this lighting system, you are sure of getting 36,000 hours lifespan.
Installation is a breeze since all you need do is connect the J-box that is included to the male/female cable, and then clip it with a spring clip to the ceiling.
It is ETL certified and IC rated, meaning it is safe to be installed on the ceiling.
Another thing that attracts us to this light is that it prevents corrosion and rust due to its aluminum body makeup.
Torchstar ultra-thin recessed light is dimmable and can be used in the doorway, closet, hallways, kitchen, and other places.
The junction box that this product comes with is said to be small and does not conceal all the wires very well.
Pros
- Space-saving
- Easy installation
- Wide application
Cons
- Interferes with radio and antenna frequency
09. Tanbaby Basement Lighting with 6000 lumens – warm white light that’s easy on the eyes
Highlighted Features
- Item weight – 1.9 pounds
- Package dimensions – 7.6 x 6.6 x 6.3 inches
- Size – 3 ultra-light heads with 72 lights
- Color – 3000k warm white light
- Material – metal
- Power source – plug-in
- Power – 80W
- Luminous flux – 6000 lumen
- Voltage – 110 volts
Tanbaby basement lighting with 6000 lumens features 3 ultra-bright aluminum adjustable LED headlights that provide 6000 lumens, uses 80 watts with 3000k warm light that is easy on the eyes.
Perfect for kitchen, garage, basement, bedroom, office, workshop, etc., it has 50,000 hours and lasts longer than fluorescent, incandescent, and halogen bulbs.
With its 90 degrees adjustable head, you are sure of 360 degrees coverage. It is made of aluminum alloy housing that is durable and stable.
No wiring, tools, or professional electricians are needed since you can screw the lighting system into your existing bulb space.
Tanbaby basement 6000-lumen lighting has a cooling fin and heat dissipation design to serve the whole family. Every screw is manufactured with aluminum for durability.
Few users complained of some of the LED chips not working after a short while, however, it is still a good light for general use.
Pros
- Heat dissipation
- Adjustable aluminum lamp holder
- 72 LED chips
- 50, 000 hours lifespan
Cons
- Does not come with ON/OFF button
10. Lithonia FMLFUTL 24-inch Lighting – perfect for any area including damp areas
Highlighted Features
- Item weight – 3.9 pounds
- Product Dimensions – 24 x 9.9 x 3.5 inches
- Size – 1 pack
- Color – 4000k
- Material – other
- Power source – corded electric
- Power – 25.8W
- Luminous flux – 2,180 lumen
- Voltage – 120 volts
Lithonia FMLFUTL 24-inch LED light features a textured 4000k bright white acrylic lens that uses 120 volts and 25.8 watts.
The multiple application fixtures can be used in offices, kitchens, the basement, bedrooms, and other utility work areas.
The dimmable LED light comes with Canada and USA certifications like CUL, UL, and Energy Star.
It is also certified to be used in damp areas. Lithonia FMLFUTL also allows for easy installation with all parts needed for installation included in the package.
Rated to last for 50,000 hours, it replaces the need to change tube bulbs continually. It offers general illumination for even distribution of light.
The product description says it is brushed nickel but users complained that it was instead a silver paintbrush over plastic.
Pros
- Multi-purpose
- Dimmable light
- Easy installation
Cons
- Not brushed nickel but instead silver paintbrush over plastic
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Lighting for Basement
How to choose proper lighting for a basement?
Basements can be dark and uncomfortable to be in, to make sure that they are more homely, you need to have proper lighting.
To choose the proper lighting for the basement, you need to follow the following steps:
Step 1: Maximize natural light
To be able to choose proper lighting for the basement, you need to make sure that you maximize the natural light.
Don’t cover the windows as the covering will stop the light from coming in and you will need more light.
To enhance the effect of the natural light, get the furniture, carpets, and other household items in light colors for the basement so that it becomes lively.
Curtains can prevent the natural light from coming in so all that you have to depend on is the installed lights.
Step 2: Add sufficient lighting
Now, to have enough light to make the basement lively and cozy, you will need sufficient light.
For basements that don’t have any windows or natural lights, you need to have enough light to make them cozy and comfortable enough to live in.
The trick here is that you need to have enough light to have the basement fully lit during the night. You can add light through the ceiling fixtures or the lights that are installed into the walls.
Some people may not like very bright and harsh light, and for some people, bright light is capable of straining the eyes.
In this case, you can decrease the amount of light by dimming lights. The dimming light controls will help you in getting the desired amount of light.
Step 3: Add lamps
Sometimes, to make the basement even cozier, you need lamps. Adding a few lamps here and there will give you the light that will make you feel homely.
If you have a study table then you can have a table lamp and it will add to the overall lighting of the room. The installed basement lights may not be enough to make you feel comfortable.
Step 4: Compare and contrast the types of light bulbs for the basement
While looking for lights in the basement, you need to compare and contrast the different types of lights available.
This will help you in picking out the best and the most suitable lights for your basement.
Incandescent bulbs
The incandescent bulbs are popular for producing a warm and cozy light but if you look at their long-term performance then you will be disappointed as they are not very energy-efficient and they are also not very environmentally friendly.
This kind of bulbs is great for basements where you will keep the bulbs on for a while and turn them off. In the long term, they will be short-lived so they are not cost-effective.
The worst thing about these kinds of bulbs is that they make the overall environment hot.
If you are using the basement as a place for a workout then you will surely need a more comfortable and appealing environment so the incandescent bulbs are a bib no-no.
Fluorescent bulbs
In comparison to incandescent bulbs, fluorescent bulbs are long-lasting and last 10 times longer. Also, they require very little energy which is why they are energy efficient.
The only thing that is not appreciated by people is that they emit a harsh white light which may cause a strain to the eyes.
If you are not bothered by the white light then you can surely give fluorescent bulbs a try.
LED bulbs
The LED bulbs are super amazing, they last 10 times longer than the fluorescent bulbs and they also have greater efficiency and a low operating cost.
The only thing that is not great about these bulbs is that they are expensive.
So, initially, you will have to spend some extra money as compared to the other types but in the future, you will not have trouble.
Invest in these durable bulbs and you will enjoy properly illuminated rooms for quite some time.
Is a single layer of light enough in the basement?
Some basements are extremely dark with minimal natural light and they can be very uncomfortable. So, having only a single layer of lighting on the ceiling is not enough.
In such basements, to make the lighting more natural you need to add accent lighting.
You can add some eye-level lights and a few table lamps to make the basement room even more natural and cozy.
Even in the basements with natural light, people like to have lamps to add to the light and to have a bright and fresh environment instead of a dull one.
What is the benefit of dimming controls?
The lighting in the basement can be very harsh and artificial sometimes. It may even cause strain to the eyes of people.
So, to reduce the harshness or the brightness of the lights, the dimming controls come in handy as they help in dimming the lights when needed.
Also, the moods of the people keep changing, sometimes they want very bright light and sometimes they are cool with dim light, the dimming light control allows the adjustment of the lights according to the desire.
So, once you have different sections of the room, you can figure out how much light would be enough for the specific section.
Another thing that you can do is divide the rooms by tasks. For example, you have a study room then you will need accent lights as well to add more light while you are studying.
Similarly, if you have a pool table you can put it in a specific room and then have enough light to easily play. Also, if you have a dressing room, then you will surely need more light than usual.
By doing this, you will give a switch to a specific task. This way, you will never have light insufficiency.
After doing this, if you feel that there are any dark areas in the basement then you can surely go ahead and add more lights.
What should be avoided while installing lights in the basement?
One thing that should certainly be avoided while installing lights in the basement is to make sure that a single grip pattern is no followed in all the rooms for the lights.
This will make the whole basement artificial and not a comfortable place to be in. You will always get a feeling that you are sitting in some office or a hospital.
When you are installing lights in a specific room then you can surely go ahead and align the lights and have uniformity but don’t follow the same pattern through the basement.
As mentioned earlier the placement of the lights is very important to have the room illuminated.
Another thing that should be avoided is that the harsh lights must not be placed throughout the basement.
People may place fluorescent bulbs in some places but having them everywhere will create an environment that will be harsh to the eyes and it will surely not feel cozy.
Pick out the kind of lights depending upon the area. For example, you can place an incandescent bulb in the storeroom as it will remain closed mostly and you can place bright LED lights in the lounge.
Are LED lights expensive?
Once you are looking for LED lights, you may find them expensive but in the long run, they are a good investment as they prevent you from spending money on bulbs.
Also, they are very energy efficient and they also don’t cause strain to the eyes.
Since they are very durable, they will last you for a very long while. The best part is that they are easy to install as well.
Conclusion
We have succeeded in listing out the top 10 best lightings for the basement to help you get the best light for your needs.
No doubt, having a good light for your basement is very important, and we have also taken out time to mention most of the things you should look out for when choosing one.
We hope you find it interesting as we did, and if you have any further questions or need more clarification, do not hesitate to use the comment section, and we will be glad to give you feedback as soon as we can.
