9 Best Ultra Thin Recessed Lighting (October 2026)

The best ultra thin recessed lights include the Amico 12 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin for flexible everyday lighting, the Amico 24 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin for covering several rooms, and the CHARKEE 24 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin for a large 6 inch project.

On this page (4 sections)

1. How we chose ultra thin recessed lighting
2. The best ultra thin recessed lights by use
3. How do you choose ultra thin recessed lighting?
4. Which ultra thin recessed lights should you choose?

The Amico 12 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin is our top pick for ultra thin recessed lighting because it pairs 1,050 lumens with five selectable color temperatures and dimming from 5% to 100%. For more fixtures in one project, choose the 24 pack; for smaller or larger openings, consider the 4 inch or 7 inch options.

Ultra thin wafer lights are useful when there isn't room for a traditional recessed can above the ceiling. They still need a correctly sized cutout, space for the junction box, and a compatible dimmer if you want brightness control.

For more on the category, start with our guide to slim wafer lights. If you are still comparing fixture diameters, see recessed light sizes explained.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for flexible everyday lighting

   Amico 12 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin

   8.3/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for covering several rooms

   Amico 24 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin

   8.2/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for a large 6 inch project

   CHARKEE 24 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin

   8.0/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   Amico 24 Pack 4 Inch Ultra-Thin

   Best for smaller openings
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5. 5

   Amico 12 Pack 7 Inch Ultra-Thin

   Best for larger ceiling openings
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6. 6

   MAILCOS 12 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin

   Best for metal construction
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7. 7

   TORCHSTAR 6 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin CRI90

   Best for fixed daylight color
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8. 8

   Sunco 12 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Slim Canless

   Best for a higher stated light output
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9. 9

   LZHOME 6 Pack 8 Inch Ultra-Thin

   Best for broad 8 inch coverage
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How we chose ultra thin recessed lighting

We compared the stated size, light output, color choices, dimming range and pack quantity for each option. The scores weigh those features against what someone shopping for ultra thin recessed lighting is likely to need.

The most flexible picks offer several color settings and a wide dimming range. A fixed color can still be a sensible choice when you already know you want daylight, while a larger panel can help cover an oversized opening if the cutout matches.

We also considered where a pack size makes sense. A 24 pack can simplify a larger installation, while a smaller pack may suit a room addition or a few replacement fixtures.

The best ultra thin recessed lights by use

The right ultra thin recessed lighting depends on the opening, desired brightness and whether you want to adjust color after installation. These picks are listed from highest score to lowest.

1

Amico 12 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin: Best for flexible everyday lighting

8.3/10Our score

• 12 lights
• 6 inch size
• 1,050 lumens
• 5 selectable color temperatures
• Dimming from 5% to 100%

Five color choices and a broad dimming range make this a flexible choice for rooms with changing light needs. Amico says it is damp rated and needs 2 inches of ceiling space.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 5 selectable color temperatures
• Dimming from 5% to 100%
• Damp rated

Cons

• Not for areas with direct water spray or standing water
• Not compatible with smart dimmers

The Amico 12 pack is the best all-around fit here because it combines five color settings with dimming from 5% to 100%. Each light provides 1,050 lumens, so it suits a room plan that calls for a 6 inch fixture and a strong output.

The color switch sits on the junction box, letting you select 2,700K, 3,000K, 3,500K, 4,000K or 5,000K. Amico says the lights are IC rated and need 2 inches of ceiling space, which can be useful when a full housing can won't fit.

Amico describes the fixture as damp rated for bathrooms, basements and covered outdoor areas. It should not be placed where direct water spray or standing water can reach it, and the brand says it works with most dimmers except smart dimmers.

Choose this pack for a typical room project where flexibility matters. For a wider installation, compare it with the 24 pack below.

2

Amico 24 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin: Best for covering several rooms

8.2/10Our score

• 24 lights
• 6 inch size
• 1,050 lumens
• 5 selectable color temperatures
• Dimming from 5% to 100%

This 24 pack shares the 6 inch size, 1,050 lumen output and selectable color range of the 12 pack. Its larger quantity suits projects that need more fixtures.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 24 lights in the pack
• 5 selectable color temperatures
• Dimming from 5% to 100%

Cons

• Not for areas with direct water spray or standing water
• Not compatible with smart dimmers

This Amico 24 pack suits a larger project that needs many 6 inch fixtures with adjustable color. It shares the 1,050 lumen output and five color settings of the 12 pack.

The 2,700K to 5,000K choices cover warm through cooler white light. The junction box switch lets you set the color, and the lights dim from 5% to 100% with most dimmers, though Amico excludes smart dimmers.

Amico says the fixtures are IC rated and need 2 inches of ceiling space. They are damp rated for humid settings, but not for direct spray or standing water.

Choose it when your measured layout calls for a larger quantity. If you need a smaller opening, the 4 inch Amico later in this list may fit your plan better.

3

CHARKEE 24 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin: Best for a large 6 inch project

8.0/10Our score

• 24 lights
• 6 inch size
• 1,050 lumens
• 5 selectable color temperatures
• Dimming from 5% to 100%

CHARKEE combines a 24 light pack with five color settings and 1,050 lumens per light. The brand states that the fixtures are IC rated and carry a 5 year warranty.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 24 lights in the pack
• 5 selectable color temperatures
• Brand states a 5 year warranty

Cons

• Color and dimming controls are on the junction box
• Indoor use is specified

CHARKEE's 24 pack is another option for a large 6 inch project, with 1,050 lumens per light and five color settings from 2,700K to 5,000K. The selector is on the junction box, so set the desired color before fitting each fixture into the ceiling.

The lights dim from 5% to 100% with a compatible dimmer, which is not included. CHARKEE says the fixtures are IC rated and certified by ETL, FCC and Energy Star, and states a 5 year quality service term.

The stated junction box clearance is 2 inches, and the fixture is described for indoor use. Match the ceiling cutout and wiring plan to the installation instructions before buying a full pack.

Choose this when you need 24 fixtures and want selectable color. For a smaller fixture diameter, look at the 4 inch option below.

4

Amico 24 Pack 4 Inch Ultra-Thin: Best for smaller openings

8.0/10Our score

• 24 lights
• 4 inch size
• 800 lumens
• 5 selectable color temperatures
• Dimming from 5% to 100%

The 4 inch format offers a smaller fixture size than the 6 inch options, with 800 lumens and selectable color. Amico says it needs 2 inches of ceiling space and is damp rated.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Smaller 4 inch size
• 5 selectable color temperatures
• Dimming from 5% to 100%

Cons

• Lower stated light output than the 6 inch options
• Not for areas with direct water spray or standing water

The Amico 4 inch pack suits a plan that calls for a smaller ceiling opening. Each light provides 800 lumens, with the same five selectable color temperatures and dimming from 5% to 100% as the brand's 6 inch options.

The junction box selector offers 2,700K, 3,000K, 3,500K, 4,000K and 5,000K. Amico says the lights are IC rated and need 2 inches of ceiling space, and describes them as damp rated for humid locations.

A smaller diameter does not automatically mean fewer lights are needed. Plan spacing and total room brightness before choosing the pack, then confirm the cutout size for the exact fixture.

Choose it when a 4 inch fixture is a better match than a 6 inch one. For larger openings or more light per fixture, consider the 7 inch Amico.

5

Amico 12 Pack 7 Inch Ultra-Thin: Best for larger ceiling openings

7.8/10Our score

• 12 lights
• 7 inch size
• 1,300 lumens
• 5 selectable color temperatures
• Dimming from 5% to 100%

The 7 inch panel offers 1,300 lumens and may cover some oversized openings left by 6 inch cans. Amico says it needs 2 inches of ceiling space.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 1,300 lumens per light
• 5 selectable color temperatures
• Damp rated

Cons

• Larger cutout than 6 inch options
• Not for areas with direct water spray or standing water

The Amico 7 inch option offers 1,300 lumens and five color settings, making it the brightest Amico pick in this group. Its larger panel may cover some oversized openings left by 6 inch cans.

The color choices run from 2,700K to 5,000K, and the lights dim from 5% to 100% with most dimmers. Amico says the fixture is IC rated, damp rated and needs 2 inches of ceiling space.

This is not a drop-in fit for every 6 inch opening. Measure the existing hole and check the recommended cutout before choosing a larger panel; Amico recommends a 6.9 inch hole.

Pick it when a larger fixture and higher stated output suit the room. For a standard 6 inch layout with a smaller pack, compare the MAILCOS or TORCHSTAR options.

6

MAILCOS 12 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin: Best for metal construction

7.6/10Our score

• 12 lights
• 6 inch size
• 1,050 lumens
• 5 selectable color temperatures
• Metal light body

MAILCOS describes the light body as metal and specifies five color settings, 1,050 lumens and dimming from 0% to 100%. Its stated ceiling clearance is 2 inches.

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Pros

• Metal light body
• 5 selectable color temperatures
• Dimming from 0% to 100%

Cons

• The pack contains 12 lights
• Damp rating is not specified

MAILCOS offers a 12 pack of 6 inch lights with 1,050 lumens and five selectable color temperatures. The light body is metal, and the stated dimming range starts at 0%.

The junction box selector covers 2,700K through 5,000K. MAILCOS says the lights are IC rated and ETL certified and need 2 inches of ceiling space, which suits a shallow ceiling cavity when the installation conditions match.

Damp rating is not specified for this fixture, so confirm location suitability before using it in a bathroom or covered exterior space. Also check dimmer compatibility for your existing control.

Choose this if metal construction and a 12 fixture pack fit your needs. For fixed 5,000K daylight and CRI90, consider TORCHSTAR next.

7

TORCHSTAR 6 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin CRI90: Best for fixed daylight color

7.6/10Our score

• 6 lights
• 6 inch size
• 1,100 lumens
• 5,000K daylight color
• CRI90

TORCHSTAR offers 1,100 lumens at a fixed 5,000K color temperature, with CRI90 and dimming from 5% to 100%. It needs 2 inches of clearance.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• CRI90
• 1,100 lumens
• Dimming from 5% to 100%

Cons

• Fixed 5,000K color
• 6 lights in the pack

TORCHSTAR is a focused choice for buyers who already want 5,000K daylight rather than selectable color. Each 6 inch light provides 1,100 lumens, has CRI90 and dims from 5% to 100%.

The 6 pack is smaller than the 12 and 24 fixture options, which can suit a limited project. TORCHSTAR says the light needs 2 inches of clearance and is IC rated for contact with ceiling insulation.

Because the color is fixed, this is less adaptable if you later decide a warmer tone would suit the room better. Check the ceiling opening and use a dimmer that is compatible with the fixture.

Choose it when daylight color and CRI90 matter more than changing color temperature. For selectable color temperature and a higher stated output, compare the Sunco pack.

8

Sunco 12 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Slim Canless: Best for a higher stated light output

7.5/10Our score

• 12 lights
• 6 inch size
• 1,200 lumens
• 5 selectable color temperatures
• Dimming from 10% to 100%

Sunco provides 1,200 lumens and five selectable color temperatures from 2,700K to 6,000K. Its dimming range starts at 10%.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 1,200 lumens
• 5 selectable color temperatures
• 12 lights in the pack

Cons

• Dimming starts at 10%
• 6 inch size may not fit smaller openings

Sunco stands out for its 1,200 lumen output in a 6 inch, 12 pack format. Its five color choices run from 2,700K to 6,000K.

The dimming range is 10% to 100%, so it does not go as low as several alternatives. Sunco says the lights are IC rated and use spring loaded brackets that fit single drywall, double drywall and soffit ceilings.

Check the color options and dimmer range against the room plan. The 6 inch size still needs an opening that matches the fixture, and the lights are described for indoor use.

Choose it if you want higher stated lumens and a cool 6,000K option. For broad coverage from a larger fixture, the 8 inch LZHOME is the final pick.

9

LZHOME 6 Pack 8 Inch Ultra-Thin: Best for broad 8 inch coverage

7.1/10Our score

• 6 lights
• 8 inch size
• 1,800 lumens
• 3 selectable color temperatures
• Dimming from 5% to 100%

The 8 inch panel provides 1,800 lumens and three selectable color temperatures. LZHOME calls for a ceiling cutout between 8.1 and 8.3 inches.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 1,800 lumens
• Dimming from 5% to 100%
• Three selectable color temperatures

Cons

• Requires a much larger ceiling cutout
• 6 lights in the pack

LZHOME's 8 inch fixture is the largest option here, with 1,800 lumens and three selectable color temperatures: 3,000K, 4,500K and 6,000K. The 6 pack suits a project where a broad panel and high stated output fit the ceiling plan.

The lights dim from 5% to 100%. LZHOME specifies a cutout between 8.1 and 8.3 inches, so measure carefully before making a new hole or replacing an existing light.

This size calls for more ceiling space in the visible opening than the 4 inch and 6 inch picks. Its larger panel may suit a broad room, but placement and spacing still determine the overall layout.

Choose it when an 8 inch cutout and 1,800 lumens match your needs. For help planning fixture locations, use our simple recessed lighting layout guide.

How do you choose ultra thin recessed lighting?

Choose by cutout size first, then compare light output, color options, dimming and pack quantity. A fixture that is too large for the opening or too bright for the plan can create more work than its slim profile saves.

Which size fits the ceiling opening?

Match the fixture to the measured cutout and the required hole size. A 4 inch, 6 inch or 8 inch fixture needs a different opening, and the LZHOME 8 inch model specifies an 8.1 to 8.3 inch cutout.

For a replacement in an existing ceiling, measure the hole before you buy. Amico says its 7 inch panel may cover some oversized holes from 6 inch cans, and recommends a 6.9 inch opening for installation.

See our guide to 3, 4, 5 and 6 inch recessed light sizes for more context on common dimensions.

How much ceiling clearance do wafer lights need?

Several options here specify as little as 2 inches of ceiling space for the junction box. That can help where a full can housing will not fit, but wiring, joists and local installation requirements still shape what is possible.

Check the instructions for the exact fixture before cutting. If the ceiling has insulation, confirm the fixture's rating and follow its installation directions.

Should you choose selectable color or fixed color?

Selectable color is useful when you want to choose between warm and cool white before installation. Amico, CHARKEE, MAILCOS and Sunco offer multiple settings, while TORCHSTAR's pick is fixed at 5,000K daylight.

Set the color on the junction box before fitting the fixture into the ceiling. If you are choosing lights for a particular room, our recessed lighting guide by room can help you plan.

How many lumens should each light have?

Compare the stated lumens with fixture size and the number of lights in your layout. The picks here range from 800 lumens for the 4 inch Amico to 1,800 lumens for the 8 inch LZHOME.

More lumens from one light do not automatically make a better room plan. Spacing, ceiling height, wall color and the room's tasks all affect how bright the finished space feels.

For a deeper explanation, read our guide to recessed lighting lumens.

Are damp rated wafer lights waterproof?

No. Damp rating can make a fixture suitable for some humid locations, but it does not mean the light is made for direct water spray or standing water.

Amico describes its picks as damp rated and gives that limitation. Confirm the exact fixture rating and placement guidance before installing near a shower, tub or outdoor exposure.

Which ultra thin recessed lights should you choose?

Choose the Amico 12 pack for adaptable 6 inch lighting with five color settings and dimming from 5% to 100%. Pick the 24 pack when your project needs more fixtures, the Amico 4 inch for a smaller opening, or the LZHOME 8 inch when its cutout and output fit your plan.

Before ordering, check the cutout, junction box clearance, dimmer compatibility and location rating for the exact model. Our guide to slim wafer lights covers the basic differences between canless fixtures and traditional recessed cans.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for flexible everyday lighting

   Amico 12 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin

   8.3/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for covering several rooms

   Amico 24 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin

   8.2/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for a large 6 inch project

   CHARKEE 24 Pack 6 Inch Ultra-Thin

   8.0/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What makes recessed lighting ultra thin?

Ultra thin recessed lights use a shallow fixture and a separate junction box instead of a full can housing. Many models in this guide call for about 2 inches of ceiling space, but the opening size and box placement still matter.

Check the exact cutout and clearance before planning the layout.

Are ultra thin recessed lights good for low ceilings?

They can fit ceilings with limited room above the drywall because the fixture is shallow and canless. Several picks here specify 2 inches of ceiling space, but you should compare that with the joists and wiring in your ceiling.

Use a qualified electrician if you are unsure about safe installation.

Should I choose 4 inch or 6 inch ultra thin lights?

Choose a 4 inch fixture when you want a smaller opening and its light output fits the room plan. A 6 inch fixture can provide more light per unit in these picks, but match it to the ceiling cutout and spacing you need.

Our recessed light size guide explains common sizes.

What color temperature should I choose?

A lower color temperature such as 2,700K looks warmer, while higher settings such as 5,000K look cooler. Selectable CCT lets you choose among several settings on the fixture's junction box before installation.

For a room-based plan, see our guide to recessed lighting by room.

Can ultra thin recessed lights be installed in a bathroom?

Some damp rated lights can be used in bathrooms, but damp rating does not mean they are suitable for direct water spray or standing water. Amico describes several picks here as damp rated and gives that limitation.

Check the rating and placement guidance for the exact model before installing near a shower or tub.