Recessed light conversion kits instantly upgrade outdated can lights with very little effort. These handy kits swap old 5- or 6-inch cans for pendants, chandeliers, or even ceiling fans—no drywall cutting required.
Most come with a mounting bracket, E26 socket, and a sleek round medallion to cover holes and wiring. Many support heavier fixtures, work on sloped ceilings, and offer dimmable, energy-saving LED options that I’ll walk you through next.
| Recessed to Pendant Light Converter Kit |
| Easiest Retrofit Pick | Primary Function: Convert 5–6″ recessed cans to pendant fixtures | Compatible Can Size: 5″ and 6″ recessed cans | Max Fixture/Fan Load: Up to 50 lbs (pendants/chandeliers) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Luvkczc Recessed Can Light Conversion Kit |
| Best Decorative Medallion | Primary Function: Convert 5–6″ recessed cans to pendant/flush fixtures | Compatible Can Size: 5″ and 6″ recessed cans | Max Fixture/Fan Load: Up to 50 lbs (light fixtures) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Sunco 6-Inch LED Recessed Retrofit Lights (12-Pack) |
| Best LED Upgrade | Primary Function: Retrofit 5–6″ cans with LED recessed downlights | Compatible Can Size: 5″ and 6″ housings | Max Fixture/Fan Load: N/A (self-contained LED trims, not load‑bearing for other fixtures) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Can Converter R56 Recessed Light Conversion Kit |
| Best For Fans | Primary Function: Convert 5–6″ recessed cans to pendant, chandelier, or fan mounting point | Compatible Can Size: 5″ and 6″ recessed cans (size fits 6″ cans) | Max Fixture/Fan Load: Up to 50 lbs fixtures; up to 35 lbs ceiling fans | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Recessed Can Light Conversion Kit with Medallion |
| Heavy-Duty DIY Choice | Primary Function: Convert 5–6″ recessed cans to pendant or hanging fixtures; supports fans | Compatible Can Size: 5″ and 6″ recessed fixtures | Max Fixture/Fan Load: Up to 50 lbs fixtures; up to 35 lbs ceiling fans | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| FREELICHT 6-Inch Dimmable Retrofit LED Recessed Lights |
| Brightest LED Retrofit | Primary Function: Retrofit 6″ cans with flat, dimmable LED recessed downlights | Compatible Can Size: 6″ recessed lighting spaces | Max Fixture/Fan Load: N/A (10W LED trims, not load‑bearing for other fixtures) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Recessed Can Light Conversion Kit with Medallion |
| Stylish Black Option | Primary Function: Convert 5–6″ recessed cans to pendant or hanging fixtures; supports fans | Compatible Can Size: 5″ and 6″ recessed cans | Max Fixture/Fan Load: Up to 50 lbs fixtures; up to 35 lbs ceiling fans | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Recessed Can Light Conversion Kit with Medallion |
| Versatile Home Upgrade | Primary Function: Convert 5–6″ recessed cans to pendant or hanging fixtures; supports fans | Compatible Can Size: 5″ and 6″ recessed cans | Max Fixture/Fan Load: Up to 50 lbs fixtures; up to 35 lbs ceiling fans | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Recessed to Pendant Light Converter Kit
Should you be tired of staring at a plain recessed light and wishing it could be a beautiful pendant or chandelier instead, a recessed to pendant light converter kit is made for you. You use your existing 5 or 6 inch recessed can and turn it into a stylish focal point, without opening ceilings or calling an electrician.
You attach the mounting bracket, twist in the wired E26 socket, then secure the round ceiling plate. The white decorative cover and medallion hide the hardware, so everything looks polished. Strong brackets and reinforced screws safely hold up to 50 pounds, so your new pendant hangs straight and secure.
- Primary Function:Convert 5–6″ recessed cans to pendant fixtures
- Compatible Can Size:5″ and 6″ recessed cans
- Max Fixture/Fan Load:Up to 50 lbs (pendants/chandeliers)
- Medallion / Trim Style:Round ceiling plate with white cover/medallion to hide hardware
- Included Electrical Interface:Wired E26 socket
- Installation Complexity:Easy retrofit; minutes to install; recessed or surface mount; hides hardware
- Additional Feature:Works with surface mounts
- Additional Feature:Decorative cover hides hardware
- Additional Feature:Adjustable universal bracket
Luvkczc Recessed Can Light Conversion Kit
Should you be tired of staring at plain recessed cans but don’t want to rip open your ceiling, the Luvkczc Recessed Can Light Conversion Kit gives you a simple, stress-free way to upgrade. It fits 5 and 6 inch cans, so you can use it in most homes without guessing sizes. The flat round medallion hides gaps, adds style, and you can even paint it to match your trim.
You get all the hardware you need, and once it’s up, no screws show. It holds up to 50 pounds, works on sloped ceilings, and handles many bulb types for flexible styling.
- Primary Function:Convert 5–6″ recessed cans to pendant/flush fixtures
- Compatible Can Size:5″ and 6″ recessed cans
- Max Fixture/Fan Load:Up to 50 lbs (light fixtures)
- Medallion / Trim Style:Flat, round decorative medallion, paintable
- Included Electrical Interface:Socket adapter for medium base bulbs
- Installation Complexity:DIY flush-mount conversion; all hardware included; no major remodeling; no visible screws
- Additional Feature:Paintable decorative medallion
- Additional Feature:Sloped ceilings to 45°
- Additional Feature:No visible mounting screws
Sunco 6-Inch LED Recessed Retrofit Lights (12-Pack)
Sunco’s 6-inch LED Recessed Retrofit Lights are a great fit in case you want your old ceiling cans to look modern, feel brighter, and use less energy without hiring an electrician. You simply remove the old trim, screw the adapter into the socket, and pop the new light into your 5 or 6 inch housing.
You get 965 lumens while using only 13 watts, so each light easily replaces a 75 watt bulb. You can also pick your color tone, from warm 2700K to crisp 5000K. They dim smoothly, work in damp rooms, and Sunco backs them with a 7 year warranty.
- Primary Function:Retrofit 5–6″ cans with LED recessed downlights
- Compatible Can Size:5″ and 6″ housings
- Max Fixture/Fan Load:N/A (self-contained LED trims, not load‑bearing for other fixtures)
- Medallion / Trim Style:Smooth baffle trim LED module
- Included Electrical Interface:E26 adapter/plug-in style for existing can housings
- Installation Complexity:Simple retrofit into existing housings; guided by manual; damp‑location ready
- Additional Feature:Five selectable color temps
- Additional Feature:7-year protection warranty
- Additional Feature:12-pack value bundle
Can Converter R56 Recessed Light Conversion Kit
Lighting makeovers often stall because of one big headache: that old recessed can in your ceiling that seems to lock you into a look you no longer love. The Can Converter R56 kit helps you escape that trap. It turns a 5 or 6 inch can into a solid mounting point for a pendant, chandelier, or even a ceiling fan.
You get a flat 7¾ inch steel medallion, a paintable goof ring, and hardware that sits almost flush, only 1/16 inch down. It safely supports fixtures up to 50 pounds and fans up to 35, all UL certified for peace of mind.
- Primary Function:Convert 5–6″ recessed cans to pendant, chandelier, or fan mounting point
- Compatible Can Size:5″ and 6″ recessed cans (size fits 6″ cans)
- Max Fixture/Fan Load:Up to 50 lbs fixtures; up to 35 lbs ceiling fans
- Medallion / Trim Style:7¾” flat steel ceiling medallion with paintable goof ring, low profile
- Included Electrical Interface:E26 medium bulb base interface for fixtures/fans
- Installation Complexity:DIY install with instructions; no drywall cutting; uses existing can opening
- Additional Feature:UL safety certified
- Additional Feature:Includes paintable goof ring
- Additional Feature:Fan support up to 35 lbs
Recessed Can Light Conversion Kit with Medallion
Tired of staring at a boring recessed can light where you wish you had a beautiful pendant or chandelier instead? This Recessed Can Light Conversion Kit with Medallion lets you change that in a single afternoon. You use it with 5 or 6 inch cans and quickly turn them into a pendant, chandelier, or even a ceiling fan.
The flat 7¾ inch white steel medallion hides the old opening and instantly looks more finished. Because it’s made from premium steel, it safely supports fixtures up to 50 pounds and fans up to 35. You get a socket adapter, hardware, and clear instructions, so you can install it yourself without drywall work or hiring help.
- Primary Function:Convert 5–6″ recessed cans to pendant or hanging fixtures; supports fans
- Compatible Can Size:5″ and 6″ recessed fixtures
- Max Fixture/Fan Load:Up to 50 lbs fixtures; up to 35 lbs ceiling fans
- Medallion / Trim Style:7¾” flat steel medallion, white finish
- Included Electrical Interface:Medium base light socket adapter
- Installation Complexity:DIY-friendly; step-by-step instructions; no drywall patching; all hardware included
- Additional Feature:No drywall patching needed
- Additional Feature:Premium-grade steel medallion
- Additional Feature:Ideal for DIY renovations
FREELICHT 6-Inch Dimmable Retrofit LED Recessed Lights
Should you want recessed lights that you can truly “set and forget,” the FREELICHT 6-inch dimmable retrofit LED recessed lights are one of the easiest and most forgiving options you can pick. You simply twist them into the existing E26 socket, push the light into the 6 inch can, and you’re done in about three minutes. No electrician, no stress.
You can choose from five color temperatures, from warm 2700K to crisp 6000K, so your room never feels too yellow or too blue. The 1000 lumen output at just 10 watts cuts energy use, stays cool, and still works with most dimmers.
- Primary Function:Retrofit 6″ cans with flat, dimmable LED recessed downlights
- Compatible Can Size:6″ recessed lighting spaces
- Max Fixture/Fan Load:N/A (10W LED trims, not load‑bearing for other fixtures)
- Medallion / Trim Style:Flat white LED retrofit face (no separate medallion)
- Included Electrical Interface:Universal E26 base connector for easy plug-in
- Installation Complexity:Tool-free, ~3 minutes per light; E26 “screw-in bulb” style install
- Additional Feature:1000 lumens at 10W
- Additional Feature:IC rated for insulation
- Additional Feature:Installs in about 3 minutes
Recessed Can Light Conversion Kit with Medallion
In case you’re staring at a plain recessed can light and wishing it looked more like a “real” fixture, a recessed can light conversion kit with a medallion can feel like a small miracle. You keep your existing 5 or 6 inch can, but suddenly you can hang a pendant or even a ceiling fan instead.
The flat 7¾ inch steel medallion hides the old opening, so you don’t patch drywall or paint. The black finish adds a sharp modern edge that still fits classic rooms. Premium steel hardware supports light fixtures up to 50 pounds and ceiling fans up to 35, so you feel safe, not nervous. You screw in the medium base adapter, follow the step by step guide, and turn kitchens, inhabited rooms, or bedrooms into spaces that finally match your style without calling an electrician.
- Primary Function:Convert 5–6″ recessed cans to pendant or hanging fixtures; supports fans
- Compatible Can Size:5″ and 6″ recessed cans
- Max Fixture/Fan Load:Up to 50 lbs fixtures; up to 35 lbs ceiling fans
- Medallion / Trim Style:7¾” flat steel ceiling medallion, black finish
- Included Electrical Interface:Medium base light socket adapter
- Installation Complexity:User-friendly DIY install; step-by-step guide; no patchwork required
- Additional Feature:Stylish black finish
- Additional Feature:Modern or classic décor
- Additional Feature:DIY-friendly installation
Recessed Can Light Conversion Kit with Medallion
A recessed can light conversion kit with a medallion is a smart choice should you want a stylish hanging light or ceiling fan without tearing into your ceiling or doing messy patchwork. You simply use the recessed can you already have and transform it into something that actually matches your style.
With this kit, you convert 5 or 6 inch cans into a pendant, chandelier, or even a ceiling fan. The flat 7¾ inch steel medallion in white hides the old opening and makes the ceiling look clean. The steel frame holds up to 50 pounds for lights and 35 pounds for fans, and the socket adapter plus step through step guide help you finish the project on your own.
- Primary Function:Convert 5–6″ recessed cans to pendant or hanging fixtures; supports fans
- Compatible Can Size:5″ and 6″ recessed cans
- Max Fixture/Fan Load:Up to 50 lbs fixtures; up to 35 lbs ceiling fans
- Medallion / Trim Style:7¾” flat steel ceiling medallion, white finish
- Included Electrical Interface:Medium base light socket adapter
- Installation Complexity:User-friendly DIY install; step-by-step guide; no patchwork required
- Additional Feature:Clean white medallion
- Additional Feature:No professional help required
- Additional Feature:Suited for multiple rooms
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Recessed Light Conversion Kit
At the time you pick a recessed light conversion kit, I want you to feel confident, not stressed or confused. I’ll walk you through how to match the kit to your existing can size, check load capacity for safety, and understand how complex the installation really is. From there, we’ll look at design, finish, dimming, and total lighting performance so your space feels both beautiful and comfortable.
Fixture Compatibility and Size
Ever look up at that recessed light and question whether the new fixture you love will actually fit there safely and correctly? I’ve been there, staring up and second‑guessing everything.
First, I measure the can opening. Most conversion kits fit standard 5 or 6 inch cans, so I make sure my ceiling matches that before I fall in love with a fixture. Then I check the socket type. In case the kit uses an E26 medium base, I know it will work with most common bulbs and fixtures I already like.
Next, I look at how the kit mounts. Some support both recessed and surface fixtures, which gives you more style options. Finally, for sloped ceilings, I choose a kit designed to sit level so the light hangs straight.
Load Capacity and Safety
Before I even pick out a pretty fixture, I stop and consider one simple thing: can this conversion kit safely hold the weight I’m about to hang from my ceiling? It’s not dramatic to say this choice protects your home and everyone in it.
I look for a clear load rating. Many kits safely carry hanging lights up to about 50 pounds and ceiling fans up to about 35 pounds. In case my fixture is close to that, I size up, not down.
Next, I check for strong steel brackets, a sturdy ceiling plate, and a solid medallion that spreads the weight across the ceiling. I also look for UL or ETL listings, which tell me the kit passed real safety tests for strength and electrical protection.
Installation Process Complexity
Although the idea of messing with a ceiling light can feel a little scary, the installation process for most recessed light conversion kits is usually much simpler than people expect. I look for kits that let me reuse the existing can so I don’t have to cut drywall or patch the ceiling. That alone removes a lot of stress.
Most kits include brackets, screws, and clear step by step instructions, so I can move slowly and still finish in minutes. I also like that many work for both recessed and surface mounting, which helps in case your ceilings vary from room to room.
Cover plates or small medallions hide the hardware, so once everything’s wired and tightened, the ceiling looks clean and intentional.
Aesthetic Design and Finish
At the moment you start looking at recessed light conversion kits, the design and finish matter just as much as the function, because this is what you’ll see every single day on your ceiling. I want you to feel proud every time you gaze upward.
I usually start with the ceiling medallion. A decorative medallion can turn a plain hole into a real design feature. Flat or low profile styles sit close to the ceiling, so the room feels clean and modern, not fussy.
Next, I consider finish. White blends in, black adds drama, and paintable surfaces let you match trim or walls. Polished, professional finishes work nicely in both classic and contemporary rooms, especially whenever the hardware hides under a seamless cover plate.
Dimming and Lighting Performance
How do you want your room to feel as you flip that dimmer, calm and cozy or bright and focused? At the moment I choose a recessed light conversion kit, I initially look at dimming. I want smooth control from about 5 or 10 percent up to full brightness, without flicker or buzzing. That gentle fade makes a room feel peaceful and high end.
Next, I check bulb and socket compatibility. A solid kit works with LED, incandescent, and halogen bulbs that use a standard E26 base, so you’re not locked in later.
I also love kits with selectable color temperature. Being able to switch from warm 2700K for relaxing to cooler 5000K for tasks lets one room handle many moods.
