Disclaimer: There are affiliate links in this post. At no cost to you, I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
No matter what you’re cooking, an efficient and functional range hood is essential for maintaining your remodeled kitchen’s clean, well-ventilated, and pleasant cooking environment. The best range hood for you will also complement the style and design of your kitchen without being too loud or intrusive.
Existing cabinets have a range hood installed underneath them. Typically, ductwork is installed within adjoining walls if ducted. Due to their compact size, under-cabinet range hoods are suitable for various kitchens, particularly those with limited space or abundant cabinet storage. Under-cabinet range hoods, like other range hoods, airborne filter pollutants such as grease and smoke are produced during cooking, thereby ventilating the kitchen.
If you’re ready to upgrade this essential kitchen appliance, here are the top under-cabinet range hoods to complement your kitchen remodel.
Our Top Picks
Why should you invest in an under-cabinet range hood?
Perhaps the most obvious reason to choose an under-cabinet range hood is its convenience: If your kitchen already has cabinets above the stove, removing them makes no sense. Mount the under-cabinet range hood, install any necessary ductwork, and voila! No expensive or laborious remodeling is required.
Overall Kitchen or Apartment Size
For a smaller apartment or kitchen, there is no need to purchase a large range hood when an under-cabinet model suffices. It maximizes space savings without sacrificing any existing cabinetry. A high-quality under-cabinet range hood will still be able to ventilate your kitchen and home despite its diminutive size effectively.
Budget-Friendly
Typically, under-cabinet range hoods are inexpensive. Rarely do under-cabinet range hoods cost more than $1,000; the majority cost between $200 and $400. (Including most of the ones on this list). An under-cabinet range hood installation will cost approximately $85 per hour.
Simple to Install
Installation of an under-cabinet range hood is quite simple. Unless new ductwork must be installed, the unit is mounted to the bottom of an existing cabinet. When purchasing a new range hood, consult the manual for precise installation instructions; some manuals may even include links to instructional videos. There may be complications if you need to extend wiring, add ductwork, or modify the existing vent system, but in general, you can expect to spend no more than a half-day to a day on this project.
Factors To Consider When Choosing The Best Under Cabinet Range Hood For Your Home
When selecting an under-cabinet range hood, some factors should be considered.
Size of Cooking Surface
For your under-cabinet range hood to be as effective as possible in your kitchen, it should be the same width as your cooking surface. This will allow your range hood to capture and direct the grease- and smoke-laden air you wish to filter and potentially exhaust from your home. Though it is not a problem if your range hood is slightly larger than your cooking surface, if it is too small, it will not be able to filter as much air as you would like.
Since under-cabinet range hoods are installed beneath cabinets, which typically do not cover the entire cooking surface, you should focus on finding a range hood that matches the stove’s width rather than its depth. Under-cabinet range hoods are designed to accommodate this smaller size and can still provide adequate ventilation if the required width is met.
Size of Cabinets
Because this range hood is installed beneath existing cabinets, you must have ample cabinet space to accommodate it. In addition to the unit, you should leave two to three inches of space on each side for optimal ventilation. Additionally, you will need sufficient space nearby (e.g., in the walls or ceilings) for any ductwork and vents that come with the range hood system.
Airflow (in CFM)
The CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating indicates how much air the unit can process, filter, and remove simultaneously on all range hoods. A higher airflow rating will provide faster ventilation, but not necessarily better ventilation. The optimal CFM for you will depend on your kitchen size and cooking style. For instance, if your cooking generates great heat, grease, and smoke, you may benefit from a range hood with high airflow.
Exhaust Timers
If your under-cabinet range hood has this feature, it simply indicates that the fan will shut off after a specific time (typically 10 minutes). This feature is helpful if you want to leave your range hood running after you’ve finished cooking but may not have the opportunity or forget to turn it off.
Fan Settings and Speed
Every range hood must have a minimum of two fan speeds: low and high. The low setting is quiet and should be used to clear the air during or immediately after cooking. Utilize the high setting while cooking, mainly if you produce a great deal of smoke, steam, or grease. A third speed is frequently included, providing a compromise between the two extremes. Typically, this is all that is required for a domestic kitchen.
Compared to Ductless
If your under-cabinet range hood is ducted, the air it processes is vented outside (through a ductwork system). After filtering, a ductless range hood will vent back into the kitchen. Make sure you know which system you want for your home; while a ductless unit is less effective than a ducted system, it is more convenient for smaller kitchens, homes, or those who do not cook frequently.
Best under cabinet range hood for your home
Without adequate kitchen ventilation, cooking-related smoke, odors, and grease will linger in your kitchen, resulting in unpleasant odors, poor air quality, and a grease-splattered cooking station. Installing an under-cabinet range hood can assist in capturing cooking grease, moisture, and heat, which can then be filtered and recirculated or expelled from the home.
Below are our top seven under-cabinet range hoods.
1. Best Overall: Hauslane Chef Series 30" PS18 Under Cabinet Range Hood
Whether you’re remodeling your entire kitchen or upgrading your appliances, this sleek stainless steel range hood with its convenient digital screen and baffle filters will fit right in. Matte white, matte black, and stainless steel are available.
Lingering odors in your kitchen? Historically obsolete. Customizable ventilation and suction prevent the release of toxic and hazardous chemicals. It is ideal for heavy-duty cooking, including heat and smoke, boiling, steaming, poaching, braising, frying, searing, and sautéing.
This Hauslane range hood is made of stainless steel and has a modern appearance. Additionally available in matte white and matte black. The PS18 has two motors and powerful suction, making it suitable for almost any household kitchen.
The PS18 includes interchangeable, energy-efficient LED lighting, a nice feature. You can purchase LED replacements (GU10 LED Lights) at your local hardware store or online if you don’t like the color or brightness. Some range hoods incorporate non-replaceable LED chip panels.
It includes baffle filters made of stainless steel to capture cooking grease. As with other baffle filters, these are dishwasher-safe and reusable for a long time. These steel filters are constructed with intense grooves to trap more grease than comparable filters.
Using its six-speed settings, you can adjust the suction and noise levels. The standard 2700K light color emits a warm glow but can be changed to complement the kitchen’s lighting scheme.
Place the easily removable stainless steel baffle filters in the dishwasher to clean. The combination of a buttonless design, a touch screen, and a timer makes everyday use simple. The six-speed setting allows you to control the noise and power output.
Key Features
- Changeable GU10 LED Lights
- 4 Colors available
- Strong suction power for heavy-duty cooking
- Extract harmful chemicals
- Cutting Edge Technology
- Three-Way Exhaust Options
- Dishwasher-Safe Baffle Filters
- Sleek Buttonless Design
- Carcinogens Free Kitchen
- Easy To Maintain And Use
- 6 speed settings for maximum suction control
- Flexible venting options (round/rectangular at top & rear rectangular)
- LED lights are swappable, so you aren't stuck with manufacturer choice
- No listed CFM or sound rating because Hauslane believes it is subjective
- Poor design if you want to convert it too ductless
2. Awoco RH-C06-30 Classic Under Cabinet Range Hood
Awoco RH-C06-30 Classic 6" High 1mm Thick Stainless Steel Under Cabinet 4 Speeds 900CFM Range Hood with 2 LED Lights, 6" Round Top Vent (30"W Round Vent)
The Awoco classic under-cabinet range hood is ducted, stainless steel, exterior-venting option. It is available in three sizes (30″, 36″, and 42″) and operates at four speeds. It is simple to install and remove the baffle filters. Additionally, they offer durability, reduced noise, and enhanced airflow. At a sale price of $320, this range hood is an excellent choice for any residential kitchen.
The 1 mm thickness strengthens the structure. NO CUTTING EDGES! Brushed stainless steel creates an upscale appearance that complements most kitchen appliances. In addition, it is easy to clean and maintain.
The two LED lights are energy-efficient and sufficiently bright to illuminate the entire range top. Press once to activate. Then, press and hold the brightness button. Optional LED lights with a warm color temperature of 4,000K are available.
This range hood has baffle air filters made of stainless steel that will trap grease in its trays. Commercial-grade stainless steel baffle air filters that are dishwasher-safe. No oil container is required.
The tar-like smoke has finally met its match. From Speed Quiet, I, II, and III, there is sure to be one that meets your needs, whether for light cooking or heavy steaming.
Key Features
- 900CFM
- 1 mm Thick Stainless Steel with Brush Finishing
- 4 Speeds Powerful Operation
- 2 Dishwasher Safe Baffle Filters
- Dimmable Energy Saving Cold Bright LED Lights
- 3 Minutes Timer Delayed Auto Shut Off
- Blue Lighted Electronic Press Buttons
- Baffle filters are dishwasher friendly
- The brushed finish on the stainless steel and the LED lighting provides a sleek, modern look for your kitchen
- Not loud: Noise level ranges between 49 dB (low setting) and 62 dB (high setting)
- No change filter or warning light
- Does not come with a smoke alarm
- No Wi-Fi capability
3. Best Control Options: COSMO COS-QS75 30 in. Under Cabinet Range Hood
COSMO COS-QS75 30 in. Under Cabinet Range Hood with 500 CFM, Permanent Filters, LED Lights, Convertible from Ducted to Ductless (Kit Not Included) in Stainless Steel
Cosmo offers a contemporary professional under cabinet range hood with top ventilation that is ideal for homeowners and builders with limited space. It fits easily into an existing cabinet and is constructed of premium brushed stainless steel that complements existing kitchen appliances for a contemporary, upscale appearance.
Our under-cabinet range hood has a 500 CFM motor and stainless-steel baffle filters to trap grease and oil. This newly designed under-cabinet range hood is energy efficient and quiet, utilizing LED lighting with a high lumen output to provide year-round cost savings.
The filters are dishwasher-safe and save you money year after year. For your next kitchen appliance, trust Cosmo for superior quality at factory-direct prices. It includes a three-prong power plug for convenience. The unit can be converted from ducted to ductless using an optional Carbon Filter Kit (CFK5, available from the manufacturer).
Key Features
- 500 CFM
- LED Lights
- Convertible from Ducted to Ductless
- 4-speed fan and twin centrifugal motors
- Easy To Clean Filters
- Built with cutting edge technology
- Energy Saving Lights
- 3-year Limited Parts
- Includes remote to control the stove vent hood from a distance
- A good price that won't break the bank
- Stainless steel 'Arcflow' filters that are dishwasher safee
- Delay timer that will turn off the unit
- Heavy and probably requires at least 2 people for install
- No warranty info on Amazon or manufacturer site
4. FOTILE Pixie Air UQG3002 30” Stainless Steel Under Cabinet Range Hood
FOTILE Pixie Air UQG3002 30” Stainless Steel Under Cabinet Range Hood, 850 CFMs Kitchen Over Stove Exhaust Vent with LED Lights Dual AC Motors, Motion Control and Touchscreen
If you want a contemporary under-cabinet range hood with all the bells and whistles, FOTILE has you covered with this model. With motion-activated control sensors and an air management system that automatically detects harmful gases, this range hood is ideal for serious home chefs who want to maintain a clean and fresh kitchen while cooking. This range hood can be used with either ducted or recirculating ventilation, making it an excellent option for both homes and apartments.
It is listed at 400 in maximum static pressure and as low as 37 dB in noise level with our signature WhisPower aerodynamic technologies that can boost suction power to 850 CFMs while consuming less energy, quickly covering 6 square feet or a 4-6 burner cooktop.
The Pixie Air Range Hood automatically detects and exhausts harmful organic gases and noxious odors.
Wave to turn on/off the range hood; no more cooking-related fingerprints on the control panel. Select from four fan speeds based on the amount of cooking smoke or activate LED lights to illuminate the cooktop surface using the touchscreen control panel.
It is constructed from food-grade stainless steel resistant to grease, stains, and rust. The capture shield is removable and can be thoroughly cleaned in the dishwasher.
FOTILE provides a five-year limited warranty on its Range Hood products, which includes a full two-year warranty on all parts and labor and a three-year limited warranty on all parts. Their customer service team is always available to answer any questions.
Key Features
- 850 CFMs
- LED Lights Dual AC Motors
- Motion Control and Touchscreen
- Easy To Clean
- Five-year Warranty
- Multi-delay shut-off can be programmed for five, 15 and 30 minutes
- Fan operation is powerful but quiet (37dB minimum noise level)
- Filters and oil cups are easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher
- Expensive—over $1,000
- Recirculation kit sold separately from the already pricey main unit
- If you are a casual cook, all the extra features might be superfluous for your needs
5. IKTCH 30 Inch Under Cabinet Range Hood
IKTCH 30 Inch Under Cabinet Range Hood with 900-CFM, 4 Speed Gesture Sensing&Touch Control Panel, Stainless Steel Kitchen Vent with 2 Pcs Baffle Filters(IKC01-30)
IKTCH’s under-cabinet range hood is the most effective option in my review. It has a maximum airflow of 900 CFM and four fan speeds. It has two bright LED lights and baffles filters made of stainless steel. The range hood includes a free motor replacement for ten years. There is also a 15-minute delay shutoff timer, allowing you to leave the kitchen without turning it off.
The noise is a disadvantage of having such a powerful kitchen hood. Even at low speeds, the noise may be an issue. If you are only concerned with noise levels, you should likely purchase a less powerful fan. It should handle any cooking situation easily and remove smoke, grease, and odors efficiently.
Gesture controls are likely the most distinctive aspect of the IKTCH hood. You can control the fan’s speed by simply waving your hand in front of the stove vent hood. This is an excellent feature if your hands are dirty, and you don’t want to touch the hood.
Key Features
- 900-CFM
- 4 Speed Gesture Sensing &Touch Control Panel
- Stainless Steel Kitchen Vent with 2 Pcs Baffle Filters
- Ultra-quiet operation keeps noise level less than 60DB at high speed
- Contemporary Smart Design
- Easy To Clean Filters
- Bright Energy Saving Lamps
- Gesture control allows you to change fan speed without touching it
- Ultra-powerful at 900-cfm to handle large ranges and kitchens
- 10-year free motor replacement
- 15-min auto delay off feature
- Gesture control can be overly sensitive (no option to turn it off etc.)
- Thin sheet metal which can easily dent
- Poor plug location making it harder to route into cabinet
6. COSMO COS-5MU30 30 in. Under Cabinet Range Hood
COSMO COS-5MU30 30 in. Under Cabinet Range Hood Ductless Convertible Duct, Slim Kitchen Stove Vent with, 3 Speed Exhaust Fan, Reusable Filter and LED Lights in Stainless Steel, 30 inch
Cosmo offers beautiful premium range hoods at an affordable price, utilizing cutting-edge technology and meticulous craftsmanship. Expect cooking and cleaning experiences that simplify your life, revitalize your kitchen, and safeguard your health.
The under-cabinet range hood COS-5MU30 from Cosmo complements any kitchen design. Efficacious suction effortlessly eliminates odors and odorous vapors; it is constructed of brushed stainless steel. Two aluminum mesh filters remove unwanted oil and grease from the air. Our hood’s simple push-button controls make it simple to use. Integrated LED lighting allows for cooking at all hours of the day.
A slim profile saves space. Perfect for apartments and condominiums. Convertible to ductless with the Carbon Filter Kit (CFK4, sold separately). Install under a cabinet or against a wall; suitable for top or back venting.
A motor with three speeds and a maximum decibel level of 56, the vent hood from Cosmo filters the air in your kitchen without the noise and volume of competing range hoods.
Included are durable, reusable aluminum mesh filters for capturing grease and oil. Multi-layer filters are more effective at capturing grease. It utilizes a 5-inch round exhaust duct. HVAC installation requires the use of tape.
Key Features
- 30 inches
- 3 Speed Exhaust Fan,
- Reusable Filter and LED Lights in Stainless Steel
- Efficient Yet Quiet
- Slim Space Saving Design
- 3-year Limited Parts
- Convertible to ductless system
- Easy to install
- Carbon Filter Kit is sold separately from the main unit
- No exhaust timer
7. Broan-NuTone BCSD130SS Under Cabinet Range Hood
Broan-NuTone BCSD130SS Glacier Range Hood with Light, Exhaust Fan for Under Cabinet, Stainless Steel, 30-inch
Broan-NuTone Glacier 30-inch Under-Cabinet Convertible Range Hood will enhance your kitchen! This versatile range hood insert provides a comprehensive ventilation solution by incorporating an exhaust fan and overhead light for your range.
This range hood features a MAX 300 CFM and 5.0 Sones blower performance to remove smoke and cooking odors from the air quickly, and the concealed 2-speed rocker switch provides the optimal level of ventilation every time you cook.
It also includes the Captur system, an advanced blower design with a forward-positioned centric inlet that quickly eliminates 97.4% of smoke and odors. To evenly illuminate your cooking area, the 2-level built-in lights accept up to 50-watt halogen bulbs (not included) and are controlled by a hidden rocker switch for convenience.
This stainless-steel range hood features mitered sides and a hemmed bottom without sharp edges for safety and a more decorative appearance. The two one-piece, dishwasher-safe, open-mesh grease filters are simple to clean, allowing for optimal grease capture and ventilation in the kitchen.
This unit measures 19.625″ x 30″ x 6″. It installs as a 3.25″ x 10″ ducted opening connected vertically or horizontally with a damper, 7″ round vertical ducting (drag sold separately), or as non-ducted with air recirculation (filter sold separately) to provide versatile installation options at least 18″ above the cooktop.
On the hood are concealed louvers that direct exhaust away from the cabinetry. It is also compatible with ADA-compliant applications. It is UL-Listed, and HVI-2100 Certified for safety and protection and came with a one-year limited warranty. The Broan-NuTone BCSD130SS Range Hood will enhance your kitchen!
Key Features
- 30-inch under-cabinet range hood insert
- Integrated Lighting
- Dishwasher-safe filter
- 4-way convertible installation
- Very price friendly compared to other hoods
- Comes with the EZ1 installation system which allows a one-person install
- New 'Captur' technology for more effective smoke/grease filtering
- Hardwired (power cord adapter kit sold separately)
- Doesn't come with the halogen light bulbs
Best under cabinet range hood for your home – FAQs
Yes, under-cabinet range hoods are effective at ventilating and filtering the air in the kitchen while cooking. Grease, combustion products, smoke, and steam are all vented or filtered out by the system, allowing you to enjoy your kitchen and food in comfort and cleanliness. When properly maintained, under-cabinet range hoods are the most efficient.
Theoretically, you could vent a range hood into a cabinet, although we do not recommend doing so. If the range hood system’s ductwork leads to a cabinet, the air has nowhere else to go. Venting warm air into a cabinet is not a good idea. Over time, the heat and moisture exposure, as well as the contaminants in the vented air (remember, this air contains the majority of what you are attempting to eliminate while cooking), will cause extensive damage to your cabinets. Mold, cracking, and warping are all likely possibilities. You could also cause damage to the contents of the cabinet.
The current average cost to install an under-cabinet range hood is $750. Depending on the infrastructure required (for instance, if you need to add ductwork) and whether you are replacing an existing system, most installations will cost between $400 and $1,500. Generally, expect to pay between $50 and $100 per hour for contractors’ labor.
If you need to add or extend the wiring for your new under-cabinet range hood, you should seek advice from or hire an electrician for assistance. Even though wiring an under-cabinet range hood is not a particularly complicated process, it is always best to hire a professional electrician if you have any doubts about the installation.
Wall-mounted and under-cabinet range hoods generate 100 CFM per linear foot of cooktop. The typical width of cooktops is 30 inches or 2.5 feet. A range hood with 250 CFM is necessary to meet the recommended CFM requirements. For island hoods, 150 CFM is required for every linear foot of cooktop.
For your range hood to function, you need at least 100 CFM for every 10,000 BTU of your range. For instance, a 100,000 BTU range requires a minimum of a 1,000 CFM range hood. For electric ranges, multiply the width of the range by 10. Therefore, for a 42-inch electric range, you need a range hood with a minimum of 420 CFM.
Range hood airflow and power are measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM). A range hood with a minimum of 350 CFM is required for heavy-use commercial and residential kitchens. This power is sufficient to remove excess steam and strong kitchen odors.
135 CFM are required per square foot. Therefore, a 100-square-foot room requires 13.5 CFM. A 1,000 square foot space requires 135 CFM.
Any ventilation unit is intended to control and disperse smoke, steam, and odors caused by grease or oil from a kitchen. A range hood collects and transports these hazardous vapors, preventing your cooking from fogging up the kitchen.
Must range hoods be vented to the exterior? No, range hoods without a duct can recirculate air back into the kitchen. However, ducted range hoods are the most effective way to purify the air in your kitchen.
Conclusion
There are numerous range hoods, each with distinct benefits depending on the kitchen environment. However, placing them under the cabinet and directly above the stove makes them more effective at removing odors, grease, and other residues from cooking.
Our top recommendation is the Hauslane Chef Series 30″ PS18 Under Cabinet Range Hood. It is an aesthetically pleasing model that adds sophistication and modernity to any kitchen. It has a touch-sensitive control panel with a digital display, so cleaning between buttons is unnecessary.
Additionally, we appreciate that it comes with adapters and offers 3-way venting options, whereas most units only permit top-venting. After cooking, you can also take advantage of the delay shut-off function, which does the work for you. And as for the fan’s speed, Hauslane provides six settings that are all relatively quiet, allowing kitchen conversations to continue. Lastly, it has some quality lights to illuminate your cooktop and can also clean itself to ensure a longer lifespan.
Overall, the optimal under-cabinet range hood for your kitchen will depend on what is most convenient. Perhaps you desire a convertible unit, or your kitchen only allows ductless models. Additionally, you may want to consider the size of your kitchen and the appropriate range of hood power for it. Nonetheless, feel free to revisit our buyer’s guide and develop your individualized criteria to narrow down your choices.
Related Posts
Best under cabinet range hood for your home
Disclaimer: There are affiliate links in this post. At no...
Read More
Why Trust Us
You will find what you are looking for at Largo Bar and Grill. From classic to luxury brands, you'll find both. We will help you to select appliances that fit your needs, budget and lifestyle. Whether you want to stop by to learn more — or plan to make a major purchase — we’ll treat you like family and assist you every step of the way. Shop with us today to receive friendly and experienced help along the way.