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Under-cabinet range hoods are a huge asset for home cooks, fitting neatly underneath an existing cabinet over the stove to remove smoke, heat, and grease from the air. They work by pulling in the air above the stove, then cleaning and discharging it during or after cooking. Some models have features for additional convenience and usability, such as lights and timers. Whether a homeowner is doing a full-on kitchen renovation or simply upgrading the stove, an under-cabinet range hood can make preparing meals much more enjoyable
Choosing a quality range hood isn’t a difficult task—if you know what to look for. Rather than picking the first random model you see, use this guide to learn about the important considerations to keep in mind as you shop, as well as descriptions of some today’s best under- cabinet range hoods.
- BEST OVERALL: Hauslane Under-Cabinet Kitchen Range Hood
- RUNNER-UP: Vesta Arlington Under-Cabinet Range Hood
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Broan-NuTone Ductless Under-Cabinet Range Hood
- UPGRADE PICK: Kobe Range Hoods Brillia Under-Cabinet Range Hood
- BEST COMPACT: ZLine Kitchen and Bath Under-Cabinet Range Hood
- BEST LARGE: Broan-NuTone Mantra 36-Inch Under-Cabinet Range Hood
- BEST FOR DUCTED INSTALL: Cosmo Ducted Under-Cabinet Range Hood
- BEST FOR DUCTLESS INSTALL: Empava 400 CFM Ductless Under-Cabinet Range Hood
- BEST CONVERTIBLE: Winflo Convertible Under-Cabinet Range Hood
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Under-Cabinet Range Hood
The rattling, noisy under-cabinet range hoods once common in home kitchens are no more. In fact, today’s models boast so many improvements in power, styling, and features, it’s worth learning a bit about what’s available to become a smarter shopper. Below, discover important information on size, speed, airflow, and other key range-hood factors
Size
Choosing the correct size under-cabinet range hood ensures that it will work well and look right in the kitchen. For that reason, these appliances come in standard sizes that generally match both range and cabinet widths.
Typical range tops come in 30-, 34-, and 36-inch widths, so range hoods come in similar sizes. There are also compact models that measure 20 to 24 inches wide for apartments, as well as large models for commercial kitchens. When planning for an under-cabinet range hood, choose one that matches the size of the stove and the cabinet above it.
Airflow and Fan Speeds
The amount of air that a range hood can pull in, clean, and discharge is measured in cubic feet per minute (cfm). Cooking large meals or very greasy foods may require more cfm than smaller, lighter fare. For a bit more power, go with a range hood that produces at least 500 cfm.
Flow is only part of the story, however. Most under-cabinet range hoods offer at least two speeds. The lower speed is usually very quiet and good for removing a bit of steam from the air. The higher speed is louder but useful when getting rid of smoke or greasy air.
Note: Ductless (see below) ranges have fans, but since they’re simply recirculating air (not pushing it outside), they don’t have a cfm rating available.
Vent Type
There are essentially three types of vents for under-cabinet range hoods: ducted, ductless, or convertible. Ductless and ducted have their pros and cons, while convertible hoods bridge the gap between the two.
Ductless range hoods don’t have an exhaust vent, so they recirculate the air within the kitchen. They pull the air into the hood, pass it through the filter, and push it back out. This allows the hood to be installed on any wall in almost any configuration.
Ducted range hoods are far more effective than ductless, as they push the hot and greasy air directly outside. However, to accommodate this type of range hood, installation on an exterior wall is typically required. Also, there needs to be a clear passage for ductwork through the wall framing.
Convertible hoods can operate as ducted or ductless models. Users can choose how they’d like to clean the kitchen air and then follow the manufacturer’s instructions to configure the range hood.
Additional Features
Some higher-end under-cabinet range hoods offer some additional features to make them more useful and convenient for both electric and gas stoves. Built-in lights are extremely helpful, especially for times the back burners are in use. An exhaust timer that automatically shuts the fan off after 10 minutes is another worthwhile feature. To reduce noise, some models offer remote fans that install farther down the ductwork (such as outside or in the attic).
While ease of installation isn’t a feature, it is certainly important to consider if putting in the range hood will be a DIY job. Models that offer templates, guides, and/or easy assembly are a plus.
Our Top Picks
Armed with solid intel on what to look for when shopping for the best range hood to fit below a cabinet, shoppers can start vetting models. Following is a lineup of top-tier models—any one of them could be the ideal under-cabinet range hood for today’s home kitchen.
Best Overall
Hauslane Under-Cabinet Kitchen Range Hood
Pros
- Available in multiple sizes
- Several venting options
- Powerful dual-motor system
- Changeable LEDs
Cons
- Not convertible
Folks looking for a high-quality under-cabinet range hood that looks as good as it cleans air will want to check out this model from Hauslane. This under-cabinet range hood comes in both 30- and 36-inch sizes, and shoppers can choose from matte black, matte white, or stainless steelfinishes. It also has two powerful fan motors that exchange up to 500 cfm of air, with six speed settings to control airflow. Additionally, it comes with an auto-off function so cooks can leave the area to serve and dine without having to go back to the stove to shut off the fan.
This under-cabinet range hood is all about flexibility. It has three venting options, including two top-mount (rectangular and round) as well as a back-mount option. Also, the built-in LED lights are changeable, allowing users to select the appropriate lighting temperature to complement the kitchen. The only real drawback is that for all of its customization, this model is ducted, not convertible, so installation restrictions apply. Still, the digital display, simple controls, and clean design of this Hauslane range hood may make it the ideal choice.
Product Specs
- Type: Ducted
- Size: 30 or 36 inches
- CFM: 500 cfm
Get the Hauslane under-cabinet range hood at The Home Depot or Lowe’s.
Runner-Up
Vesta Arlington Under-Cabinet Range Hood
Pros
- Powerful 850 cfm motors
- Touch-screen controls
- 3 fan speeds for noise and airflow control
Cons
- Limited ducting options
Home chefs who like to experiment with different cuisines, cook large meals, or simply want a stout fan for clearing smoky situations may want to consider the Vesta Arlington Under-Cabinet Range Hood. This ducted hood features a top-mount 6-inch round duct and two turbo fan motors that create up to 850 cfm of airflow, to clean grease and smoke from the air quickly and efficiently.
The Vesta Arlington has a touch-screen control panel that activates the fan, controls lights, and changes speeds. It has three speeds, allowing the user to find a happy medium between fan noise and airflow. Folks looking for a more flexible duct system might be disappointed, however, because this range hood isn’t convertible, and it only has one duct port to choose from.
Product Specs
- Type: Ducted
- Size: 30 inches
- CFM: 850 cfm
Get the Vesta Arlington under-cabinet range hood on Amazon or Vesta.
Best Bang for the Buck
Broan-NuTone Ductless Under-Cabinet Range Hood
Pros
- Affordable
- Several sizes and finishes
- Basic design for simple use and installation
Cons
- No cfm rating
When it comes to saving a bit of money while still successfully removing odors, smoke, and grease from the air, the Broan-NuTone Ductless Under-Cabinet Range Hood might be the right choice. This affordable model easily installs under 24- or 30-inch cabinets and utilizes basic rocker-type switches for the fan and light.
This simple range hood comes in four finishes, including white, off-white, black, and stainless steel. As a ductless hood, it has no vents, but this design allows for a simple installation process. To illuminate the stovetop, it can handle light bulbs (not included) up to 75 watts. Do note that because this is a nonducted fan that simply filters recirculating air rather than pumping it outside, there isn’t a cfm rating for this model.
Product Specs
- Type: Ductless
- Size: 24 or 30 inches
- CFM: N/A
Get the Broan-NuTone ductless under-cabinet range hood on Amazon or at The Home Depot.
Upgrade Pick
Kobe Range Hoods Brillia Under-Cabinet Range Hood
Pros
- Slim design looks great and works under tall cabinets
- Comes in several sizes
- Mechanical push buttons
Cons
- Expensive
When it comes to balancing good looks with great capabilities, the Kobe Range Hoods Brillia might be an upgrade worth pursuing. While its sleek low profile lends great style under almost any cabinet, it’s best suited under tall cabinets, where its slim design allows for enough clearance from the cooktop. And with a fan speed of 750 cfm, it can handle heavy-duty filtering.
This stainless steel range hood comes in three sizes: 30, 36, and 42 inches. Each has a top-mounted 6-inch duct connecting to ductwork above the range hood. This range hood also has mechanical push-button controls, allowing users to switch between the three fan speeds easily.
Product Specs
- Type: Ducted
- Size: 30, 36, and 42 inches
- CFM: 750 cfm
Get the Kobe under-cabinet range hood on Amazon.
Best Compact
ZLine Kitchen and Bath Under-Cabinet Range Hood
Pros
- Compact 20-inch design
- Fits inside a cabinet
- Push-button controls
Cons
- Relatively low airflow
A big metallic fan may not suit every kitchen—physically or aesthetically. That’s where the compact ZLine Kitchen and Bath’s Under-Cabinet Range Hood might be ideal. At a mere 20 inches wide, this range hood is designed to fit inside a cabinet, hiding out of sight while providing up to 400 cfm of airflow.
This ducted model features a top-mount duct design. It also has two bright LED lights, and the push-button controls let the user toggle through four fan speeds. Although the maximum airflow this model can reach is relatively low, its compact design makes it useful for small kitchens.
Product Specs
- Type: Ducted
- Size: 20 inches
- CFM: 400 cfm
Get the ZLine under-cabinet range hood at Lowe’s.
Best Large
Broan-NuTone Mantra 36-Inch Under-Cabinet Range Hood
Pros
- 36 inches wide for lots of coverage
- Several finishes
- Easy installation
Cons
- Max airflow a bit low
Larger ranges need hoods that can cover them, and the Mantra from Broan-NuTone has what it takes. This range hood measures 36 inches across, making it suitable for wider stoves in residential kitchens. It comes in four finishes, including black, black stainless, stainless, and white, allowing it to work with almost any appliance set.
The Mantra features a two-speed fan that produces up to 375 cfm. That’s slightly low, but the increased surface area of the range hood should help it pull more air at once. Also, this range hood features the brand’s EZ1 installation system, which makes short work of single-handed installations. Additionally, it’s convertible, functioning as a ducted or ductless range hood for greater flexibility.
Product Specs
- Type: Convertible
- Size: 36 inches (30 inches also available)
- CFM: 375 cfm when ducted
Get the Broan-NuTone Mantra under-cabinet range hood at The Home Depot.
Best for Ducted Install
Cosmo Ducted Under-Cabinet Range Hood
Pros
- Standard top-mount duct
- 4 fan speeds
- Remote control and auto shut-off timer included
Cons
- Expensive
Swapping out an old ducted range hood for something a bit more modern might be an easy move with the Cosmo Ducted Under-Cabinet Range Hood. This convertible range hood is flexible, but it features a 7.5-inch round duct on top that allows it to fit with most existing duct systems.
This 30-inch range hood has a host of worthy features and bonuses. The 500 cfm airflow rate is plenty for most home cooks, and 1.5-watt LED lights keep the stovetop illuminated without sapping a ton of electricity. Also, this model comes with a remote control to toggle between the four fan speeds, activate the automatic shut-off timer, or flick the lights on and off. It’s slightly expensive, but with all those features, it’s still a good value.
Product Specs
- Type: Convertible
- Size: 30 inches
- CFM: 500 cfm when ducted
Get the Cosmo under-cabinet range hood at The Home Depot or Lowe’s.
Best for Ductless Install
Empava 400 CFM Ductless Under-Cabinet Range Hood
Pros
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Convertible for ductless operation
- Features lights, 3 speeds, touch-sensitive controls, and a digital display
Cons
- Ductless use requires calling the manufacturer to purchase a charcoal filter
Ductless range hoods tend to be bland, unattractive, and lacking in features, but this convertible option from Empava is an exception. This stainless steel model has good looks, a digital display, touch-sensitive controls, and a three-speed fan, helping it rise above other ductless options on the market.
The Empava is heavy duty as well, as it’s built from durable stainless steel. It features two built-in 2-watt LEDs as well as an automatic shut-down delay. The only real complaint about this convertible model is that to fully take advantage of its ability, the installer must contact the company to purchase a charcoal filter.
Product Specs
- Type: Convertible
- Size: 30 inches
- CFM: 400 cfm when ducted
Get the Empava under-cabinet range hood at The Home Depot.
Best Convertible
Winflo Convertible Under-Cabinet Range Hood
Pros
- Flexible venting options
- 1-person installation
- 3 speeds, quiet fan, and push-button controls
- Comes in multiple finishes
Cons
- Relatively low cfm
High-quality convertible range hoods need to be flexible, and this model from Winflo is definitely up to snuff. In regard to ductwork and venting alone, users can choose from two top-mount ducts, one rear duct, or a ductless installation, ensuring that this range hood fits in almost any situation. And with the brand’s one-person installation method, setting up the Winflo is a breeze.
Beyond the different venting methods, the Winflo Convertible Under-Cabinet Range Hood has features like quiet fan operation, three speeds, and push-button controls. Folks who prefer to go ducted can clear steam, smoke, and grease from the cooking area with the hood’s (slightly low) 301 cfm. The 30-inch model comes in black, white, and stainless steel finishes to match other appliances in the kitchen.
Product Specs
- Type: Convertible
- Size: 30 inches
- CFM: 301 when ducted
Get the Winflo under-cabinet range hood at The Home Depot.
Our Verdict
Folks looking for a flexible model with plenty of features and power will want to consider the Hauslane under-cabinet range hood. Those hoping to save a bit of cash will find the affordable Broan-NuTone ductless under-cabinet range hood to be a strong contender.
How We Chose the Best Under-Cabinet Range Hoods
Choosing this lineup of the best under-cabinet range hoods required us to call upon our experience both installing and using these products. Having this knowledge was a solid starting point, as we were well versed in the particular features most shoppers would need.
We then performed extensive product research to compile a list of models we thought might meet our criteria. We compared those models based on affordability, features, airflow, and ease of installation. Models that passed muster were given awards based on their strengths, while those that failed were rejected.
The Advantages of Using Under-Cabinet Range Hoods
It happens even to the best chefs: The timer doesn’t go off and the kitchen fills with smoke. Luckily, the best under-cabinet range hoods can handle the job, pulling smoke from the stovetop area, cleaning it, and expelling it into the kitchen or outside.
Filtering the stovetop air also helps prevent cooking odors from clinging to clothing and hair. Few home chefs want to smell like onions, garlic, or other fragrant ingredients for hours after the meal is done!
Plus, an under-cabinet range hood offers a place to illuminate the stovetop. This allows the cook to better see the items on the front and back burners—the latter area often otherwise deprived of light.
- Under-cabinet range hoods can help remove smoke from the air after a culinary mishap.
- Cleaning the air prevents the cook from smelling like fragrant ingredients.
- Under-cabinet range hoods provide light across the top of the stove so users can better monitor their cooking.
FAQs
That’s a lot of information on the best under-cabinet range hoods, but there might still be some questions lingering in the air. The following are some of the most frequently asked questions about under-cabinet range hoods, so be sure to check for the info you seek among the answers.
Q. What is the average cost to install an under-cabinet range hood?
The average cost to install an under-cabinet range hood will vary based on the kitchen, cabinets, range hood, and installer’s hourly rate. That said, on average, folks can expect to pay around $200 to have a range hood installed by a professional.
Q. How high should a range hood be under a cabinet?
Ideally, the bottom of the range hood should be 24 to 30 inches from the top of the range.
Q. Can I use an under-cabinet range hood without a cabinet?
In almost all cases, under-cabinet range hoods hang from the bottom of the cabinet above the stove—hence the term. It may be possible to install a deep shelf to hang the hood from, but if the desire is to break up the bank of cabinets, it may be best to install a stand-alone range hood.
