Best Under Cabinet Range Hood Buying Guide 2021
Choosing a range hood for the under cabinet is a very difficult task because there are many different brands and models all competing for a place in your kitchen.
If you are like me, then you certainly want to buy the best under cabinet range hood available that delivers both excellent high airflow power and is till great value for the money.
Luckily for you, I've just completed examining over 30 different range hoods for under cabinet and settled 2 models as top picks in 2021!
The #1 model is Broan non-ducted under cabinet range hood.
With more then one thousand 5 star reviews at Amazon and with price usually bellow $70 (be sure to double check this as price can vary due to casual discounts), this is the best under cabinet range hood.
My second top pick is for those looking for high end model and ducted vent option. The BV under cabinet range hood with 800 CFM airflow power will surely satisfy even the most picky shoppers and those with higher budgets.
Under Cabinet Range Hood Reviews
If you are looking for my detailed under cabinet range hood reviews then be sure to proceed bellow, because I have reviewed 9 different models and brands.
At the end of the page I am also sharing my ultimate buying guide with tips and tricks how to choose the best under cabinet range hood for your kitchen!
Table of Contents
- Under Cabinet Range Hood Reviews
- Ductless Range Hood Under Cabinet by Broan
- 30 inch Under Cabinet Range Hood by BV
- 36 inch Under Cabinet Range Hood by Cosmo
- Stainless Steel Under Cabinet Range Hood
- 48 inch Under Cabinet Range Hood
- 42 inch Under Cabinet Range Hood
- Slide Out Range Hood Under Cabinet
- Black Stainless Steel Under Cabinet Range Hood
- White Range Hood Under Cabinet
- How to Choose the Best Range Hood Under Cabinet?
- What is a range hood?
- Why is good to have a range hood installed under cabinet?
- What does it mean when a range hood is convertible?
- How to pick a proper size for a range hood?
- How many CFM power do you need for a range hood?
- What is the standard CFM for range hoods?
- How much does one range hood cost?
- Are range hoods noisy?
- Will range hood design fit into your kitchen?
- How important is the fan speed of range hoods?
- What does ducted or non ducted range hood mean?
- Do non-vented range hoods work?
- Is it easy to install a range hood under cabinet?
- What are other important features to look for when buying a range hood under cabinet?
- Conclusion - Is it wise to invest in range hood?
Ductless Range Hood Under Cabinet by Broan
Range hoods are essential for ventilation and odor removal from the kitchen.
Broan 413004 ADA is an under cabinet range hood which can be mounted above the range.
It's a 30-inch ductless cabinet that requires no duct-work.
Broan 413004 ADA is a Broan 41000 series under cabinet hood which is designed to provide an effective filtration system and match the interiors of a modern kitchen.
You can install a 75-watt bulb in the hood for lightning. The protective lamp lens distributes the light evenly under the hood.
The removable grease-charcoal filter is dishwasher safe. Its fan is designed to suck the air so that all the grease gets absorbed by the filter. You will also find control switches for light activation and to control the fan speed.
As Broan 413004 is a ductless undercabinet hood, don't expect it to be as effective as a vented hood. However, it can save you the hassle of getting the ductwork done. It does not force the smoke out of your home through the duct system.
This hood is designed to filter the air and recirculate it back to your kitchen. It is not for you if you don't want to clean the filters and want the smoke to go out of your house through a duct system.
Features, Benefits & Drawbacks
If there is too much smoke in your kitchen, the grease-charcoal filter will not be able to do its job properly. The fan will recirculate the smoke back to the kitchen. Once you are done with the cooking and not producing more smoke. You will have to wait for some time and leave it turned on before the air in the kitchen becomes smoke-free.
Pros & Cons
Conclusion
If you are looking for a ductless range hood under cabinet, you can go for the Broan 413004 ADA. You don't need a duct system in place for it to work but don't expect it to perform at par with a ducted range hood.
30 inch Under Cabinet Range Hood by BV
This 30 inch under cabinet range hood has been designed for those who need a high power cooking setting that operates at low noise levels. It offers the recommended stove-to-hood clearance for any kitchen setup.
The BV Stainless Steel range hood is a 30-inch ducted high airflow unit that comes with lights and baffle filters made of stainless steel material.
The entire unit has been made with parts that are easy to remove and clean. It provides an airflow of about 800 CFM and outputs about 3.6 sones when operating at maximum fan speed. Its ease of use makes it a perfect product for many users.
Features, Benefits & Drawbacks
Some of the features that come with this unit include:
Pros & Cons
Conclusion
If you are a person who uses a high-powered stove for your cooking needs, then the BV 30-Inch Under Cabinet unit is worth your consideration. To begin with, it is a highly efficient model that can be installed under the cabinet. Secondly, it contains baffle filters made from stainless steel material that makes it durable
36 inch Under Cabinet Range Hood by Cosmo
Cosmo COS-5MU36 is a 36-inch under cabinet range hood with an option to purchase a carbon filter kit.
It comes with three aluminum mesh filters to remove unwanted oil and grease from the air in the kitchen.
The mesh filters are dishwasher-safe, so you won't have to clean them manually.
The fan has an energy-efficient 140-watt motor designed to perform optimally and cleaning the air efficiently. The 3 watt LEDs will illuminate your kitchen without consuming much energy.
The range hood operates silently and has an elegant design to match the interiors of most kitchens. This model comes in 30'' width also!
You can install them without worrying about the ductwork. The 140-watt motor is quite efficient in cleaning the air in your kitchen but without the smoke going out of your house, the kitchen won't be entirely smoke-free.
Features, Benefits & Drawbacks
Pros & Cons
Conclusion
If you need a 36 inch under cabinet range hood, you can buy Cosmo COS-5MU36. However, you will be slightly disappointed with the performance if you have used a ducted range hood in the past.
Stainless Steel Under Cabinet Range Hood
The Broan 423004 stainless steel under cabinet range hood is a great option for those looking ADA-compliant application for their kitchen. It's ideal for vertical discharge installations.
This is a 30-inch range hood that features a stainless steel finish. It has black controls that give it a sleek polished look.
The airflow rating for this unit is 190 CFM which is sufficient enough to clear smoke and odors with an output rating of about 6.0 sones. With its 2-speed rocker fan, you can select between high and low-speed settings for a powerful or quieter operation.
Features, Benefits & Drawbacks
Some of its features include:
Pros & Cons
Conclusion
If you require a vertically-ducted hood that is of high quality and easy to install then the Broan 423004 is a good choice. This unit has the capacity to handle heavy venting jobs. It also combines hemmed bottom and mitered sides to ensure safety during use.
48 inch Under Cabinet Range Hood
The AKDY 48 inch Under Cabinet Stainless Steel Kitchen Cooking vent with LED touch control is a great option for those who regularly cook on their stoves and want a superb vent and fan.
This product is one for you if you enjoy cooking often but also want your kitchen to stay looking it's best.
This 48" stainless cooking hood vent from AKDY is an under cabinet vent that is very modern and features LED touch control and has a stainless grate instead of mesh that makes it easy to clean.
It helps you to enjoy your time in the kitchen by providing a lot of ventilation and reportedly has a great clearing fan. It promises a 3-year warranty and comes equipped with LED Touch Display to make it even easier to see and use your stove.
This product is for you if you are regularly using your kitchen or if you want an underhood vent that is more attractive than others available on the market. Its modern design makes it a great addition to a newly remodeled kitchen You may want to steer clear of this model if you need something super light. This cooking vent weighs 82 pounds and can be a bit difficult to install, but the payoff seems to be well worth it. The dimensions are 22 x 47.2 x 11.6 so you will need to make sure that this will work for your space.
Features, Benefits & Drawbacks
Pros & Cons
Conclusion
Overall this AKDY 48" under cabinet stainless steel cooking vent range hood provides some great benefits to the homeowner. It's a modern option that will likely increase the value of the home and help you save on cleaning and cooling costs down the road. We like the fact that it has halogen lights and touch control, making it easier to see at whatever time it is that you end up in the kitchen doing your cooking. The small size and powerful technology in this vent hood make it a real winner.
42 inch Under Cabinet Range Hood
This 42 inch under cabinet range hood by Broan is a great product for those who desire a four-way convertible state-of-the-art performance from a range hood and are operating on a limited budget. It is an efficient unit that can be used to enhance your indoor environment.
The Broan F404204 is a 42 under cabinet range hood that is ADA compliant. This unit is easy to use and gives you multiple installation options because of its four-way convertibility feature. It comes with a simple toggle switch that enables you to operate the fan at either low speeds or high speeds. The max airflow for this unit is 190 CFM.
Features, Benefits & Drawbacks
This product comes with the following features:
Pros & Cons
Conclusion
If you need a great range hood that doesn't require expensive or specialised light bulbs, then this is the way to go. Being a convertible unit, you can install it to adapt to many applications and its filter assemblies are easy to clean.
Slide Out Range Hood Under Cabinet
The Broan 153604 is a slide out range hood under cabinet that is one of the best on the market.
It is a 36-inch model that is compact and blends well with any modern kitchen.
It has a clear glass visor which automatically turns on the fan and the light once it is slid out.
This is elite stainless steel range hood that is quiet, powerful, and fits well in any kitchen.
It is an ideal choice for those who desire sophisticated tastes and styling.
The Broan 153604 is a slide out range hood under cabinet that is one of the best on the market. It is a 36-inch model that is compact and blends well with any modern kitchen. It has a clear glass visor which automatically turns on the fan and the light once it is slid out.
Features, Benefits & Drawbacks
Some of the features that come with this unit include:
Pros & Cons
Conclusion
If you are looking for a slide-out range hood that has a brushed aluminum housing and one that can comfortably fit in your kitchen, then this is the right choice. One of the reasons that should inspire you to pick on this unit is its compact styling. Its high airflow rating also ensures optimum performance for your range hood.
Black Stainless Steel Under Cabinet Range Hood
The Broan F404204 is a 42 under cabinet range hood that is ADA compliant.
This unit is easy to use and gives you multiple installation options because of its four-way convertibility feature.
It comes with a simple toggle switch that enables you to operate the fan at either low speeds or high speeds.
The max airflow for this unit is 190 CFM.
This is a great product for those who desire a four-way convertible state-of-the-art performance from a range hood and are operating on a limited budget.
It is an efficient unit that can be used to enhance your indoor environment.
Features, Benefits & Drawbacks
Pros & Cons
Conclusion
If you need a great range hood that doesn't require expensive or specialised light bulbs, then this is the way to go. Being a convertible unit, you can install it to adapt to many applications and its filter assemblies are easy to clean.
White Range Hood Under Cabinet
This is elite white stainless steel range hood that is quiet, powerful, and fits well in any kitchen.
It is an ideal choice for those who desire sophisticated tastes and styling.
The Broan 153604 is a slide out range hood under cabinet that is one of the best on the market.
It is a 36-inch model that is compact and blends well with any modern kitchen.
It has a clear glass visor which automatically turns on the fan and the light once it is slid out.
Features, Benefits & Drawbacks
Pros & Cons
Conclusion
If you are looking for a white slide-out range hood that has a brushed aluminium housing and one that can comfortably fit in your kitchen, then this is the right choice. One of the reasons that should inspire you to pick on this unit is its compact styling. Its high airflow rating also ensures optimum performance for your range hood.
How to Choose the Best Range Hood Under Cabinet?
When you’re remodeling or building a kitchen, one important appliance you’d consider is range hood under cabinet. When you cook, the scents, smoke and particles released will continue to remain in the kitchen’s air for hours if there is no air filtration system.
What is a range hood?
A range hood, also referred to as vent hood, can move all that stuff out of the kitchen so you won’t have to worry about unpleasant odors or unhealthy smoke sticking around while or after you’re cooking.
Most homes these days have range hoods in their kitchens. They are affordable and make sense with different types of kitchen designs. The range hood is installed right over your stove and under your cabinets, usually spanning the length of the stove so it can easily capture all the smoke and heat as it rises and before it accumulates near your cabinets.
They’re very easy to install and cost much less than other types of vent hoods. Many of these are designed to be functional without drawing much attention, while others are more stylish catering to the taste of buyers.
Some models include ducts to transport particles and smoke out of the kitchen. Others come without duct (ductless versions) that recirculate the air back into the kitchen. Range hoods with ducts are more efficient, but may cost more and may need professional installation.
Why is good to have a range hood installed under cabinet?
Besides cleaning the air while cooking, range hoods provide many other benefits:
What does it mean when a range hood is convertible?
The convertible range hoods allow both ducted and non-ducted options. You can easily make the switch depending upon your needs.
How to pick a proper size for a range hood?
Size of range hood depends upon the surface area of your cook top. Though it’s not a requirement, but its generally best if they’re of similar size as it helps range hood in capturing almost all the smoke and dust particles that rise up the cooking area before they drift to the other areas of your kitchen.
Larger range hoods can be expensive, but if you’re buying one then extra is likely worth it. Range hood under cabinet should be able to fit into the space available under your kitchen counter.
Many models may stick out beyond the counter to approximately match the size of your stove. On the other hand, island and wall mount range hoods are only limited in size by how much space is available. It’s important to measure the space where you’ve plans to install your range hood so that you get dimensions right.
How many CFM power do you need for a range hood?
More powerful range hoods do a more effective job in your kitchen. If lot of heavy frying or cooking happens in your kitchen area, then it’s best to aim for a vent hood with sufficient power. Manufactures mention the power (in cubic feet per minute) you can expect from their range hoods.
Ductless rang hood models lack the same power as the ones that vent air outside the house. This is mainly because their operational efficiency depends on the air filter installed in them. They merely clean the air and re-circulate it in the kitchen area. And smaller models are not as powerful as larger ones.
What is the standard CFM for range hoods?
According to Home Ventilating Institute, it’s best to think in terms of at least 120 CFM per linear foot of range for usual range hoods that are installed against a wall, and about 160 CFM for all types of island vent hoods where vent hood is required to move the air further to get it outside, which explains why more power is needed.
Visit our other page with detailed CFM range hood calculation instructions.
How much does one range hood cost?
The simplest range hood under cabinet can cost you $150 and upwards without installation costs, while the most sophisticated ones will cost several thousand before installation. Larger hoods have more features and are stylish than small versions. Wall mount and island hoods are some of the some of the most expensive types available, while range hood under cabinet are usually the most affordable ones.
Most range hoods demand effective venting with the help of ducts that throw out smoke and dust particles outside. This entails high installation cost. The ductless models just re-circulate air after cleaning it using filters.
Are range hoods noisy?
Many vented range hoods are going to be loud, at least when they have highest settings. Some models are quieter than usual-they still make some noise, but definitely not as much.
If you get a chance to visit the showroom, you will get a feel on how quiet or lout a model is in person. If you can’t do that at your place, simply read customer reviews on what to expect from the range hood you’re considering.
Will range hood design fit into your kitchen?
Many basic range hood models occupy limited kitchen space and won’t interfere with its aesthetics, but if you’re interested in a hood that is beautiful and really adds some value to the space, you certainly can. High end range hoods have arresting designs that visitors will surely notice. In fact, insert hoods allow you to collaborate with our contractor or designer to come up with range hoods that look exactly the way you want them to.
If you’re not so much for the style, and just want something that works and isn’t too obvious, you can choose among many models (mostly under cabinet type) that easily fit the bill. But if you’re interested in range hoods that add some value to the visuals of the space, then some brands offer options that are likely strike your fancy.
How important is the fan speed of range hoods?
Most range hoods offer different fan speeds. You can turn the speed up higher whenever you’re doing some heavy duty cooking, or simply turn it to low if you want to avoid the noise of higher levels. It’s best to have couple of options, but usually three to four speeds are sufficient.
What does ducted or non ducted range hood mean?
As discussed above, range hoods can either be vented (with the help of ducts) or they are ductless, where their internal mechanism tries to remove as much food contaminants and smoke as possible with the help of filters.
Ducted vent hoods are much better than ductless versions, but they can be cumbersome to install and may cost you more upfront.
All those who live in buildings or apartments with restrictions that won’t allow them to install range hoods with ducts, ductless models is a only option. However, it’s important to replace their filters on time to maintain their efficacy. You will also have to clean your hood frequently.
Ducted range hood under cabinet may have aluminum filters to easily trap grease that you’ll have to take out and clean on regular basis. Most of these filters are dishwasher compatible.
Do non-vented range hoods work?
Unliked ducted models that vent air outside the house, the ductless range hoods come with a special fan (or a motor, blower) fitted with a charcoal filter that sucks up heat, particles, smoke, and smells, filters it, and then recirculates the air back into the kitchen. No ducting or changes in heating and ventilation system of your kitchen is necessary. They are also very easy to move and reposition anywhere.
Ductless range hoods are not as effective as vented range hoods in cleaning the air, but are cost-effective if ductwork has not been installed in your kitchen. All in all, having a ductless range hood in your kitchen is better than having none, but don’t expect the same performance as a ducted range hood.
Depending upon the features they can cost anywhere between $60-$1000.
Is it easy to install a range hood under cabinet?
Most vent hoods, particularly ducted ones need complicated installation. On the other hand, ductless models are easy to install without any professional help.
Here is our complete guide about range hood under cabinet installation.
What are other important features to look for when buying a range hood under cabinet?
Conclusion - Is it wise to invest in range hood?
Range hood can be a great addition to your kitchen that will go a long way in improving its functionality and looks. You have so many exciting options and should have no trouble in finding the best model that suits your needs and kitchen design.
Having a right range hood under cabinet will save you from doing more frequent cleaning, will keep your kitchen area from smelling, and will ensure you’re not forced to open all windows of your kitchen (or maybe your house!) every time you cook to avoid setting off your fire-alarm.
It’s a good investment for all those who aim to use their kitchen for cooking variety of dishes all that often. Isn’t that the whole point of a good kitchen?