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Range Hood Reviews

Best High-End
FOTILE JQG7501- 30-Inch Range Hood
4.5/5
Best Compact
Proline Power PLJW-185
4.5/5
Best Budget
Broan-NuTone 413004
4/5

Range hoods may be an important part of your kitchen design, or they may be an afterthought. Either way, choosing the right range hood is important for a number of reasons.

Not only do you want a range hood that fits in with your kitchen theme but you also want one that properly fits your kitchen stovetop so it effectively removes smoke and smells.

With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right. Ducted, ductless, chimney style, or convertible, which one is right?

If you’re considering your kitchen range options, you have come to the right place. Read on to learn all you need to know about the best kitchen ranges available.

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Top Range Hoods in 2023- Ultimate Guide and Reviews

We compared some of the best range hoods available in the market today. We compared important features like power, cubic feet, included features, and fan speeds. We also considered what inch range you need and if stainless steel ranges were really worth the extra cost. Use this guide to learn why these features are important and how you can choose the best range hood for your kitchen needs.

1. Chef PS18 Under Cabinet Range Hood

The Chef PS18 uses baffle filters to improve the performance of the exhaust fan. While the filters can be hand washed and reused, they do require frequent cleaning. However, you can also drop them in the dishwasher for easy cleaning.

The Chef PS18 Under Cabinet Range Hood is our top pick for a few reasons. This hood range offers impressive power with a 900 CFM rating. It also has three adjustable power settings, so you can choose fan speeds based on current cooking frequency.

The Chef PS18 uses baffle filters to improve the performance of the exhaust fan. While the filters can be hand washed and reused, they do require frequent cleaning. However, you can also drop them in the dishwasher for easy cleaning.

Another premium feature of the Chef PS18 is the upgraded touchpad panel that allows you to access your controls, including the fan speeds, LED lights, and auto-shutdown technology. It also comes with an auto-ventilation feature that automatically turns off after removing hot air and unwanted smalls in your kitchen.

Pros
Cons

2. Broan-NuTone 413004

Broan-NuTone 413004
Best on a budget

This hood offers a 30-inch opening, which will fit most small and standard sizes. It is also less bulky than other options, making it a good fit for under the cabinet.

The removable charcoal filter does a good job of trapping grease and removing odors. It is also easy to replace it.

The Broan-NuTone 413004 is our top pick for shoppers on a budget. This ductless option typically comes with a price tag of less than $100, making it a good option for most kitchens.

This hood offers a 30-inch opening, which will fit most small and standard sizes. It is also less bulky than other options, making it a good fit for under the cabinet.

The removable charcoal filter does a good job of trapping grease and removing odors. It is also easy to replace it.

This under cabinet range hood is also available in numerous sizes, which include 21″, 24″, and 36″ models. You can also match your cabinet hood to your current kitchen design with a variety of color options, which include stainless steel, white, black, and bisque.

Pros
Cons

3. Winflo 36 In. Convertible Range Hood with Touch Sensor Control

Winflo 36 In. Convertible Range Hood with Touch Sensor Control
Best Convertible Range Hood

The Winflo 36″ Convertible Wall Mount Stainless Steel Range Hood has a good amount of power along with a three-speed fan system. It features a maximum airspeed of 400 CFM with a UL-certified motor, which can easily remove strong smells at low to medium heat temperatures.

Perhaps one of our favorite parts of the Kitchen Bath Collection Wall range hood is its versatility and ease of installation. Whereas most range hoods are designed to be either a ducted range hood or ductless, the Kitchen Bath Collection Wall is convertible.

This means you can use it with both setups. Installation is also easier than ever as it comes with the required aluminum ducts. The charcoal filters do a good job of removing kitchen smells.

Pros
Cons

4. XtremeAir Ultra Series UL-10-U36

XtremeAir Ultra Series UL-10-U36
Best Under Cabinet Design

It is made with stainless steel materials that are durable and non-magnetic. It uses baffle filters which are also made with stainless steel materials. Unlike other models that include both stainless steel and plastic components, this unit uses all high-quality stainless steel materials.

The XtremeAir Ultra Series UL-10-U36 offers a high-speed fan setting, greater efficiency, and removable parts, which makes it easier to clean.

This under cabinet design is a favorite among homeowners because of its sleek and modern design, immediately adding an element of appealing design to any kitchen.

It is made with stainless steel materials that are durable and non-magnetic. It uses baffle filters which are also made with stainless steel materials. Unlike other models that include both stainless steel and plastic components, this unit uses all high-quality stainless steel materials.

One of our favorite components of this unit is its minimal noise output. It uses two motors which leads to lower noise levels.

Pros
Cons

5. IKTCH 30'' Wall Mount Range Hood

IKTCH 30'' Wall Mount Range Hood
Best Features in a Hood Range

Once installed, the IKTCH  range hood gives you proper ventilation with exceptional fan speed. With a 19-gauge brushed stainless steel design, it is extremely durable. In fact, it gives off an impressive 900 CFM. With dual fans, it is also great at removing smoke for fresh air.

The IKTCH  Wall Mount Range Hood offers a powerful motor, along with the ability to wall-mount. Its unique design demands attention, making it the centerpiece of your kitchen.

Once installed, the IKTCH range hood gives you proper ventilation with exceptional fan speed. With a 19-gauge brushed stainless steel design, it is extremely durable. In fact, it gives off an impressive 900 CFM. With dual fans, it is also great at removing smoke for fresh air.

Being that it is wall-mounted, this unit is also easier to install than other units, like some under-cabinet designs. It also comes with a few useful features, like a cleaning reminder and an auto shut-off feature. Routine cleanings can not only make your range hood work better, but also last longer. This feature reminds you to clean the unit after 30 hours of use. It also auto shuts off using a pre-set timer of between 1-15 minutes.

Pros
Cons

6. Proline Power PLJW-185

Proline Power PLJW-185
Best Compact Range Hood

The Proline Power PLJW-185 is a good option for those with limited space. Don’t let its small size fool you as it still offers plenty of good features for an under cabinet range hood.

The Proline Power PLJW-185 is a good option for those with limited space. Don’t let its small size fool you as it still offers plenty of good features for an under cabinet range hood.

First, its design is not only slim but also compact. This means it can usually accommodate most unique kitchen layouts, even those with minimal space. Its design is made with highly durable stainless steel.

It features a dual-fan design with an airspeed of 600 CFM and a four-speed dual blower. Other important features in the Proline Power PLJW-185 are the power-saving LED lights and stainless steel baffle filters.

Pros
Cons

7. FOTILE JQG7501- 30-Inch Range Hood

FOTILE JQG7501- 30-Inch Range Hood
Best High-End Unit

The FOTILE JQG7501- 30-Inch Range Hood is a top-of-the-line range hood. Whereas many of the best range hoods today are made with modern, stainless steel materials, this unit features a futuristic design. It is made with tempered glass and comes in a blackened design with touch settings.

The FOTILE JQG7501- 30-Inch Range Hood is a top-of-the-line range hood. Whereas many of the best range hoods today are made with modern, stainless steel materials, this unit features a futuristic design. It is made with tempered glass and comes in a blackened design with touch settings.

The FOTILE model comes in the standard 30″ design, but is also available in a 36″ design for larger range needs.

This unit is one of the best range hoods when you consider its long list of useful technologies. It is equipped with a touch screen display that controls the lights, shut-off function, and screen-lock function. The screen lock feature comes in handy when cleaning the surface without accidentally turning on the hood.

This unit uses baffle filters with a secure cover that keeps them sanitary. The cover prevents outside bugs from landing on the filter. With these modern features, you can expect a higher price tag.

Pros
Cons

8. Broan-NuTone BWP2304SS

Broan-NuTone BWP2304SS
Best Affordable Chimney Hood

The Broan-NuTone BWP2304SS is an affordable chimney hood. It offers a more modern design than an over-the-range microwave hood. It also comes in a sleek, stainless steel design that immediately improves the overall aesthetics of your kitchen.

The Broan-NuTone BWP2304SS is an affordable chimney hood. It offers a more modern design than an over-the-range microwave hood. It also comes in a sleek, stainless steel design that immediately improves the overall aesthetics of your kitchen.

This range hood is also available in a black stainless steel material, which is not always easy to find when shopping for other range hoods.

It uses a convertible design that recirculates air outdoors or using a vented system. It performs well, effectively removing smoke and smells from the kitchen

Pros
Cons

9. Hauslane Chef Series

Hauslane Chef Series
Most Versatile Hood Range

The Hauslane Chef Series range hood is a versatile pick. It features a stainless steel design with a digital touchscreen control. It also comes with bright light LED lighting for increased visibility in the kitchen.

The Hauslane Chef Series range hood is a versatile pick. It features a stainless steel design with a digital touchscreen control. It also comes with bright light LED lighting for increased visibility in the kitchen.

With a delayed auto-shutoff feature, you can also preserve energy. We like this range hood because it features the modern additions that you would expect in a kitchen today, while effectively doing its job.

Pros
Cons

10. Cosmo 5MU30

It is one of our favorite under-cabinet models that has a lot to offer. First, it offers two motors, which account for 900 CFM. This means that it does a good job of venting smoke and removing most smells within a half hour or less of cooking.

The Cosmo 5MU30 will delight homeowners who prefer a clean, modern design in their kitchens. In addition to its sleek design, its two biggest selling points are its high power output and quiet noise.

It is one of our favorite under-cabinet models that has a lot to offer. First, it offers two motors, which account for 900 CFM. This means that it does a good job of venting smoke and removing most smells within a half hour or less of cooking.

Another important feature of the Cosmo 5MU30 is that it comes with Arc Flow permanent filters that are dishwasher-safe. This means you can save costs by not having to replace your filters as often.

Pros
Cons

What Is a Range Hood and Why Is It Important to Choose the best Range Hoods?

A range hood is a kitchen appliance that hangs over your cooktop. Its primary purpose is to:

  • Remove smells
  • Remove smoke
  • Decrease grease
  • Prevent smoke alarm from going off

A range hood circulates clear air and removes smoke from the air. Many range hoods also come with LED lights that can be practical. Additionally, because range hoods come in all different materials and styles, they can add an element of modern design to your kitchen. Some homeowners may make it the focal point of their kitchen design.

Choosing the right range hood is about much more than choosing one that meets your design preferences. It is also about finding the right fit for your kitchen size and cooking style.

For example, if you live in an apartment, you may need a smaller, more compact, over the range hood. If you have a kitchen island that holds your cooking surface, then you will need one of the top island mount hoods. Or if you’re looking for best electric stove 2021, that pairs well with your best cookware for gas stoves, then you’ll have to focus on the material.

Regardless of which one of these range hood types that you buy, it is crucial that you have the right amount of proper ventilation in your kitchen. Improper ventilation can lead to many health concerns. It can also lead to lasting smells in your kitchen, long after you have finished cooking. Make sure you choose the right range hoods for your kitchen needs.

Range Hood Reviews and Buying Guide

Choosing the right range hood is not always easy. Here are a few top considerations when buying a range hood in 2022:

Range Styles

There are many different types of range styles to use in your kitchen. Choosing the best one depends on your needs. Here are a few available kitchen hoods:

Ducted

Ducted range hoods remove all smoke and other pollutants from the room. To use a ducted vent hood, ducts need to be previously installed in your kitchen. The ducts should also match the cabinet hood for a secure fit.

Non-Ducted

Non-ducted hoods are ventless hoods that remove the polluted air while also pulling clean air back into the kitchen space.

Convertible

A convertible range hood combines both a ducted hood and a ductless hood. This gives you more control over which type you want to use.

Wall Mount

A wall mount hood is similar to under cabinet hoods. The only difference is that a wall mount hood is mounted to the wall, rather than underneath the cabinets.

Under Cabinet

Under-cabinet hoods, as the name references, go under a cabinet. They are one of the most common types of wall mount hoods as they fit most kitchen designs. Under-cabinet range hoods can be either a duct or ductless hood. They can also be wall-mounted.

Island Mount

An island range hood sits above an island counter. It attaches directly to the ceiling and removes smoke through the ceiling pipes. An island mount may also be chimney style, which may be harder to install.

Downdraft

Downdraft refers to a minimal-sized hood range. Some people like to incorporate their range into their kitchen design. If you don’t, a downdraft range may be right for you. Downdraft hoods slide out from your cooktop or cooking surface when needed, meaning they take up less space. You may find downdraft hoods or slide-out ranges often in small spaces, like apartments.

Recirculating

Recirculating range hoods have a low power output, usually between 300-400 CFM, and are usually ductless. While it is possible to find recirculating ductless units with a higher power output, these units usually come with a higher price tag. At this point, it may be more worthwhile to instead opt for a full duct system.

Range styles also refer to mounting types. Consider how you want, or need, to mount your hood. Wall mount hoods are the most common but are not the only option available.

In addition to the range hood styles, these different styles also refer to the way in which the unit is attached in your kitchen.

The most common method of attaching a range hood is under the cabinet. You may use a downdraft hood or chimney style to obtain the look and fit you need.

However, wall-mounted range hoods are also popular. If you already have a range hood in place, you will likely replace it with a similar one. Choosing a different type may require that you rework the ductwork or change the kitchen’s layout.

Hood Size

It is also important to consider size when choosing the right kitchen range. Different types of hoods require different types of spaces.

Consider the width, depth, and height dimensions of each hood range to decide the best fit for your kitchen. Measure the inch range rating of each option, being sure to leave room for filter removals.

A 30-inch range is the most common size. A 30-inch range is usually a good size to go in between your kitchen cabinets and to accommodate traditional, 30-inch range cooking surfaces.

While the exact features will vary from range hood to range hood, you can expect most 30-inch range hoods to include a minimum of two fan settings and also some type of lighting.

Noise Level

Some homeowners may also want to choose a hood range based on the level of sound output. Some kitchen hoods can be loud and disruptive. Before choosing based primarily on sound, it is important to note that it is not really practical to completely get rid of all noise.

Range hoods rely on a recirculating hood with fans, which produces some level of noise. With that being said, some units are quieter than others. If noise is important to you, be sure to narrow down your exhaust hood options based on the noise level. We have also talked about the best quiest exhaust fan.

CFM Power

CFM levels refer to the range hood’s power output. This often directly translates to sound. CFM itself stands for Cubic Feet Per Minute. The higher the CFM, the more powerful the fan speed.

If you cook a lot, a higher CFM may be necessary. Some vent hoods also come with adjustable speeds. This allows you to enjoy a powerful range hood when you need it, and turn down the fan speeds when you don’t need as much power.

The one consideration of an adjustable range hood, however, is that they do tend to be a little louder than other range hoods.

How to Choose the Best CFM Power

How do you know how much CFM power you need in a hood range? Consider the following points:

  • How often you cook
  • Whether your cooking includes entertaining people in the kitchen
  • If kitchen noises bother you
  • If removing smoke and smells as quickly as possible is important

You want to find the right balance between CFM and fan speed. You also want to choose the perfect range hood for your sound preferences.

Design

Of course, you can also choose hood ranges based on their designs. Different materials and setups offer different styles. Think about the style of your kitchen cabinets and other appliances. You can find hood ranges in all different styles and colors. Many range hoods today are designed with stainless steel. Stainless steel tends to be the preferred material for range hoods of all types because of its durability and modern design.

Other Features to Consider for the Best Range Hoods

Here are a few other kitchen range features to consider:

  • Remote control: A remote control allows you to control your range hood from afar. You can turn it off from the other room if you forgot and left it on.
  • LED lights: LED lights can significantly improve the visibility of your cooking surface.
  • Heat sensor: Auto heat sensors automatically turn on the air blower when it detects a certain temperature setting. This removes the heat from the cooking surface, even if you forgot to turn it on.
  • Time monitor: A time monitor allows you to turn on your hood range fan for a specific period of time.
  • Dimmable halogen lights: Dimmable halogen lights allow you to use your range hood lights when it is practical.

Most range hoods come with basic features like adjustable fan settings or LED lights. However, if any of the other features are important to you, you may need to shop around.

Ventless vs. Vented Ranges

You will find that the majority of kitchen ranges are vented, which means they attach directly to the exterior. Some homeowners, however, may choose to convert their kitchen range to ductless. This type of range uses aluminum mesh to catch the grease with a charcoal filter.

Ducted range hoods require a more in-depth installation process. Many people choose to hire a professional contractor. You may also need a professional installation if your range is in a unique place, such as over an island.

Some people may also choose to install a microwave range hood. These too can be either ducted or ductless.

Ventless and vented ranges may also be referred to as duct versus ductless hoods. A ducted system often has an aluminum filter, which can be more effective in removing pollutants.

What is a Ductless Range Hood?

A ductless range hood is a type of exhaust fan that recirculates air through filters, rather than existing ductwork. Charcoal filters are the most common type of filter used with a ductless range hood.

Ductless range hoods work, but not as well as duct hoods. One of the biggest pros of a ductless range hood is that it can be installed in almost any setting, including on your wall, over top of a kitchen island, or even on top of a custom cooking surface.

Ductless ranges often come at a cheaper price than when compared to traditional, 30-inch range hood attached to a duct system, but they don’t remove air pollutants as easily.

Ductless range hoods may be a good temporary option but most people prefer to vent range hoods to the outside because it is more efficient at getting rid of kitchen pollutants.

Are best under cabinet range hood useful?

Under cabinet range good can be extremely handy in drawing cooking moisture, grease, and heat and filter it out of your home for good!

What is a convertible range hood?

A convertible range hood is another option. Convertible range hoods can be installed as either a ducted hood or a ductless hood.

Convertible range hoods still offer the same purpose as hoods that are either duct or ductless. They still effectively remove smoke, steam, grease, and fumes from your kitchen space.

Indoor Air Pollution Guide

A main goal of choosing the right range hood is to improve indoor air pollution. Range hoods come with different filters and designs that can affect how much pollution it removes.

Choosing the Right Air Filter

You have a few filter options, with mesh or baffle filters being two of the most common.

Mesh filters come in either aluminum or stainless steel materials. They are designed as hood inserts that can easily be removed from your hood range for replacement. They tend to be cheaper than other options, but more difficult to clean. Some, but not all, mesh filters can be cleaned in the dishwasher safely.

Mesh filters offer the following:

  • A durable design that can easily be removed
  • More difficult to clean

Baffle filters are most often found in commercial kitchens. They have more recently been incorporated into residential kitchens because of their professional look. They do come at a higher price tag but also offer better durability.

Baffle filters offer the following:

  • Dishwasher-safe design
  • Durable materials that last

Charcoal filters are also in some range hoods. They are secondary filters that are designed to trap and remove smells from your kitchen when cooking. Charcoal filters are compatible with non-ducted ranges.

Regardless of the type of range filter that you choose, you should replace it at a minimum, every six-12 months.

Frequently Asked Questions About Range Hoods

The size of the range hood that you need will vary, depending on the size of the kitchen, your cooking surface, and your cooking habits.

A 30-inch range is standard and can be a good starting point. Keep in mind, you may need to adjust your sizing to be smaller or larger depending on your personal needs.

Your level of comfort can help you determine whether you should DIY the installation of a range hood or not. Of course, the type of range hood and the current setup of your kitchen also makes a difference.

If you are installing a ductless ventilation system, you may find it easier to do it yourself. However, if you are going for a downdraft hood or chimney style, you may need a professional.

Additionally, island hoods can take more skill, as well as convertible range hoods.

There isn’t one brand that is superior when it comes to the best range hoods. There are a few brands that we like when it comes to different types of range hoods. Here are a few of our favorite brands:

  • Kitchen Bath
  • ExtremeAir
  • XtremeAir
  • Cavaliere

Instead of being brand-specific, we recommend considering the available warranties or offers of different brands.

How much you spend on a range hood will vary, depending on your needs and budget. You can find good range hoods in most budgets, between $300-$600.

Considering the features that you want, as well as the layout of your current kitchen, can help you decide on a budget.

More expensive range hoods may or may not be worth it, depending on your needs. Range hoods in a higher price range will usually have more features. They are also more likely to be made with durable materials, like stainless steel.

If most range hoods fall into the price range of $300-$600, we can consider anything at, or around, $600 to be expensive.

If you want a compact, traditional 30-inch range hood, then you can expect to be on the lower end of this range. However, if you want a top-of-the-line downdraft hood or a larger, 36-inch range, then you may exceed the higher end.

The number of features you want in your range will also make a difference when it comes to price. If you want a premium range hood with all the available features, including LED lighting and touch controls, you can expect it to be pricier than a basic range microwave style hood.

The best budget hood range will depend on your needs. We like the Broan-NuTone 413004 because it is compact and also affordable. It also comes with a powerful fan and efficient performance.

One of the biggest complaints about kitchen ranges is the noise level. The most obvious way to have a quiet range is to buy one with lower noise output.

Even if you don’t want to replace your current setup, there are a few ways that you can decrease noise and enjoy a quieter range:

  • Use the lowest speed: Running your over-the-range unit at the lowest speed setting will provide you with a quieter noise output.
  • Choose a unit with an inline blower: Inline blowers produce the least amount of noise when compared to other motor types.
  • Keep the hood insert and filters clean: The cleaner the hood insert and filters are, the quieter the unit will be.
  • Secure all unit parts: Running a fan at top speed with loose parts will lead to a loud rattling noise that will get frustrating fast. Make sure all parts are securely tightened.

Routine maintenance is an important part of reducing noise and improving performance.

A range hood may be beneficial even in an outdoor kitchen, especially if it is enclosed. The primary purpose of a range hood is to ventilate and even enclosed outdoor kitchen spaces need ventilation.

You can use many of the same comparisons when choosing the best outdoor range. Depending on your outdoor kitchen layout and placement of your outdoor kitchen cabinets, you may choose either a ductless or duct unit.

Use this guide to help you choose the best range hood for your kitchen. Whether you want a compact unit with an affordable price tag or a powerful motor that is quiet, you will find it on this list.

Why Trust Kitchen Infinity?

Our writers and reviewers thoroughly research every aspect of kitchen appliances or home improvement products so you can make a well-informed decision when investing in these products. We evaluate top quality products from several brands within budget friendly price ranges and contrast consumer reviews, surveys, satisfaction forms, brand performance, and annual appliance rankings. We go to great lengths to ensure that your next buy is worth every penny!

Dino Paccino

Dino Paccino

Dino is a lifelong writer and home improvement specialist. He enjoys bringing cutting-edge information on home renovation and remodeling to Kitchen Infinity.

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