Best Under Cabinet Range Hood for Fresh and Odorless Kitchen

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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If a friend told you about under the cabinet range hoods, or you have seen it in someone's kitchen and liked it, and you are wondering how it works, then you have come to the right place. The best under-cabinet range hood ensures that your kitchen stays ventilated and that all odors are released to the outside, thus leaving your kitchen without any grease suspensions or smells. It is normally fixed directly above the cooktop. That position allows for the release of heat, smoke, and steam that may result from cooking.

Most range hoods have a lighting system fixed on them, and that light is important as it comes in handy during cooking and cleaning. You can switch it on when you are doing the tasks mentioned to work with optimum efficiency. I almost forgot to mention that a range hood is also called a vent hood or exhaust hood. It is important to know the names so that you don't get confused when you go to the store and the attendant refers t it by a different name.

Fixing a range hood may require a few tools and time, but it does the job perfectly once installed. It will motivate you to spend more time in the kitchen because regardless of what you are cooking, you will not choke on smoke, the heat will be under control, and fresh air will freely flow in for a better experience in the kitchen. Let us get to business and discuss the best under cabinet range hood.

1. Broan-NuTone 413004 Ductless Range Hood for Under Cabinet

Broan-NuTone 413004 Non-Ducted Ductless Range Hood with...
  • HIGH-QUALITY DUCTLESS RANGE HOOD INSERT: Stainless steel hood...
  • EFFECTIVE INCANDESCENT LIGHTING: A protective lamp lens...
  • EASY CARE: Charcoal filter is replaceable so you can maintain...
  • VERSATILE: Separate rocker switches control the light and the...
  • IDEAL SIZE: Range hood insert measures 30" and should be...

This non-ducted range hood from Broan NuTone is available in varying sizes, between 21 and 36 inches. If you need good ventilation in your kitchen, this may be the best under cabinet range hood to ensure that happens as it is easy to install.

You can install it as hard-wired or with an optional power cord kit. Another reason why you may need this ductless recirculating hood in your kitchen because it is very easy to care for. The charcoal filter is replaceable to enable you to trap as much grease as possible and keep your kitchen's freshness at the highest level.

When you are cooking, you will need enough lighting to see the contents of your pan, and this ductless range hood ensures exactly that. It features a protective lamp lens which will provide you with enough lighting as you cook, although you will buy the bulb separately if you decide to give this model a try.

Broan-NuTone ductless hood is made with a high-quality stainless steel material which guarantees its durability and makes it lasts to give you a prolonged service, and also makes it easy to clean. You will love it for its easy-to-use qualities. It has separate rocker switches which control the light and the 2-speed fan, so you can set it as you desire with the press of a button. It also includes a limited warranty of one year.

Pros:

  • It is easy to install and use.
  • It is made with a stainless steel material that is easy to clean.
  • Incandescent light ensures you see your pan's contents clearly.
  • The charcoal filter is replaceable.

Cons:

  • It does not come with a bulb.

2. Cosmo 5MU30 Under Cabinet Range Hood

COSMO 5MU30 30 in. Under Cabinet Range Hood with Ducted...
  • Built with cutting-edge technology and with the utmost care,...
  • SLIM SPACE SAVING DESIGN: Slim profile range hood saves space....
  • EFFICIENT YET QUIET: 3-speed motor, 56dB max. Cosmo’s range...
  • SUPERIOR MULTI-LAYER FILTRATION: Durable reusable aluminum mesh...
  • 3-YEAR LIMITED PARTS: Our customer support team is based proudly...

Cosmo 5MU30 is a 30-inch under cabinet range hood that keeps your kitchen ventilated by using durable and reusable aluminum mesh filters that trap any grease and oils released during cooking. To use this under the cabinet hood, you will need a 5-inch round duct, which you will use on the exhaust vent. However, you can also convert it to ductless with the optional Carbon filter kit.

This under cabinet range hood filters the kitchen quietly and efficiently with the use of the 3-speed motor. If you have limited kitchen space, but you still want it to have enough ventilation, then Cosmo 5MU30 is the best under cabinet range hood for you because it features a slim design that occupies minimal space.

You can install this convertible range hood against a wall or under a cabinet as it is flexible. It is also suitable for top or back venting. With the stainless steel construction, you are sure it will last longer, and the materials also blend in with your kitchen appliances. This product is equipped with a 5-year limited warranty so that you can use it with confidence.

Pros:

  • It is lightweight and easy to install.
  • It is affordable.
  • It occupies less space.
  • Durable aluminum mesh filters.

Cons:

  • The light is dim.
  • It is not quite.
  • The suction is not very good.

3. Broan-Nu Tone F403004 Exhaust Fan for Under Cabinet

Broan-NuTone F403004 Insert with Light, Exhaust Fan for...
  • HIGH-QUALITY HOOD INSERT: Hood insert improves ventilation and...
  • EFFECTIVE LIGHTING: A protective lamp lens distributes light...
  • EASY CARE: One-piece, dishwasher safe aluminum mesh filter means...
  • VERSATILE: Separate rocker switches control the light and the...
  • IDEAL SIZE: Range hood insert measures 30" and should be...

Broan Nu-Tone under cabinet range hood is highly efficient in ventilating your kitchen. It works in four ways: ducted vertically or horizontally and non-ducted, with the filter, sold separately to suit you.

Broan -NuTone cabinet hoods are constructed with high-quality stainless steel to make them long-lasting. This one uses a dishwasher-safe aluminum filter, which you can replace when need be. This convertible range hood features a protective lamp lens that evenly distributes light to provide you with enough illumination during cooking.

It accepts up to 75W bulbs, which, unfortunately, is not included in the pack. This exhaust fan for the under-cabinet has separate rocker switches that control the light and the two-speed fan, making it easy to use.

Pros:

  • It uses dishwasher safe aluminum filters.
  • It has flexible installation options.
  • It is constructed with stainless steel for added quality.

Cons:

  • It can get dented or bent during installation.
  • It does not come with the bulb
    The fan is not very durable.

4. Cosmo COS-QS75 Under Cabinet Range Hood Convertible to Ductless

COSMO COS-QS75 30 in. Under Cabinet Range Hood with 500...
  • EFFICIENT AIRFLOW: Featuring 500 CFM airflow, backlit...
  • EASY TO CLEAN FILTERS: Cosmo’s ARC-FLOW Stainless Steel...
  • Built with cutting edge technology and with the utmost of care,...
  • ENERGY SAVING LIGHTS: The energy-efficient, 1.5-watt LEDs are...
  • 3-YEAR LIMITED PARTS: Our customer support team is based proudly...

You can choose to use this range hood as ductless with an optional carbon filter kit, although the kit is not included in the package, or you can use it ducted. It ensures you get efficient airflow for optimum ventilation as it features a 500 CFM airflow, 4-speed fan, and twin centrifugal motors.

This is one of the best convertible range hoods for under cabinets you may need to upgrade your kitchen. It works with minimal noise levels to ensure it does not distract or irritate you when working in the kitchen. It is also featured with energy-efficient LED lights to provide you with sufficient lighting at night and during dark hours.

The 1.5-watt lights are long-lasting and provide you with enough illumination. Cosmo under cabinet range hood uses permanent stainless steel filters, which are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning and durability. This range hood is easy to control as it has a backlit touchscreen control panel for visibility and uses a wireless remote control, so you don't have to be at a close range to change the lighting or speed of the fan. This hood has a 5-year warranty.

Pros:

  • It uses a wireless remote control.
  • Energy-efficient LED lights.
  • Dishwashable stainless steel filters.
  • It is efficient.
  • Stainless steel finish makes it last longer and easy to clean.

Cons:

  • The carbon filter kit is sold separately.
  • The lights are not bright enough.
  • Instructions are not easy to follow.

5. Hauslane Chef Series Under Cabinet Range Hood

Hauslane | Chef Series 30" PS18 Under Cabinet Range...
  • CONTEMPORARY DESIGN: Whether you’re remodeling your entire...
  • POWERFUL SUCTION: Lingering odors in your kitchen? A thing of the...
  • SAVE MONEY W/ 3-WAY VENTING: Keep your project simple and save...
  • HIGHLY-CUSTOMIZABLE SETTINGS: Customize its performance through...
  • EASY TO MAINTAIN AND USE: Simply pop the easy-to-remove stainless...

This sleek stainless steel will work as a great upgrade in any kitchen setting. You have various options you can choose from, including matte white, stainless steel, and matte black; you can choose whatever matches your kitchen appliances.

It has powerful suction to ensure your kitchen stays odor-free no matter what you are cooking. It has 3-way venting options; at the top and the back for efficiency, you can customize its performance with the 6-speed settings for suction and noise levels.

It features a 2700K light which gives a warm glow, but you can swab it as you desire so that it matches your kitchen's lighting. It uses baffle filters which are easy to clean as they are dishwashable. They are also easy to remove, so the task is hassle-free.

With the advanced technology, Hauslane under-cabinet range hood has not lagged as it works with a touch screen that makes using it simpler. The delay auto shut-off ensures all smoke and steam and your kitchen remains fresh.

Pros:

  • It features dishwasher safe baffle filters.
  • Constructed with stainless steel for durability.
  • It has changeable LED lights to suit your theme.
  • It is ideal for heavy-duty cooking.
  • It features three venting options.

Cons:

  • Installation is not easy.

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Under Cabinet Range Hood

So you have already read the top-ranked under cabinet range hoods, and you may be wondering what features make them special or what features to look for when you want to buy a good under cabinet range hood. There are many factors that you may need to consider before making a purchase. Therefore, we shall look at those factors to guide you as you work towards upgrading your kitchen and improving its ventilation.

a). Ducted or Ductless

Ducted hoods are also called vented hoods, while ductless hoods, on the other hand, are also known as recirculation hoods. Some houses, especially apartments, may not have ducts, so a ducted hood may not serve your needs in such a scenario. Therefore, you may consider getting a ductless hood for use when a duct is not available.

You may also consider getting a convertible under the cabinet range hood as you can use it no matter the design of your house. Ductless range hoods clear the air by filtering it and releasing it back into the kitchen. On the other hand, ducted range hoods simply lead the stuffy or smoky air out of the room. That is what differentiates the two.

b). Efficiency

The sole purpose of installing an under cabinet range hood is to freshen the air in your kitchen. The best cabinet hoods work efficiently to ensure your kitchen is free from all odors and grease or anything that may cause stuffiness. There is no physical way to confirm that it is working for the ductless under cabinet range hoods, but the air will talk on its behalf. You will know it's efficient if the air starts to feel less stuffy when it is on.

c). Size

The size of the under cabinet range hood you buy should be directly proportional to the space available. If you have enough space under your cabinet, you can buy any size as long as it is the best range hood and meet your needs. However, if you have limited space, you will need a smaller range hood. Under-cabinet range hoods are available in different sizes and designs; therefore, you will get what you want. You can decide to go for the slim design, which occupies less space, or any other design with smaller dimensions.

d). Noise

Most range hoods are loud. Although some models are quieter, they are still going to be a little noisy. If you plan to buy the best range hoods which work without excess noise, you may visit a showroom to check in person. However, if you cannot do that, the only w to be sure is to check other customers' reviews and see which models are not very noisy.

e). Fan’s Speed

A fan may have multiple speeds, which maximizes airflow. A fan with multiple speeds gives you the option to turn the range hood higher when doing heavy-duty cooking and keep it low when light cooking. Most range hoods have fans with two to three-speed options, which are enough, although one with more options would be better. A fan with speed options also enables you to lower the noise levels if you find it disturbing.

Under-cabinet range hoods come in different sizes and are available in different stores around you, like Amazon. Therefore, you can buy one to enhance the quality of your kitchen air during light and heavy cooking. I hope you enjoyed reading our review; good luck in your search.

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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