Compare Range Hoods Side by Side

A common rule of thumb is 100 CFM per 10,000 BTUs for gas cooktops, and at least 300 CFM for most electric ranges. High-output burners (above 15,000 BTU each) push that number higher. Check your cooktop's total BTU rating and use that as your floor, not the ceiling.

Ducted hoods pull air outside through a duct in the wall or ceiling, they remove smoke, steam, grease, and odors from the kitchen entirely. Ductless models recirculate air through a charcoal filter and push it back into the room; they reduce odors but do not remove heat or humidity. Convertible hoods can do either, depending on how you install them.

Yes, and it is one of the first things to check. Under-cabinet hoods attach to the bottom of a cabinet directly above the range. Wall-mount hoods require open wall space with no upper cabinet in the way. Island hoods hang from the ceiling and are only practical if your cooktop is on a kitchen island with nothing above it. Buying the wrong mounting type usually means the hood cannot be installed at all.

Baffle filters, typically made of stainless steel, are more efficient at trapping grease and easier to clean, most are dishwasher-safe. Mesh filters catch grease but clog faster and require more frequent cleaning. For households that cook often or use high heat regularly, baffle filters hold up better over time.

More fan speeds give you finer control over noise and airflow. A three-speed hood covers most cooking situations, while a five or six-speed model lets you dial in a quieter setting for light simmering without jumping straight to high. If noise is a concern, look for models that list a sone rating at low speed alongside the CFM at high speed.