If scrubbing your kitchen walls or ceiling sounds like your idea of a bad time (because it is), you need a ductless range hood in your life. These little heroes don’t need any fancy vent systems—so no pricey installs or annoying setups. They’re simple, effective, and keep your kitchen air clean while saving you money. What’s not to love?
Oh, and they’re not just functional. Most come with filters and lights, so they’ll zap away smoke and smells while looking super sleek. Ready to level up your kitchen? Let’s dive into the best options out there, with all the deets on brands, features, and prices.
Top Brands for Ductless Range Hoods
Not every brand can bring the A-game, but these are the ones that really stand out:
1. Bosch
Bosch is like the MVP of kitchen appliances. They’ve been doing their thing since the early 1900s, so they know a thing or two about quality. Their range hoods are built to last, look amazing, and come with cool safety features like touch controls to avoid any “oops” moments.
2. Viking
Viking is all about high-end appliances, and their range hoods don’t disappoint. Take the VHD9930M—it’s got 99 CFM airflow, six fan speeds, and stylish halogen lighting. Perfect for smaller kitchens or anyone who wants power without the bulk.
3. KitchenAid
KitchenAid keeps it versatile with options in both stainless steel and budget-friendly black finishes. One standout model is the KitchenAid KSRS50IL, which has all the power you need to handle daily cooking chaos without taking over your kitchen.
4. Steelux
Steelux keeps things simple and sleek with compact, low-profile designs. Their SRSH50AL model has touch controls, LED displays, and enough power to handle small spaces like a pro.
5. Frigidaire Professional
Frigidaire knows their way around a kitchen, and their ductless range hoods are no exception. The FFQE2431 series offers up to 400 CFM airflow, sleek designs, and all the versatility you could want to match your kitchen vibe.
5 Best Ductless Range Hoods Reviews
Ready to ditch the smoke and smells? These top picks are here to make your kitchen life easier, cleaner, and a whole lot more stylish.
1. Cosmo COS-QS90 Ductless Range Hood
So we’ve been using the Cosmo COS-QS90 for a bit now, and honestly, it’s such a win. The 500 CFM motor? Total powerhouse. It clears out all the smoke and smells without sounding like a jet engine in your kitchen. Spaghetti night? Stir-fry? No problem at all. And the halogen lights? Game-changer. Everything stays bright, so no more guessing if the onions are done or not. Bonus: it’s super sleek and gives the kitchen this modern, polished vibe.
What really hooked us was the energy-saving LED lights—they’re bright but don’t hike up the power bill—and the 3-year warranty (USA-based customer support is a nice touch, too). It’s just one of those products that does exactly what you need and looks good doing it. If you’re hunting for a range hood that’s stylish, powerful, and hassle-free, this one’s a keeper.
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2. Comfee F13 Ducted Ductless Range Hood
The Comfee F13 has been such a lifesaver in our kitchen. The aluminum filter is dishwasher-safe, which means cleaning it is a breeze—literally just toss it in the dishwasher, and you’re good to go. No scrubbing, no hassle. Plus, the stainless steel body is super sleek and modern, and it holds up really well against rust and stains, so it’s built to last.
Even though it’s compact, this little range hood works like a champ. The 2-speed fan is great for keeping cooking smells under control, and while it doesn’t have built-in lights, it’s no big deal if you’ve got decent lighting nearby. If you’re looking for something affordable, low-maintenance, and effective, the Comfee F13 checks all the boxes.
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3. Cosmo UC30 Ductless Range Hood
We’ve been loving the Cosmo UC30, especially for how quiet it is—at just 65 dB, it’s perfect for late-night cooking without waking up the whole house. Despite its small size, it’s surprisingly powerful, with 380 CFM of ventilation that easily handles whatever we’re cooking. The push-button controls are super easy to use, and the sleek design fits perfectly in our cozy kitchen.
The LED lighting is another highlight—it’s bright, energy-efficient, and makes a big difference when cooking. And if you grab the optional carbon filtration kit, it does an amazing job of cutting down on odors, especially after frying. For anyone working with limited space but still wanting something stylish and effective, the UC30 is a solid choice.
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4. IKTCH 30 inch Built-in/Insert Ductless Range Hood
The IKTCH 30-Inch Insert Range Hood is a total beast. The 900 CFM airflow clears out even the smokiest cooking sessions in no time. It blends right into our cabinetry like it was made for our kitchen, and the remote control is such a fun bonus. Changing fan speeds or turning on the lights from across the room? Yes, please.
What really surprised us is how quiet it is. Even on the higher settings, it doesn’t get obnoxiously loud—at 40 dB on low, it’s practically whisper-quiet. Cleanup is also super easy with the dishwasher-safe filters. If you want something powerful, sleek, and just overall easy to use, the IKTCH is definitely worth it.
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5. EKON NAB01-30IN Ductless Range Hoods
The EKON NAB01-30IN is hands down one of the most versatile range hoods we’ve tried. The 4-speed soft-touch controls are a breeze to use, and the 900 CFM motor tackles heavy-duty cooking like a pro. We’re obsessed with the adjustable LED lights—they’re bright enough for serious cooking but can be dimmed when you’re going for a cozy vibe.
What really stood out is how quiet it is. Even on max settings, it doesn’t overpower conversations or TV time in the next room. The stainless steel filters are sturdy and dishwasher-safe, which makes cleanup so simple. If you’re looking for something that’s both stylish and high-performing, the EKON NAB01 is an amazing pick.
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How to Choose the Best Ductless Range Hood
If you’re on the hunt for a ductless range hood, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re a casual cook or a full-blown kitchen wizard, picking the right one can make a big difference. Here are some key things to think about before you buy—because no one wants to waste money on something that doesn’t do the job.
1. Style and Design
Let’s be real—looks matter. Your range hood is going to be a focal point in your kitchen, so it should vibe with the rest of your space. There are tons of designs out there, from sleek and modern to more traditional styles. If you’re all about that cohesive look, consider matching it to your other appliances. A stainless steel hood with a minimalist design? Chef’s kiss.
2. Ventilation and Airflow
A range hood isn’t just for show—it needs to perform. You’ll want one with solid ventilation to suck up all the smoke, steam, and cooking odors. Check the CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating to get an idea of how powerful it is. Bonus points if it has adjustable blower speeds, so you can dial it up or down depending on what’s cooking. And don’t forget to peek at the energy rating—no one wants their range hood to sabotage the electric bill.
3. Filtering System
Filters are the unsung heroes of range hoods. A good one traps grease, odors, and smoke like a pro. Charcoal filters are great, but if you can swing it, look for a model with nanoparticle filtration for next-level odor control. Not every hood comes with these, but you can often grab one separately. Pro tip: make sure the filters are easy to clean or replace, because no one likes a greasy mess.
4. Size Matters
Before you hit “add to cart,” measure your space. You don’t want to end up with a hood that’s too small to handle your cooking chaos or too big for your kitchen. Higher CFM ratings are a good call if you do a lot of frying or grilling, as they’ll handle the heavy-duty stuff with ease.
5. Budget-Friendly (or Not)
Prices can range from $200 to $600 or more, depending on how fancy you want to get. Basic models get the job done, but if you’re into custom designs or extra features, be ready to spend a little more. Think of it as an investment—your kitchen (and your nose) will thank you.
Take your time, do a little homework, and find the ductless range hood that’s perfect for your space and cooking style. Trust us, you’ll notice the difference when your kitchen smells fresh and looks fantastic.
How To Install Ductless Range Hood
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the difference between a ducted and a ductless range hood?
Think of a ducted range hood as the kind that needs a full-on vent system to push air outside your house. It’s great if you want to hide everything behind a ceiling or wall, but installing ductwork can be a bit of a project. On the other hand, a ductless range hood is way more flexible. No ducts, no fuss—you just install it, and it filters the air right there in your kitchen. If you’re not up for a renovation, ductless is the way to go.
2. What are the advantages of using a hood with no ducts?
Flexibility is the name of the game. You can install a ductless range hood pretty much anywhere, making it easier to match your kitchen’s vibe. Plus, they’re often better at localized ventilation since they filter and recirculate air right where you need it. No ducts mean no restrictions—style your kitchen your way without worrying about hidden vents.
3. If I install a ductless system, do I need to hire an electrician?
If you’re just swapping out your old hood for a new one with the same voltage, you’re good to go without calling an electrician. But if you’re working with a completely new system or a different voltage, it’s best to call in a pro. Trust us, you don’t want to mess with wiring unless you know what you’re doing—better safe than zapped!
4. Ductless systems work like air conditioners, right?
Not quite. While both systems move air around, ductless range hoods are all about filtering smoke, grease, and odors—not cooling your kitchen. They might reduce a little humidity, but don’t expect them to make your kitchen feel like an air-conditioned paradise.
5. What about noise? How loud is a vent-free system going to be?
On average, ductless range hoods operate at about 60–70 decibels when running full blast—that’s about the same volume as a normal conversation. If your hood has a strong exhaust system, you might notice a slight bump in noise (3–5 decibels), but it’s nothing too crazy.
Conclusion
When shopping for the best ductless range hood, focus on features like filters and lighting to make your kitchen functional and stylish. There are plenty of great options out there—just take your time to compare and pick the one that fits your needs and budget. Happy cooking!
