Whether you are a restaurant owner or you are an enthusiastic home chef, you already know the value of a quality range hood. They prevent smells from seeping from the kitchen, they remove smoke and steam, and they help keep grease and other residues from making huge messes. However, even a range hood that is high-performing may get under your skin if it is too loud!
One of the most difficult parts about shopping for a range hood is not only worrying about the overall quality of the product but whether or not the noise it creates is something that can be managed in your cooking space. A range hood that is too loud can destroy communication in a busy kitchen, or it can drive your family crazy at home!
Below, you will find our picks of the quietest range hoods that will fit right at home regardless of the kind of kitchen you have.
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Quietest Range Hoods: Editor’s Top Picks
Top 10 Quietest Range Hood Reviews:
1. Golden Vantage Island Mount Range Hood –30” Stainless-Steel
Specifications
- Brand: Golden Vantage
- Size: 30 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
- Controller Type: Touchscreen panel
- Installation Type: Island with LEDs
- Airflow: 350 CFM
- Noise Level: 65dB
- Voltage: 120V
- Dimensions: 29.5” W x 23.6” L x 55.7” H
- Wattage: 190W
This range hood from Golden Vantage Island is a great choice! It uses a 190W 6A motor that is powerful enough to whisk away smoke, steam, grease, and more. The motor also has three different speed levels that you can set to make sure that you are getting just the amount of performance you need. The motor is able to provide this level of performance all the while staying at or below 65db.
Of course, there is more to this range hood than simply the motor or quiet operation. Its stainless-steel design not only gives it a high-quality build and a long-lasting frame, but it also looks fantastic in most kitchens. It also does not need to be connected to a duct outside of the kitchen. Instead, it makes use of mesh filters that recycle the air back into the kitchen. The mesh filters are dishwasher safe, so maintenance is a breeze.
There are also built-in LED lights for great visibility while cooking, and the controls are touch-screen, so no worrying about gumming up buttons or switches with grease or residue. This range hood is a great addition to any home kitchen or to any professional kitchen that lacks ductwork. This is an ideal product for those that not only want quiet performance, sufficient power, but also for those that want a full-featured product with a great modern design.
What we liked:
- 65db max noise level
- High-quality stainless steel build
- Touch-screen controls
- Mesh filter that is dishwasher safe
What could be better:
- Not compatible with ductwork (if you prefer exhaust exit to outside the building)
2. Hauslane | Chef Series 30″ PS18 Under Cabinet Range Hood
Specifications
- Brand: Houslane
- Size: 30 inches
- Installation Type: Under-cabinet
- Material: Stainless steel
- Controller Type: Touchscreen
- 3-way venting
- Color: Matte white & stainless steel
- 6-speed settings
- LEDs with 2700K color temperature
- Weight: 41 pounds
- Dimensions: 30 x 22 x 7 inches
- Voltage: 120V
- Warranty: 2-years
- Wattage: 266W
If you are in the middle of a kitchen or full-house remodel, then this Hasulane range hood is perfect. It is designed to be connected to ductwork but offers three different exhaust options. There are two different locations that you can choose for the exhaust pipe, as well as two different shapes so you can use a variety of different kinds of ducts. A wonderfully versatile design will take a lot of the planning out of whatever remodel you may be doing!
The suction on this range hood is nothing to scoff at, either. It achieves 860 CFM at max setting has a maximum noise output of less than 64db. This makes communication in a busy kitchen easy or casual conversations in a home kitchen much less irritating!
This Hauslane range hood also has washable steel baffle filters. All you need to do to clean them is to remove them and throw them in the dishwasher! This is an inexpensive, easy way to keep the exhaust clean and reduce grease residue to a minimum. Not only will it stay clean, but its all-stainless-steel design will look fantastic in your professional or home kitchen. The controls use a digital screen that meshes into any number of contemporary kitchen designs.
This is a fantastic option for those who are in the process or who are going to be in the process of construction and want flexibility!
What we liked:
- High-quality stainless steel design
- Three exhaust vent options (including from the back)
- Clean looking digital display
- Removable and washable filters
- Powerful and quiet!
What could be better:
- Requires external ductwork (so if you don’t ductwork in place already, you will need to add it to your building)
3. Broan E66130SS Elite Ultra Quiet Range Hood
Specifications
- Brand: Broan
- Size: 30-inches
- Color: Stainless steel
- Airflow: 600 CFM
- Voltage: 120V
- 50W halogen bulbs
- Material: Stainless steel
- Installation Type: Under-cabinet
- Weight: 30 pounds
- Controller Type: Buttons
- Dimensions: 21.5 x 30 x 5.13 inches
- Warranty: 10-years (on major components)
This Broan range hood is perfect for customers who value quietness and a discreet profile above all else. It operates at .4 Sones (which is about 14db), making it one of the quietest range hoods on our list. The 600 CFM motor makes quick work of most fumes and smoke, making it an excellent accessory to most home kitchens!
The size of this range hood also makes it ideal. Its overall profile is a bit smaller than other range hoods on this list, making it perfect for sneaking in under cabinets or other tight spaces, making it one of the best under cabinet range hoods. This Broan range hood also sports three variable speeds (and a “boost” mode), which helps you find the balance of performance and quiet you need, depending on your fume situation. If you land on a setting you love, you are in luck! This range hood will remember the last setting used!
The range hood body supports dual 50-watt halogen bulbs, making plenty of brightness for easy kitchen use. It is constructed with a stainless steel body and removable aluminum filters that can be washed in the dishwasher. Maintenance is easy, so this range hood will stay in working order for quite some time.
For a relatively discreet profile, super-quiet operation, and performance that still gets the job done, this Broan Elite Range Hood will be a perfect fit in a modern kitchen.
What we liked:
- Three variable speeds plus boost
- Removable aluminum filters that are dishwasher safe
- Super quiet at .4 Sones
- Supports bright halogen bulbs
- The small, sleek body
What could be better:
- Does not appear ductwork ready
- No digital display for settings
4. Cosmo QS75 30-in Under-Cabinet Range Hood 900-CFM
Specifications
- Brand: Cosmo
- Airflow: 500 CFM
- Installation Type: Under-cabinet (convertible from ducted to ductless)
- LED lighting
- Controller Type: Touchscreen panel & remote controller
- 4-fan speed levels
- Voltage: 120V
- Weight: 52.8 pounds
- Dimensions: 22 x 29.5 x 10 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
- Color: Stainless steel
- Auto-shutoff timer
- Warranty: 5-year warranty
For a full-featured and versatile option, the Cosmo QS75 is tough to beat. It sports a powerful 900 CFM performance that will only produce a max of 65db of sound. That may be louder than some of the other options on our list, but given the strength of the motor, it is still a decent compromise between noise production and sucking force. The fan can be set to four different speeds, so if you need it quieter than 65db, try a lower setting!
The Cosmo QS75 uses ARC-FLOW stainless steel permanent filters to give you some of the best filtering power available. These filters are also dishwasher safe and are extremely durable. The range hood also has LED lights built in to keep things nice and bright while you cook!
This range hood can be used with existing ductwork or can be converted to be used without external ducts (though there are some attachments you will need that are sold separately). Even having the option, however, makes this an appealing product for those who are in the middle of construction, have existing ductwork, or who have no external exhaust but are looking for a sleek, modern-looking addition to their home kitchen.
What we liked:
- Can be used with or with external ducts
- Stainless steel body
- Stainless steel, permanent filters that are dishwasher safe
- 4 different fan speeds
What could be better:
- If you want to use this without ducts, you will need to buy additional attachments
- Much louder than other options on this list.
5. Awoco Super Quiet Stainless Steel Under Cabinet 4 Speeds 800CFM Range Hood
Specifications
- Brand: Awoco
- Mounting Type: Under-cabinet
- Material: Stainless steel
- 4-speed settings
- Color: Stainless steel
- Airflow: 900 CFM
- Size: 30-inches
- Noise Level: 49dB / 51dB / 57dB / 62dB
- Voltage: 120V
- Controller Type: buttons
- 3 minutes Auto-shutoff
- Weight: 39.5 pounds
- Wattage: 150W
Another great choice if you are trying if your range hood should be wall-mounted or placed under cabinets. The Awoco Super Quiet Range Hood can do both! It uses 800 CFM performance to powerfully whisk away fumes and smoke, all while staying at 60db or softer. The motor supports four different speeds, and it is operated by buttons on the body of the range hood.
One of the ways that this range hood provides such performance without making a huge amount of noise is that it is partially installed in the attic, completely removing the blower out of the kitchen. It also has stainless steel baffle filters that help prevent grease from building up without the use of an oil cup (and the filters are dishwasher safe, too!)
Of course, as with many of the range hoods on this list, it comes with bright LED lights installed to give you all the brightness you need to cook! The range hood also has a delayed shut-off so, if you happen to forget to turn it off, you don’t have to worry about it running all day!
If you are able to undergo the more involved installation process of this range hood, it makes a great permanent addition to any professional or household kitchen.
What we liked:
- The split blower is partially installed in the attic, helping reduce noise
- 4-speed settings
- Stainless steel baffle filters that are dishwasher safe
- Delay turn off the timer
- Built-in LED lights
What could be better:
- No ductless option
- Installation is much more involved than other options
- No electronic display
6. FIREBIRD Stainless Steel 36″ Euro Style Island Mount Range Hood LED Screen
Specifications
- Brand: FIREBIRD
- Size: 36 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
- Color: Stainless steel
- Weight: 64.7 pounds
- Dimensions: 23.5 x 35.3 x 49.3 inches
- LED lighting
- Controller Type: Touch panel
- Noise Level: 65dB
- Airflow: 343 CFM
- Warranty: 3-years parts warranty
What if you need a range hood over a cooking area that is not by a wall? The Firebird Range Hood is here to help! A great option for an island range hood, it includes everything you need for ceiling installation. It also features touch controls for the fans and the lights, making it easy to operate without fear of gumming up mechanical buttons.
Of course, it needs to be quiet. That’s why you are here! This range hood will run at a max of 65bd, which is right in line with most of the products on this list. The 343 CFM performance does a great job of removing fumes, smoke, and other odors from your kitchen! The motor also supports three different speed options, which is fantastic if you need to balance power with noise production. If you are looking for a long-term investment, the Firebird still is a great choice. It comes with a limited 3-year warranty, so you know you will be supported for years to come after purchase.
The body of this range hood is stainless steel, as is the chimney. It also includes stainless steel baffle filters which prevent grease from building up. They are also dishwasher safe, making maintenance a breeze.
What we liked:
- Three-speed motor
- Ideal for ceiling installation
- All Stainless steel body
- Removable baffle filters that are dishwasher safe
- Touch controls
- 65db max sound production
What could be better:
- The motor is a bit weaker than other options on our list
- No option for wall or cabinet mounting
7. KOBE INX2730SQB-700-2 Brillia 30-inch Built-in/ Insert Range Hood
Specifications
- Brand: KOBE Range Hoods
- Size: 30-inches
- 3-fan speeds
- Airflow: 550 CFM
- Baffle filters
- Weight: 21.6 pounds
- Dimensions: 25 x 27.56 x 10.25 inches
- Material: 18 gauge Stainless steel
- 2 × 3W LED lighting
- Voltage: 120V
- Wattage: 300W
- Warranty: 1-year
For something that is quiet and super discreet, consider this Kobe range hood. It is an insert, so it will seamlessly slip into installation and blend in well with your kitchen. At 550 CFM performance, it is easily able to take care of fumes and smoke that may build up in your kitchen. It also sports three different speeds; a “quiet mode” and two higher speeds. The Kobe range hood is rated at 1 Sonne (which is about 26db), but that is for the quietest setting. Expect more powerful settings to be louder.
The Kobe range hood makes use of two 3W LED lights to make it easy to see exactly what is happening on your stovetop. The baffle filters are designed to easily catch grease and other residues from clogging your ductwork, but they can also be removed and easily cleaned in the dishwasher. The Kobe range hood is specifically designed so that it can be easily cleaned and maintained without needing to disassemble the hood.
Finally, it makes use of an all stainless-steel body and satin finish for lasting durability and looks great in your kitchen. A fantastic choice if you are looking for a quiet, discreet insert.
What we liked:
- Three fan modes, including a “quiet” mode
- Removable baffle filters that are dishwasher safe
- Bright LED lights
- Great build for an insert range hood
- Potential to be extremely quiet
What could be better:
- No ductless option
- No touch controls (mechanical buttons only)
- No noise information about the more powerful modes
8. Proline Wall/Undercabinet Range Hood
Specifications
- Brand: Proline Power
- Size: 36-inches
- Airflow: 600 CFM
- 4 blower speeds
- Voltage: 110V
- Noise Level: 5 sones
- Weight: 31 pounds
- Dimensions: 19 x 36 x 5 inches
- Material: Stainless steel
- Installation Type: Under-cabinet
- Color: Brushed stainless steel
- 2×5W LEDs
- Warranty: 3-years
This Proline range hood offers a premium look and feel along with high-quality performance. Even though it is a pretty large size at 36in, it still is able to be relatively quiet, only producing 51db at the maximum noise production. The maximum airflow is 600 CFM, but that can be adjusted with four different available speeds.
The physical design is what helps set the Proline apart from other range hoods. It is super slim, coming in at only 5in height, which makes it ideal for slipping under cabinets. It also offers two different venting options, from either the top or the back, so choose whichever works best for your kitchen space. Unfortunately, the Proline does not support ductless function.
The all-stainless-steel body makes use of bright LED lights and uses stainless steel baffle filters to keep grease from going where it shouldn’t. These filters are dishwasher safe and, even as grease builds up, airflow is not restricted. On top of all of this, Proline offers a 3-year limited warranty. One year that covers parts and labor, and two more years that cover just parts. A warranty is a great way to make sure that the range hood is with you and working for you for years to come.
What we liked:
- Relatively quiet for its size and performance
- Extremely slim profile
- Two built-in venting options available
- Stainless steel baffle filters that are also dishwasher safe
- Grease build-up does not inhibit airflow
What could be better:
- No ductless function
- No touch controls (mechanical buttons only)
9. Broan-Nutone RMP17004 Elite Custom Power Pack for External Blower
Specifications
- Brand: Broan-NuTone
- Material: Stainless steel
- Size: 27.6-inches
- Airflow: 400 CFM
- Installation Type: Under-cabinet
- Weight: 36.2 pounds
- Dimensions: 11.25 x 27.56 x 2 inches
- Voltage: 120V
- 2× 36W halogen bulbs
- Noise Level: 9 sones
This is another great option as an insert range hood that is definitely full-featured. At the top performance, you can expect 400 CFM at around 60db. The motor also supports several different speeds, so you can get the perfect balance between clean air and noise production. The motor automatically adjusts if it detects a buildup of excess heat
The Broan-Nutone range hood is easy to maintain, too. It features an aluminum filter that is dishwasher safe. The filter is designed with a quick-release latch that makes it easy to take it off to clean and return to normal function. The range hood also makes use of bright halogen lighting, which makes it ideal for installation in places where natural lighting is scarce.
This range hood supports duct venting and unfortunately is not compatible with the ductless operation. The vent is in a single location, though you can choose between 6in or 8in ducts. This range hood excels at having a crisp, professional look that looks great in a professional or home kitchen, though its performance and build is likely better suited for home use.
What we liked:
- Aluminum filters feature a quick-release latch for easy removable. They are also dishwasher safe.
- Multiple fan speeds supported
- Supports use of halogen lights for fantastic brightness
- 400 CFM max performance
- Sleek modern design
- Compatible with varying lengths of cabinets or custom hoods
- The blower automatically adjusts depending on the heat level
What could be better:
- Filters are not stainless steel
- Overall CFM is a bit low for the amount of noise produced
- Ductless operation not supported
10. BV Range Hood – 30 Inch 860 CFM Under Cabinet Stainless Steel Kitchen Range Hoods
Specifications
- Brand: BV
- Size: 30-inches
- Airflow: 750 CFM
- Installation Type: Under-cabinet
- 2W LED lights
- Material: 18 gauge Stainless steel
- Weight: 42.7 Pounds
- Dimensions: 29.75 x 22 x 8 inches
- Noise: 70dB
- Voltage: 120V
- Warranty: 2-years
- Controller Type: Buttons
For the final product on our list, we have the powerful BV Range Hood. At its highest setting, it performs at 860 CFM, which is more than enough to suck away most grease, fumes, and other unwanted smells. It supports three different speeds, and the controls for the fan, lights, and power button are spaced closely together and easily seen. It operates at 70db, which is on the higher end of noise production for the products on this page.
This range hood also features stainless steel baffle filters, like many of the products on our list. They are easily removed for cleaning and are dishwasher safe. They are a fantastic feature for keeping grease build-up at bay. The all-stainless-steel body is another premium feature that makes maintenance of this product easy. There are also built-in LED lights, which makes working around the range hood and cooking much safer with added visibility.
The BV range hood comes with a great warranty, too. You get a 30-day money-back guarantee and a two-year warranty. It also includes one year of technical support (which is great because you will have support if you need help during installation!)
This is a great option if you want a range hood that is not deafeningly loud but prioritizes sucking power over being discreetly quiet.
What we liked:
- 860 CFM airflow
- Three different fan speeds supported
- Removable baffle filters that are dishwasher safe
- Great extended warranty
- LED lights
What could be better:
- No touch controls
- No ductless operation supported
- One of the louder models on this list
Things to Consider When Buying a Quietest Range Hood
Though the basic function of a range hood is the same across the board (removing smoke, smells, fumes, and grease from the cooking area), you may have been surprised to see the variety of different options that are available. If this is your first time shopping for a range hood, you may be overwhelmed by some of the choices. Take a look at the buying guide below and it will help focus you on some of the more important features to consider:
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Noise Level
If you are looking for the quietest range hoods, then of course noise should be the first thing you consider. How much noise are you willing to tolerate? Generally, the more powerful a range hood is (or the higher CFM it has), the larger the motor is that is needed. The larger and more powerful a motor, the louder you can expect it to be. Consider the maximum noise level that is acceptable before committing to a range hood!
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CFM Performance
The CFM (or cubic feet per minute) is the unit of measurement used to show how much air a range hood can move. The higher the CFM, the more air in a minute the product is capable of moving out. If you are getting a range hood for a personal kitchen, your CFM may not need to be very high. However, if you are considering getting a range hood to support a commercial kitchen, power may be quite important, especially if you are wanting to contain smoke, fumes, and other smells from permeating your restaurant.
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Ductless Operation
How do you want your range hood to get rid of fumes? Do you want it connected to existing ductwork and moves the air outside of the building, or are you wanting a product that can recycle air back into the kitchen? Many range hoods are made (or are compatible) with charcoal filters that can remove smells and fumes, so they don’t need existing ductwork for installation. For personal kitchens, this is a big plus, especially if you are not planning on significant home renovations.
However, for commercial kitchens, you will likely need a range hood with external exhaust. If you end up with a range hood that does not support that function, you are looking at sending it right back to the manufacturer for a refund.
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Vent Sizes
If you are planning on installing your range hood into existing ductwork, you need to make sure that you buy one with compatible vent sizes. Buy one that has vents that are too large or too small for what you have, and you will be stuck with a dud. Make sure the vents on the range hood are the appropriate size!
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Vent Position
Not only should you be considered vent size, but you need to take special note of where the vent is located on the range hood. Some only have vents in one location, which means you need to be sure you get a range hood with a vent in a location that is compatible with your ductwork. If you are unsure what you will need, there are many range hoods that have multiple venting options (including those on this list!) that may offer the versatility you need.
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Filters
Most of the range hoods on this list have stainless-steel baffle filters that are designed to trap grease from getting into your ductwork. However, not all do. For example, some make use of aluminum filters while others use entirely different filters altogether (like mesh filters). Stainless-steel baffle filters are usually the best choice (unless you are using a ductless range hood), but your specific needs may call for something else.
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Range hood Size
You need to make sure that your range hood is going to fit into the space you plan to install it! Range hoods come in a variety of lengths and profile heights, so make sure you get one that will physically fit where you need it to. You may also be interested in one that simply has a small profile for the aesthetic it provides. Always check and double-check widths and profile heights before purchasing!
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Touch Controls
What kind of controls do you want your range hood to have? Many have touch controls, which offer the benefit of not getting gummed with grease and residue (though you may need to wipe them off from time to time). Others have traditional mechanical buttons that run the risk of getting jammed if you have a particularly busy kitchen.
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External Range Hood vs Insert
Do you want your range hood to fit under cabinets, or do you want your range hood to look like it is inside your cabinets? Inserts are the most discreet option available and seamlessly fit into your kitchen decor. However, they can sometimes be lacking features or power, so make sure you are prepared for some of the performance sacrifices that come with super discreet inserts.
How to Install The Quietest Range hoods
You will not find a “one size fits all” explanation of how to install a range hood. Their exact installation process and requirements are going to vary depending on what kind of range hood you have. However, here are some general guidelines you can keep in mind when thinking about how to install a range hood:
- Ductless Range Hoods are Easy: Ductless range hoods do not require ductwork, so their installation process is going to be very easy. All you need is the appropriate place to hang it, and then use nails or screws to secure it to the wall in the best location (and an easy place to keep it plugged in).
- Vented Range Hoods Could Be Complicated: If you do not have existing ductwork, the installation process for a vented range hood is going to require significant renovation. You will need to install ductwork from your kitchen to a safe exhaust port outside of the building where the kitchen is located. Some range hoods will even need additional installation for parts in an attic or upper-level crawl space. If you do not have existing ductwork, you will likely want to contact a contractor, unless you have experience installing them already.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about range hoods that may answer some questions you have before you even get a chance to ask! Of course, more specific questions can always be directed specifically to the manufacturer of the specific range hood you are looking at.
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Q1: Do I have to have ductwork for a new range hood?
Nope! Many range hoods are built with charcoal filters that allow air to be cleaned and recycled back into the kitchen. Some range hoods function like this exclusively (so they have no exterior vents for ductwork). Others require special attachments to be able to recycle air, while others do not offer this feature at all.
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Q2: Does my home kitchen have to have a range hood?
It is not a requirement that your kitchen has a range hood, though most modern kitchens will already have one built-in. And for most of your cooking, you may not even make use of a range hood. However, if you burn the food or are cooking something with a strong smell or odor, you will definitely wish you had one!
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Q3: What’s the difference between Sones and decibels?
While shopping for a range hood, you will see noise produced sometimes listed in decibels, while other times the unit Sones is used. Sones are a measurement of how sounds are sensed or perceived, whereas decibels are a more objective measurement of sound produced. There are all kinds of charts online that convert Sones to decibels to make it easier to get an idea of how loud each range hood is.
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Q4: How many decibels are too loud?
Many of us probably could not say offhand how many decibels would be too much to handle in a kitchen. Around 60 decibels is what most would consider the sound of a normal conversation to be. Anything less than that would definitely make for ultra-quiet range hoods. Around 75 or above is about the sound a vacuum cleaner makes, which would probably make too much noise for most personal kitchens and definitely too much noise in a commercial kitchen. Most of the range hoods on this list are at 65db or lower at maximum power.
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Q5: What are baffle filters?
Baffle filters are designed to catch grease that may be mixed in with steam and smoke. Baffle filters are made from metal (usually aluminum or steel), which causes the grease to condensate on the metal without progressing further into the ductwork of your range hood. That is why so many range hoods boast having removable baffle filters that are dishwasher safe! You will likely be removing them and cleaning them regularly (especially in a commercial kitchen).
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Q6: Why does my range hood have a heat sensor?
Sense range hoods existing over stoves, they are in the direct line of heat being produced. This is especially true when they are actively filtering our blowing away smoke and fumes. If the range hood itself becomes too hot, it risks damage to the motor. So, if you are running on a low setting and your range hood detects that heat is beginning to build (which means air is not moving fast enough) many will automatically kick into a more powerful setting to prevent internal damage (as well as external fires!)
Final Verdict
Range hoods are an important piece of any kitchen. For personal use, they are great tools to prevent the occasional food that burns or is particularly fragrant. In a commercial setting, they are key to keeping the kitchen safe and clean. Range hoods can also be as discreet and sleek or as bulky and powerful as you want. Which feature do you need the most of, quiet function or powerful function? Be sure to carefully consider the needs you have when looking for a range hood so you are sure to end up with one you love with the very first purchase!