Under Cabinet Range Hood vs Wall Mount: Which is Right for Your Kitchen?

What Is an Under Cabinet Range Hood?

An under cabinet range hood is a space-saving ventilation unit installed directly underneath upper kitchen cabinets, positioned above the stovetop or cooktop. It removes airborne grease, smoke, odors, and steam, either by venting them outside (ducted) or by filtering and recirculating the air back into the kitchen (ductless).

This compact design is great for smaller kitchens or traditional layouts, maintaining cabinet storage while improving indoor air quality.

What Is a Wall Mount Range Hood

A wall mount range hood is installed directly onto the wall above your cooktop, without any upper cabinets surrounding it. These hoods often feature a chimney-style design, creating an architectural focal point in the kitchen with powerful ventilation.

Wall-mounted range hoods are typically ducted, venting smoke and fumes outside for optimal efficiency. Their larger design and higher airflow capacity make them well-suited for open-concept kitchens and frequent home chefs.

Under Cabinet Range Hood: Pros & Cons

Under cabinet hoods are a staple in many kitchens thanks to their low-profile form and practical installation. Here’s what to consider:

Pros of Under Cabinet Range Hoods:

• Space-efficient design that fits neatly beneath upper cabinets
• Typically easier and more affordable to install
• Blends seamlessly into traditional kitchen layouts
• Often available in ducted and ductless models for flexible ventilation

Cons of Under Cabinet Range Hoods:

• Limited design options compared to wall mount models
• May offer lower airflow (CFM), making them less effective for heavy-duty cooking
• Smaller coverage area can leave steam or odors behind during high-heat cooking
• Less suited for open-concept or modern kitchen designs that highlight focal points

Wall Mount Range Hood: Pros & Cons

Wall mount range hoods are favored for their power and aesthetics, especially in kitchens without upper cabinets:

Pros of Wall Mount Range Hoods:

• Higher CFM ratings and wider coverage area
• Sleek, modern design that doubles as a visual focal point
• Typically installed with ducting for more effective smoke and odor removal
• Available in a variety of sizes and finishes to match your kitchen aesthetic

Cons of Wall Mount Range Hoods:

• Requires open wall space, which may mean removing overhead cabinets
• Installation can be more complex and costly
• Larger footprint may not work well in compact or galley kitchens
• Often priced higher than under cabinet alternatives, especially for premium models

Under Cabinet vs Wall Mount Range Hood: Key Differences

Which Hood Is The Right Choice For Your Kitchen?

Not sure which range hood style suits your kitchen? These questions can help you narrow down the best option for your home:

• Do you have cabinets directly above your cooktop?
  If yes, and you’d like to keep those cabinets intact, an under cabinet range hood is likely your best bet.
  
• Are you planning to remove or don’t currently have overhead cabinets?
  A wall mount range hood may work for you. These hoods mount directly to the wall and create a striking visual centerpiece.
• Do you cook frequently or at high heat?
  If you frequently sautée, fry, or simmer when cooking, you need a hood with a higher airflow capacity. Wall mount hoods typically offer more powerful ventilation, but some under cabinet models (like FOTILE’s) can handle heavy-duty cooking, too.
• Do you have space or budget concerns?
  Under cabinet range hoods are generally more cost-effective and compact, great for small kitchens or remodels with limited flexibility.

FAQs

Can you replace an under cabinet range hood with a wall mount hood?

Yes, but it may require some remodeling. Wall mount range hoods need open wall space above the cooktop, so you’ll likely need to remove the cabinets currently connected to your hood. You may also need to adjust ductwork or electrical connections for proper fit and function.

Which type of range hood is best for small kitchens?

Under cabinet range hoods are typically better for small kitchens because of their compact design. They integrate with upper cabinets and offer efficient ventilation without taking up valuable wall space.

Do I need ductwork for either range hood type?

No, under cabinet and wall mount range hoods are both available in ducted and ductless configurations.

Can I install a microwave over a wall mount range hood?

No, wall mount range hoods stand alone and typically extend higher on the wall, often with a chimney-style design. Installing a microwave above one would interfere with airflow and violate clearance requirements.

Can I switch from ductless to ducted later on?

Yes, many range hoods are convertible, so you can switch from ductless to ducted operation later. However, converting to a ducted system will require access to an exterior wall or ceiling for venting and may involve professional installation.

Vent Smarter with FOTILE’s Sleek Wall and Under Cabinet Hoods

No matter which style best fits your kitchen, FOTILE range hoods provide powerful ventilation with whisper-quiet operation, keeping your kitchen air clean and healthy.

Explore our full collection of range hoods to find the perfect match for your kitchen.