So, you need the best kitchen extractor fan to keep your space fresh and free from smoke, grease, and odours. With so many options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—we’ve done the research for you!

This guide breaks down top-performing kitchen extractor fans, from ceiling-mounted hoods to sleek, space-saving wall-mounted models. Whether you prioritise powerful suction, quiet operation, or affordability, we’ve tested a range of options to help you decide.

After hours of testing for performance, noise levels, and design, the Airflow iCON60 Circular Extractor Fan earned our Editor’s Pick for its powerful yet quiet operation, energy efficiency, and sleek look.

If you want a stylish island cooker hood with strong airflow and intuitive controls, the Klarstein Barett Island Cooker Hood is an excellent choice. On a budget? The COMFEE' 60cm Angled Cooker Hood delivers great performance and modern aesthetics at an affordable price.

Not all models are worth your money—one fell short in key areas, and we’ll tell you which to avoid. Keep reading to find the best kitchen extractor fan for your home!

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How to Choose the Right Extractor Fan For Your Kitchen: Must-Have Features

When choosing the best kitchen extractor fan, certain features should be considered essential. These factors ensure optimal performance, durability, and ease of use.

Key Features That Should Be a Given

• Strong Extraction Power: A good extractor fan should effectively remove smoke, steam, and cooking odours. Look for models with a minimum airflow rate of 400m³/h for small kitchens and 600m³/h or more for larger spaces.
• Multiple Fan Speeds: Adjustable speed settings allow for better control over ventilation, depending on your cooking needs.
• Low Noise Levels: A quality extractor fan should operate quietly (below 60dB) to avoid excessive background noise while cooking.
• Effective Filtration: Both grease filters (washable aluminium or stainless steel) and carbon filters (for recirculating extractor fans systems) should be standard to trap airborne particles and odours.
• LED Lighting: Integrated energy-efficient LED lights should provide adequate illumination over the cooking area.
• Easy Installation: Whether ducted extractor or recirculating, the extractor fan should come with clear instructions and necessary mounting accessories.
• Durable Build Materials: Stainless steel or tempered glass construction is ideal for longevity and easy cleaning.

Design and Build Quality

A well-built kitchen extractor fan should seamlessly integrate with your kitchen while offering durability and ease of maintenance.

• Material: Look for stainless steel, aluminium, or tempered glass for a stylish, easy-to-clean, and rust-resistant finish.
• Size Compatibility: The extractor should match the size of your stove or cooktop—60cm for standard hobs and 90cm or larger for wide cooktops.
• Mounting Options: Wall-mounted, island, under-cabinet, or ceiling-integrated models should fit your kitchen layout.
• Ease of Cleaning: A good design should allow for easy filter removal and washing, with smooth surfaces that wipe clean effortlessly.
• Secure Installation: A solid mounting system is crucial—flimsy brackets or weak screws can cause instability.

Extra Features for Maximum Performance

While essential features ensure baseline performance, additional features can enhance usability and efficiency.

• Auto Shut-Off Timer: Helps save energy by turning off the fan automatically after a set period.
• Touch or Remote Controls: Modern extractor fans offer touch-sensitive panels or remote operation for convenience.
• Smart Sensors: Advanced models include humidity and heat sensors that adjust fan speed based on air quality.
• Adjustable Chimney Cooker Hoods or Height: Some models allow height adjustments to fit various ceiling heights.
• Wi-Fi or App Connectivity: High-end models may integrate with smart home systems for remote operation.
• Decorative or Customisable Finishes: Some extractor fans offer glass panels, unique colours, or hidden designs to match modern kitchens.

Choosing an extractor fan that meets these criteria ensures efficient ventilation, a modern look, and a hassle-free cooking experience.

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Editors Pick

Airflow iCON60 Circular Extractor Fan for Kitchen

The Airflow iCON60 is a high-performance extractor fan designed for kitchens and larger bathrooms. With a sleek design, energy-efficient operation, and a customisable control system, it offers an effective ventilation solution for homes and offices.

Key Features

• Powerful & Quiet Performance: Operates at 66.3W, delivering 78l/s (280 m³/h) airflow. Runs at 41.6dB (@3m) for quiet operation. The iris shutter system prevents backdrafts and reduces noise.
• Compact & Stylish Design: The 150mm/6” size fits seamlessly into walls or ceilings. The modern design blends with any décor. Installation is simple, but control modules are sold separately.
• Customisable Control Options: Compatible with various control modules, including timers and humidity sensors. Available in silver, chrome, anthracite, and navy blue. Complies with UK building regulations for proper ventilation.

The Airflow iCON60 proved to be an exceptionally efficient extractor fan during our testing. It delivers powerful airflow while remaining impressively quiet (41.6dB @3m), making it much less intrusive than other models.

The iris shutter system is a standout feature, effectively stopping drafts and reducing outside noise—a significant advantage over traditional fans.

Installation was straightforward, though selecting the right control module is important for customisation. The delayed shutter opening may not be ideal for quick use, but for ongoing ventilation, it performs brilliantly.

Overall, the Airflow iCON60 is a stylish, quiet, and highly effective extractor fan. If you need reliable ventilation with a modern design, this is a fantastic option.

Runner Up

Klarstein Barett Island Cooker Hood - Kitchen Extractor Fan

The Klarstein Barett Island Cooker Hood is a sleek and efficient kitchen extractor designed to improve air quality while enhancing the look of any modern kitchen.

With its stylish stainless steel cylindrical design, adjustable height, and powerful filtration, it provides a practical solution for removing fumes, grease, and odours from your cooking space.

Key Features

• Powerful Extraction: Three-speed settings and a maximum airflow of 558m³/h efficiently clear smoke, steam, and cooking odours.
• LED Lighting: Built-in energy-efficient LEDs illuminate the cooking area, providing better visibility.
• Digital Display: Simple touch controls and a clear digital display make operation effortless.
• Effective Filtration: Two five-layer aluminium grease filters trap grease and oil, while activated charcoal filters absorb odours.
• Quiet Performance: Designed for powerful extraction with relatively low noise levels.
• Adjustable Installation: Height-adjustable and includes all necessary mounting accessories for a secure fit.

The Klarstein Barett Island Cooker Hood is a stylish and highly effective addition to any modern kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel design instantly enhances the space, while the powerful extraction (up to 558m³/h) keeps the air fresh by removing smoke, steam, and lingering odours.

We loved the bright LED lighting, which provided excellent visibility, and the intuitive digital controls made operation effortless. Installation required careful alignment, especially for ceiling mounting (it’s best to have an extra set of hands), but once secured, it felt sturdy and well-integrated.

Maintenance was refreshingly simple—the grease filters are washable, and the stainless steel surface wipes clean effortlessly.

Despite the slightly tricky setup, this cooker hood exceeded our expectations in both performance and aesthetics. If you’re looking for a powerful, stylish, and low-maintenance island extractor, the Klarstein Barett is a fantastic choice.

Budget Pick

COMFEE' 60cm Angled Cooker Hood Extractor Fan

The COMFEE' 60cm Angled Cooker Hood is a stylish and functional addition to any kitchen. With its powerful suction, sleek design, and easy-to-use controls, it effectively removes steam, odours, and grease, keeping your kitchen fresh.

Key Features

• Strong Suction (400m³/h): Effectively eliminates cooking fumes, odours, and grease, maintaining a cleaner kitchen environment.
• Three-Speed Settings: Adjustable fan speeds allow for customised ventilation based on cooking needs.
• Angled Black Glass Design: Modern and space-saving, the sleek glass panel enhances the look of your kitchen.
• LED Lighting: Provides clear visibility over the stove with an energy-efficient, cool-toned light.
• Touch-Control Panel: Intuitive controls make operation simple and seamless.
• 5-Layer Aluminum Grease Filter: Easy to remove, dishwasher-safe, and highly effective in trapping grease.
• Dual Extraction Modes: Works with both duct-out and recirculation setups (charcoal filters sold separately).
• Adjustable Chimney: Flexible height adjustment to fit various kitchen spaces.

The COMFEE' 60cm Angled Cooker Hood is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering powerful suction (400m³/h) that efficiently removes smoke, odours, and grease. Installation was straightforward thanks to the included wall-mounting template, and the adjustable chimney ensured a perfect fit.

The touch controls were responsive, and switching between the three fan speeds was seamless.

We loved the sleek, angled design—not only does it look modern, but it also creates extra headroom over the hob, making cooking more comfortable. The LED light provided good visibility, though its cool tone may not suit all preferences. Noise levels were present but quieter than many older models.

Installing the charcoal filters for recirculation took some effort, but once secured, they worked well. Overall, this is a stylish, affordable, and user-friendly cooker hood—a great choice for small to mid-sized kitchens looking for strong performance at a reasonable price.

High-Quality Pick

SIA AGE61BL Angled Kitchen Cooker Hood Chimney Extractor Fan

The SIA AGE61BL Angled Kitchen Cooker Hood is a sleek and efficient addition to any modern kitchen. Designed with style and practicality in mind, it features customizable lighting, effective extraction, and easy installation, making it a great choice for those looking to upgrade their cooking space.

Key Features

• Space-Saving Design: The angled glass design minimises headroom interference and provides a streamlined look that blends seamlessly with contemporary kitchens.
• Customisable Edge Lighting: A 5W edge lighting system allows switching between red, blue, and green, creating the perfect ambience while ensuring clear visibility over the hob.
• Dual Extraction Modes: Supports both internal re-circulation (with a charcoal filter) and external extraction (via a ducting kit) for efficient removal of cooking odours and steam.
• Bright LED Illumination: Two energy-efficient LED lights provide excellent lighting for cooking tasks while adding a modern aesthetic to the kitchen.
• Straightforward Installation: Designed to fit into standard extractor spaces, making it an easy upgrade for most kitchens.

The SIA AGE61BL Angled Cooker Hood is an impressive addition to any kitchen, combining style, efficiency, and practicality. From the moment we installed it, we noticed a significant improvement in air quality, with its strong extraction power effectively clearing steam and odours.

One of its standout features is the customisable three-colour edge lighting, which not only enhances visibility but also creates a modern, ambient feel (a rare combination for a cooker hood). The energy-efficient LED lights are another plus, providing excellent brightness for cooking.

While it does produce some noise during operation, it’s nothing out of the ordinary for extractor fans of this kind. Given its sleek, space-saving design and high functionality, we think this is an excellent upgrade for any modern kitchen.

If you’re looking for a stylish yet powerful cooker hood, this one ticks all the right boxes.

Most Powerful Pick

SNDOAS Cooker Hood 60cm, Class A++ Kitchen Extractor Hood

The SNDOAS Cooker Hood 60cm is a sleek, space-saving kitchen extractor designed for efficiency and convenience. With its modern aesthetic, powerful performance, and user-friendly controls, it enhances any cooking space while effectively removing smoke and odours.

Key Features

• Sleek & Space-Saving Design: The angled black tempered glass adds a modern touch while creating more space above the hob.
• Powerful & Quiet Performance: A brushless DC motor ensures 550 m³/h suction power with a quiet 58dB operation, efficiently eliminating steam, smoke, and odours.
• Customisable Settings: Three power levels adjust suction strength. A responsive touch panel and a 1-9 minute delayed shutdown add convenience.
• Dual Ventilation Modes: Supports the ducted and recirculating installation with a 2m exhaust hose and two charcoal filters for air purification.
• Easy Maintenance: The black glass surface wipes clean easily. The five-layer aluminium filter is removable and dishwasher-safe.

We recently tested the SNDOAS Cooker Hood 60cm, and it has been an excellent upgrade to our kitchen. Installation was quick and hassle-free (the pre-wired 1.5m UK plug made it even easier).

The sleek, angled design not only looks stylish but also creates more space above the hob, making cooking more comfortable. The powerful 550 m³/h suction effectively clears smoke and odours while operating at a relatively quiet 58dB.

The touch controls are intuitive, and the three adjustable power levels offer flexibility. Cleaning is effortless—the black tempered glass wipes clean easily, and the removable aluminium filter is dishwasher-safe.

On the downside, it’s not the quietest hood available, and installation could be tricky for some due to bracket positioning. However, the efficiency, modern design, and ease of maintenance make it a standout choice.

If you want a high-performance, stylish, and practical extractor hood, this one delivers beautifully.

One To Avoid

FIREGAS Cooker Hood Stainless Steel Wall Mounted Kitchen Extractor Fan

We tested the FIREGAS Cooker Hood Stainless Steel Wall Mounted Kitchen Extractor Fan and, unfortunately, it fell short in several key areas. While the stainless steel design gives it a sleek and modern look, the overall build quality left much to be desired.

The unit arrived with minor dents, and the screws securing the casing were over-tightened, affecting its durability. Installation was another major issue. The mounting system relies on only two screws, which are simply not enough to hold the unit securely.

We had to reinforce it to prevent sagging, but even then, the lack of proper support was concerning. If not installed carefully, it could become a safety hazard.

Performance-wise, the three-speed settings seemed promising, but even at the highest level, suction was weak and ineffective. Cooking with high smoke levels quickly exposed its limitations.

On top of that, the noise level was surprisingly high, making it an unpleasant addition to a kitchen where quiet operation is preferred. Although the LED lighting is decent and the filters are reusable, these small positives don’t outweigh the negatives.

Between the poor suction, unstable installation, and excessive noise, this is one to avoid. There are far better options for the price.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Kitchen Extractor Fans

Finding the best kitchen extractor fan requires more than just turning it on and checking if it works. We put each model through a series of tests to evaluate its performance, noise levels, ease of use, and overall build quality. Here’s how we did it.

Airflow Performance and Suction Power

An extractor fan’s primary job is to remove steam, smoke, and cooking odours, so we measured the airflow rate in cubic meters per hour (m³/h) to determine how effective each model was.

To test real-world performance, we used smoke tests with incense and controlled smoke sources to observe how quickly and efficiently the fan cleared the air. We also tested the effectiveness of different fan speeds, ensuring they maintained strong performance across settings.

Noise Levels and Operation

A noisy extractor fan can be a major inconvenience, especially in an open-plan kitchen. We measured the decibel level from a standard distance to see how loud each fan was at various speed settings. Models that operated below 60dB were considered ideal for quiet kitchens.

We also listened for any rattling or vibrations that could indicate poor build quality or loose components.

Filtration and Maintenance

Good filtration is essential for maintaining clean air, so we assessed the effectiveness of both grease and carbon filters. We tested how well grease filters trapped particles and whether they were easy to remove and clean.

For models with carbon filters, we cooked foods with strong odours, such as fish and spices, to see how well they absorbed lingering smells. Ease of maintenance was also considered—fans with dishwasher-safe or easy-to-replace filters received higher marks.

Installation and Build Quality

A well-designed extractor fan should be easy to install and securely mounted. We assessed whether each model came with clear installation instructions and necessary mounting hardware. The stability of the unit was tested to ensure it remained secure over time.

Materials were also evaluated—stainless steel, aluminium, and tempered glass were preferred for their durability and ease of cleaning.

Lighting and Controls

Extractor fans often come with built-in lighting, so we tested brightness levels and colour temperature to determine how well they illuminated the cooking area. We also evaluated the control panel, checking the responsiveness of touch controls, buttons, and remote options.

For models with smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity or auto sensors, we tested how well they integrated into daily use and whether they provided any real benefits.

Energy Efficiency and Long-Term Reliability

To gauge energy efficiency, we measured power consumption at different speed settings. Fans that provided strong performance while using less power were rated higher. We also ran the extractor fans for extended periods to test motor durability and look for any signs of overheating or wear.

For models with smart sensors, we checked the accuracy of humidity and heat detection in automatically adjusting fan speeds.

Design and Space Considerations

Beyond functionality, a kitchen extractor fan should complement the overall aesthetic of the space. We assessed whether each model fit seamlessly into different kitchen layouts, including wall-mounted, island, and under-cabinet setups.

We also compared colour and material options to see how well they blended with various kitchen styles.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is an Extractor Fan Necessary in a Kitchen?

An extractor fan is necessary for a kitchen because it helps remove steam, smoke, and cooking odours, preventing grease buildup and improving air quality. Without proper ventilation, moisture can lead to mould growth, and lingering odours can make the kitchen uncomfortable.

A well-functioning extractor fan ensures a cleaner and fresher environment.

Do Kitchen Extractor Fans Use a Lot of Electricity?

Kitchen extractor fans do not use a lot of electricity, as most models are designed to be energy efficient. Their power consumption varies depending on the motor size and speed settings, but even high-powered fans typically use less electricity than other kitchen appliances.

Choosing an energy-efficient model can help minimise power usage.

Which Is Better, a Continuous or Intermittent Extractor Fan?

A continuous extractor fan is better for maintaining consistent air quality by running at a low speed throughout the day, reducing humidity and odours. However, an intermittent extractor fan is more energy-efficient, operating only when needed.

The best choice depends on kitchen ventilation needs and whether constant airflow is required.

Where Is the Best Place to Put an Extractor Fan in the Kitchen?

The best place to put an extractor fan in the kitchen is directly above the cooking area, where it can effectively remove steam, grease, and odours. Ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted placement ensures efficient airflow.

Proper positioning near external vents also enhances performance by quickly expelling air outside.

How Long Should You Leave an Extractor Fan On After Cooking?

You should leave an extractor fan on for at least 10 to 15 minutes after cooking to remove lingering steam, odours, and airborne grease. This helps maintain clean air and prevents moisture buildup. Some models feature automatic timers that shut off the fan after a set period for added convenience.

How Often Should Kitchen Extractor Fans Be Cleaned?

Kitchen extractor fans should be cleaned at least every three to six months to maintain efficiency. Grease filters should be washed or replaced regularly, depending on usage.

Fans that accumulate excessive grease can become less effective and pose a fire hazard, making routine cleaning essential for safety and performance.

What Is the Difference Between an Extractor Fan and a Cooker Hood?

The difference between an extractor fan and a cooker hood is that an extractor fan is a standalone unit designed for ventilation, while a cooker hood is a larger appliance that typically includes an extractor fan and built-in filters.

Cooker hoods often provide additional features such as lighting and grease filtration.

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Final Word

Hopefully, our Best Kitchen Extractor Fan guide has helped you find the perfect model for your kitchen. With so many great options, choosing the right one isn’t easy—but we have a clear winner. The Airflow iCON60 Circular Extractor Fan is our top pick for its powerful airflow, quiet operation, and sleek design.

It effectively removes steam and odours while blending seamlessly into any kitchen. If you prefer an island cooker hood, the Klarstein Barett impressed us with strong extraction and easy-to-use controls. On a budget? The COMFEE' 60cm Angled Cooker Hood offers solid performance at a great price.

However, the FIREGAS Cooker Hood fell short with weak suction, excessive noise, and an unstable mounting system—making it one to avoid. Which model caught your eye? Ready to upgrade your kitchen ventilation? Let us know—we’d love to hear from you!