A downdraft cooktop has a vent beside or behind the burners that pulls air downward, so you need no hood overhead. That suits island cooktops and open kitchens where a hood would block sight lines.
The six cooktops below come from premium and mainstream makers. We have not used these products ourselves, and downdraft models are sold in limited numbers, so confirm the model, size and venting requirements on the current listing before buying. Ducting below the counter is needed.
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What to Look For
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Vent type | Rear-mounted or telescoping vents differ in how they rise |
| Fuel | Electric, induction and gas options all exist |
| Duct route | The duct runs down or back through cabinetry |
| Width | Check the cutout size |
| Controls | Knobs or touch controls vary |
| Noise | Vents sit close to the cook, so check the sone rating on the listing |
Specs at a Glance
| Cooktop | Type | Install | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| JennAir Downdraft Cooktop | Built-in downdraft | Cutout plus ductwork | JennAir’s line is known for downdraft |
| KitchenAid Downdraft Cooktop | Built-in downdraft | Cutout plus ductwork | Several widths |
| Thermador Downdraft Cooktop | Built-in downdraft | Cutout plus ductwork | Premium build |
| Dacor Downdraft Cooktop | Built-in downdraft | Cutout plus ductwork | Premium build |
| Frigidaire Downdraft Cooktop | Built-in downdraft | Cutout plus ductwork | Mainstream line |
| Verona Downdraft Cooktop | Built-in downdraft | Cutout plus ductwork | Italian-style design |
The 6 Best Cooktops with Downdraft
1. JennAir Downdraft Cooktop
JennAir has long been associated with downdraft cooktops. Check which model fuel type you want. Compare the downdraft rating against your typical cooking. A clear counter makes it easy to see across an island while you cook. Ask the seller whether a matching trim kit or a duct kit is needed.
Suits: island cooktops. Strengths: a downdraft-focused brand. Weaknesses: a premium tier. Skip it if you prefer a hood.
View JennAir Downdraft Cooktop on Amazon
2. KitchenAid Downdraft Cooktop
A downdraft cooktop from a respected appliance maker. Look at the width and burner layout before ordering. Choose between electric and gas versions at order time. It often uses a vent that rises from the counter when you press a button. Model years differ, so compare the cutout drawings on the listing.
Suits: kitchens needing a clear sightline. Strengths: a respected brand. Weaknesses: limited model availability. Skip it if you want the cheapest option.
View KitchenAid Downdraft Cooktop on Amazon
3. Thermador Downdraft Cooktop
A premium brand offering downdraft ventilation on some cooktops. It aims at design-focused kitchens. Plan the duct route before you order. Replacement parts can take time to find on older models, so check support. Pair it with a strong inline blower if the maker lists one as an option.
Suits: high-end remodels. Strengths: premium materials. Weaknesses: a higher cost. Skip it if you need a budget option.
View Thermador Downdraft Cooktop on Amazon
4. Dacor Downdraft Cooktop
Dacor’s cooktops are known for sleek styling. Check the listing for downdraft details. Look at the vent height when it is up. The finish and styling lean toward upscale kitchen designs. Expect to plan the cabinet below the cooktop around the vent housing.
Suits: design-driven kitchens. Strengths: a distinctive look. Weaknesses: a premium cost. Skip it if you want mainstream.
View Dacor Downdraft Cooktop on Amazon
5. Frigidaire Downdraft Cooktop
A mainstream-brand downdraft model. Availability may vary, so confirm it is current. Check the replacement filter availability. Always confirm the current model rather than assuming an older one is available. Verify that the vent works with your fuel type before you order.
Suits: budget-minded kitchens. Strengths: a mainstream brand. Weaknesses: limited availability. Skip it if you want pro-style.
View Frigidaire Downdraft Cooktop on Amazon
6. Verona Downdraft Cooktop
Verona offers Italian-styled appliances. Confirm the exact downdraft model on the listing. Read the listing for the venting requirements. Ask a pro to check the duct plan against the cabinet layout. Check the width and burner spacing, since sizes can differ by model.
Suits: stylish kitchens. Strengths: an Italian look. Weaknesses: limited details online. Skip it if you want a major brand.
View Verona Downdraft Cooktop on Amazon
Care and Setup
- Clean the vent filter regularly.
- Wipe the cooktop once it is cool.
- Check the duct for blockages.
- Replace filters on the maker’s schedule.
- Keep the vent clear of utensils.
- Check that the cabinet below has room for the vent housing.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Expecting downdraft to equal a strong hood.
- Skipping the duct plan.
- Ordering without the cutout size.
- Overlooking filter costs.
- Overlooking how much cabinet space the vent housing takes.
Cooktops with Downdraft FAQ
Does downdraft work as well as a hood?
Generally it captures less, especially from tall pots.
Can it be installed on an island?
Yes, that is a common use, but it needs ductwork through the floor or back.
Can I get a ductless version?
Some are recirculating, but check the listing.
Are downdraft cooktops common?
They are less common now, so check availability.
The Short Version
For a downdraft specialist, the JennAir. For a respected mainstream brand, the KitchenAid. For premium builds, the Thermador. For sleek styling, the Dacor. For a mainstream option, the Frigidaire. For Italian design, the Verona.