Kitchen chimneys are often associated with bulky ductwork, heavy installation and high maintenance. The Beyond Appliances Cube 60 challenges that notion with a compact ductless design aimed at urban renters and small households. The company sent us a review unit which we tested more than two weeks for design, features and overall performance to see whether it lives up to its promise.
Design and Build Quality
Measuring 60 cm in width and weighing just 19 kg, the Cube is significantly smaller than conventional ducted chimneys. Its minimalist black finish blends neatly with most modular kitchens without looking industrial. The absence of a bulky hood or dangling pipes gives it a modern, space-saving character that will appeal to those with limited kitchen space.
For apartment dwellers and renters, portability is a strong advantage. The chimney can be wall-mounted in less than 15 minutes without the need for drilling or ductwork, making it one of the simplest installations we have encountered. It is designed as a plug-and-play unit, a feature that sets it apart in the segment.
Although the company promotes it as do-it-yourself, we found it better to arrange installation through the brand itself. In our case this required a couple of follow-up calls before things moved, so buyers should be prepared for some coordination.
Controls and Ease of Use
The Cube takes a straightforward approach to operation, avoiding unnecessary smart features. A feather-touch control panel provides access to three fan speeds rated at 850, 1050 and 1250 CMH, with LED indicators that remain visible even in bright kitchens. There is no Wi-Fi or app integration, but the simplified interface ensures that users across all age groups can operate it with ease.
Performance: Odour and Smoke
Performance is where the Cube shows a clear divide. The built-in carbon filter is highly effective in neutralising cooking odours, clearing lingering smells within minutes of use. For smaller kitchens, this is a genuine strength.
Where it falls short is in dealing with smoke. As a ductless model the Cube does not vent air outdoors but instead recirculates filtered air back into the room. During heavy frying or oil-rich cooking, smoke often remains in the kitchen and the heat can build up quickly. In such cases, households may still need to rely on an additional exhaust fan.
For everyday cooking the Cube performs adequately, but those who regularly prepare smoke-intensive dishes such as parathas with ghee or deep-fried snacks may find its limitations noticeable.
Noise and Comfort
Rated at 48 dB, the Cube is quieter than most conventional chimneys. Conversations can continue even at full power without the need to raise voices, and there is little vibration or distracting noise. The main comfort issue arises from heat. As hot air exits through the top, prolonged cooking can raise the temperature of the kitchen and in some cases cause mild staining of the ceiling above the unit.
Cleaning and Maintenance
The Cube features an auto-clean function which uses dry heat to dislodge oil and grease into a detachable tray. The tray is simple to remove and clean provided the chimney is installed at an accessible height. Maintenance is lighter compared with traditional ducted chimneys and does not demand frequent professional servicing, which adds to its appeal for renters.
The Cube 60 features a 3W LED light, primarily designed to illuminate the control panel and the area immediately around the chimney. While this provides adequate visibility for operating the controls, it does not serve as a dedicated light source for the cooking area. Users with larger or dimly lit kitchens may find it necessary to rely on additional lighting sources to ensure proper illumination during cooking.
Who Should Buy It
The Beyond Appliances Cube 60 is not intended as a replacement for heavy-duty ducted chimneys. Instead it caters to users who value portability, flexibility and odour control in compact kitchens. It is particularly suitable for small apartments, rented homes and families with moderate daily cooking needs.
It is less suitable for large families, open kitchen layouts or households that often cook dishes producing significant smoke or grease. In those scenarios a traditional ducted chimney will deliver better results.
Verdict
The Beyond Appliances Cube 60 chimney offers a refreshing take on a household staple. Compact, portable and renter-friendly, it is designed for modern Indian kitchens where space is limited and installation should be simple. While it will not meet the expectations of households requiring powerful smoke clearance, it performs admirably in controlling odour, runs quietly and requires little upkeep.
For the right kind of home it represents a smart, space-efficient and practical alternative to conventional chimneys.
Estimated Price: ₹10,999
