Kitchen cabinets are classified into four grades based on the construction quality, including ready-to-assemble, stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinets.
This article outlines everything you need to know about the different types of kitchen cabinets based on construction grades, explaining which options best suit your kitchen layout, design preferences, and budget. By understanding these classifications, you can make a better choice for your kitchen.
I consulted Bryan Son, an account manager at Washington-based Northwest Cabinet & Floor, who has extensive experience in remodeling kitchens, bathrooms, and closets. He provided valuable tips and insights.
Note: This article covers different grades of kitchen cabinet construction. If you’re looking for the differences in aesthetics, framing, or placement in the kitchen, read the following articles:
- Types of Kitchen Cabinets: What’s the Difference?
- Standard Kitchen Cabinet Sizes: What You Need to Know
| Cabinet Type | Description | Pros | Cons |
| RTA (Ready-To-Assemble) | Pre-packaged for self-assembly | Affordable, easy to transport | Quality varies, needs assembly |
| Stock Cabinets | Pre-built in standard sizes | Convenient, same-day installation | Limited sizes, fewer design options |
| Semi-Custom Cabinets | Customizable stock cabinets | More design options, budget-friendly than custom cabinets | May still use lower-quality materials |
| Custom Cabinets | Made-to-order, fully personalized | Complete design control | Expensive, long production time |
RTA (Ready-To-Assemble) Kitchen Cabinets
According to Bryan Son of Northwest Cabinet & Floor, “RTA, or Ready-to-Assemble cabinets, are great for cost-conscious homeowners or quick renovations. They’re pre-cut and flat-packed for easy assembly but come in fixed sizes, limiting flexibility for unique layouts.”
These cabinets come with all the parts and hardware needed for assembly to let the owner put them together. Popular at retail stores like Walmart or Ikea, kitchen cabinet users will unpack and assemble the parts themselves.
The most significant advantage of RTA cabinets is their affordability because mass production and self-assembly eliminate pre-assembly costs. A major downside is that although RTA cabinets may look good on the outside, cost-cutting on materials and construction can lead to varying quality.
Read more: How to Get Cheap (or Free!) Kitchen Cabinets
Stock Kitchen Cabinets
Stock cabinets are pre-built in standard sizes and configurations. This type of kitchen cabinet has limited design options and often comes without decorative hardware. This limitation gives you the freedom to select any knobs or pulls you like to use on the cabinets.
Stock cabinets provide convenience because you can buy and install them on the same day. However, a downside is that their standard sizes can create awkward gaps or require customization if your kitchen space needs specific sizes or styles.
Semi-Custom Kitchen Cabinets
Semi-custom cabinets offer the convenience of stock cabinets with the added benefit of customization. Bryan explains, “For a balance, semi-custom cabinets allow some flexibility without the expense of fully custom options.”
Depending on the manufacturer, these kitchen cabinets allow you to customize decorative features and modify dimensions. They provide more design flexibility than stock cabinets and a budget-friendly alternative to fully custom cabinets.
With semi-custom kitchen cabinets, you get more personalization without the high cost of custom cabinetry. The downside of these kitchen cabinets is that the manufacturer builds them on a stock cabinet base. So, if the foundation uses lower-quality materials, those same materials remain in the semi-custom version even if you make modifications and upgrades.
Custom Kitchen Cabinets
Custom kitchen cabinets are made to order and offer the most options in style, materials, finishes, and accessories. They can fit your space perfectly and will give you complete control over design, size, and materials. Custom cabinetry allows for fully personalized options, from door styles and tailored sizes to unique configurations.
The main benefit of custom kitchen cabinets is that you can get exactly what you want and tailor them to your kitchen’s needs. The downside, however, is that custom cabinets can be expensive and often take months to complete.
Bryan shares a similar perspective on these cabinets, stating, “Custom-built cabinets are ideal for homeowners prioritizing precision and personalized design. They’re crafted to fit specific dimensions and styles, ensuring seamless integration, though at a higher cost.”
Check out our article, “Why Are Kitchen Cabinets so Expensive?” to understand the factors affecting pricing and quality.
Note: Home Gnome may get a referral fee for matching you with pros in your area.
Main Photo Credit: samiam2007 / Adobe Stock Free / License
Related Posts:
