Comparing Stock, Semi-Custom & Custom Cabinets

If you’re currently renovating your kitchen or bathroom, or planning for an upcoming remodel, cabinets likely play a big role in your renovation plans. Cabinets come in three basic types—stock, semi-custom, and custom. However, each of these styles come with their own positive and negative attributes. Understanding their similarities and differences will help you decide which cabinet is best for you and your home.

What Are Stock Cabinets?

Stock cabinets are ready-made cabinets that are pre-manufactured using standard measurements and styles, and can be found in a variety of styles, colors and finishes. These are cabinets that are often found at big box home improvement stores, and come as-is, meaning what you see in store is what you’ll get in your home. As such, there are very limited options to choose from, and customization is not available – unless you’re up for a DIY project. This style of cabinet is typically made from lower-grade wood, and its interior is often made from particle board. 

Pros: These cabinets are affordable and often come with quick delivery times.

Cons: The selection of style, colors, shapes, wood type and dimensions are more limited. 

What Are Semi-Custom Cabinets? 

Semi-custom cabinets are essentially stock cabinets that come with the option for minor customization. While the base of the cabinet is pre-made, you may have the option to choose the type of wood, choice of finish, cabinet depth or dimensions without paying the significantly higher cost of fully custom cabinets. Semi-custom cabinets are a popular choice for many homeowners looking to remodel their kitchen or bathrooms, as they offer the best of both worlds. 

Pros: Minor design modifications available without the high price tag of custom cabinets.

Cons: You may not be able to get the exact style, size, color or wood type you’re looking for.

What Are Custom-Made Cabinets?

Custom cabinets are often regarded as the cream of the cabinet crop. They are built to your exact specifications to fit your space, allowing you to get exactly what you want out of your cabinets. You can get cabinets made to virtually any specification as it pertains to style, wood type, color, and finish, provided the cabinet maker you opt for has the necessary tools and resources. These cabinets are made-to-order, and are typically made from higher quality materials. While this is a definite perk, it does make their manufacturing time much higher than stock or semi-custom cabinets. 

Pros: The opportunities are endless when it comes to custom-made cabinets, so you can get exactly what you want. The materials are higher quality and the precise measurements meet your home’s exact needs.

Cons: The cost of custom cabinets vs. prefabricated or semi-custom cabinets is significantly higher. This type of cabinet also takes the longest to manufacture.

Summary: Stock vs. Semi-Custom vs. Custom

Of course, the type of cabinets you choose for your home will depend on your personal taste and budget. Similarly, if you opt for semi- or custom-made cabinets, the end result will also depend upon the cabinet maker or manufacturer you decide upon. Refitting your kitchen, bathroom or any other space with new cabinets is a big investment, so take the time you need to research the best options for your home.