Latest 2024 cabinet reviews for the top kitchen cabinet brands. Compiled by kitchen design and cabinetry experts.
Below are Main Line Kitchen Design’s up to date cabinet reviews for the top-selling cabinet manufacturers in the United States. We rate how the manufacturers rate for construction quality and value considering the price point of each cabinet line. Price point is rated from 1 to 6. So, 1 represents the least expensive brands. While 6 is the most expensive custom cabinetry on the market.
How the Ratings Work. Cabinet Reviews explained below:
Cabinet reviews assume each cabinet brand is upgraded to the top level of construction available, usually all plywood construction.
Getting an A for construction quality will not be quite equal across different price levels. The more expensive price point cabinets will have far nicer finishes and construction options.
Note: The highest grade for Quality in any frameless European style cabinet line is a B. While frameless cabinetry is easier to access and is sleeker looking, it is also less durable than the best made framed cabinetry.
The Value Grade
The value grade we give is not a rating about the quality of the cabinetry. It is a rating of how good an investment a cabinet line is considering its cost.
For example, many of the most expensive well-made cabinet lines receive lower cabinet reviews even though as designers we think the cabinetry is the best in its class.
Consequently, these lines receive lower grades on value because there are competitors offering the same quality at slightly lower prices. If price is no object, then we recommend ignoring the value rating in the cabinetry priced in the 6-price point.
Warning: Price Isn’t Everything
If you are comparing cabinet brands, read this first! Because, price comparing your design at different dealers often leads you down a bad road.
Cabinet Reviews (Ratings) for brand names A to D
| Cabinet Line | Price Level (1-6) |
Quality | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1951 Cabinetry (Formerly Timberlake) | 3 | B+ | B |
| 21st Century | 1 | A | A- |
| Adelphia Kitchens | 3 | B | B |
| Adornus (frameless) | 3 | B | B |
| Alusso by Adornus (frameless) | 3 | B | B |
| All Wood – framed | 2 | A | A |
| All Wood – frameless | 1 | C | C |
| American Woodmark | 3 | B+ | B |
| Aristocraft | 2 | C | C |
| Belmont 1900 Series Frameless | 4 | B | B+ |
| Bertch | 4 | A | A- |
| Bishop | 4 | A+ | B+ |
| Bishop Frameless | 4 | B | A |
| B.J. Tidwell Cabinetry | 3 | B | C+ |
| Bremtown | 6 | A+ | B |
| Bridgewood Framed | 5 | A | A |
| Bridgewood Frameless | 5 | B | A |
| Brighton | 5 | A- | A+ |
| Brookhaven | 5.5 | A | B |
| Brubaker | 5 | A | A |
| Cabico | 4 | B | B |
| Cabinet Depot | 2 | B+ | B+ |
| Candlelight | 4 | A | A |
| Canyon Creek Framed and Frameless (deduct 1 letter grade for frameless) | 4 | A | A |
| CliqStudios (Bankrupt once – customers lost deposits) | 2.5 | B+ | A |
| CNC | 1.5 | A- | A- |
| CNC frameless | 1.5 | B | A |
| Collier | 5 | A | B- |
| Craft Stock Cabinetry | 1 | A- | A |
| Craft-Made Cabinetry framed | 5 | A | A |
| Crestwood Framed | 5 | A | A |
| Crestwood Frameless | 5 | B | A- |
| CrownPoint Cabinetry (framed) | 5.5 | A+ | A |
| CrownPoint (frameless) | 5.5 | B | A |
| Crystal custom | 5 | A | A |
| Crystal semi-custom | 4 | B+ | B+ |
| Cubitac | 1.5 | A- | A |
| Cuisine Ideale (frameless) | 4 | B | B |
| David Bradley Cabinetry (frameless) | 4 | B- | B- |
| Decora | 4.5 | A | B |
| Designers Choice | 4 | A | A |
| Design-Craft | 4 | B | B- |
| Diamond | 4 | B+/A- | B+ |
| Diamond Now Stock | 1 | B | B |
| Durasupreme | 5 | B+ | B- |
| Durasupreme frameless | 3 | C | C |
| Dynasty by Omega (frameless) | 4.5 | B | B+ |
| Dynasty by Omega (framed) | 4.5 | A | A- |
| Dynasty Pinnacle (framed) | 5 | A | B+ |
Cabinet Reviews (Ratings) for brand names E to N
| Echelon Cabinetry No longer sells individual kitchens. | |||
| Eclipse by Shiloh | 4.5 | B-/C+ | B |
| Eurocraft Frameless | 3.5 | C | C+ |
| Everlasting Cabinetry (Assembled) | 1.5 | A | A |
| Evoke (from R.D. Henry) | 4 | B | B |
| Executive (frameless) | 4 | B | B |
| Fabuwood | 2 | A | A |
| Fabuwood (frameless) | 2 | B- | B |
| Fieldstone | 4.5 | A- | B+ |
| Forevermark | 1.5 | B+ | B |
| Grabill | 6 | A+ | B |
| Great Northern Classic | 5 | A | A |
| Green Forest | 2 | A | A- |
| Haas | 3 | B | B |
| Hampton Bay (frameless stock) | 1 | D | C+ |
| Hanssem (now different at different locations so can’t be rated) | * | * | * |
| Holiday (frameless) | 3 | C | C |
| Holiday Kitchens | 4 | A | B+ |
| Homecrest | 3 | B+ | B+ |
| Homestead Custom | 4 | A | A |
| Ideal Cabinetry | 2 | B | A- |
| IKEA (frameless) | 1 | D | C |
| Innovation | 2 | C | C |
| Integrity | 3 | A- | A+ |
| JSI Cabinetry | 1 | B+ | B+ |
| J&K Cabinets | 2 | A | A- |
| Kabinart | 3 | C+ | D |
| Kahle’s | 5 | A | A |
| Kemper | 4 | B+ | B+ |
| Kitchen Kompact | 2 | B- | C- |
| Kitchencraft | 3 | C | B |
| Kith | 3 | B+ | B+ |
| Koch Classic | 5 | A | B |
| Kountry Kraft (framed) | 6 | A | B |
| Kountry Kraft (frameless) | 6 | B | B |
| Kountry Wood | 2 | C | C |
| Kraftmaid (New slightly adjusted ratings) | 4 | B+ | A- |
| Kraftmaid Vantage (New slightly adjusted ratings) | 4 | B+ | A |
| Legacy | 2.5 | B+ | B |
| Legacy Presidential | 3 | A | B |
| LifeArt | 1 | C+ | A |
| Luxor Collection Frameless | 4 | B | B |
| Mantra by Masterbrand | 2 | B+/A- | B |
| Marsh | 2 | B | B |
| Marsh (frameless) | 2 | B- | B |
| MasterCraft | 2 | B | B |
| Medallion (Now owed by ACPI) |
5 | B+ | B |
| Merillat Classic Plywood upgrade | 3 | B | B |
| Merit Kitchens | 4 | B+ | B |
| Mid Continent with all plywood upgrade | 3 | B | B |
| Mouser | 5 | A | A- |
| Mouser (frameless) | 5 | B | A |
| NatureKast Waterproof Cabinets | 5 | A | A |
| Norcraft (every upgrade used) | 3 | B | D |
Cabinet Reviews (Ratings) for brand names N to Z
| Omega Dynasty (frameless) | 4.5 | B | B+ |
| Omega Dynasty (framed) | 4.5 | A | A- |
| Omega Pinnacle | 5 | A | A- |
| Ovation | 4 | B | C |
| Plain and Fancy | 6 | A | B+ |
| Plato Woodwork | 5 | A | A |
| Poggenpohl (frameless) | 6 | B | C |
| ProCraft | 1 | A | A- |
| QCCI Quality Custom | 6+ | A+ | A- |
| QuakerMaid (frameless) | 4 | B | B |
| RiverRun Cabinetry | 3.75 | B | B- |
| R.D. Henry Heartland (framed) | 4 | A | A |
| R.D. Henry Revola (frameless) | 4 | B | A |
| Rutt | 6 | A+ | A |
| Schrock | 4 | B+/ A- | B+/ A- |
| Schuler (Rebranded Medallion) | 5 | A- | B+ |
| Shenandoah (Rebranded American Woodmark) | 3 | B+ | B |
| Shiloh | 4 | B | B |
| Showplace | 4 | A | B++ |
| ShowplaceEVO (frameless) | 3.5 | B | B+ |
| Siematic | 5.5 | B | C |
| Signature Custom framed | 5 | A+ | A+ |
| Siteline Cabinetry | 3.5 | B- | C |
| Solid Wood Cabinets | Closed | Bankrupt | |
| St. Martin (frameless) | 3.5 | B | A |
| Starmark Plywood upgrade | 5 | B+ | B |
| Starmark inset or 3/4″ back panel | 5 | A+ | A |
| Stylecraft | 6 | A | A |
| Tedd Wood Custom Cabinetry | 5 | A | A |
| Thomasville (Rebranded Diamond) | 4 | B+/A- | B+/A- |
| Thomasville Nouvell | 3 | D | D |
| Timberlake (Rebranded American Woodmark) | 3 | B+ | B |
| Tribeca Cabinetry | 1.75 | A- | A |
| Tru Cabinetry | Closed | Bankrupt | |
| Ultracraft (frameless) | 2 | C | C |
| Ultracraft 3/4 ply upgrade | 3 | B | B+/A- |
| Urban Effects (frameless) | 3.75 | C- | D |
| US Cabinet Depot (framed) | 1.75 | A | A |
| US Cabinet Depot (frameless) | 2 | B | A |
| Village Handcrafted Cabinetry Framed Inset | 5.5 | A+ | A |
| Village Handcrafted Cabinetry Frameless | 5.5 | B | A |
| Waypoint | 3 | B+ | B |
| Wellborn | 4 and 5 | A | A |
| Wellborn Forrest | 3.5 | B+ | B+ |
| Wellsford | 5.5 | A+ | A |
| Wellsford (frameless) | 5.5 | B | A- |
| Wolf | 2 | A | B+ |
| Wolf Signature Series | 3.5 | A- | C+ |
| Woodharbor | 5 | B+ | C |
| Woodland Cabinetry | 5 | A- | A |
| Wood-Mode (past financial problems) | 6 | A | A- |
| Yorktowne (Now owed by ACPI – big quality upgrade!) |
4 | B+ | B+ |
(!) Note About Painted Cabinetry
The finish on painted cabinetry is less durable than stained cabinetry on ALL cabinet brands, SO DO NOT:
1) Purchase expensive cabinetry believing the finish will be more durable, or
2) Blame a less expensive cabinet brand for being responsible for paint chipping, scratching, or being damaged by water. All painted cabinets have this issue, but finishes can be easily repaired by professionals.
Outside Our Service Area?
FOR PEOPLE OUTSIDE A TWO-HOUR DRIVE OF OUR BALA CYNWYD PENNSYLVANIA OFFICE. HERE IS A LINK TO RECOMMENDED DEALERS IN OTHER AREAS. GOOD DEALERS WHO ARE CLOSE TO YOU CAN BETTER ANSWER QUESTIONS ABOUT WHAT’S AVAILABLE IN YOUR AREA. Or call in on Fridays 2-4 pm for free design help on our helpline and Podcast. Dial 610-5OO-4O71 with your cabinet review questions and designs ready to email. Paul answers cabinetry and design questions free of charge most Fridays.
Continue Reading
Kitchen Cabinet Brand Comparison.
There are two basic ways to construct cabinets. Most cabinets are either framed construction or frameless construction, also called European or easy access construction. Read below:
Which Cabinet Brand is Best for Me?
“What kitchen cabinet line is best?” and “What kitchen cabinet line do you recommend?” are the most common questions we hear. Read the most common answers below:
320 Replies to “Cabinet Reviews: Ratings for the top 150 cabinet brands.”
Susan
Hi,
We have always purchased stained/finished hardwood cabinets. We are looking to update our current home’s kitchen and we live in the Pacific Northwest. We are looking at painted cabinets to brighten the room in the rainy season(s). What do you know about Cabinets to Go? We always install ourselves in both new and remodels.
Thanks,
Susan
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Susan,
I don’t know that much about Cabinets to go. That being said they are not selling name brand cabinets. RTA cabinetry is something we never recomend. Generally you save only a little money getting RTA cabinetry but get an inferior product and most importantly do not have a knowledgeable and skillful kitchen designer to help you design your kitchen.
Even their name creeps me out. Kitchen design is very complicated and the designs good designers come up with are much better than homeowners could come up with on their own. Thinking that the process is a “to go” project shows an ignorance about kitchen design that I find frightening. Kitchens are so expensive that saving a little bit on cabinetry but not having the help of an expert kitchen designer helping you make design, style, and material selections is a very bad idea.
If you listen to one of our podcasts you can understand quickly why all homeowners need expert help. Here’s an example below:
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
The fact that no experienced kitchen designer would EVER buy RTA cabinetry for their own home is telling. In the Pacific Northwest I would recomend Procraft as a budget cabinet brand that is well constructed and should be sold at some qualified dealers near you.
Below is a link to their Dealer locator:
https://procraftcabinetry.com/dealer-locator
Julia
Are you familiar or able to comment on Mantra brand cabinets? My local dealer suggested these as a comparable option to Diamond Express.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Julia,
Looks like Mantra is Masterbrands’ US import brand. I think that the Major US Imports like Fabuwood would do a better job at this than Masterbrands. The dealer is right and they are probably the same as Diamond Express and an OK cabinet brand. We would rate them a B B for construction quality and value. They have 3/8″ thick backs, bottoms, and tops, as opposed to Fabuwood, J&K, CNC, Cubitac and other brands that have 1/2″
Kim Cybulski
This is so helpful. I’m talking to a few kitchen places and J&K, Cubitac and Timberlake are their selections. I’ve been reading your articles & listening for a while and I know I need a skilled designer more than anything. I hope to have a design plan soon that could be reviewed by you on a Friday call. I’d have so much more confidence our new kitchen (after 28 years) is a great design plan and solid choices for cabinetry when they rank high quality on your review list. You’re the best!
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Kim,
Thanks for the vote of confidence. I look forward to your Friday call. I am traveling both Friday February 23rd and March 8th so the help line will either be done by another designer those Fridays or it will take a break.
Denise
Hi Paul,
I’m looking for your feedback on https://www.massachusettsdesign.com/. Much appreciated.
Thanks,
Denise
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Denise,
Not a lot of information available on line. Looks like a US import that makes framed and frameless cabinetry that I’ve never heard of.
Jim
The design centers near us carry Bishop, Kemper and Fabuwood. Obviously, the cost of the Bishop and Kemper cabinets are more than Fabuwood. Would we notice much of a difference in the finished product by spending more? If so, would you go with Bishop vs Kemper? Bishop is only a bit more expensive vs Kemper.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Jim,
The answer depends on what door style and finish you are selecting. For a painted finish Fabuwood will actually be the nicest finish of all three lines. Construction wise they will all be equal except were you to order the Bishop Ultimate box which has 3/4″ plywood sides for only 4% more. The reason to order more expensive brands is to get door styles, finishes, and sizing that wasn’t available in a quality less expensive brand like Fabuwood. If you aren’t choosing these styles, finishes, or sizes you are just throwing money away getting more expensive brands. You should be able to see the finish difference, and that Fabuwood is a nicer painted finish from the samples at the dealership.
Jim
Thanks Paul. One of the design centers just sent me an email regarding Merillat Masterpiece. I see your ranking on the Classic. Any thoughts on the Masterpiece line?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Jim,
You don’t say what door style and finish you are looking for. If the answer is a shaker or recessed panel painted cabinet then Fabuwood is your best choice. I don’t have specifications on Merillat Masterpiece and their website isn’t transparent and has broken links, both are concerning to me. If you are shopping your design around you should read this blog:
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/price-comparing-kitchen-cabinets-and-why-it-is-a-bad-idea/
Victoria
Hi Paul! Any info on Conestoga/Cabinet Joint?
Thanks!
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Victoria,
This would generally not be a cost effective place to buy cabinetry from. I would need to see a design, door style and finish to be able to advise you an what would be a good value. Calling in to our Friday helpline and podcast would be a good idea.
Here’s an example below:
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-36-save-money-on-a-kitchen/
Victoria
Thank you for your reply! Just to provide a little more info. I got 2 quotes from them on inset style painted cabinets. We have 10 ft ceiling and want the cabinets to go to the ceiling. Wall cabinets would be a double 60” cabinet with 42” bottom door and 18”top door. Their quote was around $25k for TW-10 mdf door or $27k for a hybrid wood/mdf face panel Madison door. They would arrive as unassembled RTA. There’s an option to get them assembled and shipped by their partner company for another $7k.
It’s a U shaped kitchen with a 5 by 6 feet island. I wish I could attach the drawing. But there’s a pantry tall cabinet, a fridge cabinet, a double oven cabinet, 5 wall cabinets, 7 base/drawer cabinets, plus the island. Wanted to get your thoughts on price as well as quality of Conestoga. It seems that for inset the prices would be double this?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Victoria,
Inset cabinetry requires perfectly square and perfectly consistent cabinet dimensions. Doing RTA stacked inset cabinets is asking WAY, WAY, too much from what you are buying. Even the reps from high end semi-custom assembled brands discourage dealers from ordering their inset cabinetry. The concept of RTA Inset boggles my mind.
Contrary to my initial comment:
Yes this would be the CHEAPEST way to get inset cabinets but a terrible idea.
You should call into our helpline. If you have one big kitchen design and renovating error that we find in a two paragraph question, than I can tell you from experience I will find on average a dozen more. Email your plans to Paul@MainLineKitchenDesign.com on a Friday morning then call the help line between 2pm and 3:30 pm EST. Call 610-500-4071
Victoria
Thanks Paul, sounds like I need to let go of the inset Conestoga idea. Would you stack J&K or Fabuwood cabinets for a 10 feet ceiling? Are those two brands pretty much the same price and quality?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Victoria,
Both brands are similar. I like Fabuwood better and they have a stacking molding you should use and more sizes available.
John
I’ve noticed that QualityCabinetry is not included in this review. Do you have any insight into their quality and warranty service? They offer 3/4″ Hardwood fronts, doors, drawers. But use 3/8″ Engineered Wood sides and back with a 1/2″ plywood option. I am doing a small kitchen in a seasonal condo in Phoenix. The dealer I am working with is Bricks and Mortar store with designers.
https://www.qualitycabinets.com/Products/Construction
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi John,
Based on the construction information this brand in particle board would get an all F’s. In all plywood we would give it a C- for construction due to the 1/4″ back panel that appears to have no hanging rail.
As a dealer I would NEVER chose to carry this particular line. So I’m not impressed with whoever owns this dealership and chose their brands. With so many good brands out there selecting this brand to carry is telling.
Kim
Any thoughts on Kitchen Cabinet Distributors (https://www.kcdus.com/) and their premier series?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Kim,
The Premier line looks good. They get a A for construction. I don’t know where they fall price wise so I can only guess based on colors and styles that they are a reasonably priced brand that imports doors and parts from outside the US. If you get a price comparison to another brand that we rate we could rate them too. My guess would be a rating of 2 for price point A for construction and A for value.
However since I have no experience with the brand I don’t know if they have any supply chain problems or out of stock issues or how they deliver. But I like their website and it is transparent which almost always translates to having a good experience working with them.
Jeanne
I am considering Showplace shaker style custom painted white upper cabinets and stained lowers including the island. Some reviews were not very positive. Your opinion please.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Jeanne,
Showplace is a fine brand. I don’t worry about reviews as cabinet companies get blamed for mistakes, warranty issues, and damage that are in reality the cabinet dealers responsibility to handle for customers. Make sure your dealer gets good reviews though.
White shaker cabinets will be available in less expensive equally or even better constructed brands but those brands like Fabuwood, CNC, J&K or Cubitac might not have the stain you like for the Island and lower cabinets. That would be the reason to buy Showplace. You have a better stain selection.
Shelly Bell
Have you heard of Lioher? What are your thoughts?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Shelly,
I had never heard of the brand. I looked at their website which doesn’t really give any cabinet construction details. It looks like they are a frameless modern cabinet brand that does not appear to offer plywood box construction.
They have been in business for 10 plus years and offer a 5 year warranty on cabinetry. The do offer lots of modern styles and finishes but they certainly do not stress safety or durability.
A more mainstream brand like Dynasty by Omega would be my go to brand for a frameless cabinet with contemporary styling.
Cheryl Thrushman
Many thanks for sharing your expertise and great info. I have read through the published conversations, and am looking for your input on the Ultimo Custom Cabinetry by Tuscan Hills – sold through Costco. I appreciate the concept of a good designer too. Thank you kindly.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
HI Cheryl,
The reason to buy custom cabinets is because your selections and your kitchen design is so sophisticated that it will require custom cabinetry, The thought of having a COSTCO salesperson design a custom kitchen is frightening. My mantra below has never been more important:
As I constantly say:
People worry about cabinet quality and price far more than they worry about their designs. This is because they aren’t kitchen or bath designers themselves and don’t understand how poor their designs usually are. If you listen to one of our podcasts this is usually a central issue. The Podcast below illustrates how different designs can be from what a homeowner might expect, while still staying within their budget. So, it makes little sense splurging on cabinets, appliances, and other expensive upgrades, when there are design improvements left on the table.
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Joey Che
Are you familiar with the Makellos company ?
How would you compare Makellos Essential Pleasant White with CNC Elegant White?
Thank you.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Joey,
Sorry. Even though this company is right around the corner from us I have never heard of them. However a cabinet rep just left a message in our voicemail that they are a new company in our area and wanted to stop by. I’m sure they are one in the same. They seem to be making a big push. They are a US/Import brand and have some nice door styles and finishes. But the jury is still out on the brand.
Joey Che
Thank you for your response.
How about the CNC Elegant White compared with 21st Century Dove White Shaker?
Thank you for the work that you do!
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Joey,
Both brands are good. CNC Luxor white is a discounted partial overlay door style that doesn’t look that different and is about 25% less.
Joey Che
Hi Paul,
Thank you for letting me know about the Luxor White option. How is the quality of that? Is it made to last as a primary kitchen?
Thank you,
Emilie Soto
Hi Paul,
Thank you for providing this comprehensive list! I keep referring back to it and have been following your podcast. I’ve been searching for cabinets that look nice in my price range and I love your practical advice about why buy that when you can buy this. I want modern looking kitchen with woodgrain slab cabinets for most of the cabinets with a small section of upper cabinets in black veneer. I would like to buy both the woodgrain and the veneer from the same manufacturer to prevent double shipping costs and issues with them working together. I’ve found that I like Waypoint’s price but really do not like the color of their wood options and the spacing between their doors looks inconsistent. I’m detail oriented and I know that will drive me crazy. So, I have a two part question. Where can I find a simple slab door in a pretty modern woodgrain with pricing between Waypoint and Starmark? My price for Waypoint came in at $14,400 and the price for Starmark Walnut came in at $27,300 for full overlay in Walnut. I would love to land in the 20-25k range. The second part is how do I know if a veneer cabinet is good quality? I like the modern European look of the matte black veneer but am worried about the mdf center and how long they will hold up. Thank you so much in advance!
-Emilie
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Emilie,
There is too much to address in this comment via a comment. You should call into the helpline and Podcast on a Friday between 2-4 pm EST. You probably want a frameless brand of cabinets and they should be 3/4″ plywood so that they are durable. Your woodgrain and colors choices are driving you into more expensive brands. Lots of misinformation in the assumptions you are making which is why it’s hard to answer directly.
Bret
What is your thought on Elias Woodworking ? In compared to CNC frameless
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Bret,
I looked at the Elias Website. They are RTA cabinets which probably means there are no kitchen designers that sell the line. So the most important element needed to create a good kitchen is missing. Since they are imported from Canada they will not cost less than CNC, although they do have more selections. Since, no knowledgeable kitchen design professionals would order cabinetry online, let that be your guide. Stay away from RTA cabinetry. The Pro’s do!
Sandra
We have looked at some RTA brands and are nervous based on what we saw in various showrooms – drawers don’t seem to glide as well as other cabinets we have seen, don’t line up well with each other etc. Not sure if this is due to poor install in the showroom/ over use, or due to non Blum hardware or other reasons . Could you point us in the direction of RTA cabinet lines that do use Blum hardware? We have used ikea cabinets in the past and were pleased with them, so leaning towards at least sticking with an RTA with Blum. Thanks!
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Sandra,
We do not recomend RTA cabinets and certainly not IKEA. Read this blog:
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/ikea-effect-physiological-phenomenon-drives-kitchen-designers-crazy/
There are many brands that will be close in price to IKEA that will come assembled and be infinitely better constructed. CNC, Cubitac, and any of the less expensive price level 1 and 1.5 brands that we rate well. Fabuwood is more expensive but is the best of the inexpensive brands.
Dave Diaz
Hi there,
I really appreciate all the work you effort you put into this site. It certainly played a part in our kitchen remodel a few years ago. Now we are in a new home and remodeling the master bathroom. Our designer has suggested Blue Valley Cabinets, a company not on your list. THey look to be a small, local, NC business. Any thoughts there?
Thanks!
Dave
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Dave,
Blue Valley Cabinets are a Ready to Assemble “RTA” import cabinet brand sold in Nort Carolina. The cabinets appear fine, but as always good designers don’t work with or sell these cabinets. This is because good designers can earn up to 200K or more. They will get health benefits, 401Ks etc, through the places they work. So, while the cabinets may be fine particularly for a bathroom, I would be concerned that the bath renovation is not being supervised by anyone very knowledgeable about design or construction.
Interior designers and architects are generally not qualified to design kitchens and any but VERY simple master baths. The value of your home is dramatically affected by how good the designer is.
As I constantly say:
People worry about cabinet quality and price far more than they worry about their designs. This is because they aren’t kitchen or bath designers themselves and don’t understand how poor their designs usually are. If you listen to one of our podcasts this is usually a central issue. The Podcast below illustrates how different designs can be from what a homeowner might expect, while still staying within their budget. So, it makes little sense splurging on cabinets, appliances, custom shower doors and other expensive upgrades, when there are design improvements left on the table.
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Lisa
Hello- looking to do inset cabinets in our kitchen and butlers pantry. I’ve just received our quote back from a Mouser dealer which is much higher than anticipated. I love the line, and all the finish options but the price and design fee are a problem. Any lines that you feel would be comparable to Mousers quality but a bit more reasonable in pricing?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Lisa,
Inset cabinetry should only be bought from more expensive custom or near custom brands.You don’t mention the colors and finishes you want but I suspect they could also be putting in an expensive brand. You aren’t paying for better quality when you pick custom cabinetry you are paying for styles, colors, finishes and customizations you are asking for.
So you can’t have your cake and eat it too. Most important though:
People worry about cabinet quality and price far more than they worry about their designs. This is because they aren’t kitchen designers themselves and don’t understand how poor their designs usually are. If you listen to one of our podcasts this is usually a central issue. The Podcast below illustrates how different designs can be from what a homeowner might expect, while still staying within their budget. So, it makes little sense splurging on cabinets and appliances, when there are design improvements left on the table.
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Ethan
Thank you for educating consumers.
Why do you rate Fabuwood’s frameless lower than Fabuwood inset?
Also, I see that the Galaxy Timber doors are made of wood frames whereas Luna Timber is made of HDF frames. Does that impact the quality/durability?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Ethan,
Luna’s painted doors are HDF. The Luna timber doors are solid wood and veneer wood.
All frameless lines are less durable than framed cabinetry. Fabuwood is even less so because the sides of the cabinets are MDF instead of Plywood.
Fabuwood does not make inset they only make full and standard overlay styles. You are getting your terms wrong.
Michael
Hi Paul –
First, thank you for creating these ranking and helping to educate consumers – this really is a wealth of information. We are currently using a kitchen designer on your “recommended” list and are very happy with their services. We have a very thoughtful layout and design in hand, and selected Grabill cabinets. They are not cheap, but were wowed by their construction, attention to detail, and customization options.
We recently received construction estimates since our kitchen design is part of a larger home renovation we are doing, and have been floored by the construction costs. As a result, we are looking at potentially switching to a less expensive brand. Other potential options for us would be: Shiloh, Cabico, and Fabuwood. Of course, it seems there is a noticeable drop off in quality for these brands. Can you provide a little more detail as to why you have Grabill rated so highly as opposed the other brands with lower ratings? We have read and listened to your concerns about Shiloh, and frankly, we would have a great deal of pause switching from Grabill to Shiloh, even to save a few bucks. The alternative may be to wait until we have more money saved up, or look to cut back other projects outside of the kitchen.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Michael,
Grabill is a VERY expensive custom cabinet brand. Custom cabinet brands are expensive NOT because they are better constructed or generally more durable than some of the many semi-custom brands. Custom cabinets are so expensive because they offer so many different door styles, colors, stains, finishes, and customizations. Grabill in particular offers stains that aren’t more durable but look like fine furniture as opposed to kitchen cabinets. Rubbed off finishes exposing painted and stained colors beneath the top finishes were what impressed me most with some of the Grabill displays I saw 20 years ago. However if you are getting white shaker full overlay cabinets you are throwing money away getting Grabill. Fabuwood would be half the price and if your design can be done in Fabuwood and you like the door style and color getting Shiloh would also be a bad idea. Fabuwood is better constructed than Shiloh and less expensive.
One thing you should do is get several estimates from contractors. More expensive contractors ALSO doesn’t mean better quality work and their prices can vary by 100%.Feel free to call into our helpline and podcast on a Friday at 2-4 pm EST. I can look at your design and help you select a line that is a good value for the design, style and color you are looking for. I can also look up contractors in your area, using the same technique we use to recomend cabinet dealers.
This is from a post a few days ago and also applies:
The first blog explains why comparing “apples to apples” is next to impossible for consumers. Kitchen designers can change one small element alone and make the cabinet price 20% less. The podcast will show you how different designs can be from what you are thinking and yet still cost the same, less, or only a little more. Meanwhile a great design can make your home many, many, thousands of dollars more valuable and desirable.
Blog below:
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/price-comparing-kitchen-cabinets-and-why-it-is-a-bad-idea/
Podcast below:
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Tanisha Breton
What are your thoughts on cabinets.com as far as quality, construction, design, and price? I am considering buying but from a price point, they seem expensive in comparison to other brands. I was Looking for a medium-gray cabinet but from what I read painted cabinets do not hold up well. Who would you recommend with a gray stain similar for durability that offers a 39″ upper cabinet? Thanks for your feedback.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Tanisha,
39″ cabinets will be hard to get inexpensively. However most people looking for 39″ cabinets would be making a mistake. For a 96″ high ceiling you should ALLWAYS be getting 36″ high wall cabinets and a two piece crown molding to reach the ceiling. Green Forest is the only inexpensive brand I know of that sells 39″ wall cabinets.
Buying cabinets online is also a bad idea for many reasons. So it seems like you especially need design help from a professional.
As I constantly say:
People worry about cabinet quality and price far more than they worry about their designs. This is because they aren’t kitchen designers themselves and don’t understand how poor their designs usually are. If you listen to one of our podcasts this is usually a central issue. The Podcast below illustrates how different designs can be from what a homeowner might expect, while still staying within their budget. So, it makes little sense splurging on cabinets and appliances, when there are design improvements left on the table.
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Tanisha Breton
What are your opinion on cabinets.com TIA
Elizabeth
Hi Paul,
Sandi Cabinets https://www.sandicabinetstexas.com/ just is getting established in our area of Texas. I think they are out of California. I did not see them on your list.
Do you have any knowledge of their product? In person,the cabinets seemed to be about the same level quality as ProCraft with maybe a nicer finish on the Shaker Doors. We are looking for vanity cabinets for two upstairs bathrooms.
Thank you for all the great information on your website!
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Elizabeth,
The cabinetry does look like ProCraft in construction. However, RTA cabinetry usually doesn’t make a lot of sense for simple vanities. Home centers like Lowes will offer some instock vanities that are pretty well made and stock tops with bowls can be ordered with the vanity. The total price is much less expensive that ordering cabinetry online and getting tops made. Plus you don’t have to build the cabinets. And if a problem arises the home center takes care of it.
Michael
I’ve noticed that Greenfield Cabinetry is not included in this review. Do you have any insight into their quality and warranty service?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Michael,
Greenfield Cabinetry and Siteline Cabinetry are both owned by The Corsi Group. Neither line shows how they make cabinets on their website and don’t make specbooks available online. Greenfield looks like a very high end semi-custom or lower end custom line.
However I worry when cabinet brands lack transparency so I’ll call that strike one.
While Google reviews are not meaningful it is another concern when a large company doesn’t get many reviews and they have a 3.3 overall Google rating. I’ll call strike two.
Lastly the are sold by Reico Kitchen and Bath cabinet dealers. Reico specializes in working with builders. Builders don’t have to warranty their work more than a year. Rieco also has a sales above all else attitude towards kitchen design. I walked out of an interview with Reico in mid-interview when they made their priorities clear 20 plus years ago. At the time I thought I must have been unique. However I have since heard other designers tell me they also walked out mid-interview with Reico. I find that distressing. Strike three
To put the last strike in perspective, I have never heard of any designer walking out of an interview with any other company. Including The Home Depot and Lowes.
Sally
Hi, can you comment on the Home Depot Thomasville Classic line vs Showplace. Any differences in terms of quality, construction and durability of the stain (wood stain). I understand that Thomasville has been rebranded to Diamond. Are they now different manufacturers?
Home Depot offer discount on the cabinets and the price difference is quite large. The materials I picked are almost identical.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Sally,
If there is a big price difference I would choose the Thomasville as the cabinetry is very similar in construction and the finishes equally durable.
However be careful for two reasons. The blog and the podcast with the explanation below explains.
The first blog explains why comparing “apples to apples” is next to impossible for consumers. Kitchen designers can change one small element alone and make the cabinet price 20% less. The podcast will show you how different designs can be from what you are thinking and yet still cost the same, less, or only a little more. Meanwhile a great design can make your home many, many, thousands of dollars more valuable and desirable.
Blog below:
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/price-comparing-kitchen-cabinets-and-why-it-is-a-bad-idea/
Podcast below:
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Remember calling into our helpline and podcast is free and can help you find a design that makes your home more valuable.
Pat McDowell
I’m stuck in a rut. i need to order cabinets ASAP! i have several quotes:
1. Fabuwood, Shiloh, Forevermark, Kraftmaid.
Shiloh prices were the highest of all my quotes.
I’m so afraid of choosing the wrong thing and have them fall apart. My main concern is which is the better quality and offer good customer service.
Help!
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Pat,
You are not understanding some important concepts in the cabinet industry. Price does not relate to durability or construction quality. For example the most expensive brand you list is Shiloh which is also the worst constructed. Painted cabinets are the least durable in all cabinet brands because paint is easily chipped and damaged by water. A stained cabinet finish will last longest. Light stains or natural finishes show less imperfections.
Cabinet companies DO NOT supply customer service for the cabinets you buy. The dealer that sells you the cabinets supplies customer service and warranties thorough the cabinet company. Pick a good dealer and every brand they sell will have good customer service.
Read this blog:
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/what-cabinet-brand-is-the-best-value/
Consumers like yourself often review cabinet companies poorly and complain about problems that were caused by designers, dealers, the shipping and storage companies used by the dealers, or the contractors installing cabinetry. Cabinet companies take the blame for issues that they are not responsible for. Read this blog:
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/hard-compare-kitchen-cabinet-brands/
Most IMPORTANT OF ALL My MANTRA remains:
People worry about cabinet quality and price far more than they worry about their designs. This is because they aren’t kitchen designers themselves and don’t understand how poor their designs usually are. If you listen to one of our podcasts this is usually a central issue. The Podcast below illustrates how different designs can be from what a homeowner might expect, while still staying within their budget. So, it makes little sense splurging on cabinets and appliances, when there are design improvements left on the table.
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Pat McDowell
Thanks for your candid response.
Yes, i don’t understand the industry at all. I just know that i want cabinets that will last. Well constructed and not overpay for something that looks pretty on the surface and won’t last.
If you were to put a cabinet in your home… of the following, which brand would you choose?
1. Fabuwood
2. Wellborn
3. Kraftmaid vantage
since those are the ones that i’m working with now for quotes
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Pat,
Lots more goes into decision making like color style and price for that selection. But if you want the best value and the most durable – independant of other considerations, I would pick Fabuwood Galaxy Timber. It is a light stain so more durable than paint, and the best value.
Gloria
Hello!!!
one more question from me!
Do you see benefit in ordering Fabuwood online through USA Distributor and having a contractor demolish and install the new cabinets? Is it too risky and better to go with the Truemade (which will be handled 100% by the contractor?). It seems that price wise will be more or less the same. I am not concerned about having to carry boxes more concerned about cabinets arriving damaged. i also do like the looks of Fabuwood.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Gloria,
Ordering cabinets online and through a contractor are BOTH bad ideas. You need a kitchen designer to help you with the design and to work with you on ordering. There must be a cabinet dealer (even a home center) near you with a competent designer that can help you.
You should call into our Friday helpline and podcast with a copy of the design you are considering ready to email. I have a feeling it will have many issues that need to be addressed.
As I constantly say:
People worry about cabinet quality and price far more than they worry about their designs. This is because they aren’t kitchen designers themselves and don’t understand how poor their designs usually are. If you listen to one of our podcasts this is usually a central issue. The Podcast below illustrates how different designs can be from what a homeowner might expect, while still staying within their budget. So, it makes little sense splurging on cabinets and appliances, when there are design improvements left on the table.
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Michael
Hello, we are working with a designer and they recommended Eclipse by Shiloh for the look we are going for (slim shaker and qswo). I saw you gave them an ok quality rating (b-/c+) and value (b). Any particular reason?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Michael,
I’ve discussed Shiloh and their construction – that we find lacking many times. They do so much right, can’t they just make the construction of their cabinets a little better?
Michael
Thanks for quick reply. Can you point me to the podcast or blog you discuss the quality of the Shiloh cabinets? Are there certain aspects of the construction that are of poor quality?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Michael,
Here’s a detailed explanation.
Shiloh used to make their cabinets less well. They used a 1/4″ back with a tiny hanging rail. See our past reviews from 2021 and before. Recently we were told that they changed from a 1/4″ back to a 3/8″ plywood back. They don’t say this on their website, but we were told this. While this is better than what they did before, a 3/8″ back is not as good as a 1/2″ back and the tiny hanging rail that they use is still insufficient. Most cabinet brands that use wood hanging rails use 3 1/2″ x 3/4″ size wood. Shiloh uses a 1″ x 3/4″ based on the construction drawings. They also doesn’t secure the back as well as similar brand’s using a 3/8″ back like Diamond. See the blog comment below from a past comment:
Diamond and Shiloh are still made a little differently. While both now use 3/8″ backs Diamond does a better job capturing the back of the cabinet and squaring and supporting it with I-beam construction. Diamond also rabbits the bottom of the cabinets into the sides and back The Shiloh Hanging rail is still too small and insufficient. However, the whole cabinet is better made if the new back is 3/8″ ply which it doesn’t say, but appears to show in the spec book.
Here’s a link to Shiloh’s construction:
https://www.shilohcabinetry.com/education/construction
Gloria
Hello!
Do you have thoughts on DL Cabinetry as well Trumadecabinetry? I am contemplating between these and i am still waiting on a quote for Wellborn but i am guessing this will be more expensive. I am couple of miles from the beach, the kitchen is pretty small (10×8.5) and it will be used as primary residence as well as airbnb. Any suggestions are highly appreciated!
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Gloria,
Both DL and Trumade are RTA Ready to Assemble cabinet brands that assemble cabinetry for you. They should be reasonably priced. Trumade is slightly better made.
If you are renting a property I would not get a painted cabinet. Stains will not chip, scratch, and be damaged by water like any painted cabinet would. I would choose Trumade Linden Shaker for a beach airbnb.
Gloria
Thank you very much for the prompt response!
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
🙂
Amy Eaton
Any information on HomeMark cabinets? https://www.homemarkcabinets.com/
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Amy,
It was VERY interesting looking up HomeMark cabinets. I immediately recognized them as the former 6Square and ClicStudios cabinetry.
They are, or should be, an inexpensive brand but well made brand. The door style shapes and even their names haven’t changed from when they were 6Square.
Things to be careful of even though the cabinets are made well:
They have gone bankrupt once (leaving customers and creditors in the lurch), changed names several times, and I don’t know if customers were again left without cabinets during these transitions.
Their inset cabinetry is not reliable enough to use for a full kitchen. Inset cabinetry needs to be made by MUCH more expensive cabinet makers.
They should be priced around Fabuwood cabinetry and Fabuwood would be a more reliable company to buy from.
Amy Eaton
Hi thank you! I am looking for an alternative to Fabuwood because I can’t find someone to do a Fabuwood design for me. My local dealers (GA) either expect you to know what cabinets you want and the other one there was too big of a language barrier as I’m not Spanish speaking and they sort of expect you to have your own design. I was thinking about Us Cabinet Depot as there are some dealers near me who do designs, but they don’t have a good dove white color.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Amy,
US Cabinet Depot should be less than Fabuwood and is also well made. The white is not too bright. Remember that lighting can change a white kitchen dramatically. So getting obsessed with colors that could look like one another in different lights doesn’t make too much sense. Just change the lighting to a yellower or greyer color LED light if you want to shift a white in that direction. I would send me your design and call in to our helpline/podcast as these brands sound like the designers are all inexperienced. Here’s a podcast to listen to:
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Jennifer Cernik
These brands are extreme in difference but your thoughts on Kith (we love their paint finishes) and Signature please. Thank you
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Jennifer,
Kith should be much less expensive than Signature but if you like those painted finishes which ARE very nice for the pricepoint their cabinets are constructed pretty well. Integrity would be another brand that now offers these type finishes at possibly more reasonable pricing. I hadn’t seen the new Kith paint colors and I think it makes them a better value so I am upgrading the Kith value rating.
David Mulhern
I haven’t been able to find much of anything online about Craft Cabinetry and they have no dealers in my area (New Hampshire).
I see you rate them very highly. Have any of your customers chosen this brand? Are they satisfied? Do you have any comments or customer feedback?
Any insights or opinions would be very welcome. Thank you.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi David,
Craft Stock Cabinetry is a VERY inexpensive brand sold in our area. We rate it well for such an inexpensive brand because the are all plywood construction with solid wood soft close dovetail drawers and soft close doors with 1/2″ plywood sides and backs. However they do not use the better Blum soft close mechanisms. For a level 1 price point it is still a great value. I doubt you will be able to find this cabinet in your area as it is such a small company.
Keep in mind though that the design itself is most important. Finding a cabinet dealer with good designers that sells such a low cost brand will be unlikely. We sell it as our stock line but we would only recommend a brand like this for a very simple home flip. For renovations that you will live in long term spending 20% more on cabinetry is generally worth it. Plus once you are spending a little more there will be cabinet dealers that can help you with the design.
Victoria
Hi Paul, I was told that Hanssem Cabinets was taken over by Massachusetts Design Cabinetry years ago and that they are quite pricey and good quality. You list them as level 1 and rate them low, is this rating for what the new company (Massachusetts Design) produces? Thanks in advance for your help!
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Victoria,
I looked into it and it looks like Hanssem cabinets still exists and is assembled in New Jersey. However the Hanssem website no longer exists, so individual dealers appear to be mixing and matching and sort of creating their own versions of Hanssem. It seems to be a unique situation. Massachusetts Design Cabinetry offers many more expensive door styles. However their frameless cabinet box construction uses a 1/4″ back panel which is not the best way to make a frameless cabinet. So we would give them poor reviews. They may be much more expensive because of the added styles and finishes but that makes them a worse value because they aren’t constructed that well.
Thanks for your help. I have to revisit how we rate Hanssem now. I think we will simply note that they are different at different dealers. Below is vague company propaganda on the Hanssem company from a dealers website:
Hanssem Cabinets is a manufacturer of excellent kitchen and bath cabinetry for the U.S. building and remodeling markets. Headquarters of Hanssem Corporation is in Edison, NJ. Hanssem Corporation supplies cabinetry to a network of more than 200 independent dealers. They use the most excellent materials from the industries leading European and North American suppliers and combine them with over 30 years of manufacturing expertise to bring their customers the most elegant quality cabinets available today.
Hanssem Corporation is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hanssem Co. Ltd., which is a $500 million public company with over 1100 employees, 300 kitchen showrooms, 200 interior showrooms and offices, and showrooms in Japan, Korea, and China. Hanssem, established in 1970, Hanssem Co. Ltd., the parent company of Hanssem Corporation, is recognized as one of Asia’s finest manufacturers of kitchen, bathroom and interior furniture.
Amy
Is ‘Cabinet Depot’ the same as https://www.uscabinetdepot.com ?
Paul McAlary
Not sure what Cabinet Depot is. US Cabinet Depot is the name of a national brand and their website.
Sibo
Hi Paul,
What are your thoughts on Fabuwood’s new Galaxy Timber line? Do you have photos of this installed? The promo photos I find online seem artificially lighter wood stain than the actual Galaxy Timber samples I saw in store.
On a related note, if I wanted a light stained or clear-coated maple cabinet, which brands would you recommend as high value? It seems like most high value brands only offer paints or dark stains.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Sibo,
Since the Tiber color is new we are just starting to get kitchen finished that used that color. So no photos yet. However don’t ever use photos as guides for color. The actual door samples are what the color looks like. Individual monitors can dramatically change what a color looks like on a computer. There are very few inexpensive brands that will have light maple or maple-like colors as maple is an expensive wood. So brands like Timberlake, Legacy Presidential, HomeCrest, and Waypoint will be the least expensive type brands that you will be able to get light maple. This is why the Fabuwood Timber door is such a good value. It comes very close to a light maple less expensively.
Maria Mennella
Hi Paul,
I visited our local lumberyard and went over a design with Wellborn. What are your thoughts on this brand?
Paul McAlary
Hi Maria,
We give Wellborn pretty good ratings. However, I would give lumberyards poor ratings as design experts, and as I try to make quite clear on our blog, this is what’s usually most important.
Homeowners often have trouble accepting this because they have little design experience themselves. So they focus only on the things that they buy. Cabinets, appliances, countertops, etc.
Kelly
Hi! Thanks for writing this article. Have you heard of the brand Evoke Cabinetry? We are renovating our kitchen and were suggested this brand as we are looking for quartersawn or rift white oak cabinets. Thanks!
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Kelly,
Evoke appears to be an alternate name brand for RD Henry Heartland framed cabinetry. Many Brands are sold under several names.
I am adding Evoke and the RD Henry frameless line to our 2023 reviews.
We give Evoke A’s across the board. They have quartersawn oak but not riff cut oak. Usually you need to be in a more expensive custom brand to get riff cut oak. Not a huge difference in the look between the two though.
Jeff
Hi Paul,
Your articles are very helpful! Is your Wolf review for their Wolf Artisan line? What are your thoughts on Wolf vs. Kith?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Jeff,
I am not that familiar with Wolf Artisan pricing. I know their construction is good. However when inexpensive brands try to enter the higher end cabinetry market and offer customizations often their pricing stops being a bargain. So where they would compare with Kith in value would be a pricing comparison. Both are well made. If you like the door styles and finish equally I would pick whoever is less expensive of the two for the same design.
Jeff
Paul, thanks for your quick reply. Wolf has 5 lines (see comparison table in link below). Which Wolf line did you review for your cabinet ratings?
https://www.wolfhomeproducts.com/kitchencabinetry
Paul McAlary
Hi Jeff,
Wolf Classic is the line we reviewed. All the upper lines are made the same as the classic I believe. The lower lines as with all the brands we review could be very different. All reviews assume upgrading to the higher level construction.
Jen R.
Hi Paul, These ratings are so helpful! My local kitchen place sells Honey Brook cabinets, which are in PA I believe. It doesn’t seem like they belong to any of the manufacturers you list. Do you have a sense of their quality and value rating?
Thanks again for your insights!
Jen
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Jen,
Honey Brook Custom Cabinets is a very small Pennsylvania custom cabinet manufacturer. While I’m sure they make or can make a well made cabinet, assuming the designer gives them the right specifications, I worry about the Dealer that is using their brand. Often the really small cabinet makers are working with old fashioned and less professional dealers or interior designers selling cabinetry. This could be a bad combination as no one is really a market expert or a sophisticated designer. When you are buying expensive custom cabinetry the designer needs to be equal to the quality of the cabinetry that you are paying so much extra for. For example, very often the designers that work with very small cabinet companies don’t carry any other brands and don’t use any kitchen design software. This makes them unprofessional IMO.
So while Honey Brook is fine the designer worries me.
I would recommend calling into our helpline and podcast with your design so that your design can be checked for mistakes.
My MANTRA remains:
People worry about cabinet quality and price far more than they worry about their designs. This is because they aren’t kitchen designers themselves and don’t understand how poor their designs usually are. If you listen to one of our podcasts this is usually a central issue. The Podcast below illustrates how different designs can be from what a homeowner might expect, while still staying within their budget. So, it makes little sense splurging on cabinets and appliances, when there are design improvements left on the table.
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Ryan
Hi Paul,
Your reviews are helpful. We are currently remodeling (South Florida ) our kitchen and met with a remodel company who uses Wellborn. We seemed to like their samples in the showroom. We met with another cabinet reseller/installer and they recommended Legacy Presidential for us. Our main cabinets will be maple cabinets painted white, but our island and one section will possibly be stained Cherry. Our current issue is we like the 2nd reseller/installer but she pointed out Legacy doesn’t have MDF doors and they will be real wood and we will see seams on the white painted cabinet doors and it’s beginning to worry us. The other remodeling company says most all cabinet companies use MDF doors now for that reason. Would you agree? Should we stay away from Legacy or any brands that don’t have MDF doors especially if we are doing a painted white door for most of the cabinets or is this something that is relatively normal and just something to deal with?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Ryan,
There are advantages to real wood doors over MDF doors. They can be repaired if damaged or broken, the hinge screws are in real wood, and if they get damaged by water they only need to be repainted. However, MDF is smoother, and as of recently, is actually denser and harder than most real wood doors. I like real wood better than MDF generally, but Legacy doors show seams more than other brands. Seams can be touched up and hairline cracks filled. So, it is not a clear-cut decision brand wise. I like Fabuwood better than both these brands. They use real wood. but the seams don’t usually show due to better sanding. IE best of both worlds and cheaper than both Wellborn and Legacy Presidential.
The bigger issue might be that the best design companies usually are only cabinet dealers that carry several brands (we carry 8 brands) and don’t do a lot of installations. Companies that design and build are usually good at construction but poor designers. You should call into our Friday helpline / Podcast and have me check your design. See below:
My MANTRA remains:
People worry about cabinet quality and price far more than they worry about their designs. This is because they aren’t kitchen designers themselves and don’t understand how poor their designs usually are. If you listen to one of our podcasts this is usually a central issue. The Podcast below illustrates how different designs can be from what a homeowner might expect, while still staying within their budget. So, it makes little sense splurging on cabinets and appliances, when there are design improvements left on the table.
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Karen Mercurio
Hi Paul,
I would appreciate your opinion on my kitchen remodel using stock Tribeca Cabinetry. I have an open floor plan with an L-shape kitchen and island. I have 9′ ceilings and want white shaker cabinets stacked with frosted glass uppers. I would also like the corner cabinet to be angled. My kitchen designer/business suggested using stock Tribeca cabinetry with 15″ uppers (not on your list). She then told me they might not offer an angled cabinet. She mentioned CNC with 18″ stacked glass uppers at a higher price range. I don’t have any info on this Tribeca cabinet line. I don’t know if the business/designer uses Fabuwood, but if they did I would definitely be comfortable with that line after reading your reviews! I want a good product at a modest price range. My budget should allow a reasonable semi-custom line. I am following your ratings and I don’t want to make the wrong decision with my investment.
Thank you very much for your guidance.
Karen
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Karen,
Stacking cabinets to the ceiling usually requires more expensive cabinetry that Tribeca. CNC is also not well suited to stacking and using 18″ high wall cabinets on top of 30″ high wall cabinets isn’t the best combination. Also using 15″ high top upper cabinets with 36″ high wall lower cabinets leaves no room for adjustment. And the moldings look too small even if the ceiling is so level that it makes this combination possible.
The best combination is 12″ high wall cabinets on top of 36″ high wall cabinets with a 6″ stacked crown molding. This is shown in the photos below:
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/kitchen-design-gallery/philadelphia-pa-kitchen/
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/kitchen-design-gallery/collegeville-pa-painted-maple-kitchen/
Fabuwood would be the least expensive brand I would attempt doing stacked cabinetry with.
Karen Mercurio
Hi Paul,
I am very appreciative for your reply.
I will have to revisit the cabinetry lines and with your information I feel more confident as a consumer
undertaking this investment!
Thank you again,
Karen
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Karen,
Don’t forget too that it is the design itself that is usually most important. Particularly when you are contemplating cabinet brands that are all well made.
Bob
What’s your opinion between fabuwood, haas, and wolf cabinets ?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Bob,
We rate these three lines in this blog. Fabuwood gets the best reviews, wolf a close second and Haas a distant third.
We are dealers for Fabuwood, so we chose that line because we rate it better.
Maria Mennella
Can you please attest to the quality of Fabuwood? I would prefer to order Maple based cabinets such as Kitchen Maid but cost is holding us back. Thoughts on quality for the long term?
Thank you!
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Maria,
I don’t know a brand named Kitchen Maid. Do you mean KraftMaid? Fabuwood is a well-made cabinet brand actually better constructed than Kraftmaid. However, they do not have maple cabinets and do not offer all the colors and wood species that Kraftmaid does. All Fabuwood’s cabinetry is birch. Durability wise you would have to upgrade Kraftmaid to all plywood construction to get close to equal Fabuwood’s construction. Kraftmaid would cost at least 40% more. If you like the Fabuwood door styles and colors you would be throwing money away buying Kraftmaid if you aren’t taking advantage of the styles, woods, and colors they offer. Drawerbox, hinges, and drawer tracks are all the same in both lines, if Kraftmaid is upgraded.
Maria
Hi Paul,
Yes, I meant KraftMaid. I recently received a Fabuwood quote and an American Woodwork quote. Home Depot is offering a 30% off discount on AW. Fabuwood is priced $2,000 more. AW is Maple and Fabuwood is birch. I’m looking for longevity and quality for years to come due to a busy household. Any suggestions?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Maria,
American Woodmark must be upgraded to all plywood construction to equal Fabuwood construction, so make sure the cabinets are upgraded. There are also so many variables that comparing “apple to apples” is nearly impossible without the help of a designer. Read this important blog below:
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/price-comparing-kitchen-cabinets-and-why-it-is-a-bad-idea/
Most importantly
My MANTRA remains:
People worry about cabinet quality and price far more than they worry about their designs. This is because they aren’t kitchen designers themselves and don’t understand how poor their designs usually are. If you listen to one of our podcasts this is usually a central issue. The Podcast below illustrates how different designs can be from what a homeowner might expect, while still staying within their budget. So, it makes little sense splurging on cabinets and appliances, when there are design improvements left on the table.
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Alex R
Hello, live in PA, and I am I between three different brands.
21st Century, Fabuwood, or Kraftmaid.
Fabuwood and Kraftmaid both have limited lifetime warranty, while 21st century shows better ratings with only 3yr warranty. Do you recommend paying more for the warranty? What would you choose, based off the three brands. Or any other within the 1-2 price range. Thanks for your help?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Alex,
You will get very different prices for each of these brands. The warranty isn’t important, however the available door styles and finishes, cabinet sizes, and the ability to customize will be VERY limited in 21st Century. Kraftmaid is a 4 or a 5 price range. Since I don’t know your design, your color and style preferences, and your budget it is impossible to advise you other than to say once again:
My MANTRA remains:
People worry about cabinet quality and price far more than they worry about their designs. This is because they aren’t kitchen designers themselves and don’t understand how poor their designs usually are. If you listen to one of our podcasts this is usually a central issue. The Podcast below illustrates how different designs can be from what a homeowner might expect, while still staying within their budget. So, it makes little sense splurging on cabinets and appliances, when there are design improvements left on the table.
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Alex R
Thank you for your response and honesty. We have seen the limitation at 21st century. From double oven fittings to not having a appliance garage we were looking for. Fabuwood has been the closest we found with the style and all the options that Kraftmaid has at a lower cost. I will listen to the podcast, and again thanks for the response.
Paul
Hi Alex,
There are a lot of good brands around the Fabuwood price range. But I think Fabuwood is the best value for most door styles and finishes. J&K is a similar price. Cubitac and CNC are less expensive but offer a little less and are not quite the same reliability on deliveries, damages, etc. However every line can have a clunker once in a while.
Dan
Hi Paul
Which one is better? Price, Quality and lead time.
Showplace or Bertch? Frame and Frameless.
We are located at South California.
Thank you!
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Dan,
Always pick Framed over Frameless for every door style other than a slab style. Because slab will look so much better in a frameless line, that taking a significant step down in construction quality is worth it. Assuming you upgrade to a plywood box. I like Bertch a tiny bit more, however they are close and since we do not carry either brand, I am not up to date on any issues either line could be having. The cabinet dealer you choose and the designer and the kitchen design itself will be far more important.
As always-
My MANTRA remains:
People worry about cabinet quality and price far more than they worry about their designs. This is because they aren’t kitchen designers themselves and don’t understand how poor their designs usually are. If you listen to one of our podcasts this is usually a central issue. The Podcast below illustrates how different designs can be from what a homeowner might expect, while still staying within their budget. So, it makes little sense splurging on cabinets and appliances, when there are design improvements left on the table.
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Dan
Thanks!!
Bronwyn
Your list mentions J&K Cabinets – is this https://jandkcabinetry.com/? Thank you for the wealth of information on your website – eye opening!!
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Bronwyn,
Yes that’s their website.
Karen
Hi, Can you explain the two letter grades for Schrock?
Schrock 4 B+/ A- B+/ A-
A cabinet business recommended the Schrock Enta line for semi-custom shaker white cabinets for my kitchen remodel.
I am concerned about this product.
Thank you.
Karen
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Karen,
Schrock just falls in between the criteria we created to rate a cabinet’s construction an A- or a B+. Mabey if I rated them B++ or A– it would have been clearer. Since they fell between construction ratings, we also gave them the same value rating. They are a fine cabinet line upgraded to plywood. However, for a shaker white door style you may not be taking advantage of the diversity that Schrock offers and so you will be spending extra money on cabinets that wasn’t really needed.
As always-
My MANTRA remains:
People worry about cabinet quality and price far more than they worry about their designs. This is because they aren’t kitchen designers themselves and don’t understand how poor their designs usually are. If you listen to one of our podcasts this is usually a central issue. The Podcast below illustrates how different designs can be from what a homeowner might expect, while still staying within their budget. So, it makes little sense splurging on cabinets and appliances, when there are design improvements left on the table.
https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/calls-with-paul-the-kitchen-design-podcast-episode-28-finding-a-kitchen-designer/
Karen
Thank you so much for your very valuable guidance!
Karen
Charles
Hi, I see you rated Kitchen Compact, but I cant find them anywhere? (Are you referring to Kitchen Kompact, their pricing would be a 1?) Also do you know the quality of GHI cabinets?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Charles,
Thanks, I hadn’t caught the SpellCheck faulty correction on the KK line. I don’t know anything about GHI. However, they are obviously a relatively inexpensive imported line that are well constructed and assembled in the US. I dislike that they advertise themselves as a custom cabinet brand which is misleading so I would be leery of a brand that lacks transparency..
Charles
Thanks so much Paul for that info on GHI!
Regarding Kitchen Kompact, from my research their prices are very very low. I just want to know what you think about their quality. I see you rated it a B-, but for their price point it may be worth it for me. Can you tell me from your experience with this line how long they last and why you gave it a B-?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Charles,
KK is a little less well made, and their cabinetry a little less attractive than some similarly priced competitors that offer solid wood dovetail soft close Blum drawers and doors and some other features. You don’t say where you are located but brands like Fabuwood, J&K, Procraft, CNC, Cubitac, Wolf, and others would be slightly more or in some cases slightly less expensive and a better value.
Jonathan Rowland
Tru cabinetry closed – bankrupt as of several months ago.
Echelon has been closed. They rebranded as arbor creek which is now a truckload/project multifamily company who no longer sells kitchen at a time.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Thanks so much Jonathan! I confirmed both as of August. We didn’t sell either brand, and you are the first to let us know.
If you would like a nice Olive Wood cutting board. Please email where you would like it sent to Paul@MainLineKitchenDesign.com
Hilary Wallace
Hi Paul,
Any significant difference between Schuler, Yorktowne and Medallion? We love the cappuccino stain (seems exclusive to these brands) but our one Medallion quote gave us major sticker shock. Trying to get what we want while taking our budget into consideration.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Hilary,
All three brands are made by the same company in the same factory, so don’t expect much of a price variation.
Lots of companies making less expensive well-made cabinetry. Hardly any in that color. Check out Fabuwood Timber, it may be as close as it gets in an inexpensive line.
Anne
Hi! Any opinions on North American Cafe cabinetry?
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Anne,
There is no construction information on this brand available online. Because they are a Canadian Custom cabinet brand I am guessing that they are frameless and so if my guess is right we would rate them this way 5 price, point B construction, value not sure as price,point could be off.
Not to be confused with North American Cabinets a framed line that would get better grades.
nancy
Ever hear of Greenfield cabinets? Quality? They are expensive. Not on your list.
pmcalary[ Post Author ]
Hi Nancy,.
Greenfield looks like a custom brand that makes both framed and frameless cabinetry. So, they will be relatively expensive, and we would most likely give them good reviews.
They are pretty transparent as a company – which I like. I do disagree with some of the information they give online. However, giving information gives them thumbs up in my book.
So many brands talk in platitudes and not specifics that giving information usually indicates a good company.
Nancy
Thank you!! Really appreciate your in site. It is very confusing and would be an expensive mistake. Can I ask what information on line you disagree with?