A Complete Guide To Buying Kitchen Cabinets Online
By: Andrew Saladino | 
12 min
Last Updated: June 16th, 2024
Dreaming of a kitchen makeover but feeling overwhelmed by the thought of buying kitchen cabinets? Replacing cabinets is a big part of any kitchen renovation, and with so many options available, the process can seem daunting.
From measuring your space and choosing a style to placing your order and navigating delivery, we'll cover all you need to know about buying kitchen cabinets online. By following these steps and keeping our helpful tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect cabinets to complete your dream kitchen.
Table of Contents
1. Measure Your Space
Before you get swept away by gorgeous finishes and trendy hardware, there's a crucial first step: meticulously measuring your kitchen. Precise measurements are the foundation for a successful cabinet layout and a smooth installation.
Grab a tape measure, a notepad, and a healthy dose of patience.
- Measure every wall, doorway, and window from outer trim to outer trim. Don't forget to account for pipes, electrical outlets, and any other potential obstacles.
- Write down the distance from the floor to the ceiling in several spots, checking for unevenness.
- For base cabinets, factor in the countertop overhang and any desired toe kick (the space between the cabinet base and the floor).
- Finally, measure the appliances you plan to integrate (refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers) to ensure a perfect fit.
Remember, even a slight miscalculation can throw off your entire cabinet layout, so take your time and double-check everything.
Pro Tip: Use our measuring guide for complete step-by-step instructions on how to measure for kitchen cabinets.
2. Set Your Budget
Kitchen cabinets are a significant investment, and understanding your financial limitations will guide your choices and prevent post-shopping sticker shock. If you're planning a full kitchen remodel, expect to spend around 29% of your budget on kitchen cabinets.
Here's where a little research goes a long way. Start by browsing online retailers to get a general sense of cabinet pricing per linear foot.
Remember, the cost doesn't stop at the cabinets themselves. Factor in additional expenses like hardware (knobs, pulls), delivery fees, and potential installation charges.
Once you have a ballpark figure for the cabinets, add in these extras to determine your total budget. Don't forget to leave some wiggle room for unexpected costs that might arise during the project.
Pro Tip: Use our kitchen remodel cost estimator for a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to spend on your renovation.
3. Choose Your Cabinet Type
Your budget and layout will have a major impact on the type of cabinet you plan to order. There are three main categories of cabinets:
- Stock cabinets: Stock cabinets offer the most budget-friendly option, coming in standard sizes and styles. They're perfect for straightforward kitchen layouts.
- Semi-custom cabinets: Semi-custom cabinets provide more flexibility, allowing you to choose from a wider range of sizes, colors, and finishes while staying within a predefined set of configurations.
- Custom: Custom cabinets are built to your exact specifications to perfectly fit any nook and cranny. As you'd expect, the level of customization comes with a higher price tag.
Keep in mind that stock cabinets aren't necessarily lower quality than custom cabinets, and vice versa — these cabinet types are defined by how they're constructed, not by the quality of materials used.
Once you've decided between stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinets, you'll also need to choose how they'll arrive and whether you prefer framed or frameless cabinets.
- Ready-to-assemble (RTA) cabinets arrive in flat-packs and require assembly. However, they're typically cheaper than assembled cabinets and ship faster.
- Assembled cabinets come ready to install, saving you time and frustration with installation.
- Framed cabinets feature a visible face frame around the doors and drawers, perfect for traditional and transitional kitchen designs. They're slightly more affordable than frameless cabinets and may offer more structural support.
- Frameless cabinets offer a sleeker, more modern aesthetic with doors and drawers that overlay the cabinet box. They provide a touch of European flair while maximizing storage space.
4. Plan Your Kitchen Layout
With cabinet styles top of mind, it's tempting to jump straight to picking colors and finishes. But before diving into aesthetics, it's crucial to plan your kitchen layout. This blueprint will ensure your chosen cabinets fit seamlessly into your space, maximizing functionality and creating a comfortable workflow.
Think about how you'll use your kitchen. Do you need ample counter space for baking? Would pull-out shelves in lower cabinets make reaching for pots and pans easier? Will you incorporate a pantry for additional storage? By carefully planning your layout with functionality in mind, you'll end up with a kitchen that's not just beautiful but also a joy to cook in.
Pro Tip: Not entirely confident in your interior design skills? Reach out to our NKBA-certified designers for expert advice, price quotes, and a free 3D kitchen design tailored to your specific needs.
5. Pick Your Materials
The type of cabinet materials you choose should depend on how you use your kitchen. Are you an aspiring chef constantly in and out of cupboards? You may want to splurge on more durable materials like solid wood that can handle constant wear and tear.
On the other hand, you may be able to settle on more affordable materials like MDF or particle board if you rarely use your kitchen.
Looking for a durable material that won't break the bank? Plywood cabinets are a great option that'll keep your cabinets looking fresh for years to come. All of our cabinets are constructed with Grade A plywood cabinet boxes, so you can rest assured you're getting the best bang for your buck.
Here's an overview of some of the most popular materials you can find when buying cabinets online.
| Type | Durability | Moisture Resistance | Heat Resistance | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solid Wood | ★★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★★ | $5,000-$25,000 |
| Plywood | ★★★★ | ★★ | ★★★ | $2,500-$8,000 |
| Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ | $1,500-$5,000 |
| High-Density Fiberboard (HDF) | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★ | $2,000-$7,000 |
| Particle Board | ★★ | ★★ | ★★ | $1,000-$4,000 |
| Stainless Steel | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | $25,000-$40,000 |
6. Choose Your Finish
Similar to cabinet materials, the cabinet finish you choose will depend on your kitchen environment. Understanding the types of kitchen cabinet finishes available can help you choose one that matches your style, budget, and durability needs.
The most cost-effective cabinet finishes are laminate, melamine, and thermofoil. These finishes come in a wide array of colors and patterns, but there won't be many opportunities to customize your cabinets. If you're looking for one-of-kind cabinets, stain, paint, distressed finishes, varnish, and lacquer offer plenty of options for a personalized look.
| Type | Durability | Moisture Resistance | Heat Resistance | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stain | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ | $$ |
| Glaze | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ | $$$ |
| Natural | ★★★ | ★★ | ★★ | $$$$ |
| Paint | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ | $$ |
| Varnish | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ | $$$ |
| Distressed | ★★★ | ★★ | ★★ | $$$ |
| Waterborne | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ | $$$ |
| Laminate | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ | $$ |
| Thermofoil | ★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ | $$ |
| Melamine | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ | $ |
| Wood Veneer | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★ | $$$$ |
| Lacquer | ★★★ | ★★★ | ★★ | $$$$ |
7. Order Cabinet Door Samples
Once you have a few finishes in mind, you'll want to order a few cabinet door samples to compare their look and feel in your home. While high-quality product images are everywhere online, there's no substitute for experiencing the materials and finishes firsthand.
Most online cabinet retailers are happy to send you cabinet door samples for a small fee. This allows you to see how the color, texture, and finish will actually appear under your specific lighting conditions.
Check how the materials interact with natural and artificial light throughout the day. Do the colors seem warm or cool in your kitchen's environment? By investing in a few samples, you can make sure your online cabinet choices perfectly match your dream kitchen, avoiding any unwelcome surprises once the order arrives.
Pro Tip: Cabinet door samples ship free from Kitchen Cabinet Kings, and we'll refund the cost of up to three samples upon purchase!
8. Consider Your Hardware
Before you hit checkout, there's one more design element to consider: cabinet hardware! These seemingly small components — knobs, pulls, and handles — play a big role in both the functionality and overall style of your kitchen.
When choosing cabinet hardware, think about form and function. Knobs are ideal for single-door cabinets or drawers that open with a push, while pulls offer a better grip for larger drawers or double doors. Consider the size and finish of your cabinets — chunky pulls might overpower delicate knobs on smaller cabinets, and vice versa.
Ordering a few hardware options alongside your cabinet door samples allows you to see how they look and feel together in your lighting. This extra step can help you avoid any mismatched surprises and ensure a cohesive, beautiful look for your dream kitchen.
9. Place Your Order
Congratulations! You've meticulously measured your kitchen, planned a functional layout, chosen the perfect cabinet style and materials, and even test-driven your favorites with samples. Now it's time for the exciting final step: placing your online cabinet order.
Before clicking that checkout button, take a moment and do a final review. Double-check your order details, including cabinet configurations, materials, colors, and quantities. Make sure everything aligns with your planned layout and chosen style.
Once you're confident about your selections, proceed to checkout and choose your preferred delivery option. Delivery fees can vary depending on your location and the size of your order, so factor this cost into your final budget. Last but not least, finalize your payment and get ready to welcome your beautiful new cabinets into your home!
Pro Tip: Orders over $3,000 on a single door style qualify for free shipping with Kitchen Cabinet Kings.
Tips for Buying Kitchen Cabinets Online
Now that you've explored the essential steps of online cabinet buying, let's delve into some cabinet buying best practices to ensure you score the perfect options for your dream kitchen without any unwanted surprises.
Vet Your Cabinet Company
Before diving headfirst into online cabinet selections, take a step back and thoroughly vet the companies you're considering. After all, you're entrusting them with a significant investment for your home.
Not sure where to buy kitchen cabinets online? Here's how to ensure you're shopping from a reputable online cabinet company:
- Look for established credentials: Seek companies with a proven track record. Check for memberships in industry associations like the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) or the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA). These affiliations indicate a commitment to quality and industry standards.
- Read customer reviews: Read what past customers have to say about the company's product quality, customer service, and overall buying experience. Look for consistent positive reviews and how the company addresses negative feedback.
- Transparency is key: A trustworthy company will be upfront about pricing, materials, and lead times. Ensure the website clearly outlines cabinet costs, including any potential for hidden fees or surcharges. Look for detailed product descriptions that specify materials, construction methods, and warranty information.
- Customer service matters: Excellent customer service is paramount. Does the company offer multiple contact methods (phone, email, live chat)? Are their customer service representatives knowledgeable and responsive to inquiries? A company that prioritizes customer service is more likely to provide a smooth buying experience.
With Kitchen Cabinet Kings, you can shop with confidence knowing you're getting top-notch cabinets and exceptional service. We boast NKBA certification, a wealth of positive customer reviews, clear pricing structures, and a dedicated customer service team to help you from planning to purchase and installation. Read more about us.
Consider Your DIY Skills
Buying cabinets online offers fantastic choices, but before you get swept away by the possibilities, consider your DIY skills. This will heavily influence whether you choose RTA vs. assembled cabinets.
RTA cabinets come flat-packed and require assembly. This can be a great way to save money on your cabinets, especially if you're handy and enjoy DIY projects. However, factor in the time and effort involved in assembly, along with the potential need for extra tools.
Pre-assembled cabinets, on the other hand, arrive fully constructed and ready for installation. They're perfect for those who prefer to avoid the assembly process or aren't comfortable with DIY projects. While convenient, pre-assembled cabinets tend to be slightly more expensive due to the added labor involved.
If you prefer to leave the handiwork to the experts, hire a contractor before ordering your cabinets. They may be able to save you even more money with exclusive contractor discounts on cabinets.
Compare Cabinet Prices
With hundreds of online cabinet retailers vying for your business, comparing prices is crucial to finding the best deal for your new kitchen. Here's how to find the best price:
- Go beyond price per linear foot: While price per linear foot is a common metric, it doesn't tell the whole story. Different cabinet configurations (base cabinets vs. wall cabinets) and features (drawers vs. doors) will impact the overall cost. Request detailed quotes that break down the pricing for each cabinet you need.
- Factor in additional costs: Don't forget to account for hidden expenses beyond the cabinets themselves. Delivery fees can vary depending on your location and order size. Consider the cost of hardware and any potential installation charges, especially if you opt for RTA cabinets. Factor these extras into your comparisons to ensure you get a clear picture of the total investment.
- Wait for sales: Many online cabinet retailers offer seasonal sales or promotions throughout the year. Keep an eye out for flash sales, discount codes, or bundled package deals that can help you save significantly on your cabinets. By strategically timing your purchase, you can stretch your budget further and score top-notch cabinets without breaking the bank.
Take Your Time
One of the biggest benefits of buying kitchen cabinets online is that you won't need to bother with pushy salespeople in a showroom. Take advantage of this perk and do your research at your own pace.
Don't feel pressured by limited-time sales or flashy promotions — there'll be another, we promise. Instead, use this time to thoroughly research different cabinet styles, materials, and functionalities.
Explore various online retailers, compare prices and features, and don't hesitate to reach out to customer service with questions. Remember, the more informed you are, the better equipped you'll be to choose the perfect cabinets for your unique needs and budget.
Buying Kitchen Cabinets Online FAQs
What are the benefits of RTA cabinets?
RTA cabinets offer significant cost savings compared to pre-assembled cabinets since you'll be assembling them yourself. They're also easier to maneuver into tight spaces during installation, and you might find a wider variety of styles available in RTA options.
However, RTA cabinets require time and effort to assemble, so factor in your DIY skills before choosing this route.
What is the difference between framed and frameless cabinets?
The key difference between framed and frameless cabinets is the presence of a face frame. Framed cabinets have a visible wooden frame around the cabinet opening, providing a traditional look and additional structural support.
Frameless cabinets lack this frame, offering a sleeker, more modern aesthetic. Frameless cabinets may also maximize storage space by allowing doors and drawers to overlay the cabinet box directly. However, they require more precise installation for proper alignment.
What if my cabinets arrive damaged?
We make every effort to ensure your items arrive undamaged, but there are conditions beyond our control that can cause damage during shipping. Please indicate any missing or visibly damaged items from your order on the driver's bill of lading.
If you suspect concealed damage, please note that on the bill of lading as well. If any problems were indicated on the bill of lading, please contact us at support@kitchencabinetkings.com to inform us of the problem. All claims must be made within seven days of the delivery or they will not be honored.
For more information about cabinet delivery, check out our FAQ page.
How long will it take to receive my cabinets?
Delivery time will depend on the type of cabinet you've ordered. RTA orders should arrive within seven to 14 business days once the order has been processed. Assembled cabinets may take a bit longer (seven to 21 business days) to account for assembly time.
Feeling a bit more confident about buying kitchen cabinets online? You can rest assured you're getting the highest quality cabinets at the best price with Kitchen Cabinet Kings. Browse our selection of timeless and trending RTA and pre-assembled cabinets to find the perfect fit for your home.
