Trying to figure out what kind of kitchen cabinets to choose? Stock, RTA, semi-custom, and custom cabinets all come with different price points, build quality, and design flexibility. In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each so you can pick the right option for your kitchen remodel.
🔹 Stock & RTA Cabinets
These are your entry-level options.
Stock cabinets come fully assembled and ready to install. You’ll find them at big box stores and online.
RTA cabinets (ready-to-assemble) look just like stock but ship flat and need to be put together on site.
Both are affordable and good for quick timelines, but you’re limited on sizing, colors, and features.
Materials vary — make sure you’re getting solid boxes, not particle board.
💡 Bottom line: great for budget projects, flips, or rentals — but limited when it comes to long-term quality and design flexibility.
🔹 Semi-Custom Cabinets
This is the sweet spot for most of our remodeling clients.
You get more sizing, layout, and style options than with stock.
Cabinets are built to order with a range of finish and hardware upgrades.
Construction quality is usually solid — think plywood boxes, soft-close doors, and good craftsmanship.
You get a better fit in the kitchen, which means less filler and a cleaner look overall.
💡 If you want quality and flexibility without going full luxury, semi-custom hits the mark.
🔹 Custom Cabinets
This is where we go all-in on craftsmanship and design.
Custom cabinets are built from scratch to fit your kitchen, your layout, and your vision.
You can choose every detail — door style, finish, wood type, size, even the interior features.
At Top Craft Construction, we only work with local cabinet builders we know and trust — experienced craftspeople who consistently deliver top-notch work.
We’ve built strong relationships with these vendors, and we trust them to help us bring our clients’ kitchens to life.
💡 If you want a one-of-a-kind kitchen with premium materials and a flawless fit, this is your lane.
🧰 Cabinet Comparison at a Glance
| Type | Cost | Options | Quality | Lead Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stock / RTA | Low | Limited | Varies | Fast (1–2 weeks) |
| Semi-Custom | Medium | Flexible | Solid | 4–6 weeks |
| Custom | High | Unlimited | Premium | 6–12+ weeks |
👷 Contractor’s Take
At the end of the day, you’re not just buying cabinets — you’re investing in how your kitchen looks, functions, and feels.
Stock or RTA are fine for rentals or fast builds.
Semi-custom is our go-to for most homeowners who want something nice that won’t break the bank.
Custom is for when the kitchen is the centerpiece of your home and you want it dialed in just right — with materials and craftsmanship that’ll last.
📞 Ready to Start Your Remodel?
We don’t just install cabinets — we help you make the right call from the beginning.
If you want honest advice, quality work, and a contractor who treats your kitchen like it’s his own, let’s talk.