Major Appliances
Slide in Vs. Freestanding Range Comparison Guide
If you’re shopping for new kitchen appliances, you will probably be looking for either a freestanding range or a slide-in range. While freestanding ranges are popular, slide-in options have been gaining ground in recent years. You need to determine which type of range is a match for your kitchen and household.
Learn more about slide-in ranges vs. freestanding ranges to find the right model for you.
What is a freestanding range?
When you picture the typical range, you are most likely thinking about a freestanding range with a cooktop surface above either one or two ovens.
They use either gas, electric or dual fuel and have one control panel for both the cooktop and oven. Freestanding ranges have backguards, complete with the controls, to help protect the wall behind the range from splatters and other messes.
Freestanding ranges offer more installation flexibility. They feature finished sides, allowing you to decide whether to install them between cabinets or on their own. One thing to consider is that freestanding ranges are not always a good fit for kitchen islands given their backguards.
What is a slide-in range?
Installation is the main difference between freestanding and slide-in ranges. While many slide-in ranges feature finished sides, some do not, meaning they are generally not appropriate for standalone installation. KitchenAid® slide-in ranges do have finished sides so they can be installed on their own or sit between cabinets for a seamless look
Controls for slide-in ranges can usually be found on the top or front of the appliance. These ranges do not have a backguard, leaving many homeowners to install a backsplash behind the range.
The sleek appearance of a slide-in range have made them popular for remodelling projects and/or for installation in kitchen islands. Their overhanging sides prevent food and liquids from spilling into gaps between the cooktop and counter, making kitchen cleanup much quicker and easier.
The Difference Between Freestanding and Slide-in Ranges & Are They Interchangeable?
Freestanding and slide-in ranges offer similar options and performance. The two designs, though, do have some differences. The main one is the presence of a backguard on freestanding models and where the controls are located on each type of range. Always keep in mind the height difference caused by the location of the controls. Generally, freestanding ranges have their controls at the rear whereas slide-in model controls are at the front. This means that freestanding range controls are higher than slide-in options.
While many slide-in ranges have full depth, some must sit a few inches away from the wall. This means there are typically a few inches of countertop space that wraps around the back of the cooktop. If you choose to replace your slide-in range with a freestanding model, you may have to also undergo an update of your countertop configuration. KitchenAid® slide-in ranges fit right against the wall and our front control slide-in ranges fit standard cabinet depth of 24 inches.
If you’re trading in a freestanding range for a slide-in model, you may need to fill in a two-inch gap (or possibly a larger one depending on the dimensions of your kitchen). You will also have to update the wall behind your range to protect it from steam, water and stains.
Prior to buying a freestanding or slide-in range, speak with a qualified appliance retailer and/or a remodeling professional to confirm if your new range will fit properly in your kitchen.
Fit System Limited Guarantee
Replacing your range with a KitchenAid® range just got easier with the KitchenAid FIT System Limited Guarantee! This limited time offer ensures that a new range with the FIT System can be properly installed into your kitchen’s existing cabinetry of compatible width and configuration. If not, you have up to 30 days from delivery to submit a claim and KitchenAid will provide up to $300 toward professionally modifying your cabinets. This excludes installations related to new home construction or remodeling.
Slide-in Range vs. Freestanding Range – How Do I Decide?
When choosing either a slide-in vs. freestanding range, give thought to kitchen layout, your preferred style and your household needs.
Explore our complete collection of kitchen ranges here.
