Slide-In vs. Freestanding Range

In the quest for the perfect kitchen range, there are hundreds of choices—gas, electric, countertop, induction. So how do you know which one is the best choice for your kitchen? One easy place to start is the installation style. Often, the design of your kitchen will dictate which type of range is best-suited to your needs.

We're covering two of the more common types of kitchen ranges—the slide-in range and the freestanding range—to help you narrow down your selection. These two differentiators refer to the way the range was designed with regard to how it will ultimately be installed.

• Slide-In Range—Slide-in ranges are designed to create a more seamless, built-in look and have no top panel or backsplash. Because the range is meant to slide between cabinets or other appliances, the sides are not finished or enclosed. This means that you will have to install it with something on both sides, such as cabinets or other appliances. With that said, slide-in ranges tend to look more custom and sleeker than freestanding styles. As such, they generally come with a bigger price tag.
  
  Choose this type of range if you need:
  
  • A seamless, built-in look with installation between two cabinets
  • A more customized look to complement custom cabinetry
  • Installation in a kitchen island (since there is no backsplash panel)
  • A more contemporary look that doesn't block the wall or backsplash
  • A more high-end, commercial-inspired look

Featured Slide-In Range
The sleek Samsung 30-Inch Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Slide-In Gas Range sets the standard for attractive and brilliantly designed slide-in ranges. It offers a striking look inspired by the commercial kitchen.

• Freestanding Range—Freestanding ranges are by far the most popular range style and therefore tend to be more affordable. Unlike slide-in ranges, these ranges have finished sides and a backsplash, so they can be installed in-between cabinets, at the edge of the counter or standing alone. Typically, electric ranges have controls on the backsplash, while gas ranges have controls in the front. The backsplash may have an LCD display, a timer and other controls.
  
  Choose this type of range if you need:
  
  • Installation any place where the side(s) of the oven will show
  • Standalone installation, not built into a cabinet or island
  • Protection on the backsplash from spills and splatters
  • A more affordable option to suit a tighter budget
  • More options to choose from, including finishes, brands and sizes
  • More versatility, as it can be installed alone or between cabinets

Featured Freestanding Range
The KitchenAid 30" Stainless Steel Freestanding Gas Range is an excellent option for those looking for a stylish, high-end look with the freestanding configuration.

Luckily, most oven styles come in both freestanding and slide-in configurations. For example, if you're interested in the ultra-popular induction range—a great choice for home chefs with children, as induction ranges have no flames or burning-hot surfaces—you have the option to choose between both slide-in and freestanding. Because of their sleek, modern look, slide-in induction ranges are extremely desirable among homeowners.

Though still not as popular as freestanding ranges, slide-in gas ranges are quickly gaining popularity in the cooking world and are likely to maintain a stronghold for the foreseeable future. Ultimately, though, the style you choose comes down to your personal preferences, your budget and the configuration of your kitchen. In the end, both styles offer the same great performance, so you will have made a sound decision either way!

Discussing your choice with your kitchen designer or an appliance expert from our team can help ensure that you feel great about your selection no matter what. We're always available to help guide you through your appliance purchase.

What is The Difference Between Slide-In and Freestanding Ranges?

Slide-in ranges are meant to literally slide into a gap between cabinetry or cabinetry and an appliance, like a refrigerator or dishwasher. They feature a seamless look with no backsplash and have unfinished sides. Meanwhile, freestanding models have finished sides and a backsplash, meaning they can be installed almost anywhere.

What is a Freestanding Range?

Freestanding ranges have finished sides, a backsplash that protects your kitchen from splatters, and can be installed nearly anywhere in the kitchen. They're common and thus budget-friendly. The rear backsplash often features settings for the oven, while the front panel will likely have controls for the burners in gas models.

What is a Slide-In Range?

The elegant slide-in range is very similar, but lacks a backsplash and finished sides. That's all so that this model can slide right into a space between cabinetry or other appliances with a completely seamless look. The appearance looks built-in and is perfect for pairing with similar built-in refrigerators. And if you have an intricate backsplash you'd like to show off in your kitchen, this is the perfect choice to keep it visible. These tend to be a bit more expensive than your average stove.