Knowledge Builders

what is the difference between freestanding drop in and slide in ranges

by Stacey Cremin Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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  • Form Factor. While freestanding ranges usually feature a rear backsplash that typically houses the oven and burner controls, slide-in models forgo the backsplash in favor of front-mounted controls.
  • A Matter of Cost. ...
  • Installation Issues. ...

While freestanding ranges can stand alone or be installed between cabinets, slide-in ranges are specifically designed to sit between cabinets for a seamless look. Because of this, slide-in ranges have unfinished sides that makes them ill-suited for standalone installation.

Full Answer

What is the difference between freestanding and slide-in ranges?

The main difference between freestanding and slide-in ranges is installation. While freestanding ranges can stand alone or be installed between cabinets, slide-in ranges are specifically designed to sit between cabinets for a seamless look.

What is the difference between a slide-in range and a drop-in range?

With a slide-in range, cooktop and oven controls are at the front of the appliance. Slide in ranges tend to be more expensive then freestanding ranges. What is a Drop-in Range?

Which is more expensive drop in or freestanding range?

For comparable functions, a freestanding range is more economical than a slide-in model, and the drop-in style is most expensive. Installation costs also tend to follow this pattern: Freestanding ranges are the most economical to install, followed by slide-in ranges, with drop-in ranges the most expensive.

What is a slide in range used for?

A slide-in range is designed to slide in and fit flush with your countertop. This is ideal for an island peninsula, but can also be used along a wall. Slide-in ranges have a slightly protruding cooktop that rests on top of the countertop on each side.

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Which is better a free standing or slide-in range?

From an aesthetic standpoint, we think slide-in ranges are the clear winner. Unlike freestanding ranges, slide-in ranges have no bulky backguard. The controls are located up front making access more convenient. This setup ensures you'll never have to reach over a hot pan to adjust burner or oven temperature.

Is a drop-in range the same as a slide-in range?

Slide-in ranges usually have a bottom drawer below to store cookware. A drop-in range has to fit with existing cabinetry so it typically doesn't have a storage drawer. This should be considered since you'll need additional cabinet space for your cookware and pans.

Why are slide-in ranges more expensive than free standing?

Slide-in ranges are more expensive than freestanding because of the custom, built-in look the design provides. QuietClose Door - No more slamming the oven door. Dampened hinges softly and quietly guide the QuietClose door shut. It's premium engineering that you'll appreciate each time you close your oven.

Are freestanding and slide-in ranges the same?

The primary differences between freestanding and slide-in ranges are the installation and the location of the controls. Freestanding ranges can be installed between cabinets for a built in look or can act as a stand-alone appliance, while slide-in ranges are designed to fit within your kitchen cabinets.

What is the advantage of a slide in range?

Slide-in ranges offer an unobstructed view of the backsplash and aren't restricted to being placed against the wall. The front-control or cooktop surface knobs also make it easier to control without having to reach over a hot surface.

Is there countertop behind a slide in range?

Does a slide-in range need a countertop behind it? Slide-in ranges don't necessarily need an actual countertop behind them, but you really should have something to fill that gap between it and the stove. Having the counter extend behind it is great if you have something custom built, but we all don't have that luxury.

What are the pros and cons of a slide in range?

Slide-in ranges are made to fit in a space between cabinets in kitchens for a built-in, high-end look....Cons:The front controls can be easily accessed by curious kids.They cost more than freestanding ranges, so they're not budget-friendly.These ranges have smaller ovens than freestanding units.

Can you replace a drop in range with a freestanding range?

When you replace an old drop-in stove with a new model, the cabinets must be altered by a cabinetmaker if the new stove doesn't have the same dimensions as the old one. Replacing the the stove with a regular, freestanding range can be a less expensive alternative.

Do slide in ranges need a vent?

It does not require external venting. It just vents up and into the kitchen without an external vent.

Does a slide in range sit on the floor?

Drop in ranges DO NOT sit on the floor. They rest on a toe-kick high pedestal. Slide in ranges are designed to rest on the floor.

What is a drop in range?

What is a Drop-in Range? A drop-in range is a range that fits into customized cabinetry. Commonly seen on islands, drop in ranges are flanked by cabinets and sit above matching woodwork or cabinetry. Drop in ranges give a streamlined, built in look.

Can you replace a drop in range with a freestanding range?

When you replace an old drop-in stove with a new model, the cabinets must be altered by a cabinetmaker if the new stove doesn't have the same dimensions as the old one. Replacing the the stove with a regular, freestanding range can be a less expensive alternative.

What is a Freestanding Range?

Freestanding ranges are the most popular models found in 90% of US kitchens. You can undoubtedly recognize a freestanding range by its stove controls mounted on the massive backguard at its back. These ranges are unattached to any dividers or cabinetry and therefore they can be set anywhere in the kitchen space where there is a gas or electrical hookup. Moreover, they feature finished sides that offer a bit more flexibility with installation. These ranges are easy to switch to another model in the future as long as you coordinate the width.

How much does a freestanding range cost?

Besides, freestanding ranges are available at much lower prices starting at $549-599 which is quite suitable for the homeowners who are looking for budget-friendly options.

What is a Drop-in Range?

The drop-in ranges are meant to be dropped into customized cabinetry. Generally observed on islands, drop-in stoves are flanked by cabinets and rest above matching cabinetry. These ranges offer a smooth, built-in appearance and can provide your kitchen space with a high-end look. The control panel is frequently found on the facade of the range, which can be a safety concern if you have small children at your home. Moreover, they don’t constitute a dashboard and a warming cabinet at the base and thus have diminished height. However, they have a similar cooktop on the top and hence are often complemented by a venting apparatus like an over the range microwave or an under-cabinet range hood.

How much does a slide in gas range cost?

This is due to the engineering and manufacturing of the appliance. However, the ability from these ranges to fit seamlessly into the kitchen cabinets surpasses the additional expense. Generally, the price range starts at $1000 which might seem out of the budget for some buyers. Most professional grade gas ranges for home categorize as slide-in ranges and hence are seen in between cabinets.

How often does an electric range stop working?

If you’re frequently making use of your electric range in the kitchen, the chances are that it might stop functioning every once in a while. This can be disrupting your entire schedule and have you sustain on takeout instead for a whole week. But you don’t have to do that – fixing a faulty burner….

Do drop in stoves require forte?

Drop-in stoves require circumspect planning and as a rule requires the installation of forte cabinetry, which is quite daunting and that’s why they are less prevalent in the home kitchens. They are an ideal choice only if you are thinking of doing a full makeover of your kitchen space. Also, when contrasted with a freestanding and a slide-in, the drop-in style is generally costly and are not effectively accessible in the retail stores as well. It means you will have several brands to choose from and might need to special order them.

Can you get three kitchen appliances in one unit?

Nowadays, when it comes to buying kitchen appliances people tend to prefer combos over separate machines. Combos work in an efficient way that saves your time and money. So, if you are looking to upgrade your kitchen with modern appliances, then you can opt for a cooking range. In most of the models, you get three appliances in one unit ...

What is a Slide-In Range?

A slide-in range is designed to slide in and fit flush with your countertop. This is ideal for an island peninsula, but can also be used along a wall. Slide-in ranges have a slightly protruding cooktop that rests on top of the countertop on each side. This is a nice feature as it keeps food and debris from falling between the range and adjacent cabinetry. There must be cabinets on each side a slide-in range because the side panels are not finished. Because it does not have a built-in backsplash, it does not intrude on the look of your countertop or backsplash tile. With a slide-in range, cooktop and oven controls are at the front of the appliance. Slide in ranges tend to be more expensive then freestanding ranges.

What is a Freestanding Range?

A freestanding range is the most common option; it is what most people think about when they think of a stove. It can fit anywhere in your kitchen and does not require any cabinetry work. The sides are finished, so it can stand on its own or in between cabinets. It has an oven and burners. The controls are typically on the backsplash. Depending on features, it is typically the least expensive range option.

What is a slide in range?

Slide-in ranges feature the burner and oven controls upfront. They are a little wider to overlap the countertop and eliminate the seam between the counter and range. Smaller food particles and liquids can dribble down into that seam. It's nearly impossible to clean without pulling out the range.

What is a Freestanding Range?

A freestanding range has a backguard with its burner and oven controls located on the backguard.

When Should You Buy A Front Control Range Or A Regular Slide-in Range?

First, you do have more brand choices with a front control versus a regular slide-in range.

Why are front controls better than freestanding?

Front controls are better for replacing a freestanding range because it's a direct replacement without modifying counters or cabinets. If you like the cleanability of a slide-in and have an existing freestanding range, you will have to plan for some cabinet modification for the range to fit. Front controls and freestanding ranges have finished ...

What is a front control range?

Front control ranges are a mix of freestanding and slide-in range. It does not have the backguard like a freestanding range, but the controls are on the front, unlike a normal slide-in range.

How wide is a slide in range?

Slide-in ranges are designed to be built-in between two cabinets and are about 2 inches wider on top to overlap the countertop. When you push a slide-in range back, there is about a 2-inch space behind the range. You fill this with your countertop. The counter will eliminate the seam in the back.

How much space does a slide in range take?

When switching to a slide-in range, there is about a 2" space behind the range. You must either find a way to install a piece of countertop behind your range or purchase a metal filler strip that will fill this gap.

Which is more economical, a slide in or a freestanding range?

For comparable functions, a freestanding range is more economical than a slide-in model. A slide-in range costs less than a drop-in model.

What is the difference between a slide in range and a drop in range?

Slide-In vs Drop-In Range: Major Differences. Slide-in models usually have a built-in bottom drawer below the oven chamber for storing cookware. Drop-in range models have no cookware storage drawer, and this means you'll need an additional cabinet or drawer to house your pots and pans.

What is a slide in kitchen range?

A slide-in cooking range has contoured sides with a slightly-protruding cooktop, which allows the installer to slide it in between two adjoining cabinets so that the cooktop rests on top of the countertop on each side. The contoured sides and cooktop keep food from falling in any spaces between the range and cabinetry.

Why are drop in ranges not in demand?

They are not in demand today because they require customized cabinetry and are dropped into a prepared base that includes a cabinet front panel at the bottom.

Where to store cookware in slide in cabinet?

You'll always have a place to store cookware in the built-in bottom drawer of a slide-in model. However, either of these two styles will give the kitchen a more streamlined look since the ranges blend fairly seamlessly with the base cabinets.

Where is the control panel on a slide in oven?

There's typically not a top dashboard for controls. The controls are usually placed at the front edge of the cooktop.

What is a drop in range?

Drop-in ranges are the most expensive style to install.

What is a Slide-In Range?

A slide-in range fits under your kitchen counter or stove. With its sleek, glossy, and seamless surface, a slide-in range looks like your kitchen counter. Slide-in ranges feature hidden burners to make installation easy. Each burner on the top of the range has 10,000 BTUs of power.

What is a Freestanding Range?

The ranges are called “freestanding” because they don’t need to be connected to other appliances or plumbing like traditional kitchen ranges. For this reason, they are excellent choices for homes without the space necessary to accommodate traditional appliances.

What Is the Difference Between Freestanding and Slide-In Ranges?

Slide-in and freestanding ranges are both great options for ovens. These are the main differences between a freestanding and slide-in range:

Where do slide in ranges fit?

Installation Location: Slide-in ranges are designed to fit in between cabinets.

How much does a freestanding range cost?

Price: Freestanding ranges are generally less expensive than slide-in ranges. You can expect to find freestanding ranges for as low as $400 in some cases.

Why are slide in ranges easier to clean?

Cleaning: Slide-in ranges are easier to clean since it usually overlaps the counter. This prevents food and drinks from spilling down the cracks between the stove and cabinets.

What is the best range for a new home?

If you’re building a new home and aren’t too concerned about cost, a slide-in range is the best choice. If you’re replacing an existing freestanding range and don’t want to remove the countertop, choose another freestanding range. In this article, we’ll discuss all the differences between each range, as well as the pros and cons of each.

Do you need to update your countertop for a freestanding oven?

Therefore, you’ll have to update your countertop to accommodate a freestanding oven range.

Is a slide in range better than a freestanding range?

A slide-in range is also a better option if you have a custom backsplash on the wall to show off. However, if you’re building on a budget, a freestanding range might be a better choice. They’re more affordable, and with all the options available you’ll likely find one to match your kitchen.

What is a slide in range?

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.#N#Choose this type of range if you need:#N#A seamless, built-in look with installation between two cabinets#N#A more customized look to complement custom cabinetry#N#Installation in a kitchen island (since there is no backsplash panel)#N#A more contemporary look that doesn't block the wall or backsplash#N#A more high-end, commercial-inspired look 1 A seamless, built-in look with installation between two cabinets 2 A more customized look to complement custom cabinetry 3 Installation in a kitchen island (since there is no backsplash panel) 4 A more contemporary look that doesn't block the wall or backsplash 5 A more high-end, commercial-inspired look

Do electric ranges have a backsplash?

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.

Is a slide in gas range popular?

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.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a slide in range?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a slide-in range? A slide-in range offers a cleaner, sleeker look than a freestanding range …. Slide-in cooking ranges are essentially freestanding ranges wedged between cabinetry. They include angled sides with cooktops that protrude slightly beyond the general width of the range.

How wide is a drop in range?

They typically feature controls on the front top panel and are usually 30″ wide.

What are the pros and cons of wall ovens compared to freestanding, slide-in, and drop-in units?

Wall ovens are unbeatable in aesthetics and aging in place convenience, but are pricey.

What is a drop in range?

A drop-in range is essentially a more complicated slide-in range. You don’t just need to fit it between cabinetry, you also need to customize the cabinetry from the ground up, setting up a base and a front panel with the same materials as the cabinetry. The advantages of drop-in models are tied to style and appearance; when done well, they can appear seamlessly integrated into your kitchen, giving it a high-end look for years to come. However, drop-in ranges don’t include storage drawers for pots and pans, meaning you’ll need a separate cabinet or drawer elsewhere to hold your cookware. Drop-in ranges are also generally hard to find, which means you’ll have fewer brands to choose from and might need to special order them. They typically feature controls on the front top panel and are usually 30″ wide. You can buy wider units, but you’ll pay much more for the privilege due to the customization issues already discussed. The Frigidaire FFED3025PS 30″ electric drop-in smoothtop range above is a good example of a trending style in drop-in ranges.

What are the benefits of a freestanding oven?

The benefits of freestanding ranges are their versatility, space efficiency, and affordability. They’re the most common type of range on the market, which means you’ll have the most options when it comes to style, color, brand, and price. ...

Do you need a separate cooktop for a wall oven?

They’re also make a much better use of space than wall ovens because the cooking surface is directly on top of the oven, which means you don’t need a separate cooktop as you would with a wall oven. The drawbacks of these designs are that they don’t integrate quite as seamlessly into existing kitchens and cabinetry as slide-in, drop-in, ...

Do you need a range for a kitchen?

No matter what you choose for kitchen flooring (e. g., hard wood or something more traditional ), you’re going to need a cooking range. Your main options are freestanding units, slide-in and drop-in units, wall ovens paired with range tops, and hybrid or front-control units. While freestanding ranges are by far the most popular of the four options, there are times you might want to consider a slide-in or drop-in type range, such as when you’re looking for a more streamlined or customized look in your kitchen. Today we’ll take a look at the similarities and differences between slide-in, drop-in, and freestanding range units to help you figure out which is the best choice for your kitchen.

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What Is A Freestanding range?

What Is A Slide-In range?

  • From aesthetic standpoint, we think slide-in rangesare the clear winner. In contrast to freestanding ranges, slide-in ranges have no cumbersome backguard. The controls are situated upfront, making access progressively convenient. This arrangement guarantees you will never need to reach over a hot skillet to change burner or broiler temperature. Mor...
See more on bestkitchenbuy.com

What Is A Drop-In range?

  • The drop-in ranges are meant to be dropped into customized cabinetry. Generally observed on islands, drop-in stoves are flanked by cabinets and rest above matching cabinetry. These ranges offer a smooth, built-in appearance and can provide your kitchen space with a high-end look. The control panel is frequently found on the facade of the range, which can be a safety concern if yo…
See more on bestkitchenbuy.com

Conclusion

  • A kitchen is incomplete without a range. Period! Ranges makes kitchens what they are, a place where you can bring together ingredients and come up with recipes that your taste buds approve of. But not all ranges are same. And we’re talking in terms of both; design and functionality. How do you decide from slide in vs freestanding ranges or slide in drop in ranges for that matter? We’…
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What Is A Freestanding range?

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A freestanding range is the most common option; it is what most people think about when they think of a stove. It can fit anywhere in your kitchen and does not require any cabinetry work. The sides are finished, so it can stand on its own or in between cabinets. It has an oven and burners. The controls are typically on the ba…
See more on bscculinary.com

What Is A Slide-In range?

  • A slide-in range is designed to slide in and fit flush with your countertop. This is ideal for an island peninsula, but can also be used along a wall. Slide-in ranges have a slightly protruding cooktop that rests on top of the countertop on each side. This is a nice feature as it keeps food and debris from falling between the range and adjacent cabinetry. There must be cabinets on each side a sl…
See more on bscculinary.com

What Is A Drop-In range?

  • A drop-in range is a range that fits into customized cabinetry. Commonly seen on islands, drop in ranges are flanked by cabinets and sit above matching woodwork or cabinetry. Drop in ranges give a streamlined, built in look. The control panel is often found on the front of the range, which can be safety concern if you have small children. Drop in r...
See more on bscculinary.com

Slide-In vs. Drop-In Range: Major Differences

Key Features

Appearance

  • Slide-In Range
    Slide-in models usually have a built-in bottom drawer below the oven chamber for storing cookware. Slide-in ranges offer a more customized look with cabinetry when compared to freestanding ranges. There's typically not a top dashboard for controls. The controls are usually …
  • Drop-In Range
    Drop-in ranges don't have a built-in bottom drawer since they're dropped down into a custom base. Drop-in ranges can provide an integrated, high-end look to the kitchen. Drop-in ranges usually have no top dashboard; instead, the controls are conveniently placed at the front edge of the cooktop.
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Sizes

  • The standard width of cooking ranges is 30 inches, though you can find larger units if you like. But size options are somewhat limited when it comes to drop-in and slide-in ranges. Always confirm physical measurements with the dealer or manufacturer, ask for complete installation guidelines, and provide these to the installer, along with all range specifications.
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Installation

  • Slide-In Range
    There must be base cabinets positioned on each side of a slide-in model. The range's side panels are not finished as they are on freestanding stoves, but instead, have alignment grooves to assist with installation. Freestanding ranges are the most economical to install, followed by slide-in ran…
  • Drop-In Range
    Drop-in ranges require careful planning and usually require the installation of specialty cabinetry, so it's not an ideal option unless you're already doing a full kitchen makeover and prefer the style. Drop-in ranges are the most expensive style to install.
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Cost

  • Slide-In Range
    For comparable functions, a freestanding range is more economical than a slide-in model. A slide-in range costs less than a drop-in model.
  • Drop-In Range
    When compared to a freestanding and a slide-in, the drop-in style is most expensive. Drop-in models are not as easily found in retail outlets and may require special ordering. Brand and market availability is limited.
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The Verdict

  • Slide-in ranges are generally considered to be easier and less costly to install than drop-in ranges, while both models give a kitchen a streamlined look. You’ll also have more storage with the bottom cookware drawer on slide-in ranges. In addition, you’ll be able to easily find and purchase slide-in ranges over less popular drop-in models.
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Top Brands

  1. GE is a major manufacturer of slide-in and other style ranges and is one of two companies selling drop-in ranges.
  2. Frigidaire also sells slide-in and other style ranges and also sells drop-in ranges.
  3. Bosch sells upscale slide-in ranges.
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