Framed vs. Frameless Cabinets

Framed Cabinets

Framed cabinets are a more traditional, American-style cabinet. Face frames allow for easier installation and door/drawer adjustment. They require separate skin panels to be installed on-site on exposed sides. There are generally more options in sizes and modifications in a framed cabinet line.

What Are the Pros & Cons of Framed Cabinets?

PROS

• Added stability
• Minimal racking
• More size/modification options
• Easy installation

CONS

• Require skins
• Less interior space

Frameless Cabinets

Frameless cabinets offer a sleeker, modern look that’s popular in Europe. This box construction provides full access to the cabinet interior and larger drawer box capacity. Cabinet sides are ordered finished at the factory. More fillers are recommended in the design to ensure minimum clearance is met for door and drawer openings (see image below). There are generally less options in sizes and modifications due to the limitations of the construction.

What Are the Pros & Cons of Frameless Cabinets?

PROS

• Larger drawer box
• Full access interior (no center stile)
• Factory-finished sides
• Seamless appearance

CONS

• Less size/modification options
• More fillers needed
• More likely to rack during shipping