When it comes to remodeling your kitchen, choosing the right type of cabinet is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. At Simply Cabinets, one of the most common questions we hear is:
“Should I go with RTA cabinets or pre-assembled cabinets?”
Both options have their benefits — and the right choice depends on your budget, timeline, installation skill, and overall project goals.
Let’s break down the pros, cons, and best-use cases of each to help you make a confident, informed decision.
What Are RTA Cabinets?
RTA stands for Ready to Assemble. These cabinets arrive flat-packed and are assembled by the customer (or installer) at the job site.
✅ Popular for:
- DIY homeowners
- Lower budgets
- Faster shipping timelines
What Are Assembled Cabinets?
Assembled cabinets are factory-built and shipped in their final form — ready to install as soon as they arrive.
✅ Popular for:
- Pros or homeowners who want to skip assembly
- Projects with tight install schedules
- Jobs requiring very high precision
Side-by-Side Comparison
| RTA Cabinets | Assembled Cabinets |
Price | Lower | Higher (extra assembly cost) |
Shipping Time | Faster (typically 1–2 weeks) | Slower (2–4 weeks) |
Shipping Cost | Lower | Higher (more volume, freight required) |
Assembly Required | Yes (DIY or paid installer) | None |
Damage Risk During Transit | Lower | Slightly higher (more fragile due to bulk) |
Customization Options | Moderate | Often more available |
Best For | Budget-conscious DIYers | Homeowners prioritizing convenience |
Pros and Cons of RTA Cabinets
✅ Pros:
- Lower upfront cost
- Ships faster
- Easier to store until install day
- Great for DIYers with time and tools
❌ Cons:
- Assembly takes time and patience
- Mistakes during assembly can cause issues
- Some styles may require glue, clamps, or extra tools
Pros and Cons of Assembled Cabinets
✅ Pros:
- Professionally built and consistent
- Saves you time and hassle
- Ideal for larger, more complex layouts
❌ Cons:
- Higher price point
- Longer lead times
- Higher shipping cost
What We Recommend at Simply Cabinets
We offer both RTA and assembled cabinets because each customer has different needs. Here’s our rule of thumb:
- Choose RTA if you want to save money, are confident in assembly, and want faster delivery.
- Choose assembled if you’re on a tight deadline, don’t want to deal with tools, or are hiring someone to install.
🔧 Bonus Tip: You can upgrade to assembled cabinets during checkout — we make it easy to choose what fits your timeline and budget.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to kitchen cabinets — but now you know the trade-offs between RTA and assembled options.
Still unsure? Our team can walk you through your layout and help you decide what fits best.
👉 Start with a free 3D kitchen design — and we’ll recommend the right type of cabinets based on your space, timeline, and budget.
