Inset vs. Overlay Cabinets: Pros, Cons, and Which to Choose

Inset Perimeter Cabinets and Island Overlay Cabinets- Image by Medallion Cabinetry

Choosing new kitchen cabinets is about more than just style — it’s also about how your cabinet doors fit into the frame. A common decisions homeowners in Lynnwood, Mukilteo, and Edmonds face during a kitchen remodel is inset vs. overlay cabinets.

Each option offers its own advantages depending on your style goals, layout, and budget. If you’re searching for kitchen cabinets near me and trying to make the right decision, here’s a complete breakdown of inset vs. overlay cabinets — and how to choose what works for your home.

What Are Inset Cabinets?

Inset cabinets have doors and drawer fronts that sit flush with the cabinet frame, rather than on top of it. The result is a clean, furniture-like appearance that emphasizes craftsmanship and precision.

🔑 Key Features:

• Elegant, built-in look

• Even, narrow gaps between doors and drawers

• Tailored design often found in high-end remodels

Inset Kitchen Cabinets- Image by Medallion Cabinetry

At SMY Home Improvement, Medallion Platinum is our inset cabinet supplier. Inset cabinets are ideal for homes with traditional or craftsman-style architecture. Inset cabinets are commonly chosen by our customers in areas who live in Snohomish or Lake Stevens.

What Are Overlay Cabinets?

Overlay cabinets feature doors and drawer fronts that sit on top of the cabinet frame, overlapping it partially or almost entirely.

🧱 Two Main Types:

• Partial Overlay: Also known as a standard overlay, the door leaves more of the face frame exposed. Here is one example.

  

  
  

• Full Overlay: The door covers more of the cabinet face frame than the standard overlay. This is the most commonly selected overlay in the Puget Sound area. Here is an example of a full overlay.

🔑 Key Features:

• More style and sizing flexibility

• Typically more affordable to install

• Suitable for both modern and traditional designs

NOTE: Frameless kitchen cabinets usually leave even less of the cabinet face frame exposed than the full overlay. This look is ideal for contemporary kitchen cabinet designs.

Pros and Cons: Inset vs. Overlay Cabinets

Feature	Inset Cabinets	Overlay Cabinets
Appearance	Doors sit flush inside the cabinet frame for a smooth, built-in look	Doors sit on top of the cabinet frame; can appear more layered or dimensional
Cost	More expensive due to precise craftsmanship and custom fitting	Generally more affordable and available in custom or semi-custom options
Maintenance	May require occasional adjustments as wood expands/contracts with humidity changes	Easier to maintain; less sensitive to seasonal wood movement
Style Fit	Ideal for traditional, transitional, or high-end custom kitchens	Fits modern, transitional, and traditional styles depending on door design

Inset vs Overlay Cabinets Cost Differences

There’s a clear cost difference between inset and overlay cabinet styles — mainly due to construction precision and customization:

• Inset cabinets typically cost more due to labor-intensive finishing and alignment.

• Overlay cabinets, especially full-overlay, are available in more price points — from stock cabinet lines to full custom options.

Need help comparing costs? Ask SMY about a free onsite cabinet measurement and 3D layout review at our showroom in Lynnwood.

Best Applications for Each Style Inset vs Overlay Cabinets

• Choose Inset Cabinets if you want a refined, classic kitchen with traditional or heritage design elements. Great for craftsman homes in Lake Stevens, Snohomish or nearby areas.

• Choose Overlay Cabinets if you're seeking design freedom, budget flexibility, or a clean, modern kitchen layout. Common in newer homes across Mukilteo and Edmonds.

Still unsure whether inset or overlay is right for your project?

📍 Visit our Lynnwood showroom

🛠️ Schedule your free cabinet measurement for the areas we serve

📞 Get expert help with your kitchen layout and product selection

At SMY Home Improvement, we specialize in guiding local homeowners to cabinet solutions that match their layout, budget, and style — from shaker overlay doors to inset craftsman cabinetry.

FAQs: Inset vs. Overlay Cabinets

Which is better: overlay or inset cabinets?

It depends on your priorities. Inset cabinets are ideal for traditional kitchens and offer a precise, furniture-like look. Overlay cabinets — can be more budget-friendly and easier to install, making them a top choice for modern and transitional homes near Lynnwood and Everett.

What are the disadvantages of inset cabinets?

Inset cabinets can be more expensive due to the tight tolerances and hand-finishing required. They may also require seasonal adjustments, as the precise fit can be affected by humidity or temperature changes. Still, they offer unmatched elegance in classic remodels.

What is the cost difference between inset and overlay cabinets?

Inset cabinets generally cost more than overlay cabinets. The higher price comes from the craftsmanship, customization, and finishing precision required. Overlay cabinets, on the other hand, are widely available across semi-custom, and full custom lines — giving homeowners more pricing flexibility.

Where can I find an Authorized Inset Kitchen Cabinet Dealer Near Lynnwood?

SMY Home Improvement in Lynnwood is an authorized dealer for high-quality inset kitchen cabinets.  We provide free in-home cabinet measurements, expert layout support, and 3D showroom consultations. Whether you're in Edmonds, Mukilteo, or Everett, we help you select the right cabinet style for your kitchen.