What is the difference between custom, stock, and RTA cabinets?
Custom cabinets are built to your exact measurements and specifications, stock cabinets are pre-made in standard sizes, and RTA (ready-to-assemble) cabinets ship flat-packed for on-site assembly. In Naperville, custom runs 12,000-35,000 with a 4-8 week build, stock runs roughly 6,000-18,000 from showroom inventory, and RTA runs 3,000-8,000 plus assembly labor.
The comparison table
- Custom: any size, any layout; plywood boxes, dovetail drawers; 25-30 year lifespan; 4-8 weeks; 12K-35K
- Stock: standard sizes only; quality varies by brand (plywood to particleboard); 15-20 years for quality stock; 2-6 weeks; 6K-18K
- RTA: flat-packed standard sizes; assembly required (jigs, square framing); 8-10 years for budget RTA; 3-9 days shipping; 3K-8K + labor
Why custom fits non-standard spaces
Stock and RTA ship in standard sizes (increments of 3 inches, typically). Non-standard rooms end up with filler strips and gaps — the exact problem custom solves by building to your actual wall dimensions, including scribing to uneven walls.
Construction differences that matter
- Boxes: custom specifies 3/4" plywood; budget stock/RTA uses particleboard that swells in humidity
- Drawers: custom uses solid-wood dovetail; budget uses stapled or butt joints
- Hardware: custom includes soft-close and under-mount glides; budget ships standard hinges
- Finish: custom applies catalyzed multi-coat finishes; budget uses thin lacquer
Which one should you choose?
Choose custom for a primary home, a non-standard space, or a 5+ year stay. Choose quality stock for a tight budget with standard dimensions. Choose RTA for rentals, outbuildings, or short-term properties — and always verify the box material and factor professional assembly into the price.
