With so many new-build houses being created and changes in taste, we see a large demand for built-in appliances. But for homes with more flexibility, or if you want to completely reconfigure your kitchen, a freestanding oven can be a real focal point for the heart of your home.
If you’re in the market for a new oven, but don’t know whether to go with a freestanding or built-in oven, we’re here to guide you through the differences, pros and cons, and more. Let’s get started!
What is a freestanding oven?
A freestanding oven is an all-in-one standalone cooker that has an oven, grill and hob. It’s designed to slide in the gap between your kitchen counters – though freestanding ovens aren’t all the same size, so it’s important to measure the space you have. There’s no tricky installation with a freestanding oven – just plug it in, slide into position and start cooking.
It’s a great option whether you’re moving, renting or just upgrading, as it’s easier to install and swap out than built-in ovens. Freestanding ovens can be anywhere from 50cm to 90cm wide, and you can choose from a variety of fuel combinations, from gas ovens and hobs to electric ovens and induction hobs.
What is a range cooker?
A range cooker is a larger freestanding oven. While a standard freestanding oven has a hob, a grill and a single oven, a range cooker can have up to four ovens, up to seven burners/zones on the hob, a grill (either separate or integrated) and sometimes even a special plate warmer!
Range cookers are great for bigger kitchens as they can be up to 110cm wide, so you need plenty of space. Or if you have a big family or love to host, a range cooker is ideal, as it offers so much additional cooking space that you don’t have to constantly juggle your pots and pans.
What is a built-in oven?
A built-in oven slots directly into your kitchen cabinets, and the most common fuel type for these is electric. It’s generally the type of oven that new-build homes accommodate. You can choose from a built-in single oven or, if you need more cooking capacity, a larger built-in double oven.
Unlike a freestanding oven, a built-in oven doesn’t include a hob. If you prefer a gas, ceramic, electric or induction hob, or would like a hob with more than four burners, or even a hob with a built-in vent, this gives you the flexibility to find the perfect hob for your needs. You then just need to choose the ideal place for your hob, whether it’s on your main counter or on a kitchen island.
Before buying a built-in oven, always check the dimensions of the oven and the dimensions of the space you have available for it.
The key differences between built-in and freestanding ovens
Both options cook your food just as well - the main differences are around how they fit into your kitchen. Here’s a side-by-side comparison:
| Feature | Freestanding oven | Built-in oven |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Everything in one unit, making installation simple. | Needs more measuring and planning. |
| Flexibility | Easy to replace if you move or upgrade your kitchen. | More freedom to design your layout, since the hob and oven are separate. |
| Cost | Usually lower priced than built-in ovens. | Installation costs need to be considered. |
| Kitchen layout | Fits into most kitchen layouts without much planning. | Creates a clean, fitted look that blends into kitchen units. |
| Hob configuration | No separate hob installation needed. | Hob and oven can be positioned independently. |
| Everyday use | Less flexibility as the hob and oven are fixed together. | Can be installed at eye level for easier access. |
| Cleaning | Small gaps at the sides can collect crumbs. | Easier to clean around the edges. |
| Integrated look | Can feel less integrated in fitted kitchens. | Seamlessly blends with kitchen cabinetry. |
| Moving home | Easier to replace or take with you. | Less practical to remove and fit elsewhere. |
Built-under vs built-in ovens
Once you've decided on a built-in model, there's one more thing worth understanding: the differences between a built-in oven and a built-under oven. They’re both integrated into your kitchen cabinets, but they’re positioned differently:
A built-in oven is designed to sit inside a tall kitchen cabinet (a vertical kitchen unit that often goes from the floor to ceiling). The oven can be positioned anywhere from under-counter height all the way up to eye level.
A built-under oven is specifically designed to fit beneath a standard kitchen worktop, typically below an independent hob. Built-under double ovens are shorter (around 72cm high) to accommodate that lower installation position. A standard built-in double oven can be as tall as 90cm.
Need more help?
If you want to do a bit more research before you make your call, check out our cooker buying guide. Or visit one of our 16 stores and our colleagues will be happy to answer all your questions and help you find the perfect oven for your home.
FAQs
Are all freestanding ovens the same height?
No, freestanding ovens come in different heights and widths. Most standard models measure around 85–90cm to align with typical kitchen worktop height. Always check the dimensions before buying, as height can vary by brand and model.
Are built-in and built-under ovens the same?
Built-in and built-under ovens are slightly different. They are both integrated into kitchen cabinets, but a built-in oven can be positioned at various heights, including eye level. Whereas a built-under oven is specifically designed to fit below a standard worktop. Built-under models are also typically shorter to suit that lower installation position.
Can a built-in oven be installed under the counter?
Yes, a built-in oven can physically be installed under the counter. But it's not the ideal setup. Built-in ovens are designed with flexible positioning in mind. For example, installing one at eye level makes checking on your cooking far more comfortable. If under-counter is your only option, a purpose-built built-under model is usually the better fit.
