SLIDE-IN VS. FREESTANDING RANGE: WHICH IS BEST FOR YOU?
Whether you’re baking a casserole or heating up last night’s leftovers, you rely on your range every day to prepare great tasting meals quickly.
Available in gas, electric and dual-fuel options, ranges typically come in two styles: slide-in and freestanding models. While slide-in ranges are designed to fit between cabinets, freestanding models allow you to choose between a built-in or stand-alone placement. Regardless of the design you choose, the different benefits of slide-in and freestanding ranges offer the flexibility you need to find an appliance that fits your kitchen layout and cooking preferences.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FREESTANDING AND SLIDE-IN RANGES?
The main differences between slide-in vs. freestanding ranges lies in the installation and where the controls are located. While slide-in ranges are designed to fit between cabinets, freestanding models allow you to choose between a built-in or stand-alone placement.
In terms of control location, slide-in ranges have controls at the front, while some of the controls for freestanding models are usually located on a backguard. Learn more about the differences between slide-in and freestanding ranges to decide the best type for your kitchen.
WHAT IS A SLIDE-IN RANGE?
Designed to slide between cabinets or other appliances, slide-in ranges offer seamless integration with existing cabinetry for a sleek, built-in look and feel. Controls are displayed prominently at the front for easy access, and slide-in models also come in several fuel options: electric, gas and dual-fuel.
Because slide-in ranges don't feature a backguard, they may be a great option to fit within kitchen islands or in front of walls with a decorative backsplash. However, slide-in ranges without finished sides aren’t a good choice for those looking for a standalone or end of counter placement.
If you’re looking to give your kitchen an upgrade, slide-in ranges offer several unique benefits, such as integrated installation and select models with downdraft ventilation. With overhanging sides that help keep food and liquids from spilling into gaps between the cooktop and counter, slide-in ranges can help streamline mealtime and clean-up.
DO YOU NEED A COUNTER BEHIND A SLIDE-IN RANGE?
Having a counter behind a slide-in range contributes to the sleek, integrated look of the installation. As the range is set up, a few inches of countertop space are typically added during the installation process to fill the gap between the back of the appliance and the wall.
DO SLIDE-IN RANGES NEED A VENT?
It’s best to have a vent hood above your slide-in range, or choose a downdraft model. Proper ventilation is essential for helping to clear the air in your kitchen as you cook, regardless of the type of range you have. A vent hood can help you keep your kitchen feeling and smelling fresh.
Different types of kitchen hoods include undercabinet, wall-mount canopy, island canopy, hood liners, retractable downdraft and microwave hood combinations. You can also choose from ductless, ducted and convertible hood models in a range of sizes. On select slide-in models with downdraft ventilation, you can enjoy a vent built right into the cooktop.
DO SLIDE-IN RANGES HAVE FINISHED SIDES?
While you can find some models with finished sides, slide-in ranges typically don’t have finished sides, making them ill-suited for standalone installation in most cases. Slide-in ranges will generally need to be installed between cabinets for a finished look.
WHAT IS A FREESTANDING RANGE?
A freestanding range features finished sides and an integrated backsplash for an incredibly versatile design that fits with most kitchen layouts. Available in gas, electric and dual-fuel options, freestanding ranges feature a control panel at the back of the appliance and cooktop surface with one or two ovens below.
Freestanding models are what most people might think of when they picture a typical range. Featuring finished sides that allow them to be installed between cabinets or on their own as standalone appliances, freestanding ranges are a great option for those looking to get cooking as soon as possible.
The backguard also offers a built-in way to protect the wall behind the range from grease, smoke and splatters. However, this may eliminate freestanding ranges as an option if you plan to install your range in a kitchen island.
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU HAVE A FREESTANDING RANGE?
You can tell if you have a freestanding range by checking the placement of the controls, as well as by considering how the appliance was installed. If your range has a backsplash panel housing most of the controls or was installed flush to a wall, you most likely have a freestanding model.
SLIDE-IN VS. FREESTANDING RANGE COMPARISON CHART
| SLIDE-IN | FREESTANDING | |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | Approx. 30 to 36 inches wide, 36 inches tall, and roughly 25 to 27 inches deep | Approx. 30 to 36 inches wide, 36 inches tall, and roughly 25 to 27 inches deep (slightly taller due to the protruding backguard) |
| Display | At the front | At the back, on a backsplash control panel |
| Installation style |
Built-in between cabinetry or in kitchen islands | Standalone or built-in between cabinetry |
| Fuel Types |
Gas, electric or dual-fuel |
Gas, electric or dual-fuel |
| Key Features | Front placement controls, downdraft ventilation on select models | Back placement controls, built-in backguard |
| Number of burners | Up to 6, depending on the model |
4-6, depending on the model |
CAN A SLIDE-IN RANGE REPLACE A FREESTANDING RANGE?
Installation differences mean slide-in and freestanding ranges are not completely interchangeable. Whether you're swapping out a slide-in range for a freestanding design or vice-versa, account for your kitchen layout to install the range properly.
If you’re looking to swap out your slide-in range for a freestanding model, you may need to update your countertop configuration to accommodate the new appliance. Likewise, if you want to trade in your freestanding range for a slide-in model, you’ll need to prepare to fill in a two-inch gap (or larger) between the back of the appliance and the adjacent wall. Before purchasing a slide-in or freestanding range, consult with a technician to ensure your new appliance will fit properly in your kitchen.
WHICH IS BETTER: A FREESTANDING RANGE OR SLIDE-IN RANGE?
When deciding between a slide-in vs. freestanding range, keep in mind that the best option for you will depend on your specific needs. While both slide-in and freestanding ranges offer their own unique advantages, the ideal choice for you will depend on your kitchen layout and preferences.
Every home is different, and so is every range—that's why it's important to consider factors that might influence your purchase. In addition to kitchen layout, also keep in mind factors like fuel source and aesthetics, as well as the needs of your home or family.
Shop the latest deals on select Maytag major appliances Shop Now
EXPLORE MAYTAG® RANGES
Whether you’re looking for a custom, built-in look for your kitchen or you prefer a more versatile installation, Maytag® slide-in and freestanding ranges come in a variety of styles and fuel options. Browse the full lineup of gas and electric ranges by Maytag brand and discover the power of features like True Convection cooking and the Max Capacity Rack on select models for serious support in the kitchen.
