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Kitchen appliances: integrated vs freestanding
Quick answer: Integrated appliances hide behind unit doors for a seamless look, and freestanding ones stand alone and are easier to swap. Check the size, the energy label, delivery access and who installs it before you buy.
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Integrated or freestanding?
- Integrated: a tidy, fitted look, but the choice is smaller and replacing one means fitting a similar size and door fixing.
- Freestanding: a wider choice, easy to replace, but you see the whole appliance.
- Semi-integrated and built-in ovens: a middle route for ovens and hobs.
Before you buy
- Measure the space, including the depth, and the door swing
- Check the power or gas supply, and whether a hob needs a different circuit
- Check the energy label, and running costs over the life of the appliance
- Confirm delivery, installation and removal of the old appliance
- Check the guarantee length and what is covered
Tell your fitter early
Give your fitter the make and model of every appliance before they order the units, because cut-out sizes and ventilation gaps differ between models. Gas appliances must be installed by a Gas Safe registered engineer. See regulations.
Where to compare
High-street and online retailers such as Argos sell a range of kitchen appliances, so compare the same model across retailers and check current offers and delivery.
Some links here are affiliate links. We may earn a fee if you buy, at no extra cost to you.
Some links here are affiliate links: we may earn a small fee if you buy, at no extra cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
Do integrated appliances cost more?
Often, because of the door fixing and the smaller range, but compare the actual models you like.
Who connects a dishwasher or washing machine?
A competent fitter or plumber. Make sure the water supply and waste connections are agreed in the quote.
Do I need an extractor?
Most kitchens need one for moisture and cooking smells. Check the duct route and the fan rating with your fitter.
Keep reading
- Flat-pack vs rigid vs bespoke kitchens
- Kitchen lighting ideas
- How to set a kitchen budget
- Kitchen worktops compared
- Kitchen splashbacks and tiles
Checked 12 November 2026. Prices, products and regulations change, so check the official or supplier page before you rely on anything here.