Built-In vs Built-Under Appliances: What's the Difference?

There is a wide range of styles, and prices, available to you when considering appliances for your kitchen. Freestanding, built-in, built-under, integrated and semi-integrated options are all available. We will work closely with you to select appliance combinations that achieve the functionality you require and add that wow factor to your kitchen design.

Built-In and Built-Under at a Glance

Built-in and built-under appliances are designed to fit into kitchen units but remain visible, whereas integrated appliances take a furniture door matched to the kitchen and are hidden from view, with semi-integrated models showing only a control panel. The difference between the two visible types is position: built-under appliances are made to standard base unit height and are only intended to sit beneath a worktop, while built-in appliances may go under a worktop or be mounted at eye level. There are exceptions in both directions, so the position should always be confirmed with your designer before ordering.

What the terms actually mean

Built-in and built-under appliances are designed to fit into kitchen units but remain visible, while integrated appliances require a furniture door to match the kitchen and are hidden from view. The exception is semi-integrated models, where there is a visible control panel. Built-under appliances are designed to match a standard base unit height and are only intended to go under a worktop. Built-in appliances may go under a worktop, but equally may be mounted at eye level.

The exceptions worth knowing

There are some important exceptions to the above:

• Eye-level built-in appliances are not designed with plinth recesses, so they should not be fitted under a worktop.
• There is a range of appliances, including some double ovens, fridges and wine coolers, that are made to fit under the worktop and may not be fitted at eye level. Conversely, some double ovens are designed to fit at eye level in tall housings and may not be fitted under a counter. Those variations are also reflected in some designs of built-in and built-under fridge freezers.
• Ventilation is a further consideration, as requirements vary between the built-in and built-under versions of otherwise similar products.

Given the above, always consult your designer to confirm that your appliances are appropriate for the installation position selected.

Built-In and Built-Under FAQs

What is the difference between built-in and built-under appliances?

Both fit into kitchen units and remain visible. The difference is where they can go: built-under appliances are made to standard base unit height and are designed only to sit beneath a worktop, whereas built-in appliances can go under a worktop or be mounted at eye level in a tall housing.

What is the difference between built-in and integrated appliances?

A built-in appliance sits within the cabinetry but its front remains on show. An integrated appliance takes a furniture door matched to the rest of the kitchen, so it disappears into the run of units. Semi-integrated models sit between the two, hidden apart from a visible control panel.

Can a built-under oven be fitted at eye level?

Generally no. Built-under models are designed specifically for beneath a worktop, and some cannot be fitted at eye level at all. The reverse also applies, as certain eye-level double ovens are not designed to be fitted under a counter. Always check the specification for the position you have in mind.

Does ventilation differ between built-in and built-under appliances?

Yes. Ventilation requirements vary between the built-in and built-under versions of otherwise similar products, which is one of the main reasons the installation position needs confirming before you order.

Where does Handmade Kitchen Company design kitchens around appliances?

We design and hand-build bespoke kitchens with appliances planned in from the start, from our workshop in Essex, for clients across Essex, Hertfordshire and North London. It is always worth

choosing your appliances as part of the design

, so the cabinetry is built around them rather than adapted afterwards.