Freestanding vs. Slide-In vs. Front-Control Ranges: Key Differences & Which One to Buy

So, you've chosen a slide-in range for your revamped kitchen. It has all the features you need.

Plus, it offers an unobstructed view of that tile backsplash, thanks to the absence of range controls on the backguard.

But there's a catch.

When it arrives, you realize the range won't fit.

Your options?

Go back to the drawing board or bring in a cabinet and countertop expert for custom modifications.

This scenario plays out daily across the country because there are two distinct types of slide-in ranges, each with its own installation requirements.

The problem? These ranges look identical, so there's no way to tell the difference at a glance.

In this article, we'll show you the key differences so you can buy the right stove. We'll also give you two alternative solutions - one is interesting, the other is a last resort.

Yeah, it's that bad.

Let’s get started.

Freestanding vs. Slide-In vs. Front-Control Ranges: Key Differences

The main differences between slide-in, front control, and freestanding ranges are installation, control location, and cleanability.

Below are examples of an induction slide-in range from Bosch, a front-control range from Café, and a freestanding gas range from LG:

Although different, a front control and slide-in range have the same look.

However, only a front control and freestanding range can be placed anywhere in your kitchen because they have finished sides.

Front control and regular slide-in ranges look similar but have different installations due to the overlap in the cooktop.

Let's break this down further.

What Is a Freestanding Range?

A freestanding range has its burner and oven controls located on the backguard.

A freestanding range's sides are finished, making it a little more flexible for installation.

You can place it anywhere in your kitchen, including at the end of your cabinets.

Freestanding ranges are available at much lower prices, starting at $599 compared to $999 or more for front controls with similar features.

Prices are also less expensive for freestanding ranges than slide-ins with similar features.

You have a larger overall selection for freestanding ranges.

Pros & Cons of Freestanding Ranges

Pros:

• More affordable than front control and slide-in models (starting at $599)
• Easier installation - no need to modify cabinets
• Wider selection of brands and models

Cons:

• The background blocks your backsplash
• Harder to clean between the stove and countertops

Freestanding Range Manufacturers include:

• Samsung
• GE Appliances
• LG
• Whirlpool
• Maytag
• Frigidaire
• KitchenAid

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What Is a Slide-in Range?

Slide-in ranges feature the burner and oven controls up front like a front control range.

They are a little wider to overlap the countertop and eliminate the seam between the counter and the range.

Without this overlap, small food particles and liquids can fall into the seam.

I can't remember anyone in my household, including myself, ever cleaning that seam. It's nearly impossible to do.

Style and cleanability are the reasons to buy a slide-in.

However, while freestanding and slide-ins require a 30-inch cabinet opening, slide-in models have unfinished sides.

Slide-in ranges are built in between two cabinets and are about 2 inches wider on top to overlap the countertop.

When you push a slide-in range back, there is about a two-inch space behind the range.

You fill this with your countertop. The counter will eliminate the seam in the back (which I haven't cleaned, either).

This allows a built-in look and the capability to showcase your backsplash since there isn't a backguard obscuring it like a freestanding unit.

Once again, there is no seam between the counter and the back of the range. It's great for cleanability, but it is tricky to replace.

Although slide-ins were once extremely popular, there are only a few manufacturers still producing a slide-in range.

I wouldn't be surprised if the last two stopped manufacturing the slide-in range.

Pros & Cons of Slide-In Ranges

Pros:

• Seamless design that showcases your backsplash
• Easier to clean - no seams for crumbs and spills

Cons:

• Installation is tricky - it requires a precise cabinet fit
• More expensive that freestanding models
• Limited selection - fewer manufacturerers produce true slide-ins

Slide-In Range Manufacturers include:

• Samsung (a few models)
• Bosch (not their professional models)

What Is a Front Control Range?

Front control ranges are a mix of freestanding and slide-in ranges and are the most popular range on the market.

It does not have a backguard like a freestanding range, but the controls are on the front, like a normal slide-in range.

The first scenario of a range not fitting into an existing space could have been avoided with a front control range.

Front control and slide-ins are terms mistakenly used interchangeably.

They both look the same, but their installations are very different.

Unlike a slide-in, it can replace an existing freestanding range because it requires the same 30-inch opening.

However, it is harder to clean with the seams on either side, like a freestanding range.

You can place a front control at the end of your kitchen like a freestanding range due to the finished sides.

Remember: A slide-in range's sides are unfinished.

Pros & Cons of Front Control Ranges

Pros:

• More installation flexibility - replaces freestanding ranges without countertop modifications
• Stylish, modern design without a bulky backguard
• More available brands than slide-in models

Cons:

• Harder to clean - crumbs can fall between the range and countertops
• Accidental burner activation risk (a concern with some electric models)

Front Control Manufacturers include:

• KitchenAid
• Maytag
• Jenn-Air
• Whirlpool
• LG
• GE Appliance
• Electrolux
• All professional range manufacturers such as Wolf, Miele, BlueStar, and Thermador
• Samsung
• Frigidaire
• SKS
• Bosch

Are Front-Control and Slide-In Electric Ranges Fire Hazards?

As I was writing this, LG announced a recall of 500,000 electric front-control ranges due to a possible fire hazard caused by “accidental activation.”

Last year, Samsung recalled one million electric ranges for the same reason. Kenmore recalled 200,000 as well.

However, the recalls don’t actually involve fixing anything. LG’s solution? A sticker on the range reminding people to shut it off after use.

That’s it. Recall complete.

Curiously, induction and gas ranges aren’t included in any recalls.

With gas, you see flames when it’s on. With induction, you can’t accidentally activate a burner without a metal pot. Induction works by sensing metal - no pot, no heat.

Electric is different. You can “accidentally activate” a burner, leave the room, and not realize it until it glows red a minute or two later.

It’s an avoidable problem as long as you remember to shut the burner off. If not, get a freestanding electric range with controls on the back.

You shouldn’t have to guess which gas range is right for you. Get a simple, clear breakdown in our Gas Cooking Buying Guide.

What About Professional Ranges?

Look at the professional ranges above, priced from $4,500 to $20,000. They are all slide-ins, right?

Wrong.

Every pro range is a front control range, not a slide-in.

Thinking about a pofessional range? Some are great, others... not so much. Download our Pro Cooking Buying Guide for the best (and most reliable) options.

Bonus #1: What is a Drop-In Range?

Well, that depends on who’s asking.

For most people, it means a cooktop.

However, drop-in ranges were popular in the 1950s with builders—especially in Campanelli homes, with millions built. They were designed to fit on a base cabinet, creating a seamless, built-in look.

You get a more custom aesthetic because the toe kicks remain consistent throughout your kitchen. Think of a drop-in as a range without a bottom drawer.

Typically, you should only consider a drop-in range as a direct replacement. GE is the only manufacturer still producing a drop-in range (shown above).

Then again, most people just remove the base and upgrade to something a bit less dated.

Or, try this option instead:

Bonus #2: Cooktop Over Wall Oven

If you like the consistent look of a seamless toe kick, consider a cooktop over a wall oven.

This setup offers the most flexibility, allowing you to choose from gas, induction, or electric cooktops paired with any wall oven.

However, this combination is more expensive than other options.

Still, you get a high-end, custom look that blends seamlessly into modern kitchen designs.

Now that we understand these ranges let's go over why you would pick one over the other.

Front-Control vs. Slide-In: Which One Should You Choose?

If you're not choosing a freestanding range and are deciding between a front-control or slide-in range, consider these key factors:"

1. More Brand Options? → Choose a Front-Control Range

With a front control range, you have more options for brands compared to a regular slide-in range.

2. Easier to Clean? → Choose a Slide-In Range

Slide-in ranges are much easier to keep clean than a freestanding or front control range. Those overflowing liquids and food particles stay on the range.

3. Replacing an Old Range? → Choose a Front-Control Range

Front controls are better for replacing a freestanding range because it's a direct replacement without modifying counters or cabinets.

Meanwhile, a slide-in range is a better choice for new construction.

4. Installing at the End of a Counter? → Choose a Front-Control Range

Front controls and freestanding ranges have finished sides, so they are better at the end of a counter rather than an unfinished slide-in.

5. Budget-Friendly Option? → Both Are Similar in Price

Front control and freestanding ranges are available at lower prices than the slide-in range.

Looking for answers about Gas Cooking?

Short on time? Download our free Gas Cooking Buying Guide.

Installation & Replacement: What to Know Before Upgrading Your Range

How Do You Replace an Old Slide-In Range?

Let’s take a common scenario and explain why a new slide-in range might not fit right away.

Slide-in ranges have a lip that overlaps the countertop, which means the front of your granite countertops may need to be notched for a proper fit.

You also need to remove the countertop piece behind the old range to make space for a front-control or freestanding model.

With a granite surface, precise measuring and cutting are crucial to avoid damage.

How Do You Replace a Drop-In Range?

The process depends on whether your drop-in range is 27 inches or 30 inches wide.

• For a 30-inch drop-in: Remove the cabinet underneath and replace the hardwired connection with a plug-in socket. The amps should remain the same, so you don’t need to rewire back to the box.
• For a 27-inch drop-in: This is more complicated.

If your space is exactly 27 inches, you have three choices:

• Buy a new 27-inch drop-in range (GE is the only brand still making them).
• Cut the space to 30 inches so you can install a standard range—though this may not be possible in a smaller kitchen.
• Remodel your kitchen if you can’t fit a 30-inch range and don’t want another 27-inch model.

How Do You Cut Granite?

You need expertise and the right tools to cut granite safely. Find a countertop specialist in your area or check with your appliance store for installation services.

At Yale, we have four installation teams cutting countertops daily. If you live elsewhere, your appliance dealer may offer similar services.

Here is a video on how to properly cut a granite countertop:

That plastic cocoon is standard procedure for us and should be for anyone working in your home. This plastic cocoon traps the dust.

We also use special vacuums to contain granite dust. If you don’t contain the dust, it will spread everywhere in your house.

Why Is It Hard to Find Range Installation Services?

Installation is in high demand, but contractors often don’t have time or don’t want the liability of cutting granite or modifying cabinets.

At Yale, our installation department is now the second largest division due to the growing demand for professional appliance installations.

Final Verdict: Choosing the Best Range for Your Kitchen & Budget

The choice depends on price, style, and ease of installation.

If you have designed a new kitchen with a custom backsplash, a slide-in or front control range becomes a better option.

Cleanability and built-in appearance are better with a slide-in range.

Better selection and prices are best for a freestanding range.

A freestanding range with better features like convection, five burners, and two high-output burners is $800-$1,200.

A higher-end slide-in or front control range is probably $1,500-$2,400.

A wall oven and cooktop cost between $1,700 and $8,000, with an average price of around $5,500 for both.

If you are a builder, a first-time homeowner, or on a budget, then a freestanding or front-control range is the right choice.

If you have just renovated your kitchen, slide-in and front control ranges are a good consideration for a cleaner look in your kitchen.

Both will not obstruct the backsplash with the backguard.

You will have more selection with controls but more cleanability from a slide-in.

Remember, the difference between slide-in and front control ranges, especially if you are replacing your existing freestanding range, is the installation.

You do not want to find that out on delivery.

Additional Resources

Want to learn more about the latest gas ranges and technology? Read the Yale Gas Cooking Buying Guide with features, specs and detailed profiles of every major brand. Well over 800,000 people have downloaded a Yale Guide.

Related Articles:

• The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Kitchen Range
• Most Reliable Freestanding and Slide-in Ranges
• Best Freestanding and Slide-in Gas Ranges