Discover the pros and cons of RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) vs. pre-assembled cabinets. Learn how to save money, simplify installation, and decide which option is best for your kitchen or bathroom project.
I decided to write a quick blog post and discuss the difference between the ready to assemble versus the pre-assembled cabinets from RTA store.
I use the Aspen White Shaker cabinets for both our pantry renovation and our kids bathroom renovation.
For the kids bathroom, I purchased the pre-assembled. When we did the pantry, I was trying to save some money so I went with ready to assemble.
The prices will change and they frequently run sales so I’m going to compare the non sale prices for four different products. Just keep in mind that these prices can change at any point. I also find that they will sometimes offer bigger sales on something they have more stock for so it’s good to run your own comparison.
This post may contain affiliate links which may earn me commissions should you click through them and take certain actions. As an affiliate for Amazon, Cricut, xTool, Home Depot, and other sites, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please DIY carefully. View my full legal disclosures here.
Please read the whole post so you don’t miss any important information!
Building Process
All of the pieces appeared to be well labeled and easy to assemble. There were NOT a lot of pieces. You’re looking at four for the sides, one toe kit, a back piece, and a bottom. You’ll also be attaching the cabinet doors.
With drawer base cabinets, you’ll be assembling the drawers too.
I found that using an electric screwdriver sped this up a lot, but you don’t want to overtighten screws so keep it at a low speed. If you struggle with control, a manual screwdriver may be better.
Overall, it did not take us long to put these altogether. We had a total of eight cabinets for our small pantry. If you have a bigger project it will take longer (and likewise, save you more money).
We bought these on sale, but I believe we would have spent $2000+ more if we’d bought them pre-assembled and off sale. Our savings was likely smaller with the sale prices, but the pre-assembled generally goes on sale at the sale time so I’m not sure.
Price Difference Between Ready to Assemble vs. Pre-Assembled
I’m going to use the Aspen White Shaker for this comparison. This is what I used for my rooms. I’m also using NON sale pricing.
| Product | Ready to Assemble | Pre-Assembled | Difference |
| Product A: Base Cabinet | $526.66 | $695.86 | $169.20 |
| Product B: Base Cabinet | $1,202.20 | $1,588.41 | $386.01 |
| Product C: Wall Cabinet | $396.99 | $524.53 | $127.54 |
| Product D: Wall Pantry | $1,239.02 | $1,637.08 | $398.06 |
If you average these out, it’s about a $270 savings per cabinet to assemble them yourself. A smaller kitchen may have 8-12 cabinets which would be approximately a $2160-$3240 savings if you assemble.
If you’re paying someone else to assemble, YOU WILL NOT SAVE MONEY. In that case, just get the pre-assembled.
Also keep in mind that some colors and styles are more expensive, and they run sales on certain items at certain times of the year. You may save money by making different cabinet choices, or waiting for the right sale.
Want to see more of my projects with RTA Cabinets?
Please share and pin this post! You can also post your project and tag me on Instagram @doityourselfdanielle; I love seeing everything you make!
