Choosing between built-in and freestanding cooker hobs isn’t just about looks. It affects your kitchen layout, daily use, and how much effort you’ll need to keep it running. If you’re stuck deciding, I’ve broken everything down so you can figure it out fast.
What’s the real difference between them?
Built-in hobs are fixed into your countertop and stay there. Freestanding hobs come with an oven underneath and can be moved. One blends into the kitchen; the other stands on its own.
A built-in hob gives a sleek, modern feel. It looks like part of your kitchen. You can’t move it, though. Freestanding ones are like old-school stoves. They’re taller, chunkier, and have an oven built-in. You can push them into a corner or move them if needed. But they usually take up more space and look bulkier.
Let’s break it all down.
Setup: How hard is it to install?
Built-in hob setup
Built-in hobs need professional help to install. You can’t just drop one into your counter and start cooking. A technician needs to cut the counter to fit, seal it properly, and handle the gas or power connection.
This takes time and money. If you ever want to change your kitchen layout, it gets tricky. Built-ins don’t move.
Freestanding hob setup
Freestanding hobs are quicker to set up. You just place it, connect the gas or plug it in, and you’re good to go. You don’t need to cut anything. If you move houses or remodel the kitchen, you can take it with you or shift it around.
If you’re in a rental or change kitchens often, this matters.
Style and fit: What looks better?
Built-in hobs look cleaner and more modern. They sit flush with your counter, so they don’t stick out. If you’re going for a sleek kitchen with neat lines, this is the better pick.
They also give you more design freedom. You can put your oven somewhere else, like at eye level. That’s easier on your back if you bake often.
Freestanding hobs take more space and can break the flow. They work better in bigger kitchens or traditional homes. If you like an all-in-one appliance that does the job without worrying about extra parts, freestanding is more your speed.
But if you care about aesthetics and layout, built-in wins hands down.
Space: Which one fits better?
Built-in hobs save space on the floor. Since they sit on your counter and don’t need a base or oven, they give you more room to move around.
They also let you plan your kitchen around them. You can choose how many burners you want, where they go, and how close they are to the sink or prep area.
Freestanding cookers need more room. They usually come in standard widths—60cm, 90cm, or more—and include an oven below. If your kitchen is tight, squeezing one in could make everything feel cramped.
If you have a galley kitchen or limited counter space, a built-in hob makes more sense.
Cleaning: Which one’s easier to deal with?
Built-in hobs are easier to clean. Their flat surface means you can wipe spills right off. No side gaps, no deep corners. Just a simple wipe-down.
Gas versions may have pan supports and knobs, but electric and induction versions are even simpler.
Freestanding cookers have more nooks and crannies. Food can fall between the cooker and the wall or drip down the sides. You’ll probably need to pull it out once in a while to clean behind and beneath it.
If you hate cleaning or have kids making messes, go for built-in.
Cost: What’s cheaper in the long run?
Freestanding cookers usually cost less upfront. You get both a hob and an oven in one. No need to buy them separately. Installation is cheaper too.
But you’ll lose out on style flexibility. You also can’t upgrade one part without replacing the whole thing.
Built-in hobs cost more to install. You’ll also need a separate oven if you bake. But they look better and add a premium feel to your home. If you plan to stay long-term or care about resale value, they may be worth it.
If you’re on a tight budget, freestanding wins. But for long-term value, built-in might be smarter.
What works better if you move homes often?
Freestanding cookers are easier to move. If you’re renting or know you’ll change houses in a few years, this makes a huge difference.
You can unplug and take it with you. No counter damage. No leftover cutouts.
Built-in hobs stay where they are. You can’t take them without messing up your kitchen. That’s fine if you’re settled, but not if you switch homes every few years.
Cooking experience: Is there a difference?
Built-in hobs feel more custom. You can pick the number of burners, shape, size, and features. Some people put a 5-burner gas hob in the center of an island. Others install two small hobs in different spots.
You also don’t have to bend to use the oven if you place it separately.
Freestanding cookers give you a one-stop spot to cook. Everything’s in one unit. No extra wiring or cabinet planning. But it’s fixed—no fancy layout or modern flow.
If you want freedom in design and cooking position, built-in’s the better pick.
Summary table
Here’s a quick view comparing the two:
| Feature | Built-in Hob | Freestanding Cooker |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Needs pro help, fixed placement | Easy setup, moveable |
| Design | Sleek, modern | Bulky, traditional |
| Space | Saves floor space | Takes more space |
| Cleaning | Easy to wipe, few edges | Harder to clean |
| Cost | Higher, separate oven needed | Cheaper combo unit |
| Portability | Not portable | Can move it |
| Cooking Layout Flexibility | Custom options | Fixed burners + oven combo |
So, which one’s better for you?
Built-in hobs are better if you want a clean look, more design freedom, and plan to stay put. Freestanding cookers are better if you want all-in-one function, lower cost, and the option to move it later.
It all comes down to your lifestyle. If your kitchen is small, you hate cleaning, and you’re not moving soon, built-in is worth the extra effort. But if you’re after easy setup, tight budget, or you don’t care much for looks, freestanding will get the job done.
Common questions people ask
Can I install a built-in hob on my own?
No, built-in hobs need a pro to cut the counter and handle the connections. It’s not like plugging in a toaster. You’ll also void your warranty or run into safety risks if you try to do it yourself.
Is a freestanding cooker safe for kids?
Yes, but you’ll need to be more careful with hot oven doors and open flames. Built-in hobs can be placed higher or in safer spots. Freestanding cookers often sit at kid level, so you’ll need extra precautions.
Can I use a built-in hob without a chimney?
Yes, but proper ventilation helps avoid smoke and smells. If you cook with a lot of oil or spices, add a chimney or a good exhaust fan. Freestanding units usually work in kitchens with open air or windows nearby, but that’s not always enough.
Final thoughts
Freestanding is like a basic car. Gets you there with fewer extras. Built-in is more like a car with leather seats and a sunroof. If you care about how things feel and look, go built-in. If you just want something that cooks and fits your wallet, freestanding works fine.
Both do the job. But the better one depends on you—how you cook, how you clean, how often you move, and what kind of kitchen you want.
If you’re still unsure, visit a showroom. Touch them. Open them. Picture them in your kitchen. The answer will come faster that way.