Laminated vs Painted Cabinets: What’s the Difference and Which is Right for You?

When you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel, one of the biggest decisions you'll face is choosing the right cabinet finish. Among the most popular options are laminated cabinets and painted cabinets. Both styles can deliver a beautiful, polished look — but the differences in material, durability, maintenance, and cost are worth considering before you commit. In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both laminated and painted cabinets so you can choose what works best for your style, budget, and lifestyle.

What Are Laminated Cabinets?

Laminated cabinets are constructed by applying a synthetic material — usually melamine, thermofoil, or high-pressure laminate (HPL) — over a base like MDF or particle board. The laminate coating gives cabinets a durable and uniform finish that resists scratches and moisture.

What Are Painted Cabinets?

Painted cabinets are typically made from wood or MDF, then finished with several coats of paint, often using a spray application to get a smooth, brush-free surface. Paint allows for a huge range of colors and customization options and can be used to create everything from traditional to modern looks.

Pros of Laminated Cabinets

1. Highly Durable

   • Laminates are known for their resistance to scratching, staining, and fading.

   • Great for high-traffic kitchens or homes with children or pets.

2. Moisture Resistant

   • Laminated cabinets, especially those made from thermoplastic or high-pressure laminate, handle humidity much better than painted wood.

3. Easy to Clean

   • Just a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually enough to clean them — no special cleaners required.

4. Cost Effective

   • Generally more affordable than custom-painted wood cabinets, especially for larger projects.

5. Consistent Appearance

   • Because laminate is a manufactured surface, you won’t see the variations in color or texture you might with painted or stained wood.

Cons of Laminated Cabinets

1. Limited Color Range (Sometimes)

   • While laminates have come a long way, some styles may not offer the exact custom color or texture you want.

2. Cannot Be Refinished

   • If you get tired of the color or it gets damaged, you can’t sand and repaint laminate — you’ll need to replace the cabinet or reface it.

3. May Look Less “Natural”

   • Even high-end laminates lack the depth and warmth of real painted wood, which can be a downside for traditional design tastes.

Pros of Painted Cabinets

1. Custom Colors

   • You can choose from virtually any paint color — from crisp white to deep navy to custom shades that match your home perfectly.

2. Classic Aesthetic

   • Painted wood cabinets give a timeless, high-end look, especially in traditional or transitional kitchen designs.

3. Can Be Repainted

   • Unlike laminate, painted cabinets can be refinished or repainted if you want a new look later on.

4. Textural Variation

   • Some homeowners love the visible wood grain or subtle brush strokes, which can give your space a more handcrafted look.

Cons of Painted Cabinets

1. Prone to Chipping and Cracking

   • Over time, paint can crack or chip, especially at corners or around handles. This is more common with natural wood cabinets that expand and contract with temperature changes.

2. Higher Maintenance

   • Painted surfaces can stain more easily and may show fingerprints or smudges, particularly in lighter colors.

3. Moisture Sensitivity

   • Painted cabinets, especially those made from wood, can swell or warp when exposed to high humidity or water over time.

4. Higher Cost

   • Custom painted cabinets often come with a higher price tag due to labor and materials.

Which Cabinet Finish Is Best for Your Home?

It really depends on your priorities. If you want low maintenance, high durability, and a sleek modern look, laminated cabinets might be your best bet. They’re ideal for families, rental properties, and anyone looking for a budget-friendly, practical finish that still looks great.

On the other hand, if you’re aiming for a more traditional or custom aesthetic and are okay with a little extra care and upkeep, painted cabinets offer unmatched flexibility and classic appeal. They’re perfect for homeowners who want to personalize their space and aren’t afraid of the occasional touch-up.

How Armada Design Center Can Help

At Armada Design Center, we help homeowners across the Puget Sound find cabinetry that fits their style, budget, and lifestyle needs. Whether you’re leaning toward the durability of laminated cabinets or the timeless elegance of painted wood, our design experts will guide you through your options and help you choose the perfect finish for your project. Stop by our showroom or schedule a consultation to explore cabinet samples, color palettes, and styles firsthand.