Hello, I am Steve, a kitchen specialist with over 20 years of experience in the industry, based in Oldham. Over the years, I have helped hundreds of customers design and fit their dream kitchens here at my showroom on Coulton Close. One question I keep getting asked is how Howdens and DIY Kitchens compare, especially when customers bring me quotes from both. I decided to build this page to provide an honest, straightforward comparison based on my knowledge and real-world experience. I am not here to sell you just one option but to give you the facts so you can make the right decision for your project. Whether you are a homeowner looking for value or a fitter sourcing units for your client, understanding the pros and cons of these suppliers can save you time, money, and headaches. I have seen the strengths and weaknesses of both Howdens and DIY Kitchens and also want to introduce you to a third alternative that many customers find hits the sweet spot. If you want to visit, my showroom is open for consultations, and you can reach me directly on 0161 509 4221 or info@sjball.uk. So let us get stuck in and break down the realities behind these popular kitchen suppliers in the UK today.

Howdens is a well-known name in the UK kitchen trade, favoured by many professional installers and builders. Their business model is trade-only, which means homeowners cannot simply walk in and buy directly from Howdens. Instead, you need a trusted fitter who holds a Howdens account to source their kitchens. This adds a layer of complexity and another markup to the price because your fitter will charge for their services and often add their own margin on top of Howdens costs. While the quality of Howdens kitchens is generally solid, one common criticism I hear is about their thin backs on carcasses, which can impact overall cabinet durability and stability. On the positive side, Howdens offers a wide range of styles, finishes, and accessories tailored for trade professionals who want quick availability and consistent product lines. However, price transparency can be an issue – without direct access, customers rarely see true product pricing and rely on their fitter to provide quotes, which can vary significantly. In summary, Howdens works well if you have an experienced fitter with a trade account, but it is not an ideal choice for homeowners wanting to control costs or shop independently. The trade-only approach and fitter markups are the main hurdles to consider.

DIY Kitchens has grown rapidly in popularity thanks to genuinely competitive pricing and a broad range of kitchen styles and accessories. Operating entirely online, they offer a convenient way for homeowners comfortable with designing their own layouts to source kitchen units at prices often lower than traditional suppliers. The online-only model means you are essentially on your own when it comes to design advice and fitting support, which can be daunting if you are not confident. One of the main technical drawbacks I have noticed is their use of 8mm backs on most units, which is noticeably thinner than the 18mm backs that are standard in higher-end kitchens. This thinner back panel can affect the rigidity and long-term durability of your kitchen cabinets, especially if you plan to fit heavy wall units or use your kitchen intensively. While the overall quality of materials and finishes from DIY Kitchens is generally good for the price, the slightly thinner construction is a consideration if you want your kitchen to last for many years without potential issues. In short, DIY Kitchens offers excellent value if cost is your top priority and you are confident designing and installing without hands-on expert guidance. It is a solid option, but not without compromises compared to more traditional suppliers.

SJB Trade Kitchens offers a compelling third option that blends the best features of both Howdens and DIY Kitchens. We match DIY Kitchens on price while delivering superior construction quality, notably with 18mm solid backs on all cabinet units rather than the thinner 8mm backs common elsewhere. This difference in build quality can make a significant impact on the strength and durability of your kitchen, giving you peace of mind over the long term. Another advantage we provide is bespoke sizing included as standard, allowing you to maximise your space without paying extra for non-standard dimensions. Unlike trade-only suppliers, we do not require a trade account, making it straightforward for homeowners and small projects alike. You also receive direct personal service from me, Steve, so you have expert guidance every step of the way. Our typical delivery lead time is just 10 days, helping keep your project on schedule. One of our customers, Scott, said: “Steve is absolutely epic! Really nice guy. 100% genuine and to be trusted. Really easy to work with. Couldnt do enough and always on hand. The kitchen was amazing quality and the kitchen looked exactly like the images he produced on his computer. The units came ready built which saved a lot of time! Even if you are not a joiner it was really easy to assemble and fit. The kitchen is great quality and a VERY competitive price! 100% recommended! Thank you so much!” Whether you are a homeowner or a professional fitter, SJB aims to provide a transparent, high-quality, and personal kitchen supply experience that rivals the big names without the usual trade restrictions.

In conclusion, your choice depends largely on your circumstances and priorities. Howdens is a reliable option if you have a trusted fitter with a trade account and do not mind the additional markup this involves. It offers consistent product availability and a trade-focused service but limits direct customer access. DIY Kitchens is ideal if price is your main concern and you are confident designing alone without in-person support. Their online-only model delivers competitive pricing but with thinner cabinet backs and less hands-on guidance. SJB Trade Kitchens represents the best of both worlds, offering competitive pricing close to DIY Kitchens with superior build quality featuring 18mm backs, bespoke sizing included, and direct personal service from a specialist with 20 years industry experience. No trade account is needed, and we provide fast delivery and ongoing support. Whichever route you choose, understanding these differences will help you get the kitchen you want without surprises or compromises. If you want to discuss your project in Oldham, visit our showroom or contact us on 0161 509 4221 or info@sjball.uk. We are here to help you make the best decision for your kitchen investment.

Every SJB kitchen starts with a detailed CAD design so you can see exactly how your finished kitchen will look before a single unit is ordered. Here is what that looks like in practice.

“Steve is absolutely epic! Really nice guy. 100% genuine and to be trusted. Really easy to work with. Couldn’t do enough and always on hand.

The kitchen was amazing quality and the kitchen looked exactly like the images he produced on his computer. The units came ready built which saved a lot of time! Even if you’re not a joiner it was really easy to assemble and fit.

The kitchen is great quality and a VERY competitive price! 100% recommended! Thank you so much!”

— Scott, verified SJB Trade Kitchens customer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

What Our Customers Say

Have a quote from Howdens (via your fitter) or a DIY Kitchens basket? Upload it below and Steve will come back with a like-for-like SJB price — usually within 24 hours. No obligation. No sales pressure. Just an honest comparison from someone who knows both products inside out.

SJB Trade Kitchens | Unit N, Central Trading Estate, Coulton Close, Oldham, OL1 4EB

Phone: 0161 509 4221 | Email: info@sjball.uk

SJB Trade Kitchens is an independent kitchen specialist. All competitor names are used for comparative purposes only based on publicly available specifications. SJB Trade Kitchens is not affiliated with Howdens, Wren Kitchens, Magnet, or DIY Kitchens.