📋 Data Accuracy Notice — All specifications on this page are based on publicly available information as of 2026. We welcome manufacturers to submit updated specifications directly to info@sjball.uk — we’ll update our data within 48 hours. We’re committed to accuracy, and we’re happy to be checked.
Howdens vs DIY Kitchens: The 2026 UK Comparison (And the 13–6mm Alternative)
Made to Order
13–6mm Solid Backs
10 Working Days
Direct to Homeowners
An Honest Introduction from Steve Ball, Kitchen Specialist
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.
Three-Way Comparison: Howdens vs DIY Kitchens vs SJB
| Feature | Howdens Joinery | DIY Kitchens | SJB Trade Kitchens |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who Can Buy | Trade account only | Anyone online | Direct to homeowners |
| Back Panel | Thin (3-6mm typical) | 3–6mm typical | 13–6mm Solid |
| Carcass Thickness | 13–6mm | 13–6mm | 13–6mm |
| Drawer Boxes | Standard | Blum Antaro (Legrabox upgrade available) | Blum Antaro; Legrabox or dovetail oak upgrades |
| Bespoke Sizing | Limited | Limited | Included as standard |
| Pricing | Trade markup — opaque | Competitive — transparent | Competitive — transparent all year |
| Personal Support | Via your fitter | Online only | Direct with Steve — 20 years experience |
| Delivery | Via trade account | 4-8 weeks typical | From 10 working days |
| Construction | Rigid | Rigid | Rigid — fully assembled |
Howdens: The Trade-Only Problem
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: Competitive Price, But What About the Build?
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 3–6mm backs on most units, which is noticeably thinner than the 13–6mm 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: The Third Option
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 13–6mm solid backs on all cabinet units rather than the thinner 3–6mm 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.
The Honest Verdict
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 13–6mm 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Howdens operates on a strict trade-only model. You cannot walk into a Howdens depot and purchase a kitchen without a trade account. In practice, this means your fitter or builder orders on your behalf and marks up the price before passing it on to you. You have no visibility of the original cost and no direct relationship with the supplier. SJB Trade Kitchens sells direct to homeowners with no trade account required.
DIY Kitchens produce a solid product at a competitive price point. The key difference is the back panel: DIY Kitchens typically use 3–6mm backs on their units, while SJB uses 13–6mm solid backs on every cabinet. This matters most under heavy worktops, when fitting in narrow runs, and over the long term as the kitchen settles. SJB also includes bespoke sizing as standard, which DIY Kitchens charges extra for.
SJB Trade Kitchens is competitively priced against DIY Kitchens. For most kitchen sizes the price difference is minimal, but you receive significantly better construction — 13–6mm solid backs, bespoke sizing included, and direct personal support from Steve throughout the process. Against Howdens, SJB is typically 30-50% cheaper when you factor in the fitter markup on a Howdens order.
Yes — and this is one of the things customers comment on most. Because SJB units arrive fully assembled and are made to your exact measurements, there is very little on-site adjustment required. Scott, a recent customer, noted: “Even if you are not a joiner it was really easy to assemble and fit.” The rigid construction and accurate bespoke sizing means units go in square and stay square without the need for filler panels or on-site cutting.
Simply use the form below. You can upload your existing Howdens specification (from your fitter), your DIY Kitchens basket, or just your room dimensions and requirements. Steve will come back with a like-for-like price comparison — usually within 24 hours. There is no obligation and no sales pressure.
From Design to Reality: See the Difference
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.
The CAD design produced by Steve before the kitchen was ordered
The finished kitchen installed by the customer — exactly as designed
“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
Upload Your Howdens or DIY Kitchens Quote
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.
Made to Order and Delivered in 10 Working Days
Rigid Built Cabinets with Blum Soft Close as Standard
Nationwide Delivery Available
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.
