The kitchen is where busy mornings begin, late-night snacks happen, and some of the best parties unfold. It’s often thought of as the heart of the home, and the right appliances can make a big difference in how it feels and functions. But with so many brands, features, and price tags out there, shopping for appliances can quickly become overwhelming if you don’t know where to start.
That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide to help you navigate your choices, along with a few of our favorite brands to consider. Now, let’s dive in!
Appliance Brands: The Breakdown
Not all appliances or brands are built the same. To keep things easy, we’ve grouped the most popular options into three tiers based on performance, design, durability, and price: High-End, Mid-Range, and Budget-Friendly.
You can explore all of these options through Ferguson Home, one of our favorite resources for comparing styles, features, and pricing.
High-End Brands
If you’re dreaming big and want a kitchen that looks and feels like it came straight out of a luxury design magazine, high-end appliances are where it’s at. You can pretty much think of these as the Ferraris of the appliance world since they’re sleek, powerful, and built to last (usually 15-20 years).
Typical cost: $10,000–$40,000+ for a full kitchen suite.
- Wolf – Famous for those signature red knobs and next-level temperature control, Wolf ranges and ovens are a favorite among home chefs.
- Sub-Zero – A go-to for refrigerators that keep your food fresher longer thanks to their vacuum-sealed systems and precise climate control.
- Cove – Known for their super quiet, customizable dishwashers that fit everything (even those awkward pans).
- Thermador – Loved for their sleek designs, powerful cooktops, steam ovens, and smart tech integration.
- JennAir – Combines bold, modern design with tech-forward features like LCD touchscreens and voice controls.
- Fisher & Paykel – Offers drawer-style dishwashers with a focus on ergonomics and quiet performance.
Mid-Range Brands
Mid-range brands strike that sweet spot between quality and affordability. If you want great style and performance without going overboard on price, this tier definitely delivers. With proper care, you can expect these appliances to last roughly 10-15 years.
Typical cost: $5,000–$15,000 for a full kitchen suite.
- KitchenAid – Offers solid performance and has stylish options. Their convection ovens are kitchen staples, especially if you love to bake.
- Bosch – Known for their clean and modern European look. Their dishwashers are so whisper-quiet, you’ll forget they’re even on.
- Whirlpool – A dependable household classic. You’ll get straightforward controls, reliable performance, and long-lasting appliances.
- LG – Known for their smart connectivity, touch controls, and a wide range of modern innovations including InstaView and ThinQ technology.
- ZLINE – Offers professional-looking ranges, hoods, and cooktops with heavy-duty performance at an accessible price.
- Thor – Built to feel like commercial appliances, with heavy-duty burners and big ovens that are great for home chefs who love to entertain.
Budget-Friendly Brands
If you’re outfitting a rental, doing a quick flip, or just trying to stick to a tighter budget, these brands are reliable and won’t break the bank. While they may not have all the bells and whistles, they’ll cover all the essentials. Expect 8-12 years of solid use with proper care.
Typical cost: $2,000–$6,000 for a full kitchen suite.
- GE – A solid all-around choice with a wide range of appliances that are user-friendly and consistent across the board.
- Maytag – Known for durability and heavy-duty features with long-lasting motors and parts.
- Amana – Offers simple, functional appliances at affordable prices, ideal for first-time buyers or budget-conscious updates.
Additional Appliances We Love
Once the essentials are in place, these extras can take your kitchen to a whole new level (and we love incorporating them into our designs):
- Wine & Beverage Coolers
- Wall Ovens
- Panel-Ready Appliances
- Range Hoods
- Ice Makers & Kegerators
- Built-In Microwaves
So, whether you’re building your dream kitchen or simply upgrading your current setup, the right appliances can make all the difference. If you’re still feeling unsure about which brands to choose, we’re here to help! Book a free consultation with us today to start designing the kitchen that best suits your lifestyle needs.
