The Best Kitchen Island
This Old House Reviews Team
A kitchen island can tie a room together and provide space for utensils, dishes, and decorations. Some kitchen islands provide more than just countertop space, with some models containing cabinets for additional storage or a fold-up table leaf for added seating space. Kitchen islands are traditionally made of wood, though some models incorporate engineered wood for additional strength and durability.
Whether you’re looking for a kitchen island with ample storage space or want an island with a more basic design, the This Old House Reviews team researched the best kitchen islands on Amazon to help you select a model that’s right for you. Here are our top recommendations.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FLRV1M2
Home Styles Liberty Kitchen Cart
Pros
- Has attached wheels for easy positioning
- Equipped with a drop leaf table extension for additional tabletop space
- Its included cabinets contain two adjustable shelves
Cons
- Many customers complained of an extensive assembly process
- Some customers didn’t receive all the necessary pieces
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ROX6VRW
Casual Home Kitchen Island
Pros
- Comes with a sliding drawer for storing towels or utensils
- Has a two-tone solid wood tabletop
- Equipped with two lower shelves for additional storage
Cons
- Doesn’t have attached roller wheels for mobility
- Its bottom two shelves can only hold 50 pounds each
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003KY2KNI
Home Styles White and Oak Kitchen Island
Pros
- Includes two utility drawers, a cabinet, and an open storage area
- Its tabletop is over 48 inches wide
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Customers are advised to not use power tools above eight volts during installation
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077FBTTYC
Dorel Living Kitchen Island
Pros
- Its included wheels lock to keep the island in place
- Features a solid wood top for a sleek and durable finish
Cons
- The countertop has only a 30-pound capacity
- Many customers had their tabletops damaged when peeling away an included manufacturer sticker
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0752BYTKD
Nova Microdermabrasion Kitchen Island
Pros
- Includes four spinner wheels for mobility
- Its included storage baskets are removable for simple cleaning
- Is lightweight at just over 18 pounds
Cons
- Many customers were dissatisfied with the island’s coloring and said it was different than the advertised picture
- Some customers experienced unsteady and loose wheels
Buyer’s Guide
Before purchasing a kitchen island, it’s important to understand factors like countertop space, mobility, and storage to help you make an informed selection.
1. Countertop space
Countertop space refers to the dimensions of a kitchen island’s tabletop. While a large countertop can accommodate more items or give you more elbow room to prepare food, kitchen islands with larger counters typically come at a higher price point.
2. Mobility
Some kitchen islands have attached wheels that allow you to position the cart anywhere within your kitchen. Finding a model with wheels is important if you plan on changing the configuration of your kitchen frequently. However, the attached wheels may decrease the island’s stability.
3. Storage
Some kitchen islands come with a variety of storage shelves, compartments, and cabinets, while others offer a few basic racks.
FAQs
Is my kitchen too small for an island?
It depends on the size of the kitchen island. While some kitchen islands are large, stationary centerpieces, many models are compact and come with wheels for easy positioning.
How much overhang should a kitchen island have?
A kitchen island’s overhang refers to how far over the frame a countertop extends. While there isn’t a specific length required for an overhang, you should select a model with enough overhang for ample legroom if you plan on using your island as a bar.
How much is a kitchen island?
Most kitchen islands on Amazon range between $100–$300. If you’re looking for a compact model like the Nova Microdermabrasion Kitchen Island, you could pay less, while a larger, more spacious model like the Home Styles White and Oak Kitchen Island will cost you more.
The This Old House Reviews team provides overviews of select products that are top-selling on Amazon and/or popular in consumer searches. Our team evaluates the products based on industry research, consumer reviews, pricing data, hands-on testing in select cases, and other objective criteria unique to a given product line. Unless otherwise noted, these product reviews are intended to help inform buying decisions for DIY or other non-pro users only. Editor’s picks are made by members of the This Old House Reviews team.