Hi Iblake,

In my experience, there are a few basic things to look for when comparing the overall quality of a cabinet build:

1) material used for the cabinet boxes. Plywood vs. particle board. I find plywood to be more durable than particle board, and it holds door hinge screws better. Keep in mind there are various qualities of plywood (see link below)

http://www.paxtonwood.com/PlywoodCore.aspx

2) Quality of drawer slides and door hinge hardware. Find out what hardware the manufacturers on your short list use, and see how they compare.

And don't confuse price for quality. Years ago I designed a remodel for a client, and they insisted a particular cabinet manufacturer be specified for the project. The client was attracted to the manufacturer's "high end" branding. The cost was about $50,000 for approximately 50 linear feet of base and upper cabinets. And the surprise was that the cabinets came unassembled, and the construction quality was no better than IKEA offers (melamine faced, particle board boxes, and simple veneered slab door and drawer fronts).

I would recommend engaging a local cabinet maker. You might find their price to be competitive. And by going local there might be extra opportunities for customization not offered by the large manufacturers.