me personally I prefer painted cabinets. However I suggest having them painted properly or hiring a professional. Make sure they are done correctly. When I have done them myself I prefer a flat paint or satin finish and then I go over with a cheesecloth and finishing wax to give it that "factory made" look so it doesn't look like I personally painted them. They look very nice!! Make sure you sand very well, use TSP cleaner as well before you prime! If you have a paint sprayer that also delivers a better overall look than painting with a brush or roller although not necessarily needed

It is according to the desired look and wood species you are using.