When renovating or building a home, choosing the right interior doors is essential for both functionality and budget. Two cost-effective options are cheap prehung interior doors and hollow core doors. While both are affordable, they serve different purposes and have distinct advantages.

In this blog, we’ll explore:

  • What cheap prehung interior doors are and their benefits

  • What hollow core doors are and their pros and cons

  • Key differences between the two

  • Best applications for each type

  • Factors to consider when choosing between them

1. What Are Cheap Prehung Interior Doors?

Prehung interior doors come fully assembled in a frame with hinges attached, making installation easier than slab doors. "Cheap" prehung doors are budget-friendly versions, often made from:

  • Hollow core materials (lightweight, affordable)

  • MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) or particleboard

  • Basic wood veneers (pine, oak, or faux finishes)

Benefits of Cheap Prehung Interior Doors

✅ Easy Installation: Comes with a pre-attached frame, hinges, and sometimes a pre-cut strike plate.
✅ Cost-Effective: More affordable than solid wood or custom prehung doors.
✅ Time-Saving: Eliminates the need to build a frame from scratch.
✅ Variety of Styles: Available in different designs (panel, flush, modern).

Where to Use Cheap Prehung Doors?

  • Budget home renovations

  • Rental properties (where durability isn’t the top priority)

  • Closets, basements, and low-traffic areas

Potential Drawbacks

⚠ Less Durable: May warp or dent more easily than solid core doors.
⚠ Limited Soundproofing: Hollow core versions offer minimal noise reduction.

2. What Are Hollow Core Doors?

Hollow core doors have a lightweight honeycomb or cardboard interior with thin wood or MDF outer layers. They are the most affordable interior door option.

Benefits of Hollow Core Doors

✅ Extremely Affordable: Cheaper than solid core or prehung options.
✅ Lightweight: Easy to handle and install.
✅ Variety of Finishes: Can mimic wood grain, paint-ready surfaces.

Common Uses for Hollow Core Doors

  • Closets and pantries (where sound and security aren’t concerns)

  • Low-budget home projects

  • Temporary installations (e.g., staged homes)

Disadvantages of Hollow Core Doors

⚠ Poor Sound Insulation: Noise easily passes through.
⚠ Less Durable: Prone to dents, scratches, and warping.
⚠ Not Secure: Can be easily damaged or kicked in.

3. Key Differences Between Cheap Prehung and Hollow Core Doors

Feature Cheap Prehung Interior Door Hollow Core Door
Construction Comes with frame & hinges Just the door slab
Core Material Often hollow or lightweight MDF Cardboard/honeycomb interior
Installation Easier (pre-assembled frame) Requires separate frame & hinges
Durability Slightly better than hollow core Least durable
Soundproofing Minimal (if hollow core) Very poor
Cost Slightly higher (includes frame) Cheapest option
Best For Quick renovations, rentals Closets, low-traffic areas

4. Which One Should You Choose?

When to Choose a Cheap Prehung Interior Door

✔ You need a fast, all-in-one installation (ideal for DIYers).
✔ You’re working on a budget but want a more finished look.
✔ You’re replacing multiple doors and want consistency.

When to Choose a Hollow Core Door

✔ You need the cheapest possible option.
✔ The door is for a closet or non-critical space.
✔ You’re installing doors yourself and don’t mind building a frame.

Can a Prehung Door Be Hollow Core?

Yes! Many cheap prehung doors are hollow core, combining affordability with easier installation.

5. Factors to Consider Before Buying

  1. Budget: Hollow core doors are the cheapest, but prehung offers easier setup.

  2. Installation Skill: Prehung is better for beginners; slab doors require more work.

  3. Durability Needs: High-traffic areas may need sturdier materials.

  4. Soundproofing: If noise is a concern, consider solid core instead.

  5. Aesthetic Preferences: Both come in various styles, but finishes may differ.

6. Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

  • Cheap prehung interior doors are best for quick, budget-friendly installations with minimal effort.

  • Hollow core doors are the most affordable but offer the least durability and soundproofing.

  • For high-traffic or noise-sensitive areas, consider upgrading to solid core doors.

Before buying, assess your needs—whether it’s cost, ease of installation, or longevity—and choose accordingly.

Final Thoughts

While both options save money, they serve different purposes. If you need temporary or low-impact doors, hollow core works. If you want faster installation with a frame, cheap prehung doors are the way to go.

Looking for recommendations? Check out big-box stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s for affordable options!