When it comes to kitchen sinks quartz and granite are two of the most popular and robust materials used to make sinks that are long-lasting.
We introduce you to both of these in our article on the best kitchen sink materials. They both have their benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to decide what is best for your kitchen.
This article will compare Quartz and Granite kitchen sinks to draw a clear picture of which one you should get.
Getting to Know The Quartz and Granite Sinks:
➪ Quartz kitchen sinks are built to provide users with a modern appearance and long-term durability. This material is resistant to heat, scratches, and stains.
In addition, it has bacteria and odor-resistant properties, along with being non-porous. This sink also has inherent soundproofing facilities.
➪ Granite kitchen sinks have arguably the most durable material. Hard stones are used to make these sinks, which can mitigate stains, and resist heat.
Along with that, granite kitchen sinks come with a wide selection of matte colors such as grey, charcoal, black, and brown that create an aesthetic appeal in your kitchen.
What is a Quartz Kitchen Sink?
Quartz kitchen sinks are a popular fixture in most modern kitchen. They are often made of glass or acrylic, and come in many different styles.
How they are made is a closely guarded secret, but the process is simple. First, a slab of quartz is cut to the desired size. Then, it is polished until it is mirror-like. Next, a layer of thin plastic is sprayed over the top of the quartz.
What is a Granite Kitchen Sink?
Granite Kitchen Sink are made of granite, a hard, durable stone that is part of the group called coarse crystalline rocks.
They are made from large chunks of granite that are then cut, shaped, and polished to create the perfect sink. But some things about these sinks are even more impressive than the material: their lids! They’re custom-made by skilled craftsmen with an eye for detail.
Recommended reading: Undermount Kitchen Sinks for Granite Countertops
Difference Between Composite Quartz and Granite Kitchen Sinks
Quartz and Granite kitchen sinks are primarily similar in appearance and features. The key differences are that composite quartz kitchen sinks are made of man-made materials and have certain inherent benefits.
In contrast, natural materials are used to make granite kitchen sinks that are bulky and long-lasting.
Side-by-Side Comparison of Quartz and Granite Kitchen Sinks
| Material of Sink | Quartz Kitchen Sink | Granite Kitchen Sink |
| Key Difference | Man-made material; Inherently Soundproof; More affordable | Natural material; Customizable options are available |
| Size and Shape of Sink | Available in standard sizes; Generally bought at around 26 inches width; Rectangular and Box-structured modern shape | Available in standard sizes; Generally bought at around 26 inches width; Rectangular and Box-structured modern shape |
| Style | Single color variations; Matte finish on surface | Single color variations; Matte finish on surface; Can accommodate distinct patterns |
| Installation | Available in both drop-in and undermount installations; undermount is generally preferred | Available in both drop-in and undermount installations; undermount is usually preferred for long term usage |
| Cabinet Size and Strength | Proportional Sized; Manufactured Cabins | Proportional Sized; Manufactured Cabins |
| Maintenance | Chemical products may be required for cleaning and maintenance; Use of non-abrasive and soft clothing is recommended. | Chemical products are not needed for cleaning and maintenance; Use of non-abrasive and soft clothing is recommended; Certain granite sinks may be damaged due to hot water |
| Top Brand | ELKAY | Ruvati and Blanco |
| Price | Average: $200 – $600 Highest: $1000 | Average: $450 – $750; Lowest: $300 Highest: $1500 – $4000 |
Distinguishing Factors Between Composite Quartz and Granite Sink
We discussed some essential factors in our kitchen sink buying guide that you will need to consider for buying any type of kitchen sink.
From that list, 8 such factors also apply for Quartz and Granite Kitchen Sinks.
- Size and Shape of Sink
- Durability
- Installation
- Cabinet Size and Strength
- Style
- Brand
- Cost
- Maintenance
❶ Size and Shape of Sink
The sizes of both Composite Quartz and Granite kitchen sinks are within the standard range of 20 to 35 inches.
Given that these are weighty and expensive materials, most available dimensions are within 26 inches in width.
The shape of these kitchen sinks is similar as well, being primarily rectangular and box-structured. However, certain double bowl granite and quartz kitchen sinks have a slight variation, such as curved and asymmetric.
[ On a side note: If you are interested in knowing about standard kitchen sink sizes, click here. ]
Recommended reading: Single Bowl Vs. Double Bowl Kitchen Sinks
❷ Durability
➪ Quartz is a very durable material that can last for many years without breaking or tarnishing. It is resistant to acids, alkalis, and fats, making it an excellent material for kitchen sinks. Additionally, quartz is easy to clean and does not corrode.
➪ When it comes to durability, Granite is the best material compared to quartz. Contrary to popular belief, granite can last many years without needing replacement. It’s a very hard material with a low attack rate. The attack rate is the percentage of times that a crack will form in the stone.
Granite also has an extremely low water absorption rate, making it resistant to staining and fading. However, some factors that can affect the durability of a granite kitchen sink include proper installation and care during use.
NB. Wants to know about the difference between stainless steel and quartz sink? Then, click here.
❸ Installation
Installation of both of these sinks can be done as undermount and drop-in. Users generally tend to do undermount installations for quartz and granite kitchen sinks because they intend to use these for decades and not replace them as quickly as someone can replace a drop-in sink.
Recommended reading: How to Install an Undermount Sink to a Granite Countertop
❹ Cabinet Size and Strength
Both Composite Quartz and Granite kitchen sink require their cabinets to be proportional to accommodate the sinks adequately.
➪ Any manufactured cabinet will be enough to hold on to these kitchen sinks as long as the materials are around 3-5 cm thick.
❺ Style
Here is where we find our first significant difference between composite quartz and granite kitchen sinks.
➪ Quartz kitchen sinks tend to appear more minimalistic because of having single color variations that are limited. In addition, all of these sinks have a matte finish on their surface.
➪ Although Granite kitchen sinks also appear simple and have mostly matte finishes on its body, these sinks are more colorful and can have patterns.
However, these are based on the actual stone used to make a kitchen sink. So, none of the designs for granite kitchen sinks can completely match each other.
To Check the Latest Price Visit Amazon, or Home Depot
❻ Brand
In our article on best kitchen sink brands, we show you some of the top-rated brands selling multiple types of kitchen sinks based on their material, structure, size, and much more.
➪ ELKAY is notable for selling some of the best Quartz kitchen sinks.
➪ Generally, people go for RUVATI and BLANCO to buy Granite kitchen sinks.
❼ Maintenance
➪ Quartz Kitchen Sinks: Chemical Products may be required to clean quartz kitchen sinks thoroughly. Products such as sink conditioners, dishwashing soap, and oils are used with a non-abrasive cloth to clean such sinks.
➪ Granite Kitchen Sinks: You do not need to apply chemical products to clean a granite kitchen sink because of its natural properties.
However, using dish soap with a non-abrasive cloth will not harm its surface. Natural soapstones are also used to maintain these sinks. Certain granite kitchen sinks may be damaged upon using hot water to clean them.
Recommended reading: Granite Composite Vs Stainless Steel Sinks
❽ Cost
➪ Quartz kitchen sinks are more affordable than the two because they are artificially made. The price range of these sinks is around USD 200 to USD 600. Expensive Quartz sinks are priced around USD 1000.
➪ The average price range of Granite kitchen sinks is USD 450 to USD 750. However, you can get low-cost ones for about USD 300. On the other hand, expensive granite kitchen sinks are marked around USD 1,500 and can fetch up to USD 4,000 if it is custom-made.
➤ Top-rated Quartz Kitchen Sinks
➤ Top-rated Granite Kitchen Sinks
Some of the top-rated granite kitchen sinks are:
- Kraus KGU-413B Granite Kitchen Sink- See on Amazon or Home Depot
- Ruvati Drop-in Granite Composite Sink- See on Amazon or Lowes
- BLANCO Anthracite 440149 Kitchen Sink- See on Home Depot
- Kraus Quarza KGD-433B Equal Bowls Sink- See on Amazon
Pros and Cons of Quartz Kitchen Sink
Pros
- Durable for heavy usage
- Its material is resistant to heat, scratches, and stain
- It has bacteria and odor resistant properties
- Inherently soundproof
- Quartz kitchen sinks offer a multitude of modern styles and colors
Cons
- The darker color of quartz kitchen sinks shows signs of wear and tear
- Not suitable for washing fragile utensils without proper care
Pros and Cons of Granite Kitchen Sinks
Pros
- Granite sinks are scratch, and stain-resistant
- Cleaning granite kitchen sinks do not require chemicals because of their natural properties
- Resistant to impact and thermal shock
- Comes with its distinct variation in color and texture
- It is incredibly durable
- It has bacteria-resistant properties
Cons
- Heavy and bulky
- Generally more expensive than usual kitchen sinks
N.B. You Should Watch This Video to Avoid Common Mistakes While Choosing A Sink For Your Kitchen
FAQs
- Are quartz sinks good?
Quartz sinks are great affordable kitchen sinks because of their natural noise reduction features and surface resistance to bacteria, scratches, and stains.
- Do quartz sinks crack?
Quartz sinks rarely crack because it is one of the most durable materials available in the market.
- Do granite sinks chip easily?
Granite sinks are resistant to getting chipped because hard stones are used to make them. This gives these sinks extra durability.
- Are granite sinks better than stainless steel sinks?
Granite sinks are more durable than stainless steel sinks because its made of hard stone. In addition to that, it can easily be cleaned compared to stainless steel.
- Is quartz or granite better for the kitchen?
If you prioritize environment-friendly materials, then granite sinks are better for your kitchen. However, if affordability is a factor you have to consider and you still want a lot of beneficial features, then quartz sinks are better for your kitchen.
By the end of this comparison, we can see that both of these sink materials are pretty similar, and they are equally beneficial. Quartz kitchen sinks are a great option for people who are on a budget but still want a high-quality sink.
Granite, on the other hand, is the more luxurious choice and is usually better quality, but can be more expensive. If you’re looking for a sink that will last you for many years, go with granite.
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