Should you choose quartz or granite kitchen countertops? Experts weigh in on the pros and cons of these two popular materials

Choosing your countertops is a key part of the design process. They add an incredibly functional element while also creating the look and feel you want for your space. So, choosing the right material is an important decision.

Many kitchen countertop ideas and materials get the designer seal of approval. But two we see cropping up time and time again are quartz and granite. They are both great options, so how can you decide which one is best?

We've asked the experts to find out everything you need to know about both materials to ensure you choose the best countertop for your kitchen. They are both stylish and timeless; it all comes down to whether you need something uber durable or you prefer the more natural look.

Is quartz or granite better for kitchen countertops?

Much like your kitchen cabinet ideas, your countertops are crucial to the overall look and feel of your space. But your counters have an extra layer, needing that functional element for food prep, cooking, and everyday wear that other features in your kitchen don't experience on the same scale.

'Kitchens are a busy place, and the countertop, more than any other part, really takes the brunt of this. Don’t make the mistake of choosing the wrong material,' says Jonathan Stanley, VP at Caesarstone, who recommends taking your time when choosing your kitchen countertops.

The best way to decide between quartz countertops and granite countertops is to weigh up the pros and cons, consider how they will impact the way you use your space, and the overall aesthetic you desire. To help you do that, we've asked experts for the lowdown on both materials and how they compare.

Quartz

Quartz is an engineered stone, boasting benefits of durability and stain resistance, which is why it is such a popular kitchen countertop material. And it's why experts often recommend it as one of the best options.

'Quartz countertops perform really well as kitchen work surfaces, thanks to their ability to create and change with the current kitchen trends. The colors are constantly evolving, and being quartz, the surfaces are extremely hard,' says Oliver Webb, director at Cullifords.

'They are stain resistant and the surface is very resistant to cutting on, and although they are not impervious to UV, so over the years will fade a little and lose their lustre, they are a fantastic option for a kitchen countertop,' he adds.

There's no denying that the durability and hard-wearing properties of quartz make it a favorable material in busy, family kitchens, but there are some drawbacks when it comes to its visual appeal.

'I don’t see any major drawbacks to quartz countertops from a functional standpoint – they’re durable, low-maintenance, and non-porous, which makes them a great choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops,' says interior designer Becky Shea.

'My only hesitation is more aesthetic: I’m not a fan of quartz when it tries to imitate natural stone. It rarely looks authentic and often has a screen-printed or overly uniform appearance that lacks the depth and movement of real marble or granite,' she adds.

If you opt for quartz countertops as a durable alternative with the hope of getting the look of a natural stone, your scheme is probably going to fall flat, and it could end up making your kitchen look cheap.

'That said, if you’re choosing a quartz design that embraces its own look rather than mimicking something else, it can be a really beautiful and practical option,' she adds.

Granite

On the other hand, granite is a natural stone that offers a unique look and more natural beauty and variations. And as far as natural stones go, granite is one of the more durable, even if it can be a touch more expensive than man-made alternatives.

'Similar to quartz, granite countertops can be absolutely stunning – there are many varieties that feel timeless, natural, and rich in character. However, not all granite is created equal. Some styles, especially those with heavy patterning and multiple competing colors, can feel dated or overly busy,' says Becky.

'Think of the type of granite with six different colors swirling through it – it’s been overused in standard apartment finishes and doesn’t always lend itself well to a more refined or contemporary aesthetic. That said, when thoughtfully selected, granite can be a durable and elegant choice with lasting appeal,' she adds.

It's the beauty of granite and its natural variations that make it so popular. It's the fact that every cut is different, bringing in a more bespoke feel to a kitchen, as long as you choose the right one, as Becky says.

'The beauty of granite as a natural stone is the colors and variance you can get from it, and the real natural feeling you get from its touch. Each block will bring a touch of individuality and unique style to your kitchen,' says Oliver.

'Arguably one of the most popular choices for countertops, a granite surface is both durable and functional. Ranging from hard to soft, granite is a natural stone and, as such, offers a huge variety of shades and patterns.'

People often consider granite to lack durability, assuming it is much like some marbles that are very sensitive to wear and tear, but granite can withstand a lot more than you might expect. There are some things to be aware of – while granite is renowned for its durability and heat-resistance, so praise for being one of the best countertops for cooking, it always pays to be cautious.

'Although the majority of granites should be able to withstand hot things being placed on the surface, there is always a slight chance of thermal shock, so it is best to use a trivet or chopping board,' Oliver adds.

The verdict?

Both quartz and granite are great materials for your kitchen countertops, offering style and durability – the duo every chic kitchen needs. Which you choose to go with depends entirely on your personal style and the needs of the space.

'For those who value unique natural beauty and the authentic feel of natural stone, granite would be the better choice. Its individuality, elegance, and timeless appeal are unmatched by man-made materials,' says Oliver.

'On the other hand, for homeowners who prioritise uniformity and even higher resistance to stains and scratches, quartz would be more suitable. Ultimately, both materials are fantastic, it simply comes down to whether you are drawn more to the natural individuality of granite or the modern consistency and performance of quartz.'

For Becky, granite comes out on top, offering the perfect balance of beauty and functionality, especially for a timeless kitchen that will last for years to come.

'I lean toward granite, particularly because I’ve worked with varieties like Absolute Black and Steel Grey in past projects, and they’re truly stunning. These options have a natural depth and veining that feel sophisticated and timeless, especially when finished in a leathered or honed texture. That tactile quality adds a beautiful, elevated touch that quartz sometimes lacks,' she explains.

'Granite is also incredibly durable, which is a major factor when designing kitchens that are not only beautiful but also highly functional. When selected thoughtfully, it can strike the perfect balance between form and function,' she adds.

Both are great options offering durability and style, but it seems granite is the slightly better option if you want the perfect blend. However, if you're designing a very busy kitchen for a family, quartz is likely to hold up slightly better – just don't try to mimic the look of natural stone, it's better to embrace quartz for what it is.

Quartz and granite are both durable, stylish, and timeless materials to choose for your kitchen countertops. While there has been some talk about what's replacing granite countertops, it's clear there is still a place for them in our kitchens. Not only do they look visually striking, but they are amongst the most durable of the natural stones.

But it's understandable why busy households prefer the unwavering durability of the man-made option of quartz. Even though it's hard-wearing, make sure you read up on how to clean white quartz countertops properly to ensure they stay in beautiful condition.