Short answer: Quartz is engineered stone: very consistent in color, non porous and low maintenance, but it can be damaged by high heat and fade in strong sun. Granite is natural stone: every slab is unique, it handles heat well and can be used outdoors, but it needs periodic sealing. Both are durable choices for most kitchens.
Quartz and granite are the two most popular stone countertops in American kitchens. This guide compares quartz vs granite on looks, care, durability and use, to help you choose.
What they are
- Quartz: made from ground natural quartz mixed with resins and pigments, formed into slabs.
- Granite: natural stone cut from quarries, polished into slabs.
Side by side
- Look: quartz is uniform and comes in many colors, including marble look patterns. Granite has natural variation, so every slab is different.
- Maintenance: quartz is non porous and does not need sealing. Granite needs sealing, often every year or two, to resist stains.
- Heat: granite tolerates heat well. The resins in quartz can scorch or discolor from hot pans, so use trivets.
- Scratches and chips: both are hard. Edges and corners of either can chip from heavy impacts.
- Sun and outdoors: granite suits outdoor kitchens. Quartz can fade or yellow in strong sunlight.
- Stains: quartz resists stains well. Sealed granite resists most stains, but some light colored stones absorb oils more easily.
Which to choose
- Choose quartz for low maintenance, consistent color, a busy family kitchen and bright white or marble look styles.
- Choose granite for natural character, heat resistance, outdoor kitchens and one of a kind slabs.
Other countertop options
- Solid surface: seamless, repairable, but less heat resistant
- Laminate: lower cost, many designs, less durable
- Butcher block: warm wood look, needs oiling
- Marble: beautiful but softer and more prone to etching
- Porcelain slab: thin, heat and stain resistant, newer option
What affects countertop cost
- The material and the specific color or slab
- Total square footage and number of seams
- Edge profile, since detailed edges take more work
- Cutouts for sinks, cooktops and outlets
- Removal of old countertops and any backsplash changes
- Thickness and whether a waterfall edge is included
Edge profiles
Common edges include eased, which is square with slightly softened corners, beveled, bullnose, which is fully rounded, and ogee, a decorative curve. Rounded edges resist chipping better and are gentler in busy family kitchens.
Care tips
- Clean with mild soap and water
- Use trivets under hot pans, especially on quartz
- Use cutting boards to protect edges and knives
- Seal granite as the fabricator recommends
- Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive pads
The fabricator measures and templates after cabinets are installed, so plan for a short wait between cabinet and countertop installation. Read about kitchen remodeling.
Quick answers: quartz vs granite
Is quartz better than granite?
Quartz needs less care and looks more uniform. Granite handles heat better and each slab is unique. Both are durable.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
No. Quartz is non porous. Granite usually needs sealing every year or two.
Can you put hot pans on quartz?
It is best not to. High heat can scorch the resins. Use trivets.
Can granite be used outdoors?
Yes. Granite suits outdoor kitchens, while quartz can fade in strong sun.
Who installs countertops?
A countertop fabricator, often through a kitchen remodeler. Sifixit can connect you with a local remodeler.
Related
This guide covered quartz vs granite. For more background, see the FTC’s advice on hiring a contractor and avoiding home improvement scams, and if you need help, Sifixit can connect you with a local provider.
This guide is general information for homeowners, not professional, insurance or safety advice for your situation.
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