It’s easy to forget the importance of a kitchen countertop. Between coffee makers, toasters, and now air fryers, counters can get lost in the sea of small and major appliances — and that’s a shame, considering they’re prime real estate for adding visual interest to a kitchen.
In modern kitchens, work surfaces serve as a place to prep meals and as an expression of the latest trends and styles. Every year, new patterns, colors, and materials promise to be the “next big thing in kitchen design,” but many experts agree that the best countertops for kitchen settings continue to be Corian, quartz, and granite.
To understand why these three materials are regarded as the best kitchen countertops, we’re reviewing the pros, cons, and the looks of each in this spotlight. Get to know what each counter type has to offer, which kitchen theme each excels in, and how much you can expect to pay for each type of counter in this countertops buying guide.
At a Glance:
Corian Counters
If there’s one area of the home where messes are expected to happen, it’s the kitchen. With that in mind, surfaces that are easy to clean and resist staining suit kitchen settings to a T, and Corian is widely recognized as one of those solid surfaces.
At first look, Corian looks similar to other stone materials, often sporting speckles and light veining. But many homeowners are surprised to learn Corian is a synthetic product made by mixing one part resin with two parts natural minerals. The resins incorporated into the process make Corian surfaces naturally non-porous, meaning they’re great at repelling moisture and stains. And that’s a recipe for success in the kitchen.
In the early years of Corian countertops, colors were limited, but now manufacturers provide a wide spectrum of color options and finishes to keep up with the fast pace of kitchen trends. Additionally, this synthetic countertop is available in glossy finishes, which are ideal for a kitchen that wants to celebrate countertops or matted applications designed to blend in with the kitchen environment.
Corian Kitchen Ideas
The versatility of Corian gives designers and homeowners the freedom to use the material in a variety of kitchen styles. For an industrial look, choose a matte-gray finish to replicate concrete. Meanwhile, a white Corian countertop is a classic choice for farmhouse kitchens (a Corian sink is a timeless go-to!) and modern cooking spaces.
Corian countertop pros
✓ Corian easily adheres to other Corian surfaces with glue for a presentation with virtually no visible seams.
✓ Corian is cheaper compared to quartz and granite.
✓ Corian has a versatile look.
✓ Corian is non-porous, doesn’t need to be sealed, and repels bacteria.
Corian countertop cons
✗ Corian is vulnerable to heat damage.
✗ Counters made from Corian can easily scratch.
✗ Because it’s man-made, Corian is not one-of-a-kind like granite.
Stay on Budget: On average, Corian countertops cost anywhere between $45–$65 per square foot.
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CountersQuartz Counters
In the ‘90s, granite was the hero of the modern kitchen, but as its popularity grew, quartz became its direct competition. Like Corian, quartz countertops are engineered surfaces, but instead of the 1:3 formula used in Corian, quartz accentuates the glory of natural stone with up to 95 percent quartz materials. The remainder is resin, which gives quartz surfaces similar non-porous properties to Corian with superior durability, making the surfaces one of the best countertops on the market.
One of the prized features of quartz is its polished look, but the latest generation of quartz counters are also available in sandblasted, embossed, and honed finishes. When it comes to quartz countertops, colors including white, black, and grey remain popular choices. Additionally, designers can explore quartz kitchen surfaces with veining effects for the look of marble at a lower price. (You can never go wrong with white quartz countertops with grey marbling.)
Quartz Kitchen Ideas
Interior designers and homeowners alike continue to turn to quartz for a range of kitchen styles for its clean look and durability.
Here’s a tip: Take advantage of glossy quartz to make a space feel larger. Kitchens with ample counter space can explore quartz counters in shades of white or beige to create the effect with style. This trick is also great for creating interesting visual contrast against darker cabinetry for a modern look that’s currently in.
Overall, the polished look of quartz adds elegance to any kitchen. However, the look works best with contemporary kitchen schemes, especially ones aiming for minimalism, farmhouse kitchens, and traditional kitchen areas with a pop of new-age flair.
Quartz countertop pros
✓ Quartz is one of the most durable kitchen surfaces available.
✓ Quartz is easier to maintain than granite or Corian.
✓ A variety of finishes are available on quartz counters.
✓ Quartz is naturally antimicrobial.
Quartz countertop cons
✗Sudden temperature shifts could cause quartz to crack.
✗Under direct sunlight, quartz can fade.
Stay on Budget: On average, quartz countertops cost anywhere between $40–$100 per square foot.
Granite Counters
A constellation of specks and streaks gives granite its signature look, making it a popular design trend since the 1990s. Despite new contenders on the market, granite stands as the third most popular countertop option for its one-of-a-kind presentation and strength that stands up well in the kitchen. Sure, a granite kitchen countertop may require annual sealing to prevent staining, but for many, that’s a small price to pay compared to the benefits granite offers.
For one, granite is far less susceptible to heat than other countertop materials, making the surface particularly great installed around high-head gas cooking appliances. And as a natural stone, granite is extremely robust, although it trails quartz in the category.
Most often with granite countertops, colors are used to showcase the natural stone patterns each slab reveals when it’s cut straight from the quarry. White, black, and beige continue to be popular granite countertop picks, while new approaches to the iconic material include traces of pearl for a pop of iridescence and glam.
Granite Kitchen Ideas
The raw look of granite beautifully complements kitchens that embrace rustic and traditional designs. Tuscan-style kitchens and granite countertops are a classic combination, especially when paired with rich wooden cabinets. Or go for a black-and-white granite counter with the flexibility to complement kitchen themes from all-white-themed designs to farmhouse.
Granite countertop pros
✓ Granite is better at withstanding high temperatures versus Corian and quartz.
✓ Counters made of granite are extremely hard (but not as resistant as quartz).
✓ No two granite surfaces are the same.
Granite countertop cons
✗ Without regular sealing, granite can become porous, leading to staining.
✗ Granite can be pricey.
✗ Natural flaws in the composition of granite can lead to cracking.
Stay on Budget: On average, granite countertop costs anywhere between $80–$180 per square foot.
Kitchen Countertops FAQs
Selecting the best countertop material for your kitchen project means asking all the right questions. Below, we answer a few of the most common questions we receive at Home 101.
Are Corian countertops outdated?
While the demand for Corian has declined since it first hit the market in 1971, the material remains a design staple for its versatility. While Corian isn’t the most affordable kitchen surface, its versatility allows homeowners and designers to achieve a natural stone look at a more affordable price than quartz or granite.
What type of countertop is the most durable?
When it comes to countertop durability, it’s a game of granite vs quartz. While granite is a natural material, flaws in its structure make it more vulnerable to cracks and chips. On the other hand, quartz is reinforced with resins to give it a boost of resistance that outdoes even granite.
Is granite an expensive countertop?
While the cost of granite countertops varies depending on the look, they are widely considered premium countertops. Generally, granite will cost more than both Corian and quartz.
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For over 18 years (and counting!), we’ve created life-changing spaces in homes across the U.S. There is no project too big or too small for our team. From your free in-home consultation to the completion of your project, Home 101 will always provide you with an exceptional experience from start to finish.
Shop Countertops at Home 101 Appliance
Home 101 makes your remodeling projects easier than ever. Shop counters online or make an appointment to visit us at our Home 101 Rancho Cucamonga location. Our Home 101 experts are always happy to help you explore the best kitchen countertops around — whether you call us at 909-204-1316, use our online chat feature, or email us. Be sure to subscribe to our email list to be the first to learn about our special offers. Call us to set up your free in-home consultation today!
Learn More: Expert Tips for Redoing Your Kitchen Right