Quartz countertops are hugely popular in today’s kitchens, thanks to their durability, visual appeal, and easy maintenance. With so many quartz options on the market, it can be tricky to determine which type is the best choice for your kitchen. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of the top quartz countertop options to help you select the perfect one for your needs and style.
What is Quartz?
Quartz countertops, sometimes called engineered stone, are made from ground natural quartz crystals combined with resins and pigments. The quartz provides strength and hardness, while the resins bind the material together.
Here are some key facts about quartz:
- Consists of 90-94% ground quartz and 6-10% polymer resins
- Harder and more durable than natural stone
- Resists stains, scratches, heat, and moisture
- Available in wide range of colors and patterns
- Non-porous so does not require sealing
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Does not need polishing over time
With its superior durability and low maintenance needs, quartz has surpassed granite as the most popular countertop material. But not all quartz is created equal. Keep reading to learn how to pick the best one.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Quartz
When selecting a quartz countertop, here are the key factors to take into account:
Appearance
One of the best aspects of quartz is the vast array of colors, patterns, and finishes available. Brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone offer hundreds of options from solid neutrals to bold, vivid designs. Consider the overall look you want for your kitchen and how well the quartz will coordinate with cabinets, flooring, and backsplashes.
Durability
All quartz offers excellent durability, but some brands incorporate special technology for added resilience. Look for quartz reinforced with titanium dioxide for maximum scratch resistance. Also check the warranty – quality quartz should come with at least a 10-15 year warranty.
Quality
Higher priced quartz tends to offer superior quality in durability, stain resistance, and color consistency. Opt for quartz from top name brands like Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria, and Viatera for the best results. Lesser known, budget brands may be prone to more flaws.
Maintenance
Basic daily maintenance is easy for any quartz countertop. But some brands like Caesarstone offer superior stain, scratch, and heat resistance that makes maintenance even simpler. This makes them ideal for busy kitchens.
Price
Quartz costs $50-100 per square foot installed. Caesarstone falls on the higher end while brands like Silestone and MSI offer more budget-friendly options. Consider how the quartz will fit into your overall budget.
The Best Quartz Brands for Kitchen Countertops
Now that you know what to look for in a quartz countertop, let’s explore some of the top brands on the market.
1. Caesarstone
Caesarstone is consistently rated as one of the highest quality quartz countertop brands. They offer a huge selection of colors and patterns like cool whites, warm neutrals, and bold contemporary designs.
Pros:
- Excellent durability and scratch resistance
- Superior stain protection
- Heat and burn resistant
- 15-year warranty
- High-end appearance
Cons:
- On the pricier side
- Limited number of bold color choices
Caesarstone is an exceptional option if you want superior performance and luxury appeal.
2. Cambria
Known for its stylish designs, Cambria has over 100 unique quartz patterns and colors. These range from marble and wood looks to abstract water-like designs.
Pros:
- Beautiful, high-end aesthetic
- Great variety of color and pattern options
- Durable and low maintenance
- Resists stains, scratches, and heat
- 10-year warranty
Cons:
- Expensive
- Can have minor imperfections or color variations
Cambria is perfect if you want a gorgeous, artistic statement countertop.
3. Silestone
Part of the Cosentino brand, Silestone offers a smart balance of quality and value. They have a wide range of styles from minimalist to boldly colorful.
Pros:
- Highly durable and scratch resistant
- Stainproof with integrated Microban protection
- Reasonable price point
- 15+ year warranty
- Excellent color consistency
Cons:
- Fewer dramatic patterns than some brands
- Can be prone to fingerprints
Silestone is ideal if you want mid-range pricing with excellent durability.
4. MSI
MSI quartz comes from a leading manufacturer of flooring and surfaces. They focus on budget-friendly options that mimic natural stone at a lower price point.
Pros:
- Affordable pricing
- Natural stone and marble looks available
- Decent warranty period
- Good variety of colors and patterns
Cons:
- Durability not as high as premium brands
- More likely to have flaws or inconsistencies
- Limited bold color choices
MSI is a great option if you want the look of quartz on a tighter budget.
5. Viatera
Viatera is a high-end brand that offers unique quartz made with semi-precious stones. They have an extensive collection of vibrant exotic designs.
Pros:
- Exquisite, artistic styles and colors
- Contains semi-precious stones for added sparkle
- Highly scratch and chip resistant
- 15-year warranty
- Stainproof
- Minimal maintenance required
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Slightly lower durability ratings than some brands
Go with Viatera if you want a showstopping quartz countertop and price is no concern.
Finding the Right Color and Finish
Once you select a brand, the next step is to pinpoint the exact color and finish. Here are some popular options to consider:
White Quartz
A crisp white quartz countertop is a timeless and versatile choice. White Dove by Caesarstone is a bestselling white quartz with a classic marble look.
Neutral Tones
Warm neutrals like tans, browns, and light grays blend seamlessly into almost any kitchen style. Try Cambria’s Brittanicca or Silestone’s Kensho for natural earthy neutrals.
Bold Colors
Vibrant quartz in blues, greens, reds, and blacks make a dramatic statement. Viatera’s vivid palette includes colorful choices like Azure Blue and Cherry Moss.
Marble Looks
Many brands offer convincing marble-look quartz with the same swirls and veining as natural stone. MSI offers several affordable options like Carrara Marble and Calacatta Gold.
Wood Grains
Wood-grain quartz provides the visual warmth of hardwood with the durability of quartz. Caesarstone has oak and walnut-inspired designs that mimic real wood.
Matte vs. Polished
Most quartz has a smooth polished finish but mattes like Caesarstone’s Haze offer a softly brushed look instead. Matte needs a bit more sealing but hides fingerprints well.
How to Care for Quartz Countertops
All quartz requires minimal maintenance. Follow these tips to keep yours looking like new:
- Clean with mild soap and water. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Disinfect with diluted bleach or other sanitizers.
- Use cutting boards to protect against knicks and cuts.
- Avoid exposing to strong chemicals like paint removers or oven cleaners.
- Reseal matte finishes once a year and polished quartz every 3-5 years.
- Repair minor damages quickly to prevent staining.
- Follow the manufacturer’s specific care recommendations.
With proper care, a quality quartz countertop will stay in excellent shape for over a decade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is quartz better than granite or marble?
Quartz is preferable for most buyers because it is nearly maintenance free, more durable, and available in a wider range of colors and patterns. Granite and marble can be prone to stains, etching, and cracks.
How durable is quartz?
Made from hard natural quartz, engineered quartz countertops are highly durable and resistant to scratches, chips, cracks, and heat damage up to 300°F. Premium brands like Caesarstone are reinforced for added resilience.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
Most quartz never needs sealing due to its non-porous surface. Matte finishes benefit from a light seal once a year to prevent staining. Polished quartz only needs sealing every 3-5 years.
Is quartz expensive to install?
Quartz costs $50-100 per square foot installed. More affordable brands can be installed for $60-70 per square foot. The higher-end options run $80-100 installed.
Does quartz stain easily?
Quality quartz resists stains from spills, oils, juices, wine, and common household products. Some darker colors may show some slight staining over time without proper care.
Can you repair quartz countertops?
Minor damages like scratches or chips can be sanded down and restored by a professional. Cracks or major stains may require a full replacement. Avoid excessive heat or pressure that can cause permanent damage.
The Takeaway
With its unbeatable blend of good looks, easy care, and long-lasting durability, quartz makes an excellent countertop material. When selecting the best quartz for your kitchen, consider the color, design, quality, price, and maintenance needs. Top brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone provide outstanding performance and beauty. With the right quartz choice, you can enjoy a stylish, practical countertop surface for decades to come.