Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular option for kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. Made from ground natural quartz and resin, these engineered stone slabs are prized for their durability, low maintenance, and customizability. However, quartz countertops can also come with a hefty price tag, especially for premium brands. If you’re looking to install quartz on a budget, it’s important to understand which brands offer the most affordable options without sacrificing quality. Here is an overview of the least expensive quartz countertop brands on the market.
Lowest Cost Quartz Brands
When researching quartz countertops, you’ll find a wide range of products at different price points. Here are some of the most budget-friendly brands to consider:
Caesarstone
One of the leading names in engineered stone, Caesarstone offers a line called Supernatural that starts around $50 per square foot installed. With a huge range of colors and patterns, you can likely find an attractive Caesarstone option at an affordable price point. Opt for a simple solid surface rather than intricate designs to get the best value.
Cambria
Known for natural-looking stone patterns, Cambria’s entry-level quartz options cost $55-$65 per square foot installed. The Brittanicca collection includes solid surfaces and subtle stone looks that mimic marble and granite. Cambria offers a lifetime warranty, so it’s a reliable option even at lower price points.
MSI
This brand is sold exclusively through Home Depot. MSI quartz starts at $45 per square foot. With neutral solid colors and minimal veining, MSI’s value line resembles upscale laminate. It lacks the high-end visual appeal of pricier quartz but provides an affordable alternative.
IKEA
Perhaps surprisingly, IKEA offers quartz countertops starting under $50 per square foot. These budget options include solid colors and minimal patterns. IKEA also allows DIY installation to save on labor costs. The main drawback is accessibility, since IKEA products are only available through their stores.
Lowe’s House Brands (Allen + Roth)
Lowe’s offers its own lineup of engineered stone slabs under the Allen + Roth brand. These are competitively priced starting at $45 per square foot. Make sure to examine slabs closely for quality before purchasing. As a house brand, support and warranty specifics can vary.
Silestone
Known for durability, Silestone makes some lower priced quartz options such as Blanco Zeus that cost roughly $55 per square foot installed. Quiet colors with simple patterns keep costs down while maintaining Silestone’s reputation for quality.
How to Get the Lowest Price on Quartz
To find the most budget-friendly options, keep the following tips in mind:
- Stick to solid colors and minimal patterns instead of bold granite-look designs. Unique stone patterns are harder for manufacturers to replicate.
- Only look at lower-tier collections from a brand. Premium lines can cost up to double the entry options.
- Skip upgrades like special edge treatments and backsplashes to save on labor and materials.
- Install during a seasonal sale event or negotiate discounts on floor models or remnants.
- Supply your own materials if doing DIY or use a fabricator that allows you to purchase the slabs.
- Consider smaller local brands, but be wary of quality concerns and verify warranties.
Getting a Quality Product on a Budget
The brands listed above represent the lowest starting prices currently available on quartz countertops that still offer reasonable quality and long-term performance. However, don’t sacrifice key considerations simply to save money:
- Inspect all slabs carefully before purchasing to check for flaws.
- Make sure the warranty adequately covers manufacturer defects. Low lifetime warranties are preferable.
- Choose a dark, uniform color to hide potential scratches and wear over time.
- Opt for a matte or soft finish to disguise marks and smudges. Glossy finishes show everything.
- Get samples before deciding and evaluate them in different lighting conditions.
With smart shopping, it’s possible to invest in quartz countertops on a limited budget. Comparing different brands and collections is the best way to uncover pricing variations. Being flexible on color and style choices also allows you to take advantage of specials on in-stock slabs. With a combination of research and compromises, you can achieve the look of quartz at an affordable price point.
Frequently Asked Questions About Low-Cost Quartz Brands
Here are answers to some common questions about buying budget-friendly quartz countertops:
What issues may arise with cheaper quartz brands?
Lower priced quartz is more likely to have imperfections and irregularities. You may need to carefully inspect all slabs and avoid certain sections that have flaws. Cheaper brands also tend to have limited color and style options.
Does affordable quartz lack durability?
Quartz is an inherently durable material. Even budget options will outlast laminate and resist scratches, stains, and heat. However, lower quality control could lead to problems like cracking or chipping long-term.
Should I consider DIY quartz installation to save money?
DIY installation can save 20-30% on labor costs. But quartz requires special tools and expertise to get a flawless finish. For most, hiring a pro is worth the investment. Only DIY if you have ample experience with stone materials.
Can I negotiate prices on quartz?
Absolutely. Many vendors expect negotiation especially if you provide your own slabs. Try to get 10-20% off retail quotes by shopping around and being open to off-cuts or remnants. Special order colors also usually offer more flexibility on pricing.
Should I consider prefabricated versus custom quartz?
Prefabricated quartz saves the costs of custom fabrication. Just be aware of size limits; countertops over about 6 feet will require seams. Prefab works best for simple layouts but custom allows more design flexibility.
The Bottom Line
With the right brand selection and shopping strategy, installing quartz countertops on a budget is very achievable. Focus your search on the lowest tier options from leading brands like Caesarstone and Silestone as well as Lowe’s Allen + Roth. For maximum savings, be flexible on color and style and supply your own materials if possible. With smart comparisons and negotiation, you can find an affordable quartz option that provides lasting quality and beauty in your kitchen or bath.