9 Best Types Of Kitchen Countertops (2024)

No kitchen is complete without countertops. Deciding on which types of kitchen countertops are best for your needs involves considering price, durability, maintenance and more.

It’s also worth revisiting preconceived notions about the best kitchen counter materials: Some materials, like granite, have become more affordable in recent years. Newer options, such as poured concrete and engineered stone, also present good alternatives. Even laminate looks better than what you might remember from the 1990s.

Here are the pros and cons of different types of kitchen countertops.

Granite

It’s easy to see why polished granite is the most popular countertop choice among homeowners. Incredibly durable, granite is a long-lasting countertop pick. Thanks to technological advances with the fabrication process and an increased supply of natural stone, the prices may be more budget-friendly than you assume.

Although most stones are in the tan color family, there are both lighter and darker alternatives. There are several grade categories for granite, which correlate to the cost of the stone: entry-level (or “builder’s grade”), mid-grade and high-grade. Higher grades are characterized by more unique patterns and more thickness.

Pros

• Low-maintenance
• Water- and heat-resistant
• Wide range of prices from mid-range to luxury
• Durable and long-lasting

Cons

• Requires professional installation
• May have seams
• Cracking is possible if not properly installed or sealed

Quartz (Engineered Stone)

If durability and style are top considerations for you, quartz may be the right choice. You would have to actively try to scratch, stain or otherwise damage this countertop material. The non-porous material also means it will not hold bacteria or viruses. These benefits do come at a steeper cost than other countertop materials.

One misconception about quartz is that it’s an entirely natural stone. In reality, this “engineered stone” is made from crushed quartz and a resin filler. Still, quartz countertops are often seen as alternatives to granite (which is available in fewer colors) or marble (which is less durable).

Pros

• Virtually maintenance-free
• Doesn’t chip or crack easily
• Extensive style options available
• Very hygienic due to non-porous construction

Cons

• May be sensitive to heat
• Heavy and difficult to DIY install
• More expensive than the average material

Laminate

Do laminate kitchen countertops deserve another look? Although this option peaked in popularity before the turn of the last century, there are still strong benefits to these countertops, which are also known by brand names like Formica.

The first and most compelling reason to consider laminate countertops is the nearly unbeatable price. Other perks include easy maintenance, a variety of style options and bacteria resistance.

Although the non-porous material won’t stain from wine or oil spills, it definitely can chip or burn. And, sure, laminate will be out of place in a high-end kitchen. However, it is a good option for budget-conscious shoppers, rental properties, house flips or second kitchens.

Pros

• Budget-friendly
• Relatively easy to DIY install
• Easy to maintain
• Can complement a retro look

Cons

• Doesn’t help homes’ values
• Not resistant to heat
• Damage is impossible to repair
• Visible seams

Marble

There may be no kitchen countertop material more luxurious than marble, a natural stone that complements many high-end kitchens. Available in hues including whites, greys and even greens, marble countertops have long been appreciated by bakers for the naturally low temperature of the surface.

On the flip side, it’s likely no surprise to hear marble is going to take a big chunk out of your budget. Beyond the expense, there are other notable downsides to marble, starting with the fact it’s frustratingly easy to stain and scratch.

Homeowners devoted to the idea of marble may find it best to use it for a portion of the countertop while using a more durable material in high-use spots.

Pros

• Adds to homes’ values
• Every stone is unique
• Heat- and water-resistant
• Great surface for doughs and chocolate work

Cons

• Warranty may not be possible
• Requires regular sealing
• Stains, chips and wears easily
• Must be professionally installed
• Among the most expensive options

Poured Concrete

A unique option for kitchens ranging from farmhouse style to more industrially inspired, poured concrete countertops have gained popularity in recent years. Concrete easily allows for tinting and decorative textures. Skilled professional installers can even incorporate pieces of tile or glass for a truly one-of-kind countertop.

However, don’t be fooled by the name: Concrete may not be as budget-friendly or durable as you may assume. Cracking is possible, especially if your home’s foundation is prone to settling. DIY-ing is technically possible, but it’s safe to expect a premium price for a professional-quality job.

Pros

• Customizable with color, texture and more
• Heat- and scratch-resistant
• DIY is possible for basic designs
• Modern and unique alternative

Cons

• Requires regular sealing
• May chip, crack or stain
• Takes up to 28 days to dry after installation
• Custom finishes make for a high cost

Butcher Block

This classic countertop material is making a comeback in a big way. Available in a variety of woods and finishes, butcher block counters lend warmth to kitchen design. Butcher block counters are also highly practical: If unsealed and unoiled, these counters are essentially built-in cutting boards.

Although this can contribute to quick signs of wear, butcher block can be easily sanded. Reduce the rate of wear by sealing the wood, using hot pads and cleaning up spills as soon as possible.

Butcher block is also great for DIY-ers—especially as big box home improvement stores now commonly stock ready-made butcher block counters—making it a wallet-friendly option.

Pros

• Easy to DIY and control costs
• Can be sanded and resealed
• Long-lasting
• Can be used as a built-in cutting board

Cons

• Can absorb stains and bacteria
• Requires regular maintenance
• Swells or shrinks with seasons
• Unsealed counters must be regularly oiled

Tile

If you value color and unique design, tile presents the most options. From elaborate hand-painted tiles to mass-produced porcelain tiles, your imagination is the limit with tile kitchen countertops.

Quartz or granite tiles are available at a lower cost than full-sized slabs. Just note that the range in style and quality is linked to a range in the overall cost of tile countertops. With some basic knowledge, DIY installation is possible.

Tile countertops boast easy maintenance and decent durability. Cracking is the biggest hazard, so take care not to slam down heavy pots or pans. The grout lines can also be a nuisance to clean, although opting for a darker grout color can ease this pain.

Pros

• DIYing is possible with minimal skills
• Heat- and stain-resistant
• Can be low-cost
• Extensive customization options

Cons

• Prone to cracking over time
• Grout lines can be a headache to clean
• Professional install and custom tiles can add to the overall expense
• Not considered as upscale as other materials

Soapstone

This lesser-known natural stone is comparable to marble in style and superior in durability. Available in gray or black hues with beautiful veining, soapstone offers a stunning contrast to light cabinets. However, the smooth, soap-like feel of soapstone also makes it prone to scratching.

But unlike granite that looks best unblemished, scratches on soapstone may actually lend to the patina.

Although soap and water are fine for cleaning, soapstone counters should be oiled semi-regularly (about once every few months). The large, natural slabs of stone also warrant a higher cost.

Pros

• Long lifespan of 20+ years
• Has great character
• Heat-, stain- and bacteria-resistant
• Scuffs and scratches can be sanded

Cons

• Expensive
• Requires professional installation
• Must be maintained with mineral oil
• Easily scratched and chipped

Solid-Surface Material

Solid-surface material is a great option if you like the look of stone, but not the cost of stone. Made with acrylic and resin, these manufactured countertops can be completely customized to the layout of your kitchen—meaning no unsightly seams.

Solid-surface countertops check the boxes for stain and bacteria resistance. You’ll want to be careful with hot pans and chipping is possible, although damage can be sanded out. With hundreds of looks available, this cost-effective countertop is a strong contender for shoppers balancing budget with style.

Pros

• Stone-like at a lower cost
• Possible to sand out damage
• Seamless and can include a built-in sink
• Mid-range prices

Cons

• Not heat-resistant
• Requires professional installation
• Less premium than natural stone