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Quartz vs Granite. Which Is Best?

What’s the better countertop stone, quartz vs granite? It’s one of the most common questions we’re asked whenever we design a kitchen or bathroom. Stone countertops are the standard and these two materials are among the very best.

If you ask just about any home designer or builder they’ll have their own opinion on which is best. It’s quite a divisive topic that’s constantly being debated. Both materials are natural. They’re both extremely dense and durable. Both look great, resist staining, don’t scratch easily and are easy to maintain. And they both cost about the same. Honestly, both stones make a fantastic countertop material and you really can’t go wrong with either. But for all the similarities there are still some substantial difference that are worth discussing. They both have their own pros vs cons and general info you should know about.

This article will discuss everything we know about quartz vs granite. In the end I hope you can decide which countertop material is best for you.

Kitchen center island with granite countertops with undermount stainless steel sink.

Center island with granite countertops & undermount stainless steel sink. Transitional home style.

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What Are Granite Countertops?

Granite is a very hard, 100% natural stone. It’s mined from quarries all around the world. Quarries cut the stone into large thin slabs and then deliver those slabs to dealers. You can actually go to a countertop dealer and pick out the exact slab your countertops are made from. Once your cabinets are installed exact measurements will be taken which create a template. The template is transferred onto your slab. The slab is cut to shape and then polished which results on a finished granite countertop.

Granite Is 100% real Stone

Granite is a 100% natural product. It’s one of the main reasons people choose granite vs quartz. Quartz is around 95% natural. It’s made out of a mixture of crushed quartz and polymers. The amount of real quartz varies by manufacturer. But what about the other 5%. Quartz is heavily processed which takes away from the natural quality of the countertop.

When you look at natural stone, you see striations and slight color variations that make each stone unique. The color and vein design is real. Quartz countertops have styles and designs that were engineered into them. Clients who want all natural materials would rather have a hunk of polished real of stone mined from the earth on their cabinets instead of something created in a factory.

The Bottom Line: If you like the beauty of natural stone then make sure to care for it properly from the start. Seal the granite yourself or have it done by a professional as needed. Clean up spills right away to avoid stains. Don’t leave anything wet or dirty on the stone.

Taking the time to properly care for your granite countertops will preserve their beauty for decades.

Pros Of Using Granite

Granite is a wonderful stone for countertops. Here’s a list of a few Pros.

  • Every granite slab is unique. Granite is mined and cut into a single, large slab of 100% natural stone so no two slabs are exactly alike.
  • Granite comes in huge slab sizes which are great for large islands. It’s preferable to use a single large slab because you won’t have to deal with seams.
  • There are hundreds of granite colors to choose from so there’s bound to be something you like.
  • Because granite is a natural stone it can have some imperfections that are taken out of manufactured countertops. Most people think it’s these elements that make natural materials so beautiful.
  • Granite stands up to normal everyday kitchen use quite well. It doesn’t stain or scratch easily.
  • Granite can be used outdoors. Because it’s a natural mineral, granite can easily withstand the elements. It won’t weather or fade because of exposure to the sun or elements.
  • When granite is correctly sealed it won’t soak up liquids and is stain resistant.
  • Granite has a wide range of pricing. While the cheapest granite will run you about $50 per square foot, the high end stuff can cost over $150.
  • Granite is great for bathrooms countertops too.
  • One of my favorite uses of granite is as a solid stone slab backsplash. It’s a hot trend we see in luxury high end kitchens.

Cons Of Using Granite

While granite is a very popular countertop material that has almost all pros, there are still a few Cons that we should discuss.

  • If you need a very large countertop then it can be hard to find a single slab that’ll work. Generally granite is laid in pieces with a seam.
  • Granite, like all natural stones, is absorbent. If your granite countertops aren’t properly sealed then it could absorb oils or liquids which can result in stains. Granite can also hold bacteria or viruses inside it’s pores. Sealing granite properly is very important and will need to be redone as needed.
  • Granite countertops are very durable but can sometimes crack along a vein. Especially toward the edges where there’s some overhang.
  • Granite can have a lot of variation in the color and veining. This is why it’s so important to pick the exact slab you’ll be using for your countertop. If you choose a color from a small sample then be prepared, the real slab can vary quite a bit.
  • Maintenance. Although having to seal your countertops isn’t that big of a deal, many homeowners want absolutely no maintenance whatsoever.

Some Granite is Dyed: Always ask whether or not the granite you’re considering is dyed. This is very common with black granite. Stay away from dyed granite because, over time, its color may fade or become blotchy. This is especially common in areas that get wet or cleaned often. Quartz ill always retain it’s color because the pigmentation is consistent throughout the material.

Granite Countertop Care

Granite countertops are made from real granite. It needs a lot more care and maintenance when compared with Quartz.

When it comes to countertops, some materials are definitely better than others. If you’re considering using granite for your kitchen, bar, or bathroom, you’ll appreciate the many benefits of using granite. It’s extremely durable, heat resistant, easy to clean, comes in a variety of colors and has a natural beauty that few other materials can match. But it does need some care.

Daily Granite Care

Granite countertops are easily maintained by daily cleaning with either a damp cloth or granite cleaner.

Use a damp cloth to remove any dust, crumbs, or pollen that builds up during the day. Depending on the color and veining of your granite these things can accumulate and you may not even notice so it’s a good idea to wipe the countertops down every day or at least every other.

If your granite surface is used for food prep then a daily disinfecting should be done. Bacteria and germs can be left behind inside the granite’s tiny pores even after you wire the countertop down. A simple cleaning with with hot soapy water is enough.We recommend using something that says antibacterial.

Wipe your granite down with a damp cloth after washing to clear away any residue.

Granite countertops in the bathroom should be cleaned in the same way. We recommend a simple wash with hot, soapy water.

Acidic cleaners can potentially bleach or stain granite, so we recommend using a soap with a neutral PH, such as a mild antibacterial dish soap.

Long Term Granite Care

Although granite is generally stain resistant, it’s not totally stain proof. Liquids that spill on granite can soak into the surface if not quickly wiped up. This water stain may disappear as the water dries but if its allowed to seep into deep pores then it may be permanent.

If an oil is spilled on the granite treat it in the same way as liquid. Clean it quickly or risk a permanent stain.

If your granite does get stained then try an all natural poultice cleaning. You can make a very effective all natural one out of baking soda and soapy water.

To prevent spilled liquids of any kind from staining your beautiful granite surfaces, we recommend properly sealing your stone. The amount of time required between sealing will depend on the color, and use of your granite. If you use your granite countertop daily then more frequent sealing is recommended than if you hardly ever use it. Sealer kits can be purchased at most home improvement stores and are easily applied. Follow the directions exactly, it’s a simple process and there are lots of videos online if you want step by step instructions.

You can hire a professional who has access to higher grade commercial sealing products. These commercial sealers often come with warranties of up to 15 years. Most countertop suppliers will do it for you at a cost.

If you have granite countertops then protect protect you investment by keeping them clean and properly sealed.

Granite Countertop Repair

Accidents happen and granite can occasionally chip if you drop something hard on an edge. It’s also possible to scratch it. Granite repair kits are sold at most big box retailers like Home Depot or stone dealers. It’s easy to fix granite, just follow the instructions or look for a video on how to it it online. There’s plenty of them out there. Depending on where the break is, the color granite you have and how the countertop broke, repairs generally look good.

Granite Countertops & Radon Gas

You may have heard that granite is dangerous to use as a countertop because it emits radon gas. Radon is a colorless and odorless radioactive gas that’s produced by the breakdown of decaying uranium. Because granite has trace amounts of radioactive materials in it people assume that can be dangerous if you bring it into the home. But it isn’t. Granite has the same amount as any other natural stone and the soil in your backyard.

There is such a minute amount of radioactive material in granite that it poses no threat to people. Even if some tiny amount of radon gas is released as the radioactive materials in the stone decay, the released gas mixes with the air and is diluted to such weak levels that it poses no threat to humans or animals. Even small children aren’t in any danger. Granite is used in tens of millions of homes and it’s not poisoning people.

This is all misinformation. Granite is essentially just a big rock that’s been cut and polished and is perfectly safe to use in your home.

Quartz kitchen countertops with marbling designed to look like real marble. gray shaker style cabinets. wood ceiling beams.

Quartz kitchen countertops with marbling designed to look like real marble.

What Are Quartz Countertops?

Quartz is a little different that granite because it’s not 100 percent natural. Quartz countertops are manufactured using around 95 percent ground natural quartz and 5 percent polymer resins.

Because quartz is an engineered product, it is non porous. Granite is a very dense stone, but it still has some tiny pores and capillaries within the minerals. Pores found in natural stones can wick up liquid which can result in staining. This is exactly why we recommend sealing your granite. And there’s more, those pores and capillaries can also harbor germs such as bacteria and viruses. The non porous surface of engineered quartz won’t collect these contaminants, so quartz is a better choice for cleanliness. Properly sealed granite does a great job keeping out germs, however you have to make sure you seal it.

It’s worth mentioning that a few quartz countertop manufacturers like Silestone and HanStone treat their countertops with a germ fighting coating. In addition, germs can be washed off quartz with milder cleansers than with unsealed granite.

How easy it is to keep quartz clean and germ free is one of the biggest reason homeowners like quartz. Especially if you have young kids in the house.

The Bottom Line: If your not that concerned with having a 100% natural real stone countertop then quartz may be the right material for you. It offers more color options, is durable, stain resistant, easy to clean and requires less maintenance than granite. All while being a beautiful countertop material.

Pros Of Using Quartz

Quartz is a fantastic countertop material. Here’s a list of some Pros.

  • Quartz countertops are primarily made from the mineral quartz which is one of the most abundant on Earth.
  • These countertops are man made in the Unites States which creates job.
  • Quartz has a wide variety of colors and patterns.
  • You can get quartz in a solid color which isn’t available with Granite. It’s a popular look in modern kitchens.
  • Even though Quartz countertops are mad made they look natural.
  • Quartz is maintenance free and doesn’t need sealing like Granite does. It resists stains, is easy to clean and doesn’t hold bacteria or viruses which makes it an ideal surface for food prep.
  • Quartz is actually stronger than granite because it doesn’t have veining. Granite can chip or break at a vein but Quartz can’t.
  • Granite is formed under intense heat. It generally isn’t damaged by placing hot object directly onto the stone. Although the sealant may be.

Cons Of Using Quartz

As great a countertop material as quartz is, it’s not without it’s faults. Here’s a list of a few Cons.

  • Just like with Granite, if you want an especially large piece then you may have to deal with seams. Even though Quartz countertops are man made, they still have some size limitations.
  • Quartz has a less natural appearance. Quartz manufacturers are always coming up with new designs to look more like real stone but they still don’t match up in this regard. If a natural look is most important to you then buy a real stone.
  • Compared to granite, quartz is generally going to cost you a bit more because it’s man made as opposed to buying raw material. Typically, quartz will cost you about $70-$100 per square foot but some of the premium types can go well over $150.
  • Quartz fades in direct sunlight. Especially the darker colors. If your looking for a good outdoor stone countertop that won’t fade then go with granite.

Quartz Can Be Damaged By Intense Heat

Granite is formed in extremely high heat and is naturally impervious to intense temperatures. Hot pots and pans won’t damage the surface, though they may damage the sealant.

Quartz, on the other hand, isn’t nearly as heat resistant. Almost every quartz manufacturer will tell you not to place hot objects on the countertop. It’s always recommended to use a hot pad or trivet when placing hot objects on the countertop surface.

The resins used to produce the quartz can warp and melt under high temperatures. Low quality brands have been known to discolor under hot pots or appliances, so if you want to put hot items directly on the counter then don’t buy quartz.

Quartz Countertop Care

Quartz countertops are made from a combination of ground up quartz mixed with polymers at a ratio of around 95% quartz to 5% polymer. It’s a man made product that’s extremely dense and doesn’t have pores like granite does. So it requires less care and maintenance.

Simple cleanings with a soft damp rag or a soap and water cleaning solution is generally best.

You don’t have to seal quartz so there’s no long term maintenance required other than cleanings.

Repairs can be made with chipped or broken quartz just like with granite. Repair kits are available or you can hire a pro to do it for you. However, because there’s generally no veining in a quartz countertop to help hide the repairs, the finished product may not be as good as new. This varies depending on the color and type of quartz you have and where the break is. Some quartz does have some veining in it although this is just man made coloring. But if your break is along one of these vein lines then you may have a better time of hiding it.

Beautiful white kitchen with both granite and quartz countertops.

Beautiful white kitchen with both granite and quartz countertops.

1. Appearance

Granite comes in a variety of colors and vein patterns due to the way it’s formed. It’s actually molten lava that rises to the surface and cools so the appearance is different from slab to slab and totally unique. Even though granite has an overall main color it’s also filled with natural variations of color throughout the stone. These colors can range from earth tones to blues, greens, blacks, whites and even reds. The veining is another factor to consider. No two slabs are exactly the same and that’s mainly due to the veins. You can get two slabs taken from the same rock that have the same base color but their veins will be totally different.

Natural products have an unpredictability and uniqueness that makes the special. Man made materials lack these exciting qualities.

Quartz is a man made countertop material so it looks can be tightly controlled and reproduced. The coloration of quartz is more consistent, and it’s available in a wider array of colors since they are produced with pigments added to the quartz. And with quartz you can have a solid color which isn’t an option with granite. Quartz’s color is reproducible so it’s easy to match countertop colors throughout the house. With consistent, tightly controlled coloring also comes a lack of spontaneity. Pick a color and every slab you buy will be the exact same color.

Your quartz countertop will be the same as the neighbors without that one of a kind quality that only comes from using natural materials.

Winner

It’s a toss up and all depends on what you value. Honestly, they’re both beautiful countertop materials. Do you want your countertops to have a more consistent look or one that’s more natural. You really can’t go wrong wither way.

2. Price

Granite starts at about $50 per sq. ft. and can go higher than $150 for high end material. These are installed prices. When you buy granite countertops, the material you need is cut out of a large stone slab. The leftover bits are called remnants. These leftover remnants can be purchased at a reduced price. If your buying so much granite that there are no remnants left over then most supplier will give you a better deal. Or, if you only need a small amount of granite and can use a remnant then again, you can get a good deal. Because of all this, granite prices are generally negotiable. Suppliers regularly have sales and offer incentives so call around and get multiple quotes.

Quartz ranges from $75 to over $150 per square foot installed. Since quartz countertops are a man made material that isn’t cut out of a natural slab, you generally can’t get the same deals on remnants. Unless for some reason they make a huge slab and don’t use it, typically they only make what they need. And since quartz is made by a limited number of manufacturers there’s less competition and less therefor less sales and incentives. You can negotiate a great deal on granite but not so much with quartz.

Winner

On the surface, the prices are about the same when you compare equal quality material. However, we negotiate great deals on granite all the time and rarely do so with quartz. When you compare quartz vs granite on price, granite is the winner.

3. Eco Friendliness

Granite is a natural stone that comes from the earth. Although it doesn’t take any energy to make granite, it does to quarry, cut and polish it. And it’s not all made in the USA. If your installing high end granite imported from Italy then it takes quite a bit of effort to get it here. If Eco friendliness is a concern of yours then buy a stone that’s locally sourced or buy remnants.

Another Eco issue with granite has to do with the sealant. They’re made from chemicals and come in a plastic spray bottle, neither of which is Eco friendly. However sealants are recommended, not required.

Quartz is a man mad countertop material that involves mixing crushed quartz with polymers and coloring. As with any factory made product, there are all sorts of pollutants involved in the process. This is true of not only quarrying the quartz but also crushing and mixing it. Just manufacturing the polymers alone would prohibit quartz from being considered a Green building product.

Winner

Overall, natural granite stone countertops produce fewer carbon emissions during production than quartz countertops however the need for long term use of a chemical sealant is an issue. Neither one emits significant amounts of radon or volatile organic compounds. We give granite a the slight edge as an Eco friendly countertop material because it’s all natural, and although a sealant is recommended, it’s use is not required.

4. Maintenance

Granite should be cleaned regularly with a damp cloth or simple cleaning solution like antibacterial soap and water. It also should be sealed when new and then resealed as needed. Over the counter sealers generally need to be reapplied every year however you can get it professionally done which lasts longer.

Quartz should also be cleaned regularly with a damp cloth and a simple cleaning solution like antibacterial soap and water. But quartz is such a solid surface that it doesn’t require a sealant.

Winner

In terms of quartz vs granite maintenance, quartz is the clear winner here because it doesn’t require a sealant. It should be mentioned that sealing granite is highly recommended but not required.

5. Durability

Granite is a very durable stone that’s resistant to heat, scratches, stains and many other common kitchen issues. While natural granite is a wonderful countertop material, it does have its weaknesses. Due to its porous nature, with or without a sealant, it’s stain resistant and not stain proof. Granite can also be broken at the vein, especially if this happens at an overhang. It’s very rare and requires a hard blow, but it’s possible. The stone should be sealed at installation and resealed on a regular basis as needed. Granite that’s been sealed with a resin based product during manufacturing will be more resistant to stains than standard granite, but still not as resistant as quartz.

Quartz is more durable than granite in pretty much every way. It doesn’t have pores so it doesn’t need a sealant to resist stains. Although it’s still not 100% stain proof. It doesn’t have veins so breaking isn’t as common as with granite, although it can still be broken with a very hard blow. Quartz is harder so it’s not as easy to scratch, although granite doesn’t scratch easily either, it’s a very small advantage. But quartz has a weakness and that’s intense heat.

Basically, quartz does everything granite does only a tiny amount better, except under high heat.

Winner

Granite can crack, stain, scratch, chip or even break easier than engineered stone. However, with proper care, these issues are very minor with either material. When it comes to quartz vs granite durability, quartz does everything granite does only just a little better. Except when it comes to heat. In a kitchen, granite has the advantage, however on a bar or bathroom counter where there’s no heat, quartz has the edge. This one’s a tie because it all depends on location and use.

How Do Quartz vs Granite Countertops Effect Real Estate Values

This is a complicated issue because it depends a lot on the value of the home. And you should consider the value of your home with any home improvement or design choice you make. Ask yourself before you spend even a dollar if the work your doing makes sense financially, unless it’s your own home and it’s something you really want.

If, for example your remodeling a home that’s worth $150 grand then I would never install granite or quartz countertops. There’s no way the money you spend will get an ROI. At this price point use something cheaper. However if the home is worth $800 grand then it’s probably a good idea to use one or the other.

Pro Tip: Make sure the value is in the home and not the land. Not all $800 grand homes are created equal.

If you’ve decided that using a premium countertop in your kitchen is the right move then you have to compare quartz vs granite. They’re both a fantastic material at about the same price point and honestly, you can’t go wrong either way in terms of ROI. Both are appropriate in even the most expensive $100 million dollar homes. It’s all about style,design and looks. Choose the countertop that fits the kitchen in order to get the best return.

Quartz vs Granite Picture Gallery

Below are some of our favorite quartz and granite countertops along with a bunch more info.

Modern kitchen with white quartz counters and matching backsplash. Muted brown gray cabinets. Super clean design. quartz vs granite.

Modern kitchen with white quartz counters and matching backsplash. Muted brown gray cabinets. Super clean design.

Modern Kitchen With White Quartz

This beautiful modern kitchen features white quartz counters with a very subtle gray veining. Muted brown gray flat faced cabinetry. What a clean, crisp design. If your debating using quartz vs granite and going for a style like this, then the choice is clear, you can’t achieve this look with anything but quartz.

Quartz countertops designed to look just like real marble.

Quartz countertops designed to look just like real marble. Get the beauty of marble with the durability of quartz.

Marble Quartz Countertops

White marble is a highly sought after stone for kitchen and bathroom countertops. There’s few stones that look as beautiful, however, marble is easily stained and scratched. It’s a relatively soft stone which makes it a challenge to use in a kitchen. Quartz does a good job of mimicking the look while delivering a lot more durability and stain resistance.

Modern rustic kitchen design with black granite countertops, rich reddish brown cabinets and stainless steel.

Modern rustic kitchen design with black granite countertops, rich reddish brown cabinets and stainless steel.

Modern Rustic Kitchen With Black Granite

This kitchen design is one of my favorites. If your someone who wants to do something different than white, gray and marble then this kitchen may have a few elements you can incorporate into your design. Warm reddish brown wood cabinets with black granite, stainless steel and real stone. Light wood trim, warm gray tiles and lots of custom inlays. It’s a really cool kitchen design that inspires us to take more chances and play with warmer colors.

Quartz kitchen countertops with a cream color. Gold metallic finishes. quartz vs granite.

Beautiful kitchen with a mix of quartz and granite counters. Gold metallic finishes.

Quartz vs Granite Countertops

Why choose one or the other when you can have both. This beautiful kitchen features cream colored quartz on the island with a cream and brown granite over the cabinets. It’s a fantastic design that let’s you use a solid color countertop. That’s not an option with all granite.

White quartz with spotted gray and brown highlights throughout. A very white kitchen design.

White quartz with spotted gray and brown highlights throughout. A very white kitchen design.

White, Brown & Gray Quartz Countertops

This all white kitchen design features white quartz with subtle highlights of browns and grays White flat faced cabinets with white porcelain backsplash tiles. This is one of the few kitchens we’ve seen that actually use all white. Those highlights found in the quartz are some much needed details.

Marble quartz kitchen countertops with white cabinets and hardwood floors. Gray tile backsplash. quartz vs granite.

Marble quartz kitchen countertops with white cabinets and hardwood floors. Gray tile backsplash.

Marble Quartz Kitchen Countertops

Marble quartz isn’t exactly the same as real marble but it’s very close. For most people that aren’t familiar with marble it’s very hard to tell the two apart. This beautiful kitchen features marble quartz counters with white cabinets and hardwood floors.

Gray and white kitchen design with white marble quartz counters. Stainless steel appliances. quartz vs granite.

Gray and white kitchen design with white marble quartz counters. Stainless steel appliances.

 White Marble Quartz Kitchen Counters

Gray and white is a very popular kitchen color scheme and marble is the counter material of choice. But there are serious issues with using real marble in the kitchen. Luckily quartz manufacturers are doing a great job of faking it. These counters look almost indistinguishable from the real thing but offer much better durability and stain resistance.

Cream and brown granite countertops in a beautiful open floor plan kitchen. closeup view of dual spout beer spout. quartz vs granite.

Cream and brown granite countertops in a beautiful open floor plan kitchen. Stainless steel dual spout beer tap.

Cream And Brown Granite Counters

Cream is a very popular countertop color because of all the light and bright kitchens being built these days. Everyone either wants white, cream or gray cabinets and these wonderful granite countertops work with any of those choices.

White and black kitchen color scheme with white quartz counters. A mix of white and black cabinets with brushed metal hardware. quartz vs granite.

White and black kitchen color scheme with white quartz counters. A mix of white and black cabinets with brushed metal hardware.

White And Black Kitchen With Quartz

White and black kitchens with shaker style cabinets are a modern design that benefits from a solid color countertop. In this case the designers used white quartz. When you compare quartz vs granite in terms of looks, quartz has a slight edge for some because this look can’t be duplicated with granite.

White marble quartz with white cabinets and real marble backsplash. Dark hardwood floors with tan walls. quartz vs granite.

White marble quartz with white cabinets and real marble backsplash. Dark hardwood floors with tan walls.

White Marble Quartz Countertops

Here we see another example of white marble quartz countertops. Since quartz is a man mad product each manufacturer will have there own versions of marble which will vary a lot. When your shopping for marble quartz get a lot of samples and look at actual finished slabs before you make a selection.

When your comparing quartz vs marble and want a marble look then you really have no choice but to go with quartz. There’s no granite that looks anything like real marble.

White granite countertops with white cabinets and gray tile backsplash. Wolf range with dual ovens. quartz vs granite.

White granite countertops with white cabinets and gray tile backsplash. Wolf range with dual ovens.

White Granite Kitchen Countertops

If you want a light and bright kitchen design with white cabinets and white countertops then you have more options than just marble. Granted, marble is the most popular choice along with marble quartz. But there are alternatives. Although white granite doesn’t look anything like marble, it’s still a beautiful countertop that fits the color scheme.

Cream gold & brown granite countertops with dark brown cabinets and center island. Gray glass subway tile backsplash.

Cream Gold & Brown Granite Countertops

If your a fan of warmer kitchen color schemes then this is one you might like. Cream granite countertops with splashes of gold and brown with dark brown shaker style cabinets. Kitchens should be a comfortable and welcoming. They tend to become the center of the home where guests end up hanging out. Especially now that most designs include a large island with plenty of seating.

While I’m a big fan of white, gray and marble, it’s nice to see warmer colors back in style.

White granite with white marble quartz kitchen countertops and white cabinets. Rustic hardwood floors.

White granite with white marble quartz kitchen countertops and white cabinets. Rustic hardwood floors.

White Granite With White Marble Quartz

If your comparing quartz vs marble countertops for your kitchen then consider using by both. Many top kitchen designers have been using 2 different countertops for the cabinets and island. It’s a beautiful look. Here we see white marble quartz on the island with white granite countertops. Both materials work well within this white and gray kitchen color scheme.

Prep kitchen with white quartz countertops and white cabinets. Gray tile backsplash.

White Quartz Prep Kitchen Counters

Quartz is a fantastic countertop material for a prep kitchen. Since quartz is more resistant to stains and scratches it makes sense to use it somewhere that’ll see some wear and tear. Quartz is also a bit better with bacterial issues because there are no pores for viruses or bacteria to hide in. Although it’s still recommended to clean your countertop with antibacterial soap after working with meats.

White granite pantry countertops with white cabinets. Hardwood flooring. quartz vs granite.

White granite pantry countertops with white cabinets. Hardwood flooring.

White Granite Pantry Countertops

Granite is a great material for open pantry countertops. If you have an open pantry like this one then you’ll probably want something that matches the color scheme of the kitchen. This design can also be used as a small prep kitchen so it’s good to have a countertop that’s as durable as granite.

White granite and black quartz countertops with white cabinets and subway tile backsplash.

White granite and black quartz countertops with white cabinets and subway tile backsplash.

White Granite With Black Quartz Countertops

With an all white kitchen color scheme it’s nice to throw in some contrast. And nothing contrasts all that white quite like black. Here we see white cabinets with a mix of white granite and black quartz countertops along side a white subway tile backsplash. If you want a solid black slab then quartz is your best choice. Granite comes in black too but it’ll also have all sorts of veins running through it. Even the blackest granite isn’t as solid as black quartz.

Black granite countertops with white cabinets and white subway tile backsplash.

Black granite countertops with white cabinets and white subway tile backsplash.

White Cabinets With Black Granite Countertops

You may have noticed the sheer amount of kitchens on this list that have white cabinets. It’s by far the most popular cabinet color choice. The strongest contrast you can get with white is black. By choosing black granite countertops you can go even further with the white because you’ll have something super dark in the room that prevents the room from looking bland. You’ll also want to vary your materials and trim style.

Here we see a variety of details including horizontal subway tiles with vertical cabinet paneling and lots of cabinet trim details.

Modern kitchen featuring flat faced muted brown and white cabinets with white quartz countertops. Solid slab white quartz backsplash.

Modern kitchen featuring flat faced muted brown and white cabinets with white quartz countertops. Solid slab white quartz backsplash.

Modern Kitchen With White Quartz

Quartz is an ideal material for a modern kitchen design because they come in more sold colors. These all white quartz countertops with matching solid slab backsplash are such a wonderful choice. You couldn’t achieve a modern style quite like this using granite.While there not technically 100% solid white, the veining is so subtle you can hardly see it even when up close.

Modern homes use a lot of simple shapes and muted color palettes so solid call counters work really well.

Cream gold & brown granite countertops with dark brown cabinets and center island. Medium brown hardwood. Quartz vs granite. floors.

Cream gold & brown granite countertops with dark brown cabinets and center island. Medium brown hardwood floors.

Cream Gold & Brown Granite

Cream Gold and brown Granite countertops are a warm, dramatic look that goes really well with brown cabinets. Soft creams swirl together with warm browns and cool gray undertones in this natural granite with a lot of movement. 2 CM and 3 CM slabs are commonly available which allows for some creative installations. This beautiful granite can be safely used as a countertop, bar top, table top, backsplash and even outdoor installations.

Color schemes like this one are warm and inviting which is great for a kitchen that gets used a lot. Almost everything kitchen we see lately is some variation of white, gray or marble so warmer kitchen tones are a refreshing sight.

Rustic kitchen design with cream colored granite countertops. Built in stone pizza oven.

Rustic kitchen design with cream colored granite countertops. Built in stone pizza oven.

Rustic Kitchen With Granite Countertops

This beautiful rustic kitchen design needs an appropriate countertop. Real stone granite with a deep, swirling grain just feels right. The warm cream color works nicely with the rich wood cabinets and real stone wall featuring a built in pizza oven.

If your comparing quartz vs granite for a rustic kitchen design like this then the choice is clear. Real stone works best with all the other natural elements throughout the room.

Black granite countertops with cool cream cabinets and a marble backsplash.

Black granite countertops with cool cream cabinets and a marble backsplash. Small green counter plants are a nice finishing touch.

Black Granite Kitchen Countertops

Black granite kitchen countertops look really good with a light cool cream cabinet. Light cream is coming back in style in a big way. The matching black hardware is a nice touch along with the black chandelier and candles. Small counter plants are a great way of bringing some much needed color into the design.

Cream quartz countertops with black cabinets. Brushed metal fixtures and hardware. Square stainless undermount sinks. mirrored backsplash. Quartz vs granite.

Cream quartz countertops with black cabinets. Brushed metal fixtures and hardware. Square stainless undermount sinks. Mirrored backsplash.

Cream Quartz Kitchen Countertops

Did you know quartz comes in a beautiful shade of cream. Well here it is and it looks simply fantastic with these black cabinets. This kitchen design has a modern flair with lots of more traditional elements. We see a lot of black and white kitchens in transitional style homes. And while cream isn’t technically white, this shade is light enough that it works.

Brazilian black, gold, brown and cream granite with rich brown wood cabinets and cream colored tile.

Brazilian Granite Countertops

This beautiful granite is imported from Brazil. It features a black, brown, cream and gold color scheme with specks of other colors throughout. There are no grains, it’s sort of a mash up up different shapes and colors. It’s a very pretty stone in person that definitely can’t be duplicated with quartz.

If your debating on whether or not to choose quartz vs granite and want a countertop like then then there’s really only one choice. Quartz doesn’t offer anything close.

Beautiful black granite countertops in the fantastic modern country kitchen.

Beautiful black granite countertops in the fantastic modern country kitchen.

Black Granite Countertops In A Modern Country Kitchen

This is one of my favorite kitchens on the page. The majority of high end kitchen designs we see are white, gray and marble so it’s a great feeling to see something this unique. The combinations of these reddish brown cabinets with black granite, real stone and stainless steel with lighter wood window trim and all that natural light is just fantastic.

If your debating quartz vs granite and want to replicate a kitchen design like this then granite is the clear choice. Using natural stone is a must.

Ultra modern black and white kitchen design with Agatha black granite countertops, black cabinets and backsplash.

Ultra modern black and white kitchen design with Agatha black granite countertops, black cabinets and backsplash.

Agatha Black Granite Countertops In A Modern kitchen

This fantastic ultra modern black kitchen features black wood cabinets, black backsplash and Agatha black granite countertops with a black range, gold faucets and hardware. It’s such a strikingly bold kitchen design that’s unlike just about anything I’ve seen before. Agatha black is a unique granite that has steaks of white veins running through it. In a design like this it’s a wonderful countertop choice.

When your debating quartz vs granite for a unique kitchen style like this, it may only be possible to pull off with one material or the other. While most of their qualities are relatively the same, in the looks department there are some big difference. Some granite looks are impossible to duplicate with quartz, and vice versa.

White kitchen cabinets with black granite. Dark brown hardwood floors. Stainless steel appliances. White subway tile backsplash. Quartz vs granite.

White kitchen cabinets with black granite. Dark brown hardwood floors. Stainless steel appliances. White subway tile backsplash.

White And Black Kitchen

This beautiful white and black kitchen design features white cabinets and a white subway tile backsplash with black granite countertops. Dark brown hardwood floors and stainless steel appliances. It’s a trendy, very popular kitchen design that’s clean and contemporary without being too over the top modern. We consider this more of a transitional design. You really can’t go wrong with a design like this one,especially if your remodeling your kitchen for resale or doing a house flip.

Gray quartz kitchen countertops with white cabinets and porcelain marble backsplash. Stainless steel appliances and rustic hardwood floors.

Solid gray quartz kitchen countertops with white cabinets and porcelain marble backsplash. Stainless steel appliances and rustic hardwood floors.

Solid Gray Quartz Countertops

If you like a gray and white kitchen design then these countertops may be for you. You can’t get this look with granite. Solid light gray with white shaker style cabinets and brushed hardware. The countertop color goes really well with the gray brushed metal finishes and that porcelain marble backsplash. It’s a clean modern twist on an otherwise traditional design.

Black and white kitchen design. White cabinets with black granite. Black frame windows with white trim and white subway wall tiles.

Black and white kitchen design. White cabinets with black granite. Black frame windows with white trim and white subway wall tiles.

Black And White Kitchen

If you like black and white kitchen designs then there’s bound to be something in this article that’s right for you. This kitchen features white cabinets with black granite including streaks of white. White subway wall tiles and backsplash with black frame windows and white trim. The black frame windows are what I really love about the kitchen.

These huge windows add in lots of natural light and the black really highlights the frames. They standout more than they would otherwise and work nicely with the counters.

White marble quartz with deep gray veins. White cabinets with shiplap walls. Stainless steel metal finishes. Quartz vs granite.

White marble quartz with deep gray veins. White cabinets with shiplap walls. Stainless steel metal finishes.

Marble Quartz Countertops

Another beautiful high end kitchen featuring marble quartz countertops. This really is the best of both worlds. The beauty of real marble with the durability of quartz. And in the debate between quartz vs granite, if this is the look you want then there’s no choice but to choose quartz. Granite doesn’t have anything that comes close to mimicking the look of marble like quartz does.

White spotted quartz countertops with gray cabinets in this open floor plan kitchen / living room. Dark hardwood floors with white flat faced cabinets.

White spotted quartz countertops with gray cabinets in this open floor plan kitchen / living room. Dark hardwood floors with white flat faced cabinets.

White Spotted Quartz

White spotted quartz is a interesting blend of pale silvers, browns and frosty whites.It works well in a color scheme like this because the subtle hints of brown play off the dark brown floors while the white matches just about everything else in the room. These spotted designs don’t have the traditional veining found in most stones that turn some homeowners off. It’s a reserve countertop style that gives off a classy vibe.

Marble quartz countertops with a subtle gray veining. White gloss backsplash tiles with a custom made wood oven hood.

Marble quartz countertops with a subtle gray veining. White gloss backsplash tiles with a custom made wood oven hood.

White Marble Quartz

If your anything like us and can’t get enough of white marble quartz then you’ll appreciate this kitchen design. I especially like when the marble has just a few subtle hints of gray.

White marble quartz countertop with white cabinets and backsplash. Bronze faucet and sink.

White marble quartz countertop with white cabinets and backsplash. Bronze faucet and sink.

White Marble Quartz With Bronze Faucet And Sink

Here we have another beautiful example of white marble quartz. No granite can come close to these looks you can get from quartz. Is this is the look you want then the debate between quartz vs granite is all but over.

White granite kitchen countertop with brown  and gold. Large center island with wicker seating.

White granite kitchen countertop with brown  and gold. Large center island with wicker seating.

White Granite

This white granite kitchen countertops have brown and gold throughout which looks great with these wicker island chairs. Coordinating different aspects of your kitchen decor really draws the room design together.

More white granite kitchen countertops with gold and brown. White subway tile backsplash with counter decorations.

More white granite kitchen countertops with gold and brown. White subway tile backsplash with counter decorations.

White, Gold & Brown Granite

Here’s another view of those beautiful white, gold and brown kitchen countertops. Notice how the basket with simple green plant works with those wicker island chairs and the dining room table chair in the background. If you want a harmonious design, then matching elements from around the room and even other rooms with colors found throughout your countertops is a nice way to do it.

Gray quartz countertops with white cabinets and blue center island. Dark gray subway backsplash tiles.

Gray quartz countertops with white cabinets and blue center island. Dark gray subway backsplash tiles.

Solid Gray Quartz Kitchen Counters

Solid gray quartz kitchen countertops with white cabinets and blue center island. Shaker style. Dark gray subway backsplash tiles. White porcelain sink and stainless steel appliances.

Cream kitchen cabinets with cream and brown granite countertops. Natural tan stone flooring tiles and subway backsplash.

Cream kitchen cabinets with cream and brown granite countertops. Natural tan stone flooring tiles and subway backsplash.

Cream, Brown & Gold Granite Countertops

If your like us and want to see more beautiful kitchens that aren’t all white, gray and marble then this design may be for you. It features a light cream cabinet with natural tan stone tile flooring and backsplash and a cream granite countertop. The fantastic counters have browns and golds throughout that look great with the rooms warm color scheme. The bronze hardware and faucet are wonderful choices as is the exposed wood ceiling beams.

White and gray granite countertops with gray shaker style cabinets and white backsplash.

White and gray granite countertops with gray shaker style cabinets and white backsplash.

White & Gray Granite Countertops

These white and gray granite countertops look great in this gray and white kitchen.

Gray and white granite countertops with white shaker style cabinets and a light gray subway backsplash tile.

Gray and white granite countertops with white shaker style cabinets and a light gray subway backsplash tile. Wood floors. Stainless appliances.

Gray & White Granite

Another beautiful white kitchen with gray and white granite countertops.

Gray and white quartz countertops. White shaker style cabinets.

Gray and white quartz countertops. White shaker style cabinets.

White And Gray Quartz

Here’s another beautiful white kitchen with gray and white countertops only this time with quartz.

Warm cream kitchen cabinets with marble quartz center island and rich hardwood floors.

Warm cream kitchen cabinets with marble quartz center island and rich hardwood floors.

Marble Quartz Kitchen Countertops

Now this is a kitchen design we can get excited about. While I do really like a white and gray kitchen, when so many are designed that way it gets exhausting seeing the same thing over and over again. I prefer a warmer feel and love cream. These cabinets could be considered white but they have a nice, warm feel to them that I think belongs in a kitchen.

Summary: Quartz vs Granite. Which Is Best?

What’s better quartz or granite? It’s one of the most common questions we’re asked whenever we design a kitchen or bathroom. Stone countertops are the standard and these two materials are among the very best. While they are very similar in almost every way, there are still some big differences. Looks, density, durability and prices vary a bit and they both have their own pros vs cons. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with either stone. They’re both fantastic countertop materials. But depending on your situation and needs, one may be better than the other.

I hope this article helps you choose the right stone countertop material for your next bath or kitchen project.

If you have any questions or comments e-mail us any time. We’d love to hear from you.

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