Best Granite Composite Sinks Reviewed

Granite Composite Sinks Compared

Composition of Granite Kitchen Sinks

Naturally-occurring granite comes from molten rock deep beneath the Earth's surface. Nowadays, granite is being manufactured artificially to hold the same properties as natural granite from the Earth. No matter if artificially or naturally made, every piece of granite has its own uniqueness. It's incredibly durable but is prone to damage when not sealed properly, especially to acidic foods and oils.

There are pros to choosing natural granite, but there is another option: granite composite. Granite composite is created by combining 80-95% natural granite with 5-20% acrylic resin. Similar to 100% granite, granite composite is highly durable and resistant to heat. But there are a few perks to choosing granite composite, the main one being that it is a fraction of the cost.

Not only does it have a lower price tag, but it manufactured to be more resistant to stains, chips, scratches, and water spots. So why choose a granite sink that is more prone to chipping and requires higher installation costs when you could have a granite composite sink instead? This looks like granite, feels like granite, is more resistant to damage, and won't cost you an arm and a leg.

Different Granite Composite Sink Styles

Choosing the Best Granite Composite Kitchen Sink

Appearance, Size & Shape

Durability & Resistance to Damaging Agents

Noise Free

Number Of Bowls

When deciding on the number of bowls in your kitchen sink, think long and hard about your kitchen sink habits. If you wash dishes by hand, a double bowl sink is the better choice since you’ll be able to soak and wash at the same time. Most people use dishwashers, which is just one reason why the single bowl sink is a more popular choice.

Single bowl sinks give more space for washing large pots and pans while the rest of the dishes run in the dishwasher. The main perk, though, is that a single bowl sink will typically be cheaper than a double bowl sink of the same size. No matter if you opt for a single or double bowl, be sure to consider sink depth and overall design.

Mounting Style/Installation Type

Part of the reason for this is its large size, but the other reason is that it must be mounted from below the countertop with the front of the sink extending out from the countertop edge slightly.

Undermount sinks are similar to the farmhouse style in the sense that they must be mounted from below, which means you’ll need a pro for installation. Lastly, dual-mounted sinks can be installed either above or below the countertop. It’s completely up to you and depends on the look you’re going for.

Hygiene, Ease of Maintenance & Cleaning

Since the kitchen sink is one of the most-used features of the entire home, it's essential to find a model that is easy to clean and maintain. Many manufacturers offer sinks that are resistant to water spots so that their customers don't have to clean the sink every single day. It is still suggested that you clean the sink regularly to prevent the spread of germs, but look for a sink that requires very little maintenance.

Cost & Warranty

The good news is that the cost of a granite composite sink is much less than a straight-up granite sink. Actually, it costs less than many popular sink materials, like stone, fire clay, and cast iron. But remember that cost is not just determined by sink material, but also by size, shape, and installation method. Sink installation costs vary drastically; farmhouse sinks cost much more to install than top mount models.

Only purchase a sink that comes with a warranty. The kitchen sink is a major aspect of a successful kitchen remodel, and it's one that's meant to last. Warranty policies vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer, but many companies are standing behind their products with limited lifetime warranties.

1. Blanco 440195

Our top pick for the best granite composite kitchen sink is the Blanco 440195 Diamond Super. A huge reason for this sink’s popularity is that it offers several installation methods, including undermount or top-mount. It doesn’t matter if you like the seamless look of the under-mounted sink or the installation ease of top-mounting. It comes in a variety of colors, ranging from vibrant white to sleek black.

Another loved feature, according to Blanco granite composite sink reviews, is that it comes in a variety of sizes. Even if you're limited on counter space, this sink will fit in your remodeled kitchen. It comes in 3 size options, including 15" by 15", 25" x 22", and 32.5" x 22". If you're not limited on space, it is recommended that you go with the largest size. The single-bowl basin gives you plenty of space for washing dishes, even bulky pots, and pans.

This model is 80% solid granite, so you get all the perks of granite without the high price tag. It is highly resistant to scratches, stains, and even household acids and alkali solutions. You won’t have to worry about heat damage either; this sink is resistant to heat up to 536 degrees Fahrenheit. All in all, you can’t beat the durability and fair price of the Blanco 440195.

We review more Blanco sinks in this article.

2. Signature Hardware 228976

Signature Hardware features a variety of stone farmhouse sinks, each one with its own unique personality. The company’s top of the range farmhouse sink and most-loved product is the 228976 model, and not just because of its stunning design features. The exposed front is unlike any other farmhouse sink on the market; it resembles chiseled stone instead of the traditional smooth sink finish.

The aesthetics of this sink aren't for everyone, but if you're looking for a farmhouse sink to serve as your kitchen's focal point, this one is it. Each Signature Hardware stone sink is handcrafted, and there are no two identical products. It features a large basin that is a massive 33 inches wide, perfect for getting all your kitchen tasks accomplished.

There are a few drawbacks to this sink, though. The first is the high price tag, but this is expected from a company that handcrafts each of its products to perfection. The second is that this sink often requires specialized cabinetry. Because it features a farmhouse design with an exposed frontside, your cabinets need to allow for this. But if you have the money to spend and the patience for installation, this is an excellent choice for farmhouse sink lovers.

3. Franke Gravity 33

The last granite sink we covered doesn't fall within the "budget-friendly" category, which is why our next review is all about great value. According to Franke composite granite kitchen sink reviews, the Franke Gravity 33 is the best value single bowl sink there is. Even with this sink's exceptional quality and durability, you don't have to break the bank to install this model within your kitchen space.

Franke granite sinks are made from 80% quartz, which is the hardest and most durable component of granite. The remaining 20% is comprised of acrylic resins that have been manufactured for easy cleaning and damage prevention. The Gravity 33 is scratch-resistant and heat-resistant thanks to the high density of the granite particles.

There are two different bowl options for this particular model, one that is 33 inches wide, and another that is 25 inches wide. Both use the same materials, same colors, and the same installation requirements. On the topic of installation, Franke sink users love that the Gravity 33 can be top mounted or under mounted. Just keep in mind that you'll need at least 36 inches of cabinet space, no matter the mounting style you choose.

Franke understands that selecting a kitchen sink is a daunting task, which is why the company does whatever it can to help its customers through the process. Here you’ll find only high-quality products, and the Gravity 33 is just one of them. The only downside of this kitchen sink model is that it doesn’t stand out in terms of design features, but it is highly functional and just as durable as any other sink on the market.

We feature several of the top Franke sinks in this brand review. 

4. Franke EDOX33229-1

Franke has come out with yet another top-rated model, and according to Franke composite granite sink reviews, this one is even more budget-friendly than the last. The Franke EDOX33229-1 is the best budget granite sink on our list, mainly for its low price tag, but also because it looks good in any kitchen. The sink comes in several color choices, including onyx, champagne, linen, and mocha.

The inspiration behind Franke products is to create a functional sunk space for homeowners on a budget. The EDOX33229-1 is considered to be one of the company’s top performers, and it has a lot to do with the double-basin design. If you’re looking for a double bowl sink that offers more versatility than a single bowl, you’re in luck. Each bowl holds a large capacity with a depth of 9 inches.

Franke customers love that this sink is very easy to clean and is virtually maintenance-free. Simply wipe down with a soft cloth or use a mild cleaner for more thorough cleaning. The sanitized built-in protective barrier helps to fight bacteria, even between cleaning cycles. The EDOX33229-1 will stand up to all your tough kitchen jobs with its resistance to scratching, chipping, heat, and staining.

The main downside of this sink is that it only comes in a double-bowl design, there’s no single bowl option available. But if you are looking for a more spacious single bowl sink, the easy solution is to purchase the Franke Gravity 33 instead. A few reviewers have complained of water spots, but this is mainly with the dark color options. To avoid unattractive water spots, you might consider purchasing the champagne or linen color options.

5. Kraus KGU-434B

A black sink looks striking in almost any kitchen setting. The best black double bowl sink is the Kraus KGU-434B, and not just for its sleek black finish. The high-end granite composite material is the best in its class, providing unparalleled resistance to impact and thermal shock. This sink is heat resistant up to 650 degrees Fahrenheit and comes with a lifetime limited warranty. Just be sure to go through the steps for Kraus product registration to ensure that the warranty remains valid.

Kraus uses naturally hygienic material that is infused with silver ions that work to repel germs. This leads to a sparkling clean sink that is resistant to dirt and grime. To clean, all you have to do is wipe the sink with a soft cloth for a streak-free shine. The KGU-434B comes in 4 color options, each one offering slightly different design features. No matter which one you choose, you have the option for top-mounting or under mounting your new sink.

The sink comes with a few extra accessories, including drain assembly, silicone mitt and trivet, mounting hardware, and cutout template. The coolest feature of the Kraus is its noise-dampening technology. This stone-like material was engineered to be quieter than other models by eliminating vibrations, therefore reducing noise.

The only negative feedback we have for the Kraus KUG-434B doesn’t have to do with the sink itself, but the hardware. Although the sink is pretty close to perfect, it could use some hardware improvements. Some reviewers say that the anchoring hardware provided by Kraus isn’t sturdy enough. Although it’s unlikely that the sink will fall out of place, you might want to invest in some additional hardware for added security.

6. BLANCO 440067 PERFORMA

So far, we've covered a few top-mounted options, but if you're on the market for the best undermount kitchen sinks for granite countertops, go with the Blanco 440067 Performa. This is an excellent undermount composite granite sink that fits well with any granite countertop. Under mounting a sink is the best choice if you're looking for clean lines and easy kitchen sink and countertop maintenance. This is exactly what you'll find with the Performa.

This model is made from 80% natural granite and comes in a variety of colors - 8 to be exact. The functional shape of the Performa is what reviewers seem to like the most. It offers both the versatility of a double bowl sink but the space of a single bowl. This is because there are 2 basins, but one is much larger than the other. You’ll have the option to soak your dishes in the smaller sink bowl, but also have plenty of space to wash large dishes by hand in the larger bowl.

If you’re unsure about the unique design with the uneven bowl sizes, Blanco offers an interactive design tool so that you can get a feel for the sink before actually buying it. This can be done on the Blanco Silgranit mobile app so that you can choose the color that looks best in your kitchen space. Since this is not the cheapest sink on the market, Blanco customers really love this mobile app feature.

7. Swanstone QZ03322LS.076

According to a lifestyle piece from The Seattle Times, a dual-mount sink “will give you a lot of flexibility when the time comes to pick your countertop. If you go with a tile or laminate countertop, you can use it as the drop-in style because of its ultra-flat sink rim...As an under-mount, the top side of the ultra-flat rim attaches easily to the bottom of solid-surface countertops.”

As shown above, the main advantage of choosing a dual-mount is that you’ll have options when it comes time to install. There’s no shortage of combination granite undermount sink and top mount sinks, but the best of these dual-mount models is the Swanstone QZ03322LS.076. It’s composed of 80% granite quartz - the only harder material in the world is diamond.

Aside from the installation flexibility, this Swanstone model has a lot going for it. It comes in a standard size that makes it the perfect choice for replacing your existing kitchen sink.  It’s virtually indestructible and can stand up to heat and stains. The double-bowl design features one larger bowl and one that is slightly smaller, which is starting to become the go-to choice among homeowners.

There is one downside, though. A few reviewers have commented that the included brackets don’t fit well with the actual sink. This could just be a flaw in a handful of Swanstone sinks rather than the product as a whole. Most customers have no trouble at all with installation, even when using the included brackets.

8. Elkay ELGLB3322SD0

Top mounting is the ideal solution if you're looking for easy installation and easy sink replacement. The best top mount sink is the Elkay ELGLB3322SD0. The easy-to-install design is what we love most, but that's certainly not the only perk of choosing the Elkay. You have 9 different colors to choose from, so you're not limited to interior design options.

The equally-sized double bowls make this a versatile sink, perfect for washing, soaking, rinsing, drying, and other household tasks. This sink is easy to clean, plus it is resistant to stains, heat, banging, chipping, and scratching. It can withstand heat up to 535 degrees Fahrenheit, so even boiling water won't damage this sink's integrity.

The thick material of the Elkay absorbs noise while you work over the sink, making it naturally quiet than most models. It’s easy to clean thanks to its nonporous material, only requiring a damp cloth and soapy water. If you do end up having a problem with your new sink, the company stands behind its limited lifetime Elkay warranty.

One piece of negative feedback is that this sink is slightly more prone to chipping than other models on this list of granite composite sink reviews. It’s still highly unlikely that your Elkay sink will chip, but there is always a risk of that with any kitchen sink - not just this one. Plus, if anything happens to your Elkay sink that is not in violation of the warranty, you’ll be covered for damage.

Check out this guide for more of our favorite Elkay sinks. 

9. Kraus KGD-54GREY Forteza

A drop-in sink with granite countertop is the perfect combination if you’re looking for easy installation. The best drop-in sink for DIY installation is the Kraus KGD-54grey Forteza. Similar to the Elkay we just talked about, just about anyone can install this sink without professional help thanks to the drop-in design. Once installed, caring for your Kraus sink is just as simple.

Included with each Kraus Forteza sink is a drain assembly, silicone mitt and trivet, mounting hardware, and cutout template. These added extras make it easy to install the sink as soon as you bring it home or it arrives in the mail. The high-end granite is resistant to heat up to 650 degrees Fahrenheit as well as scratching, staining, and chipping.

There are currently 3 options for the Forteza: a black 31.5” model, a black 33” model, or a grey 33” inch model. Although the 33” sinks provide slightly more workspace, the 31.5 is well-liked for its center drain placement. The 33” comes with an offset drain, but the center drain is more ideal for easy water draining purposes. No matter which one you choose, you can count on this sink being noise-resistant and durable.

There have been a few complaints about the sink being damaged on arrival. It’s actually not uncommon for large kitchen materials to arrive damaged when shipped, but it’s still not an ideal situation. We still recommended ordering this product online since online prices are the lowest, but there is a very small chance you’ll need to contact Kraus about sending a replacement (free of charge, of course).

10. KRAUS 30” Bellucci

Pros & Cons of Granite Composite Sink Material

If your kitchen needs a makeover, you're probably weighing the pros and cons of a variety of sink materials. Fire clay is stunning but insanely expensive. Stainless steel is another popular choice but is prone to showing water spots. Choosing a granite composite sink might seem like the go-to choice, but it also comes with its own set of pros and cons.

Advantages

The major perk of choosing a granite composite sink is the amazing durability of this material. These sinks were built to last, but they were also built to stand up to heat, chipping and denting, stains, and water spots. 100% granite is also durable, but granite is prone to damage when not sealed properly, which happens more often than you would think. This is not an issue with granite composite.

Here are a few more advantages that come along with choosing a granite composite sink:

Disadvantages

Now for the downside of choosing granite composite: the material’s hardness. Although the hard nature of granite composite is a pro in the fact that it increases durability, it can also be seen as a con. When not careful while doing the dishes, glassware is more susceptible to breaking. If you tend to be rough on your dishes, breakage is less likely in a stainless steel sink.

Installation of Different Mounting Styles

Undermount

Installing an undermount sink can be tricky, and it typically requires professional installation by a plumber. This is because an undermount sink has to be mounted from beneath the counter space. This undermount installation tutorial from Moen can guide you through the process or follow the basic steps below: 

Top Mount

Top mounting can be done with the countertop still in place, which means that it is easy to replace when it comes time for a kitchen remodel. Simply find a sink that fits the current countertop hole size (or cut a hole for a brand-new countertop). Then, drop the sink into the hole, mounting it in place from above.

Farmhouse

Similar to undermount sinks, farmhouse sinks require thoroughly thought-out installation procedures. In many cases, custom-made cabinets are necessary for farmhouse sinks since the sink must rest on a support frame within the cabinetry. To prepare the countertop, you'll need to rest the sink on top and trace the outline of the sink with a pencil. Then using the proper tools, cut along the traced line.

With the countertop removed, place the sink on the support frames found within the cabinetry below. Remember that this frame will support the entire weight of the sink, so it needs to be sturdy. The top of the sink should be perfectly level with the top of the cabinet. Fill any gaps and holes with sealant, and then carefully secure the countertop in place.

Care & Maintenance of Kitchen Sinks

Caring for a kitchen sink depends on the sink’s materials; maintenance steps for stainless steel are different than those for granite composite. To clean a granite composite sink, never use bleach or cleaners containing ammonia.

These ingredients can quickly turn a sink from vibrant to dull or even cause permanent discoloration. Use a granite sink cleaner and avoid abrasive cleaning instruments like steel wool.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Which is better, a top mount or an undermount?

It’s impossible to say which is better since each mounting style is unique in its own way. Many people prefer the look of undermount sinks since they feature clean lines and a seamless countertop look. However, a top-mounted sink is much easier to install and can often be done without professional help.

What is the difference between 18-gauge and 16-gauge?

This is a common question for those shopping for stainless steel sinks, not so much for granite composite. These numbers - 16 and 18 gauge - refer to the thickness of stainless steel. The lower the gauge, the greater the thickness, so 16-gauge is slightly thicker than 18-gauge stainless steel. Because of the slightly thicker material, 16-gauge stainless steel sinks are more durable, but also pricier.

How to measure cabinet size vs. sink size?

Not only is it important to gather exact measurements of the countertop hole for sink installation, but also exact cabinet measurements. When the sink is dropped into place or mounted from underneath, it won't work unless there is enough cabinet space to accommodate the fixture. To measure cabinet size vs. sink size, use a tape measure to determine the exact dimensions of the cabinet space and then compare it with the size of the sink. 

Where is the best place to buy composite granite kitchen sinks?

Shopping online is the way to go these days. Not only is online shopping more convenient, but it’s also where you’ll find the best prices on granite composite kitchen sinks. Browse around sellers on Amazon to see what you can find before heading to your pricier local hardware store.

How do I cut granite countertop for a new sink?

This is where things get tricky, and many homeowners choose to hire a professional. Cutting granite countertop requires the proper tools, plus the manpower to safely lift the countertop out of place. If you do choose to do it on your own, you'll need a jigsaw to cut the exact size and shape of the hole required for sink installation.

How do I secure an undermount sink to granite?

Are there drawbacks/disadvantages to using granite composite sinks?

The main disadvantage is that granite composite is sometimes seen as "too hard." This hardness makes it highly durable and resistant to damage, but it means that your delicate dishware is more susceptible to breaking. This tiny drawback doesn't compare to the many advantages of choosing granite composite.

What are the common problems one may encounter with granite composite sinks?

The most common problem experienced with granite composite has to do with cleaning. Avoid using any products that are highly acidic or highly alkaline since these can discolor the sink and strip the finish. Find a granite composite sink cleaner that is meant specifically for this material. Avoid using any abrasive cleaning tools like steel wool. Instead, use a soft cloth or sponge to avoid granite composite sink problems.

Conclusion

Of all the best granite composite sinks for kitchen spaces on the market, the Blanco 440195 is our top pick. This sink not only comes in a variety of colors and sizes but also features two installation types, top and undermount.

Thanks to the highly durable material, the Blanco is unlikely to become damaged, but if it does, it is backed by the company's lifetime warranty.