Quartz vs. Marble vs. Granite Countertops: What’s The Difference?
If you’re deciding between quartz, marble, or granite for your countertops, each material performs differently when it comes to cost, durability, maintenance, and resistance to water and heat. Below is a straight comparison to help you choose the right option.
| Feature | Quartz | Marble | Granite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost (per sq. ft.) | $100–$200 | $50–$300 | $30–$100 |
| Durability | Scratch/chip resistant but not unbreakable | Scratches easily; less practical for heavy use | Highly durable and scratch-resistant |
| Water Resistance | Excellent; non-porous surface | Poor; absorbs moisture unless sealed | Good when sealed; otherwise porous |
| Heat Resistance | Limited (~180°F max) | Good; can handle moderate heat | Excellent (>500°F) |
| Sustainability | Highly sustainable; recyclable | Sustainable, but less durable | Very sustainable |
| Installation | Creates dust; requires a wet diamond blade | Heavy but easier to cut than quartz | Similar to quartz; needs sealing |
| Versatility | Modern and uniform styles; wide color range | Elegant with classic appeal; color variety | Natural, bold patterns; one-of-a-kind look |
| Appearance | Engineered stone; often white, grey, or neutral tones | Natural veins and unique marble colors | Multicolored natural slabs with vibrant variations |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance; no sealing needed | High maintenance; prone to stains | Needs resealing regularly for stain protection |
Choose quartz for low maintenance, uniform color, and excellent water resistance.
Choose marble for its luxurious appearance, knowing it needs extra care.
Choose granite for natural variation, high durability, and top-tier heat resistance.
All three materials are heavy, especially granite and marble. Make sure your base cabinets are reinforced to support the load. Improper support can lead to cracking or long-term structural damage.
Marble is slightly easier to cut and shape due to its softness, making it ideal for decorative edges. However, quartz offers more flexibility in terms of uniform slab appearance if you’re going for a modern, seamless look.