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Every home needs a high-quality kitchen sink, but finding the best model to maximize your kitchen’s functionality can be a challenge, depending on factors such as the size of your kitchen, your budget, your preferred style and material, and the installation process. Overall, I found that most basic kitchen sinks cost between $200 and $400, although some budget models can be purchased for less. Larger ceramic models, however, can cost upwards of $750 and even exceed $1,000.
To help consumers find the best kitchen sinks available for their homes, I researched over 50 of the top kitchen sinks on the market and looked at over 200 customer reviews. Overall, my top choice is the Kraus Kore Workstation, which features a heavy-duty stainless steel design with a modern look that fits into any kitchen. Read the guide below for more of my top picks.
Best Kitchen Sinks: Our Top 7 Picks
- Best Overall: Kraus Kore Workstation
- Best Single-Basin: Ruvati Workstation
- Best Double-Basin: Kraus Standart PRO 50/50
- Best Design: KOHLER Whitehaven Single-Bowl Sink
- Best Budget Model: Elkay Dayton Double Bowl Sink
- Best Farmhouse Sink: Vasoyo Nano PVD Apron Front
- Most Modern: Kraus Quarza 60/40
Compare Top Kitchen Sinks
| Product | Basin | Installation | Material | Dimensions | Weight | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kraus Kore Workstation | Single | Undermount | Stainless steel | 32 x 19 x 10 inches | 26.5 pounds | ||
| Ruvati Workstation | Single | Undermount | Stainless steel | 32 x 19 x 10 inches | 48.3 pounds | ||
| Kraus Standart PRO 50/50 | Double | Undermount | Stainless steel | 33 x 19 x 10 inches | 33.1 pounds | ||
| KOHLER Single-Bowl Sink | Single | Undermount | Enameled cast iron | 32.75 x 9 inches | 115.7 pounds | ||
| Elkay Dayton Double Bowl Sink | Double | Top-mount | Stainless steel | 33 x 22 x 8 inches | 6.5 pounds | ||
| Vasoyo Farmhouse | Single | Apron front | Stainless steel | 36 x 25 x 14 inches | 44.2 pounds | ||
| Kraus Quarza 60/40 | Double | Drop-in or undermount | Granite | 33 x 22 x 11 inches | 37.4 pounds | ||
| Product | Basin | Installation | Material | Dimensions | Weight |
Best Kitchen Sink Overall
Kraus Kore 32″ Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink
- $369.95
- $439.95
- 16% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
This undermount single bowl sink from Kraus features heavy-duty, 16-gauge stainless steel and a brushed finish for a clean, modern look. I liked that the undermounting process creates a ledge that supports the included bamboo cutting board and two drying racks.
Pros Includes a drain cover Has a padded undercoating to reduce operational noise Contains a channel-grooved bottom that keeps water from pooling
Cons Develops water spots easily, according to some reviewers Has the most expensive price tag in this review
What Are People Saying About the Kraus Kore 32″ Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink?
I noticed that several reviewers praised the high quality of the accessories that came with this sink, which they claimed fit perfectly. However, I also found some dissatisfied customers who said that the interior of the basin wasn’t easy to clean.
“I love this sink so much! I’ve had it one year as part of a total kitchen reno and it is one of my favorite parts of my new kitchen. Part of that is the switch from a lifetime of a double basin to a single basin – so much better! Everything fits in here: all my large pots, cookie sheets, even oven racks are a breeze to clean in this thing.” — Laura Wagner via Amazon
“The sink is well made, but what I don’t like is that the corners are sharp, making it difficult to clean. The corners get gunky and moldy, and I have to use a cloth draped over a knife to get it out. I don’t use the sink accessories like I thought I would.” — CD via Amazon
Best Workstation Sink
Ruvati 32″ Undermount Kitchen Sink
- $379
- $397
- 5% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
This workstation kitchen sink has an overhanging lip for sink accessories, including two drying racks, a cutting board, and a caddy. I liked that these accessories extend the capabilities of your sink, allowing you to cut fruit, rinse vegetables, wash large pots, and more. It has a sound guard undercoating to minimize noise.
Pros Has a standard 3.5-inch opening to fit most garbage disposal units Includes a limited lifetime warranty Catches more food scraps with its deep drain strainer
Cons Some customers experienced rusting after a few months of use Scratching was an issue for some customers
What Are People Saying About the Ruvati 32″ Undermount Kitchen Sink?
I found that customers praised the care that the company put into its customer service. Homeowners received their sink in a velvet bag that prevented scratching. If they found a flaw in their sink, they quickly received a replacement model. However, I also noted that some customers complained about the design of the underside of the sink, which didn’t easily fit with some garbage disposals, while others complained of poor drainage.
“The sink is durable and heavy-duty. Cleans easily and looks great! The best feature is that it serves as a cutting board and all the mess from chopping meats and vegetables goes right is the sink and you do not even dirty your counter. Also comes with a vegetable washer strainer which hangs in the sink and is so convenient. Love it!” — William Barron via Amazon
“…It doesn’t drain well. The bottom needs to be sloped down more to encourage the water to drain. Its installed correctly and it’s not a plumbing issue, its the sink. I have to rinse any food particles down the drain with the spray thing on the faucet multiple times, like multiple times, the water pools up, not horribly but enough to make it a hassle.” — Ryan via Amazon
Best Double-Basin Sink
Kraus Standart PRO 33″ 50/50 Double Kitchen Sink
- $394.95
- $439.95
- 10% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
This 33-inch double-bowl kitchen sink offers homeowners two contained workspaces for separating clean and dirty dishes. I liked that the bowls are the same size, ensuring a clean, cohesive look in your kitchen.
Pros Comes with thick padding to cushion the sink Comes with drying racks for each basin Made from thick stainless steel
Cons Some customers said that its drain caught stubborn food scraps Dents or cracks sometimes form in the corners
What Are People Saying About the Kraus Standart PRO 33″ 50/50 Double Kitchen Sink?
Most customers I found were able to install this sink using only the included instructions. Those who needed additional help received fast responses from Kraus. Customers who weren’t satisfied with the sink complained that the deep basin took up too much space under the cabinet, making it impossible to store cleaning supplies and other items there.
“This is a great sink! Both sides are the same dimensions. The sinks are big enough to handle even our largest skillets. The sinks are quite deep, effectively hiding dirty dishes if you can’t get them into the dishwasher or hand wash them right away. The sinks come with stainless steel grates that sit at the bottom of the sinks, protecting the bottoms from scratching and also facilitating the drying of hand washed items.” — FSH via Amazon
“The sink is first-rate quality and has lots of room. BUT it was so low in the cabinet we needed to have all plumbing pipes to be replaced. $550 “extra” cost that was unexpected!” — James Sak via Amazon
Best Design
KOHLER Whitehaven Single-Bowl Sink
- $1,050.75
Prices taken at time of publishing.
This stylish sink is available in a wide variety of colors, including white, black, ice gray, and sea salt. Additionally, it can be purchased in single bowl, double bowl, or farmhouse styles, meaning you can fully customize it to best fit your space. It is made from enamel cast iron and has a wide 33-inch design.
Good for: Homeowners looking for a stylish cast-iron sink available in various styles.
Pros Has a smooth, nonporous surface Is heat-resistant up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit Can be purchased with a tall, ridged, or short apron
Cons Has a high price point Is heavy
What Are People Saying About the KOHLER Whitehaven Single-Bowl Sink?
My research showed that customers who liked this product were pleased with its durable, sturdy design that held up to continuous use. Others I found loved the stylish design of this sink, as well as the deep dimensions that could fit a large amount of dishes. However, some found it to be heavy and difficult to install, white others said it stained easily.
“Yes — this product was expensive. Compared to ceramic farmhouse sinks, really expensive. But the second it arrives, you will realize you will never have to replace this unless you simply decide the style is no longer for you. It’s super heavy and you will need help moving it and installing it. But, the end result is amazing — you will love this sink.” — Scott CLT, NC via Amazon
“I love the look and style of the sink, but I’m regretting buying the cast iron now. Any minimal contact between a pot and the sink causes pot marks, which can only be removed with Kohler’s expensive cast iron cleaner without negating the warranty. The sink also stains very easily. ” — Amy B via Amazon
Best Budget Model
Elkay Dayton Double Bowl Sink
- $119.95
- $143.06
- 16% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
This budget-friendly sink costs considerably less than other similar models available. It has an easy drop-down installation, and features a two-bowl design so you can keep your dirty and clean, or wet and dry dishes separate. It also features a durable design made from 20-gauge stainless steel.
Good for: Homeowners looking for a straightforward double-mount sink with a low price point.
Pros Drain is placed conveniently in the center Features dead-panning pads that help reduce overall noise level Is available in several designs
Cons Is smaller than other sinks in this review Some reviewers felt it was not made with high-quality materials
What Are People Saying About the Elkay Dayton Double Bowl Sink?
I found that customers who liked this product had easy installation and fit perfectly in their kitchens. Others complimented its deep dimensions and double-bowl design. On the other hand, there were some reviewers who said this sink arrived damaged, and others were let down with the materials, feeling the sink was cheaply made.
“This sink is Beautiful! I am so happy with it!… It fit like a glove going into my sink, it’s sturdy, it cleans up beautifully, it’s easy to maintain, and you can’t beat stainless steel! I am giving it 5 stars!” — Amazon Customer via Amazon
“The sink looked good for the cost, but the corner was dented when it arrived. Not a lot, but enough so that it wouldn’t sit completely flat if you tried to pull it down…. It looks like the shipping box was designed when all of these would have been palleted, stretch-wrapped, and sent to the “big box” store. It has almost no protection for single piece shipping..” — Handyfan via Amazon
Best Farmhouse Sink
Vasoyo 33″ Nano PVD Apron Front Sink
- $386.39
Prices taken at time of publishing.
A classic farmhouse kitchen sink can blend practicality with rustic charm. This sink is similar to other workstation models, but I like that it contains two tracks that accommodate various-sized accessories for food prep, dishwashing, and features an exposed Nano-PVD-coated apron front.
Pros Made of T304 stainless steel for durability Heavy anti-condensation coating protects cabinets from getting damp 10-inch bowl lets users wash dishes with minimal splashing
Cons More expensive than other kitchen sinks in this review Some customers complained about the sink struggling to drain
What Are People Saying About the Vasoyo 33″ Nano PVD Apron Front Sink?
Happy customers that I found praised this farmhouse-style kitchen sink for its looks and functionality, stating that guests frequently complement homeowners on the sink. However, my research also showed some unhappy customers who said that the sink scratched easily and was difficult to clean.
“I was looking for a farmhouse sink to add to my live edge slab counter. This sink was the perfect fit for the look I was trying to achieve. The sink is very well built and I used as a drop in as opposed to under mount. Worked great. The bronze finish was just what was needed to set off the live edge slab. Shipping and packing was excellent.” — Clay Diamond via Amazon
“The sink is easy to install and a great value however, it does not drain. Food particles stay on the surface, you need to push the the food particles to the drain or hose it down several times.” — Angie P via Amazon
Most Modern Kitchen Sink
Kraus Quarza 33″ 60/40 Double Kitchen Sink
- $199.95
- $249.95
- 20% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
This irregularly shaped kitchen sink is divided into two sections. Instead of stainless steel, I liked that the sink is made of a granite composite for superior durability. Additionally, the sink can be installed as an undermount or drop-in, providing homeowners with flexibility.
Pros The gently sloped bottom allows for efficient draining Has rounded corners that make the sink easy to clean The UV-stable granite composite won’t fade over time due to sun damage
Cons Is prone to chipping and cracking, unlike stainless steel sinks Despite its easy-drain design, some customers had issues with the sink properly draining
What Are People Saying About the Kraus Quarza 33″ 60/40 Double Kitchen Sink?
Most satisfied customers in my research said that this kitchen sink was easy to clean and install and looked great in their kitchen. They added that the sink was great value for the money. Alternatively, I did see some unhappy customers report cracks in the sink only a few months into owning it.
“My husband and I replaced an old sink with this one. I love the size of the two wells. The center divider comes up only half way, and I love that. The surface of the sink has held up very well to pots and pans and has stayed like new.” — Mitzi via Amazon
“…The look and feel of the sink were excellent at first. In less than two weeks, the shiny black luster dramatically faded, apparently because my water source is a well. I’ve used well water for 20+ years and never witnessed it completely damaging anything, and certainly not that fast…. The product description does not mention hard water will quickly destroy the sink’s shine, nor does it inform buyers the warranty will not cover anything related to hard water usage.”— Cindy via Amazon
What To Know Before Buying a Kitchen Sink
When buying a new sink, there are several factors worth considering, including the type of sink, the gauge, the size, the included accessories, and even the color and design.
While some of those factors may be more important than others, they’re all worth keeping in mind when you’re shopping for the right kitchen sink for your needs. Read my guide below for more information on selecting the best kitchen sink for your home.
Sink Type
Some of the most common types of kitchen sinks include undermount, topmount, and farmhouse. An undermount sink is mounted under the counter to prevent its edge from covering part of your countertop. Since undermount sinks are glued to the bottom of your counter, they’re typically less dense than other models.
Also referred to as drop-in sinks, topmount sinks contain a rim that rests on top of your countertop to support their weight. Unlike undermount sinks, food and debris can’t be swept directly into topmount sinks because of their raised lip.
Farmhouse or “apron front” sinks bring a rustic design to any kitchen with their exposed front. These sinks can usually accommodate more dishes with their deep bowl. However, they’re often more difficult to install than topmount or undermount sinks because they require counter and cabinet modifications.
Steel Gauge
Gauge is a metric used to measure the thickness of a sink’s stainless steel, with a lower gauge number signaling thicker steel. Most kitchen sinks are built with 16-gauge stainless steel, though some models use thinner 18-gauge steel.
Sink Size
Most kitchen sinks are 30 or 33 inches long. To wash dishes without splashing water onto your countertops, you should look for a kitchen sink that’s 10 inches deep. If you have limited counter space, look for a smaller sink that will allow you to have more space to store appliances.
Sink Accessories
Most sinks come with accessories that help with other kitchen tasks. Some of the most common accessories include cutting boards, colanders, and drying racks.
Sink Finish
Since many kitchen sinks are made of stainless steel, silver is a popular color. For granite kitchen sinks, matte black is a common color to match the kitchen design. If you desire a specific color to match the rest of your kitchen decor, you might need to go custom through the manufacturer.
How to Install a Kitchen Sink
Installing a kitchen sink is a doable task for any moderate DIYer. It requires certain tools on hand, such as a tubing cutter, jigsaw, drill/driver, hacksaw, and pliers, but it is achievable without calling in a professional. Here are the steps you should take, according to This Old House‘s Jefferson Kolle.
- Step 1: Measure and mark the sink’s layout.
- Step 2: Mark the cut lines on the counter.
- Step 3: Cut a sink opening with a jigsaw.
- Step 4: Install a kitchen faucet.
- Step 5: Attach the strainer over plumber’s putty.
- Step 6: Set the sink and connect the water supply.
- Step 7: Connect the drain pipes.
- Step 8: Attach a dishwasher drain and tidy up.
You can also check out the video below for a detailed visual guide on how to replace your existing kitchen sink and faucet.
Kitchen Sink FAQs
What is a good price for a kitchen sink?
$300 to $350 is a good price for a kitchen sink. Budget models may be priced as low as $200, while premium models exceed $400 or $500.
What type of kitchen sink is the easiest to clean?
Stainless steel kitchen sinks are the easiest to clean because of their non-porous and stain-resistant surface.
How do I clean my stainless steel sink?
Deep cleaning your stainless steel sink starts with rinsing out any remaining food or debris. Then, coat the sink with baking soda, and scrub it with a wet sponge. Finish by rinsing off the leftover baking soda residue with water.
What type of kitchen sink is the most popular?
The most popular type of kitchen sink is a dual-basin or double basin, which allows for washing on one side and rinsing or drying on the other. A single basin, which has only one area for both, is a more budget-friendly option. Other popular kitchen sink styles include self-rimming and drop-in.
If you’re looking for more tips and tricks on maximizing your kitchen sink, check out these links from our in-house experts.
How to Replace a Kitchen Sink Strainer
How to Install the Plumbing for a Kitchen Sink
How to Replace a Kitchen Sink and Faucet
How to Repair a Kitchen Sink Sprayer
How to Repair a Kitchen Sink Drain Trap
The Best Garbage Disposals
How to Clean a Stainless-Steel Sink
The Best Under-Sink Water Filters
How We Selected the Best Kitchen Sinks
To provide our readers with the best sink recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of single- and double-bowl sinks with a significant number of verified-buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home improvement space, from ceiling fans and floor coating to doorbell cameras and garage door openers.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
Questions or Comments?
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
