The 7 Best Kitchen Faucets
“Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links.”
During kitchen renovations, big-ticket items like refrigerators, stoves, and dishwashers are typically the first to be upgraded. However, one often overlooked yet equally impactful upgrade is a new kitchen faucet. Making this change can give your space a quick and easy refresh, and you don’t need to spend an entire month’s paycheck to do it. Even a basic polished chrome kitchen faucet paired with an older kitchen sink is often a significant improvement.
While installing a new kitchen faucet is a relatively simple upgrade, finding the perfect replacement is no simple task. There is a lot to consider, from its functionality to its design and durability. We’ve compiled this handy buying guide of the most popular kitchen faucets to suit a range of styles and budgets. Scroll down for our lineup, plus advice to consider before you shop.
The Best Kitchen Faucets
What to Consider
Beyond the obvious features like style and functionality, there are several things to consider as you search for the best kitchen faucet. These factors can impact aspects like how you use the faucet and long-term satisfaction with your new fixture.
Material
Kitchen faucets come in various materials, including stainless steel, chrome, brass, and copper, and what you choose is more than just a matter of aesthetics. For instance, stainless steel is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. Brass is another widely used material because of its high durability, resistance to corrosion, and antimicrobial properties. When making your choice of material, you should aim to balance factors like durability, maintenance, and your design preferences.
Finishes
While the material is what’s used to construct the faucet, the finish is what you see and touch. There are several finishes to choose from, including chrome, brushed nickel, gold, and polished brass, just to name a few. The most important thing is to find a finish that fits your taste and decor. Additionally, consider factors like how resistant the finish is to fingerprints and how easy it is to clean. The finish you choose can also affect the overall cost, with some specialty finishes like brushed gold or rose gold being more expensive.
Mount Types
There are a surprising number of mount types, potentially complicating what you can buy if you’re upgrading your faucet. A deck mount is the most common type and what appears most often on this list. It can be installed directly on the sink deck or countertop, accommodating a single-hole or three-hole configuration. It’s likely your existing setup is a deck mount, so installing any of the options below should be relatively straightforward.
There are a handful of other mount types, including center-set mount, which is designed for faucets that combine the handles (cold and hot) with a spout on a single base. There are also wall, bridge, and pot filler mounts, each serving specific purposes. Wall mounts are installed directly on the wall above the sink, freeing up counter space. Bridge mounts are often used in vintage-style kitchens, where the hot and cold water lines “bridge” over to connect with the spout. Pot filler mounts, which generally sit above the stove, are specialized faucets for filling large pots.
Sprayer Type
The most basic kitchen faucet you can buy is a single-handle model that typically comes with or without a side sprayer. For a step up, there are single-handle kitchen faucets that have a pull-out spray head. But these days, gooseneck kitchen faucets with pull-down sprayers are one of the more popular designs, and many at the higher end offer touchless operation and are smart-enabled for voice control. Additionally, better models feature magnetic docking so the sprayer head stays connected to the neck. Without this feature, the spray head may start to droop a bit over time.
Faucet Height
In general, gooseneck style faucets are the most versatile option for kitchen sinks. But their high, arched spout may not fit your space if you have cabinets above the kitchen sink. Make sure to confirm the faucet’s spout reach and fixture’s maximum height before you make your decision.
Flow Rate
A kitchen faucet’s flow rate, also known as gallons per minute (GPM), refers to how many gallons of water flow through the faucet per minute. This measurement gives you an idea of how quickly you can do things like fill a pot or rinse dishes. Federal standards mandate that all bathroom and kitchen faucets have a maximum flow rate of 2.2 GPM. You’ll typically find kitchen faucets with a flow rate of 1.8 GPM, with more eco-friendly options featuring a flow rate of 1.5 GPM. The higher the flow rate, the better the cleaning power, making it easier to get rid of grease and crusty food.
How We Selected
I love cooking and baking, so I’m always washing dishes (remember to clean as you go!). With experience using various kitchen faucets like fixed spout, low-arc, and pull-down models, I know which features to consider and which to avoid. This list covers a variety of styles, functions, and prices to cater to different preferences, with the top choices picked based on the criteria above. In addition to my own experience, I considered expert opinions and user reviews from across the web, ensuring my research identified the best kitchen faucets available.
Leland Pull-Down Touch Kitchen Faucet
You don’t have to go all out when upgrading your kitchen faucet—even a basic pull-down model can make a significant difference. The Delta Leland faucet has a convenient pull-down sprayer that will become a feature that you won’t want to live without if you’re upgrading from a fixed spout. I upgraded to a basic pull-down in my apartment and it made washing dishes so much easier; it’s also great for cleaning out the sink.
The Leland’s sprayer features a magnetic dock to prevent it from drooping over time. Additionally, the faucet can swivel 360 degrees, so you can easily move it out of the way. It also offers a 20-inch retractable hose that provides excellent reach.
For added convenience, the Leland supports a touch feature to activate the flow of water when your hands are dirty. There’s also an LED light at its base that changes color to indicate the water’s temperature. This visual cue helps you quickly gauge whether the water is hot, cold, or somewhere in between.
You get everything you need when you buy the Leland, including supply lines and an optional deck plate to cover pre-existing holes. The Leland is available in four finishes: chrome, arctic stainless, venetian bronze, and SpotShield stainless.
Shop Now
Leland Pull-Down Touch Kitchen Faucet
amazon.com
$224.58
” data-src=”https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/yfcEi2U.heOjr_rgbrVRMQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMjQy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/aol_popular_mechanics_812/06cc1c901c9d6f5bcf3566b8fea7b061″/>
Shop Now
Leland Pull-Down Touch Kitchen Faucet
amazon.com
$224.58
Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
For under $100 (or even less during a sale), this Wewe pull-down faucet is the perfect upgrade for those on a budget. It offers a high-arc gooseneck and a 71-inch pull-down sprayer that itself can swivel 360 degrees, so it won’t get stuck or give you resistance while cleaning. It has a multifunctional spray head with three modes: stream for filling pots, spray for rinsing dishes, and pause for avoiding splashes.
Additionally, the faucet offers some flexibility during installation, allowing you to place the handle on the left, middle, or right side. It can also be installed in one hole or three hole setups, with an optional deck plate included. This makes it compatible with a wide range of sink configurations and kitchen layouts, accommodating both new installations and replacements of existing faucets.
At less than $100, it should be an upgrade you make sooner rather than later if you want to improve your kitchen’s functionality without breaking the bank.
Shop Now
Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
amazon.com
$65.51
” data-src=”https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/Urz8kyWQ1oNMiXS5GpXKKQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/aol_popular_mechanics_812/a2c3dc9be2ffed7ed55c9b509e8a1f12″/>
Shop Now
Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
amazon.com
$65.51
Adler Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
Moen’s Adler features a simple, high-class design that’s deceptively affordable. It features a high arc and a retractable pull-down sprayer that docks securely when not in use. The sleek, curved spout provides ample room for filling larger pots or cleaning bulky items, while the spray makes rinsing dishes so much easier than a fixed spout.
The Adler also offers easy mounts onto the sink or countertop, giving you flexibility during installation. It also comes with a deck plate for three-hole installations. All in all, the Adler offers a simple, no-fuss design for an instant upgrade over a fixed spout—and it’s relatively affordable choice for budget-conscious renters.
While it’s a solid value pick, the faucet is made of zinc, which may have potential long term durability concerns. Compared to brass, zinc isn’t as durable and may be more susceptible to wear and tear over time. Still, the Moen Adler is an excellent pull down faucet that elevates the look and functionality of your kitchen.
Shop Now
Adler Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
amazon.com
$125.00
” data-src=”https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/o_BDzT0MbQHEN3XktGTlyA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD05MzI-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/aol_popular_mechanics_812/1821e1538fd1513ff8c8eebd2b67a275″/>
Shop Now
Adler Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
amazon.com
$125.00
Bolden Kitchen Faucet
Commercial-style kitchen faucets have a modern farmhouse look, but the exposed hardware elevates the overall design so it works well in settings ranging from contemporary to industrial. The Kraus Bolden is positively swoon-worthy, featuring a high-arc open-coil spout that gives it an industrial vibe. This gives it the spout excellent flexibility and reach, which is perfect for large sinks that typically accompany farmhouse-style kitchens.
The Kraus Bolden stands at 18 inches and features a swivel spout and pull-down spray head. For those times when your hands are dirty, the base of the faucet has a motion sensor that allows you to turn it on and off. There’s also a 2-in-1 filter faucet that works with most under-counter filtration systems.
Unlike the Delta Leland, the Kraus Bolden is limited to two spray functions (the Leland has three). However, you can choose from 13 different finishes, so it isn’t hard to find one that fits your kitchen’s aesthetics.
Shop Now
Bolden Kitchen Faucet
amazon.com
$166.98
” data-src=”https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/ywSn7qmqiF7JK1awoDLsEQ–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/aol_popular_mechanics_812/d531257498ec6d2f16a8b1ad17406bb1″/>
Shop Now
Bolden Kitchen Faucet
amazon.com
$166.98
Oletto Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
While the functionality of a kitchen faucet is a crucial factor, its aesthetic appeal is also important. The simple, elegant design of the Kraus Oletto Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet is eye-catching, and there are four different finishes to suit various kitchen styles and color schemes. From classic chrome and stainless steel to matte black and champagne bronze, the Oletto comes in a variety of options to make a statement in your kitchen.
Beyond the Oletto’s looks, it offers premium functionality like a pull-down sprayer, silicone nozzles that are easy to clean, and a faucet that can swivel 360 degrees for a full range of motion. Additionally, the single handle offers a 90-degree forward rotation, so you don’t need to worry about backsplash clearance.
It’s all contained in a durable brass body and braided nylon water supply lines, ensuring it’ll last through years of dirty dishes. With its blend of style and functionality, the Kraus Oletto is a worthwhile upgrade for those who crave a modern aesthetic.
Shop Now
Oletto Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
amazon.com
$217.99
” data-src=”https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/D5tq9QOFKsgtPVA8fBJgKA–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD0xMjQy/https://media.zenfs.com/en/aol_popular_mechanics_812/c2d2f289ef0e3fe0a2e94340e7a6ab7e”/>
Shop Now
Oletto Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
amazon.com
$217.99
Brecklyn Kitchen Faucet
For a lower profile, the Moen Brecklyn is a simple, functional choice. With a spout height of 7.8 inches, it’s an ideal size for setups that have shelving or any other obstructions immediately behind their sink. Despite having a lower profile, the Brecklyn still offers features that make cleaning dishes easier, including a retractable sprayer that lets you choose between a steady stream or rinse spray.
The simple design also includes a single lever handle so adjusting the water pressure and temperature is easy. The Brecklyn is available in four finishes, including chrome, a spot-resistant stainless, bronze Mediterranean, and glacier. Like the other choices on this list, the Brecklyn comes with an optional deck plate and is compatible with single-hole and three-hole configurations.
Shop Now
Brecklyn Kitchen Faucet
amazon.com
$119.20
” data-src=”https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/isBXmLFzzhcY_bmF8zX..w–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTEyNDI7aD04MjQ-/https://media.zenfs.com/en/aol_popular_mechanics_812/607ae24d102ecba86f408912e1c4d752″/>
Shop Now
Brecklyn Kitchen Faucet
amazon.com
$119.20
Essie Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
A proper kitchen faucet with a pull-down sprayer can make cleaning dishes so much easier. Add in a bundled soap dispenser, and you have a complete setup that streamlines your routine. A dispenser eliminates the need to have an additional bottle available while providing easy access to soap. There are debates about whether a soap dispenser is worth it, but I’m firmly on team soap dispenser because it means I don’t need a bottle on the countertop that I can potentially knock over.
The Moen Essie faucet is worth checking out even if you don’t need a soap dispenser. It boasts a pull-down sprayer that offers secure docking, ensuring easy retraction every time. The sprayer head features multiple spray patterns, including a powerful rinse and a gentle stream for everyday tasks. Additionally, the high-arc spout provides plenty of clearance for cleaning bulky items, while a spot-resistant finish reduces fingerprints, so you can spend less time cleaning the faucet.
Shop Now
Essie Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
amazon.com
$197.01
” data-src=”https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/fSmFpB52Uml9U47x97UQuw–/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTk2MA–/https://media.zenfs.com/en/aol_popular_mechanics_812/4fcb6f51ce75f7d7619a76310b290806″/>
Shop Now
Essie Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
amazon.com
$197.01
You Might Also Like
Comments are closed.