Granite countertops have long been the darling of kitchen designers, loved for their durability and visual splendor. But over the past couple of decades, a new countertop material has emerged as a formidable challenger to granite’s dominance – quartz.
With the look of stone and next-level performance, quartz offers the beauty of granite without some of its drawbacks. And as more and more homeowners discover its virtues, quartz countertops continue to gain devotees.
But like granite, not all quartz is created equal. There are a number of companies producing quartz slabs to outfit your kitchen and baths. So how do you determine what is the best quartz countertop brand for your needs?
Here, we break down the leading quartz manufacturers to reveal the key qualities of each. Armed with insider intel, you’ll be equipped to make the optimal quartz countertop choice from the best producers in the business.
Overview of Quartz Countertops
Before diving into the specifics of each brand, let’s first build a foundational understanding of quartz countertops themselves.
Quartz countertops (sometimes referred to as engineered stone) are made from roughly 90% ground quartz mineral combined with polymer resins and pigments under intense heat and pressure. The finished material is non-porous, stain-resistant, and durable – making it an ideal surface for heavy use zones like kitchens.
Unlike natural stone, quartz does not require sealing. The material is also less prone to chips, cracks, and scratches compared to granite. And while no countertop is entirely bulletproof, quartz stands up admirably to most daily use and abuse.
Visually, quartz offers the look of granite and other natural stones. The mineral composition allows for patterns that emulate stone’s delicate veins and speckles. But unlike granite, quartz offers more consistent coloration and patterning.
With nature determining the look of granite slabs, two pieces are rarely identical. The ability to engineer quartz allows manufacturers to churn out countertops with reliable colors and designs.
Today’s quartz offerings come in a vast palette of hues from elegant whites to bold blues. While solid colors remain popular, many homeowners opt for patterns swirled with multiple tones. From understated to showstopping, quartz has looks to suit any style.
Matching colors across countertops, backsplashes, islands, and vanities is also easier with quartz’s controlled patterning. This makes quartz ideal for homeowners seeking a cohesive, seamless aesthetic.
Now that we’ve covered the basics of the category, let’s examine the lineup of the industry’s premier quartz countertop brands. We’ll examine the key strengths and differences between the major players so you can determine the best fit.
Caeserstone
Of all the quartz brands, Caeserstone retains the strongest name recognition and reputation. The pioneering company was the first to bring engineered quartz countertops to the US back in 1987. Since then, they have remained industry leaders, bringing relentless innovation to the category.
Based in Israel, Caeserstone quartz is crafted to combine beauty, durability, and functionality. Their surfaces effortlessly mimic natural stone with ethereal patterns that float across each slab. Both minimalist and bold visuals speak to a diverse range of styles.
With 70+ colors and textures in their catalog, finding the perfect hue for your space is simple. Choices span from the dazzling Cosmopolitan Collection colors to their new Marble and Wood-inspired offerings. Those seeking a closer connection to nature will appreciate options like Cloudburst Concrete and Ravine.
Beyond aesthetics, Caesarstone exceeds expectations for performance. Their quartz earns top marks for stain, scratch, chip, and heat resistance compared to other engineered stones. Even the lightest surface finishes stand up admirably to busy kitchen environments.
Home chefs will also appreciate Caesarstone’s non-porous qualities that prevent cooking splatters and spills from seeping in. A simple wipe down keeps the surface pristine without resorting to harsh chemicals.
And unlike some quartz brands that limit heavier patterning to darker shades, Caeserstone allows you to marry rich designs with lighter tones. So you don’t have to sacrifice visual interest for a brighter palette.
Caesarstone has also pioneered technological advances that make their quartz an excellent choice for eco-conscious homeowners. Their slabs contain up to 48% recycled content. They also operate zero waste production facilities powered by renewable energy.
With exceptional style, pioneering innovation, and proven performance, it’s easy to see why Caesarstone remains a leader among quartz countertop brands. Their surfaces offer timeless appeal that works beautifully in both traditional and contemporary spaces. For those seeking the best combination of design flexibility, durability, and eco-friendliness, Caeserstone delivers.
Cambria
Another brand that consistently lands at the top of best quartz lists is Cambria. Based in Minnesota, the company has taken great strides to set themselves apart in an increasingly crowded quartz field.
Cambria’s surfaces feature natural quartz harvested near their US home base. They purify and process the raw quartz themselves to maintain exceptional quality control. Their surfaces contain a minimum of 93% quartz content for superior durability and radiance.
This focus on sourcing translates into an extensive palette of over 130 designs. Options range from solid hues like white and black to stunning patterns that resemble natural marble or soapstone. Cambria makes matching across surfaces easy, with coordinating countertops, islands, backsplashes, and vanities.
Their collection also offers unique finishing techniques to emulate weathered, aged, or hand-honed stone. Details like rubbed edges or gently chiseled planes reinforce natural stone authenticity. Dramatic veining threaded across lighter marbles or concrete evoke luxury.
But unlike true marble, Cambria quartz resists staining, etching, and harboring bacteria. So you gain the beauty without the upkeep demands. Durable finishes let the patterns shine without distracting sheen.
Cambria also prides themselves on their eco-conscious processes. Their surfaces contain recycled glass and post-industrial recycled materials. Water used in production gets treated and returned cleaner than when it arrived. Their manufacturing also operates as a zero waste facility.
These green commitments earned Cambria the first ANSI certification for sustainability in the quartz industry. Homeowners seeking quartz with world-class design and responsible US-production should consider Cambria.
Silestone
Based in Spain, Silestone has been a worldwide leader in quartz manufacturing for over two decades. In fact, their surfaces have graced over 120 million homes across the globe.
Silestone takes its name from the rich silica content within its surfaces. Silica provides strength, shine, and depth to each countertop. With over 90 colors and unique textures available globally, Silestone offers diverse aesthetics united by quality.
Their surfaces contain a minimum of 90% pure quartz to maximize performance. This durability allows for a range of polished, suede, and even bold textured finishes. Silestone uses non-porous stain-guard protection to repel spills and splatters during cooking.
DeepStone technology adds uncommon depth to darker quartz through layers of color and texture. This allows for nebulous marbling across sophisticated shades like Charcoal Soapstone or Calacatta Gold. Lighter options like Pearl Jasmine contain just as much visual intrigue.
Homeowners seeking uncompromising performance with head-turning Spanish design should consider Silestone. Their global perspective translates into options at home in modern, minimalist, Old World, or eclectic kitchens alike.
MSI
The MSI Corporation produces over a dozen surfacing brands for residential and commercial applications. Among their many offerings, MSI Quartz endures as a favorite quartz option among builders, designers, and homeowners.
All MSI Quartz surfaces start with pure, consistent, and sustainable quartz sourcing. Their slabs contain upwards of 90% quartz content to mimic the look and durability of natural stone. This base lends itself to a spectrum of styles from sophisticated marbles to modern concrete visuals.
With over 100 colors and styles available, you’re sure to find an MSI quartz to match your aesthetic. Choices range from versatile classics like Coastal White and Calacatta Laza to vivid shades of emerald, sapphire, and ruby red.
MSI Quartz resists scratches, stains, and heat damage thanks to protective finishes like their Antibacterial PlusSilver protection. A variety of surface textures allow you to balance durability with a matte, soft-touch feel.
Homeowners also appreciate eco-conscious details like incorporating recycled glass and shells. Small flecks add character and sparkle to lighter neutral patterns. MSI also minimizes water waste and recycles up to 98% of remnant material during production.
With their hearty performance capabilities and vast color selection, MSI offers quality quartz surfaces at more affordable prices. Homeowners seeking value and variety will find much to admire with MSI Quartz.
Dupont/LG Viatera
LG manufacturers premium Viatera quartz for Dupont, another leader in engineered stone surfaces. Their international pedigree combines American innovation from Dupont with German and Italian design influence.
Viatera quartz surfaces start with a high composition of 94% to 98% pure quartz. This allows for durable, low maintenance countertops that retain vibrancy for years. Proprietary Viatera polish creates a glossy or matte shine while resisting smudges and watermarks.
Their collection of 55 colors ranges from sophisticated neutrals like Super White and Winter Flower to dramatic blues and metallics. Natural patterns like flowing veins or speckles reinforce the authentic stone appearance. Distinctive small chips and shimmering mica inject surfaces with depth and sparkle.
Viatera also offers large slabs to create expansive countertops with minimal seaming. Their surfaces resist bacteria growth and stand up well to daily wear and tear. Unique finishes like a rough-hewn look or chiseled edges provide authentic detailing.
Homeowners who prefer quartz with high-end European styling and flair should give Viatera strong consideration. The collaboration of Dupont and LG brings together the best of American and European engineering.
Hanstone Quartz
Emerging as a rising star among quartz brands, Hanstone Quartz offers exceptional quality at competitive price points. The company formed in 2003 as a partnership between Hyundai and OCI Corporation from Korea.
Hanstone Quartz immediately made a splash by earning NAHB Green Approved certification as an eco-friendly producer. Their surfaces utilize up to 35% recycled content along with eco-friendly pigments and resins.
Beyond green practices, Hanstone Quartz also delivers on beautiful, resilient surfaces that resist stains, chips, and scratches. At 93% pure quartz, Hanstone slabs achieve durability with minimized maintenance demands.
With 70+ colors and styles, Hanstone’s catalog provides aesthetic range. Options include elegant marbles, eye-catching metallics, and organic concrete visuals. Many patterns incorporate subtle crystals or glittering flecks for added visual impact.
Hanstone also allows for combination slabs to artfully mix multiple colors and finishes together. This helps homeowners easily achieve two-tone countertops or creatively transition between spaces.
As their presence grows, Hanstone Quartz offers an intriguing balance of quality, durability, design innovation, and value. Their eco-friendly production and palette diversity positions Hanstone as an emerging quartz choice to watch closely in coming years.
Quartz Countertop Considerations
With overview of some of the industry’s finest quartz brands, you have a head start on picking the right slab. But a few additional factors to keep in mind as you evaluate options:
- Pattern complexity – More speckles and veins increase visual interest but also show wear faster than minimalist solid hues. Balance your style preference with your tolerance for patina.
- Quartz purity – Look for brands specifying 90% or higher actual quartz content. More quartz means better resilience against chips, cracks, and scratches.
- Finish options – Matte finishes hide marks but require careful cleaning. High polish offers striking shine but does show water spots and fingerprints. Consider your style and maintenance preferences.
- Warranty – Leading quartz brands offer 10-year or lifetime limited warranties. Be sure to review what damage coverage includes.
- Eco-conscious production – Many brands incorporate recycled content and use non-toxic resins. Check certifications and manufacturing methods if environmental footprint is important.
- Price – Quartz costs $40-$100 per square foot installed. Higher prices bring more complex patterns, exotic finishes, and brand prestige. Decide what’s most important for your budget.
No matter your priorities, there is a quartz brand capable of bringing your ideal countertop vision to life. By knowing the strengths of each major manufacturer, you can choose the perfect partner for your kitchen upgrade.
Which Brand is Right for You?
With so many excellent quartz producers on the market, choosing the right slab ultimately comes down to your priorities and preferences.
To find your perfect quartz match, reflect on the following considerations:
- Are striking visuals most vital? Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone offer the widest array of colors, patterns, and details
- Do you prefer high-end, luxury styling? Caesarstone, Cambria, and Viatera provide sophisticated, Old World elegance
- Are you on a budget? MSI and Hanstone provide greater value per square foot
- Is eco-friendliness mandatory? Cambria and Hanstone hold leading sustainability certifications
- Are you looking for exotic metallics or hues? Silestone and Viatera incorporate unique colors like gold, copper, and jewel tones
- Do you require maximum durability and protection? Caesarstone wins for stain, scratch, and chip resistance
Final Thoughts
When shopping for quartz, it pays to understand that not every slab is equal. Investigating manufacturer reputations and product capabilities helps ensure your satisfaction through years of use.
By breaking down the distinguishing strengths of premier quartz brands, we aimed to provide clarity during the research phase. When you’re ready to select a slab, consult with your countertop dealer to examine material samples in person.
Nothing beats seeing and touching a brand’s offerings first-hand. Stand alongside the actual quartz surfaces to get a feel for colors, patterns, finishes and how they come to life in the space. This real-world experience cements which option connects best.
With smart prep and care, engineered quartz countertops deliver striking style blended with everyday livability. We hope our insights help you discover your ideal slab – beauty destined to become the beloved backbone of a kitchen reborn.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes quartz different from granite?
Quartz countertops contain at least 90% ground quartz mixed with resins and pigments under heat and pressure. This allows quartz to resist stains, scratches, and cracks more durably than natural granite. Quartz also provides more color consistency since it is engineered versus reliant on natural stone variation.
Is quartz higher maintenance than granite?
No, quartz is actually lower maintenance than granite since it never needs sealing or polishing. Quartz resists scratches and stains better than granite. But both materials require cleaning with non-abrasive cleansers to prevent buildup.
Why choose quartz over solid surface?
Quartz offers better mimicking of natural stone aesthetics compared to solid surface materials. It also stands up to scratches, dents, and heat better long-term. However, solid surface costs less.
How durable is quartz?
With over 90% quartz composition, engineered stone is very durable for countertops. It resists chips, cracks, scratches, heat, and stains. But avoid direct blows from heavy objects, which can damage the surface.
Can you repair quartz countertops?
Small scratches or chips can often be buffed out professionally. But deep damage may require a full replacement. Many brands offer 10-year warranties protecting against defects. Ensure repairs are done by authorized technicians.
Does quartz add resale value?
quartz countertops can increase a home’s value for resale. Quartz offers a high-end look for less cost than materials like granite or marble. Stylish, durable, and low-maintenance quartz appeals to buyers.
Conclusion
When exploring your options for new countertops, quartz presents many convincing advantages over traditional surfaces like granite. With handsome durability, consistently appealing aesthetics, and family-friendly resilience, quartz delivers on all fronts.
By understanding the nuances that set leading brands like Caesarstone, Cambria, and Silestone apart, you can find the ideal aesthetic and performance mix. When investigating your options, be sure to examine material samples first-hand. Nothing substitutes seeing the color variations, finishes and detailing capabilities up close.
With research and care, your investment in new quartz countertops can pay dividends for years through unrivaled beauty and daily livability. Though once an upstart alternative, quartz continues to emerge as a go-to countertop darling for designers, builders and homeowners alike.