Best Kitchen Countertops To Choose From

One of the major parts of any kitchen is undoubtedly the countertops. Every residential or commercial kitchen requires the best kitchen countertops that withstand heavy use, are low-maintenance, and last longer. While one can find a wide range of kitchen countertop materials, not every material works equally. Opt for the countertop surface that offers the balance of beauty, strength, and ease of maintenance. 

At Royal Marble And Granite, we focus on guiding our clients about selecting the best kitchen countertop slabs. Ensuring that their investment is more than just a slab lying on wooden cabinets. 

Here are our picks for the best kitchen countertops that you can go for kitchen.

Comparing Kitchen Countertop Materials: A Quick Overview

Porcelain is our top choice as a kitchen countertop for most commercial and residential kitchens. Our 2nd best choice is Quartz, which is just equal to porcelain but has some distinct differences. 

1. Porcelain Countertops

Porcelain is the perfect mix of beauty with strength. It is gaining huge popularity among homeowners due to its exceptional durability. Porcelain slabs have a thick and non-porous surface. It does not absorb moisture. This makes porcelain a great kitchen countertop surface for high-use kitchens. They are easy to maintain due to their stain resistance; spilling water and moisture won’t spoil the surface. And exposure to direct what will not affect its color. However, it is heavy and thick, which requires expert and precise installation for maximum benefit.

Pros Of Porcelain Countertops:

• Heat-, stain-, and scratch-resistant.
• UV-stable — ideal for indoor and outdoor kitchens.
• Lightweight yet durable.

Cons Of Porcelain Countertops:

• Can chip at edges if struck.
• Limited local fabricators in some areas.

2. Quartz Countertops

Quartz is one of the best kitchen countertops after porcelain. It is also an engineered surface that is crafted with quartzite and other natural stones. It is manufactured at high temperatures, which results in a non-porous surface. It features a stunning look that gives a premium marble aesthetic feel at first impression. It also resists scratches, stains, and moisture effortlessly. However, quartz countertops are thicker and require precise installation by professionals. The per square foot cost is comparatively higher than marble. Also, the thickness makes fabrication tough, which adds to the cost. But its durability and lasting beauty justify the initial cost.

Pros Of Quartz Countertops:

• Extremely durable and consistent in color.
• Non-porous, resists stains and moisture.
• Available in marble-like or solid finishes.
• Requires no sealing or polishing.

Cons Of Quartz Countertops:

• Not as heat-resistant as granite.
• It may appear less “natural” to stone purists.

3. Granite Countertops

For those who love natural stone, granite slabs are the perfect option for kitchen countertops. It is one of the strongest natural stones that resists extreme heat and scratches. Granite countertop slabs add a striking beauty to any space. It features unique patterns and veins that are unique at every slab. You will be assured that no two slabs are similar. They have little to no porosity, which makes them water-resistant. However, being a natural stone, it requires regular sealing, and heavy weight requires professional installation. If installed and maintained correctly, they can last for 30-50 years.

Pros Of Granite Countertops:

• High heat and scratch resistance.
• Distinctive veining enhances visual depth.
• Adds long-term value to your home.

Cons Of Granite Countertops:

• Need to be sealed periodically.
• Natural fissures can develop in rare cases.

4. Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone is a unique natural stone with an earthy texture and soft touch that deepens in color over time. It has a non-porous surface that is resistant to acids, unlike marble. Soapstone countertops slabs are the best choice for homeowners who prefer low-gloss, lived-in surfaces. It works beautifully in rustic and cottage-style kitchens. However, the surface requires sealing as it may look granitish but is suspected to scratches.

Pros Of Soapstone Countertops:

• Stain- and heat-resistant.
• Develops a natural patina with age.
• Can handle hot pans directly.

Cons Of Soapstone Countertops:

• Softer than granite, it may show scratches.
• Limited color range (mostly gray to charcoal).

5. Marble Countertops

Marble is one of the best kitchen countertops when it comes to naturally luxurious veining. Marble slabs provide a beautiful, soft-to-touch surface with unique and stunning veining patterns. Marble kitchen countertops may appear accent piece in themselves. For homeowners who value aesthetics above all else, these stone countertops are unmatched. It has a soft shine and natural character, bringing refinement to any kitchen. However, marble tile and slabs are expensive, so only professional installation is recommended. It also requires regular maintenance and sealing to maintain its beauty.

Pros Of Marble Countertops:

• Cool surface — ideal for baking.
• Visually striking with classic appeal.
• Adds real estate value.

Cons Of Marble Countertops:

• Prone to staining and etching.
• Requires sealing and gentle cleaning.

6. Ceramic Tile Countertops

When it comes to the best kitchen countertops, we don’t just focus on premium materials only. You can go for budget options like the ceramic tile countertops. This countertop option offers affordability and design flexibility. If you go for the modern tiles, you can get one that mimics stone, wood, or even metal textures. Ceramic tiles are a perfect choice for budget remodels or secondary kitchen areas. With the right grout and tile size, ceramic surfaces can look surprisingly upscale.

Pros Of Ceramic Tile Countertops:

• Heat- and water-resistant.
• Budget-friendly and customizable.
• Easy to replace damaged tiles.

Cons Of Ceramic Tile Countertops:

• Grout can stain or chip.
• Uneven surface for chopping or rolling dough.

7. Laminate Countertops

Laminate uses layers of paper and resin over a composite base, creating versatile and affordable surfaces. Best for starter homes or rental properties. Modern laminates with textured finishes closely mimic quartz or marble at a fraction of the cost.

Pros Of Laminate Countertops:

• Very affordable.
• Available in thousands of designs.
• Easy installation.

Cons Of Laminate Countertops:

• Prone to scratching and heat damage.
• Not repairable if chipped.

8. Butcher Block Countertops

Butcher block is crafted with the joined hardwood strips. It creates a warmth and texture for kitchen countertops. This is one of the best kitchen countertops for functional food prep that looks visually grounding. This kitchen countertop is perfect for those who enjoy hands-on maintenance. It works best as an accent island paired with quartz or granite perimeters.

Pros Of Butcher Block Countertops:

• Natural, renewable material.
• Can be sanded and refinished.
• Adds warmth to minimalist designs.

Cons Of Butcher Block Countertops:

• Susceptible to water and heat damage.
• Needs regular oiling.

9. Stainless Steel Countertops

This is one of the best kitchen countertops for a professional kitchen surface. They have long been used due to their unique appearance,  strength, and modern look. You can create a modern design statement in homes. It has a reflective surface that pairs well with dark cabinetry and minimal design aesthetics. However, the reflective surface requires constant cleaning because it becomes a fingerprint magnet. 

Pros Of Stainless Steel Countertops:

• Resistant to heat, stains, and bacteria.
• Sleek, reflective surface.
• Recyclable and eco-friendly.

Cons Of Stainless Steel Countertops:

• Shows fingerprints and scratches easily.
• Can feel cold or industrial.

10. Concrete Countertops

Concrete has a subtle, calm, and raw beauty and customizable form. The best thing about these countertops is that you can cast them in any shape or color. This makes it a designer’s favorite and well-suited for several homeowners. Concrete fits modern, loft-style, or rustic spaces. Add pigment or texture for a truly customized kitchen surface. However, it has a porous surface that absorbs water and affects its duration.

Pros Of Concrete Countertops:

• Custom shapes and edge profiles.
• Excellent heat resistance.
• Unique, hand-finished appearance.

Cons Of Concrete Countertops:

• It can crack if not sealed properly.
• Requires sealing to prevent stains.

11. Terrazzo Countertops

Terrazzo is made from marble, glass, or quartz chips set in cement or resin. They offer an eco-friendly artistry. This is one of the best kitchen countertops, which is sustainable and design-forward. It has a lasting speckled design that unites vintage and contemporary aesthetics. Due to the resin bindings, it may not work well against direct heat.

Pros Of Terrazzo Countertops:

• Highly durable and recyclable.
• Unique speckled patterns.
• Long lifespan.

Cons Of Terrazzo Countertops:

• Expensive installation.
• Can chip at edges if not reinforced.

Visit Our Showroom!

Visit our large indoor showroom with over 200 different stones with beautiful colors and patterns to choose from Granite/Quartz colors including popular choices like fantasy brown granite, blue pearl granite, and absolute black granite.

With expert guidance, you can compare textures, colors, and finishes to find the ideal material for your home.

Know More

FAQs About Best Kitchen Countertops

Let’s answer your questions about the kitchen countertops.

What is the most durable kitchen countertop material?

Porcelain and Quartz are the most durable kitchen countertop materials. Both resist stains, scratches, and heat while requiring minimal upkeep.

Which countertop adds the most home value?

Granite and marble improve home value due to their natural composition and lasting appeal. Quartz follows closely for its practicality.

What is the easiest countertop to maintain?

Quartz and porcelain are the easiest to clean and maintain. They’re non-porous and don’t require sealing.

What is the best countertop for a budget kitchen?

Laminate and ceramic tile are the best budget kitchen countertops. Both offer wide design flexibility without the price of natural stone.

Which countertop material is best for baking?

Marble remains the top choice for bakers due to its naturally cool surface and smooth texture.

What’s the trendiest countertop material these days?

Porcelain and terrazzo are leading the 2025 trends, combining sustainability, durability, and style versatility.

Bottom Line

Kitchen countertops are the make-or-break point of any kitchen. Selecting the right countertop material will result in a surface that isn’t just good-looking but long-lasting, too. This is why opting for the best kitchen countertops is crucial. Learn about the pros and cons of each kitchen counter. Porcelain slabs are an all-rounder kitchen countertop material, and the same goes for quartz. They are easy to clean, resist scratches and stains. Some materials are best suited for budget-friendly kitchens, while some offer a luxurious look and feel. 

Choose a countertop material that suits the climate, your kitchen environment, usage, and budget for your next kitchen remodel. At Royal Marble, we help our clients select the best kitchen countertop slab material that suits their requirements. Make sure to consider professional help to maximize your kitchen countertop experience.