What’s the Difference Between a Composite Sink vs. Stainless Steel Sink?

When it’s time to pick a kitchen sink for new construction or a remodel, narrowing your choices to a composite sink vs. stainless steel sink can make things easier. Both options are aesthetically pleasing and also functional—but there are a few important differences. Learn about both types so you can pick the perfect sink for your kitchen.

Composite Sink vs. Stainless Steel Sink: Key Differences

A granite composite sink can resemble your countertop, while a stainless steel sink is more likely to mimic your kitchen appliances. Composite sinks are costlier to purchase and install, but you may be willing to pay more for the improved aesthetics they provide.

What Is a Composite Sink?

A composite sink consists of multiple materials, including resins, granite, and quartz. A manufacturer combines the dust from the minerals with the acrylic resin (usually in a 3-to-1 or 4-to-1 ratio) and forms the shape of a waterproof sink. Multiple colors and designs are available.

Best for:

• Those who want to match the countertop color and design.

• Those who don’t want the material to show stains and water spots.

• Those who don’t like the clanging noise of dishes dropped into a stainless steel sink.

Pros of Composite Sinks

The biggest benefit of the composite sink is its aesthetics. When you want a seamless, kitchen from the countertops to the sink, the manufacturer can give you a composite sink that resembles the existing counters. 

When you want an investment that will last, composite granite sinks are more durable than most types of kitchen sink materials that you may select. 

Cons of Composite Sinks

The biggest drawback to the composite sink is its expense versus stainless steel. The cost of installing a sink made of composite materials will be higher than most options, because it often requires reinforcement of the bracketing and support materials underneath the sink. It’s not unusual for the composite sink to weigh 40 to 50 pounds when empty, meaning you’ll likely need to contact a local sink installation professional to set it up.

If you tend to drop dishes into the sink or treat the dishes roughly when stacking or washing them inside the sink, be prepared for some breakage and chipping. Composite sinks are extremely hard and don’t have as much give as a stainless steel sink.

What Is a Stainless Steel Sink?

Stainless steel yields a timeless look throughout the kitchen for both appliances and sinks. Because it is an extremely popular material for sinks, it’s easy to find multiple design options at a reasonable price.

Best for:

• Those who want a timeless sink design.

• Those who have concerns about breaking dishes in the sink.

• Those looking to save a bit of money on the sink purchase.

Pros of Stainless Steel Sinks

Because stainless steel sinks are so common, you will not have any problem finding the perfect kitchen sink sizes to match your requirements. Whether you need a single vs. double sink, you’ll have numerous choices when you stick with stainless steel.

When comparing a composite sink vs. stainless steel sink or a cast iron sink vs. stainless steel sink, the stainless steel option is more lightweight and easier to install. 

Because the stainless steel sink is not as hard as a composite sink, you have fewer concerns over chipped dishes if you drop them into the sink.

Cons of Stainless Steel Sinks

If you want a sink that looks different from what your neighbors and friends have, stainless steel probably isn’t your best choice. When it comes to the look in the granite composite sink vs. stainless steel sink comparison, or even in fireclay vs stainless steel sink comparison, stainless steel simply can’t match the aesthetics those others offer. However, you can select among gold, copper, and matte black color finishes over the stainless steel, if desired.

If you try to save some money with a low-priced stainless steel sink, you may end up with a thin gauge susceptible to dents. Most of the time, you’ll want at least 16-gauge stainless steel while avoiding thinner 18-gauge materials.

Composite Sink vs. Stainless Steel Sink

Here are some of the most important features to consider in the composite sink vs. stainless steel sink comparison.

Appearance: Composite

Stainless steel sinks have a timeless design, but when you want a high-end look or a design that can closely match your current countertops, composite is the better choice.

Design Options: Stainless Steel

Because stainless steel sinks are so commonly available, it’s much easier to find multiple design options in the stainless steel sink. However, manufacturers can make composite sinks in almost any design, too. They just may be tougher to find because they aren’t as common.

Durability: Composite

Composite kitchen sinks are extremely durable and resistant to dings and dents, unlike stainless steel sinks, which may become damaged more easily.

Price: Stainless Steel

Stainless steel sinks cost less than composite sinks, and they’re also less expensive to install. Budget-priced stainless steel sinks start at $100, while composite sinks start at about $300. However, if you select high-end sinks of either type, the cost will be similar at close to $1,000 or more. 

Ease of Installation: Stainless Steel

Because composite sinks are heavier than stainless steel, your installer may need to add bracketing and supports underneath the sink before installing it. This adds to the complexity of installation.

Maintenance and Cleaning: Composite

A composite sink is extremely stain-resistant, and you can use simple cleaning supplies (like dish soap) to keep them clean. Stainless steel sinks can show water spots, and you may have to be careful when cleaning to avoid causing scratches with abrasive scrub pads.