The best kitchen faucets, according to residential contractors and designers

Written by Alex Rennie; edited by Lisa Sabatini

Updated

2025-02-12T17:12:50Z

Three kitchen faucets displayed on a blue gradient background. — Our picks for the best kitchen faucet are from trusted brands like Delta, Moen, and Kohler. Amazon; Home Depot; Lily Alig/Business Insider

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A well-designed kitchen faucet can immediately upgrade the look, feel, and utility of your kitchen sink. We asked Stephanie Lee, a former lead designer at kitchen design company Block, what the biggest mistake homeowners make when considering a faucet. She said often the faucet is too low and doesn't have enough clearance for big pots and pans: "We recommend finding something that is going to give you enough space to work in the sink."

I chose the faucets in this guide based on recommendations from experts and my own expertise as a residential contractor. Our best overall pick is the Delta Trinsic, which combines a simple and easy-to-clean design with innovative features like flow activation technology. If your kitchen is regularly used for hosting and preparing large meals, the best commercial-style faucet is the Kohler Sous Pull-Down Sprayer Faucet. We love that the docking arms swivel out of your way when not in use.

We recommend most people choose a single-handle faucet with a pull-out or pull-down design. This style is the most compact and easiest to install and maintain. However, we include side-sprayer and dual-handle picks if you're working with a specific sink setup.

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Our top picks for kitchen faucets

Best overall: Delta Trinsic Single-Handle Pull-Down Faucet - See at Amazon

Best pull-out: Delta Grant Single-Handle Pull-Out Faucet - See at The Home Depot

Best touchless: Moen Arbor MotionSense Faucet - See at Amazon

Best commercial-style: Kohler Sous Pro-Style Single-Handle Pull-Down Sprayer Faucet - See at The Home Depot

Best budget: Wewe Single-Handle High-Arc Pull-Out Faucet - See at Amazon

Best low-arc: Moen Adler Single-Handle Low Arc Standard Kitchen Faucet - See at The Home Depot

Best dual-handle: Pfister Ladera 2-Handle Kitchen Faucet with Optional Side Spray - See at The Home Depot

Best side-mounted sprayer: Delta Single-Handle Faucet with Side Sprayer - See at Amazon

Best brass: Kraus Britt Single-Handle Pull-Down Sprayer Kitchen Faucet - See at Amazon

Best overall

Delta Trinsic Single-Handle Pull-Down Faucet

The sleek and sturdy Delta Trinsic Single-Handle Pull-Down Faucet boasts an impressive amount of functionality with its Touch20 technology and a color-changing LED that provides a visual indicator of the current water temperature.

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What we like

Durable construction
Sturdy magnetic connection
One of the best kitchen faucets when it comes to maintenance and cleaning

What we don’t like

Requires solenoid

What sets the Delta Trinsic apart from other kitchen faucets is its Touch20 technology, which allows you to activate the water flow by touching your finger or forearm anywhere on the faucet. Landers recommends the feature for tasks like cutting raw chicken so you don't have to worry about contamination.

Single-handle faucets eventually wear out and begin to leak, which is another reason this Touch20 system is so valuable. By reducing the wear and tear on the handle, you extend the faucet's lifespan. Plus, the water supply lines are built into the body of the faucet itself, which helps reduce the chances of leaks over time. The more exposed the supply lines are, the more likely they'll develop leaks.

The faucet's color-changing LED light (blue for cold, red for hot) allows you to monitor your water temperature visually, which is great if you have small children.

I am also a fan of this model's Touch-Clean spray holes. These rubber nozzle heads can be scrubbed clean instead of plastic holes that can accumulate mineral deposits and often require chemical soaks.

Even with the solenoid (an electromagnet) needed to power the sensor, installation of the best overall kitchen faucet is straightforward with pliers and an Allen key. Delta did a nice job with the instruction manual and also has some helpful videos that supplement it nicely.

Best pull-out

Delta Grant Single-Handle Pull-Out Faucet

Perfect for cozier spaces, the Delta Grant Single-Handle Pull-Out Faucet is easy to use and keep clean.

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What we like

Low-profile design for kitchen islands or low cabinetry
Nozzle heads are easy to clean
Straightforward installation

What we don’t like

Does not have spot-resistant finish

What makes the best pull-out faucets like this one so convenient to use is that you gain a lot of nozzle maneuverability without a ton of extra spout length. Since you're pulling the nozzle out instead of down (unlike pull-down models), I've personally found it easier to position and direct the nozzle around the sink. The 20-inch hose and 120-degree swiveling spout of the Delta Grant Single-Handle Pull-Out Faucet increase mobility even more. This swiveling design makes it especially convenient for those with double sinks. At less than 10 inches high, you're also getting a low-profile design that won't obscure any windows or living spaces behind it.

The two-function wand switches from a solid to spray stream at the push of a button, and just like the Delta Trinsic, the head itself features one of my favorite design elements of any faucet: touch-clean spray holes. Unlike plastic spray holes that require scrubbing or chemical cleaners to remove calcium and lime buildup, these soft rubber nubbins can be cleared by simply rubbing your finger across them.

With a stainless steel finish and ceramic disc valve, long-term durability shouldn't be an issue. If any issues do arise, Delta's limited lifetime warranty covers them. This model is also available in a matte black finish if you're interested in a faucet with a bit more personality.

Installation of the Delta Grant Single-Handle Pull-Out is also simple and straightforward, with all parts and supply lines included. It also comes with an escutcheon mounting plate, so it's compatible with one or three-hole setups.

Best touchless

Moen 7594ESRS Arbor Motionsense Two-Sensor Touchless One-Handle High Arc Pulldown Kitchen Faucet

Moen Arbor Spot Resist Stainless One-Handle High Arc MotionSense Wave Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet

Even if your hands are covered with grease, you can still turn the water on and off with the Moen Arbor One-Handle High-Arc MotionSense Wave Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet.

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What we like

Convenient no-touch operation
Spot-resistant finish
Easy installation

What we don’t like

Motion sensors may need to be re-calibrated routinely

If convenience and cleanliness are your priorities, this Moen model could be exactly what you're looking for. Its hands-free operation and dual sensor design — one on top and the other in front — allows you to turn the water on and off with a wave of your arm. This makes it easy to keep the lever and faucet neck clean, greatly reducing the risk of cross-contamination.

The factory default temperature setting is lukewarm, but a small control box located under the sink allows you to adjust this temperature to your family's preference. If you frequently use your faucet for drinking water, this ability to keep the default setting colder could be very convenient.

You can also easily disable one or both of the sensors. Just hold your hand in front of either sensor for five seconds and it will disengage. While they're disabled, you can still use the lever handle to control the faucet manually.

The 100-degree high-arc spout of the Moen Arbor MotionSense Faucet makes it great for filling and cleaning large pots. The pull-down spray head also offers three functions: an aerated stream, a strong "PowerClean" spray for heavy-duty cleaning (1.5 gallons per minute maximum), and a pause that temporarily stops the water flow.

If you're intimidated by the installation of the control box, don't be. Moen's faucets are among the easiest to install, and the combination of the Duralock Quick-Connect system and one-way connections make them almost impossible to install incorrectly.

Best commercial-style

Kohler Sous Pro-Style Single-Handle Pull-Down Sprayer Kitchen Faucet

The Kohler Sous Pro-Style Single-Handle Pull-Down Sprayer Faucet has the power and size of a commercial faucet, with all the features of a standard model.

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What we like

Sturdy
Magnetic locking arm

What we don’t like

Spring require periodic cleaning
Installation can be tricky depending on your surface

The Kohler Sous Pro-Style Single-Handle Pull-Down Sprayer Faucet features the sturdy construction of a commercial kitchen-style faucet with a modern style that looks right at home in a residential kitchen. It's great for an active kitchen and the ideal faucet for tackling large piles of dishes.

This faucet has a magnetic docking arm that the spray head firmly attaches to when not in use. Unlike other of the best commercial-style faucets, the docking arm swivels out of the way when you're working.

The spring-loaded design of the pull-down spray head has the perfect amount of tension: not so tight that it restricts movement but solid enough to feel in control when using it. The downside of spring-tensioned mechanisms is that debris can become lodged in the gaps, but the entire spring of Kohler's Sous Pro-Style is simple to remove, and you can spray the whole thing off on the sink.

In addition to the standard stream setting, the faucet also features "Sweep Spray" technology, turning the stream into a linear broom-style pattern. This is great for washing away food from dishes and the sink itself, which standard sprayers don't do as well.

If you're installing this faucet with a stainless-steel sink, you will need to add a small 0.5-inch plywood support piece under the counter. It's nothing too difficult, but an extra step nonetheless.

Best budget

Wewe Single Handle High Arc Brushed Nickel Pull-Out Kitchen Faucet

The Wewe Single-Handle High-Arc Pull-Out Faucet is low in price but high in quality, with efficient operation and a simple tulip design.

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What we like

Good price
Nice appearance
Three-way spray setting

What we don’t like

Zinc alloy is less durable than stainless
Lacks special features found on more expensive models

Typically, lower-priced faucets look nice on the surface but skimp on components behind the scenes. The Wewe Single-Handle Faucet is surprisingly robust, with braided supply lines for durability, an ABS plastic aerator (think of the tough plastic used to make Lego bricks), and ceramic disk valves.

When it comes to functionality, the Wewe Single-Handle High Arc provides a pull-down spray head with a variety of stream settings. I was most impressed with the spray head's water pause button, which allows you to temporarily stop the flow of water, though you do have to continuously hold down the button.

The brushed nickel finish is relatively easy to keep clean with just a soft cloth and soapy water. Plus, its matte finish disguises water spots and fingerprints better than a glossy, polished finish. Just avoid using abrasive cleaning pads and ammonia-based cleaners.

Installation is simple and should be doable for anyone willing to crawl under their sink and spend 30 minutes down there. You're not getting the "quick-connect" technology that pricier models have, so you'll be tightening the supply lines the old-fashioned way with your fingers and a couple of wrenches.

The main downside is that zinc alloy parts are less durable than stainless steel, but that's likely a trade-off for the low price. That said, it still has the reliability and quality construction to make it a worthwhile choice.

Best low-arc

Moen Adler Single-Handle Low Arc Standard Kitchen Faucet

Our expert specifically recommends Moen Adler faucets for those who want a low-arc design, and this affordable option is a great value.

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What we like

Less than 6 inches high
Very easy to install
Low price

What we don’t like

Relatively low flow rate

If you don't want or require the high arc spout of most of the best kitchen faucets, this low-arc Moen model provides just as much functionality, without obscuring the view through your window or across a kitchen island. The faucet's low-profile design, smooth curves, and minimalistic style allow it to fit in practically any modern kitchen. It's available in chrome or stainless, so you can easily match your existing appliances.

Both of these finish options make the Moen Adler Single-Handle Low Arc Kitchen Faucet convenient to keep clean as well. Whether you go with the shiny chrome, which Horton finds to be the easiest to clean of all the finishes, or the spot-resistant stainless steel, the faucet will be easy to wipe clean without too much effort. Thanks to a ceramic disk valve, the single handle is also durable enough for busy kitchens.

The quick-connect system makes the Moen Adler Single-Handle Low-Arc Kitchen Faucet extremely simple to mount and install and, with no tools required, a great choice for inexperienced DIYers who would prefer not to hire a plumber. The included side sprayer allows for convenient dish and sink cleanup, but if you prefer a basic faucet setup, this model is also available without it.

Best dual-handle

Pfister Ladera 2-Handle Kitchen Faucet

Recommended by our expert, this dual-handle faucet marries a sophisticated style with durability and functionality, thanks to an optional side sprayer.

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What we like

Two finishes to choose from
Optional side sprayer
Spout swivels 360 degrees
Affordable

What we don’t like

Standard spout limits versatility

This dual-handled model would be a perfect choice for those who want to add a traditional-style appliance to a modern kitchen. Its elegant, sweeping shape provides a clean and minimal look, and although it doesn't feature a pull-down or pull-out spout, it can still rotate 360 degrees, providing a good amount of maneuverability. If you prefer to add even more functionality, the optional side sprayer is easy to mount and maintains the same elegant style across the sink.

It's also easy to keep clean, thanks to the option of a spot-defense stainless steel finish. If you prefer something a bit more flashy, you can go with polished chrome. California residents will be able to purchase this faucet without issue, thanks to its compliance with California energy commission (CEC) water-efficiency standards.

One of my favorite features of this faucet is its impressively low price. For a little more than $100, the Pfister Ladera is priced much lower than similar models. If you appreciate the sleek design but don't have the space for two handles, this faucet is also available in a single-handle pull-down version but for nearly twice the cost. The extra-high spout also makes it great for filling large pots.

Best side-mounted sprayer

The Delta Trinsic Single-Handle Pull-Down Faucet.

Delta Classic Single-Handle Pull-Down Faucet

Using a side-mounted sprayer instead of a faucet-mounted option, this Delta model provides all the functionality you need, with a low-profile design.

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What we like

Easy installation
User-friendly

What we don’t like

The water pressure on the sprayer isn't the best

The side-mounted sprayer of the Delta Single-Handle Faucet with Side Sprayer offers a ton of maneuverability and will typically reach farther than an integrated spray head that's connected to the faucet neck. This makes it easier to spray inside and around the sink and would be especially convenient for those with a sink that has a built-in drying area.

Landers recommends shorter spout heights like this one for kitchen islands, since taller faucets can look out of place and distract from the rest of the room. The faucet neck of the Delta Single-Handle Faucet with Side Sprayer swivels 180 degrees, and the center-mounted single-handle faucet is convenient to use for both right and left-handed users. Plus, it's available in either brushed stainless steel or shiny chrome.

Installation is fairly straightforward and, with supply lines integrated directly into the faucet itself, should be accomplished without much effort. Delta also guarantees leak-free operation for the life of the faucet, too, so you'll be covered if any issues do arise.

Keep in mind that the sprayer won't have the water pressure that an integrated spray head would, and you'll need to hold the trigger down at all times during use.

Best brass

Kraus Britt Single-Handle Pull-Down Sprayer Kitchen Faucet

This commercial-style brushed brass faucet is not only visually stunning but functional enough for a wide range of kitchen tasks.

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What we like

Attractive and durable finish
High arc can fill tall pots and pitchers
Multi-spray head

What we don’t like

Won't match all kitchens styles
Expensive

If you're looking for something a bit more visually unique, consider this brushed brass faucet from Kraus. Its textured finish adds a warm, bright look to your kitchen, but unlike polished versions, it's muted enough not to be distracting. Plus, it hides fingerprints and water spots much easier than smoother finishes, making it a great choice for busy kitchens.

Its open-coil, high-arc spout not only creates a striking silhouette, but also makes the Kraus Britt Single-Handle Pull-Down Sprayer Kitchen Faucet an extremely versatile faucet. It's tall enough to easily fill up large pots or tall pitchers, and the retractable hose allows it to stretch, reach, and angle the sprayer head in pretty much any direction you need. A convenient fixed handle mount keeps the sprayer head wrangled and secure when not in use.

The single-hole mount of the Kraus takes up minimal space on your countertop and contributes to its relatively hassle-free installation. With a quick-connect sprayer hose, snap-on counterweight, and pre-attached water lines, even amateur DIYers should be able to handle installing this model.

What to look for in a kitchen faucet

Functionality: To ensure that you get the most out of your faucet, consider the specific tasks that you'll be using it for. If you have a large, wide sink, for example, a pull-down spout will make it much easier to rinse off the sides and bottom during cleaning. If you frequently work with raw meat or fish, a touchless model would be helpful in preventing the spread of bacteria.

Ease of cleaning: Since kitchen faucets are one of the most frequently used items in your kitchen, make sure to choose one that won't be a challenge to keep clean. If you do a lot of cooking and have a busy kitchen, consider a faucet with a "spot-free" finish. This coating resists fingerprints and water spots, so you'll have to clean it less frequently. Horton considers chrome to be the easiest finish to keep clean overall and added that brushed nickel also tends not to show spots and fingerprints. Solid brass, on the other hand, shows fingerprints more easily.

Durability: Kitchen faucets can be substantial financial investments, so you'll want them to hold up over thousands of uses a year. To reduce the chances your handle develops leaks or drips over time, make sure to choose a faucet with ceramic valves. These are extremely durable and will last significantly longer than other types.

Finish: There are many different finishes and color variations to choose from, making it easy to find one that matches your personal style and taste. According to Landers, stainless steel and polished nickel are classic finishes. "These finishes pair nicely with an array of different styles in the home, making them both versatile options," she said. Landers explains that it's also important to choose a finish that is consistent with your home's style and how much maintenance you want to do.

Faucet mounting style: Depending on the style and layout of your new faucet, it may require one, two, three, or four holes to be mounted properly, especially if you have a side sprayer. If you want to keep installation as easy as possible, purchase a faucet with the same amount of mounting holes as your old faucet. If your new model has fewer holes than you have currently, make sure it includes an escutcheon plate to cover up any extra holes. If your new sink has more holes, you'll need to drill new ones in your countertop or sink.

Flow rate: The flow rate of a kitchen faucet is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). While the flow rate is dependent on your home's water supply, faucet design can affect it as well. If you frequently use a lot of water, like filling large pots, go with a faucet with a higher flow rate. If you don't use your sink as much or just want to save money on your water bill, choose a lower GPM.

How we chose the best kitchen faucets

I chose the faucets in this guide based on my expertise as a residential contractor and the input of two experts: Jensen Landers, senior interior designer at Marrokal Design and Remodeling, and Stephanie Lee, a lead designer at renovation and kitchen-design company Block. They provided valuable insight and the criteria necessary for choosing the best kitchen faucets, including which types are in demand.

I used the criteria outlined in the previous slide to evaluate brands and models for this list. After extensive online research, I physically handled as many products as I could in appliance showrooms and hardware stores to narrow my list of options to the eight on this list.

Kitchen faucet FAQs

How long should my faucet last?

According to Horton, the best kitchen faucets should typically last between 15 and 20 years, depending on factors such as hard water, the manufacturer, installation, and use of the fixture. Choosing an option with a ceramic cartridge valve will be a primary factor in ensuring a long lifespan.

What is the average cost of a kitchen faucet?

If you're looking for a good place to start, Horton says that a good rule of thumb is anything $250 and under is where most homeowners dwell on a replacement basis. "You can get a basic model that will get the job done for $50 or a $1,250 faucet that is not on the shelf at Lowe's or Home Depot," Horton explains.

How do I know what size kitchen faucet I need?

When measuring for a new faucet, the first thing is to measure how tall your potential faucet can be without impeding any cabinets or windows. To determine spout depth, measure from the mounting hole (where the faucet base will sit) to the center of your sink. This will help eliminate any faucet options that could end up spraying too far out. Landers explained that the sinks she usually purchases for clients' kitchens are 33 inches wide and any regular pull-down faucet will work for something of that size.

Is it worth getting a touchless kitchen faucet?

Landers explained that both types of faucets are becoming more prevalent in the kitchen because of their food-safety benefits. Since you no longer need to use your fingers to turn a handle, these faucets can dramatically reduce the chances of cross-contaminating your kitchen when handling raw meats or seafood. Touchless faucets, which activate by waving your hands in front of a sensor, and touch-sensitive models, which turn on and off when you touch any part of the handle or neck, are both convenient and practical choices for many users.

How do I install a faucet myself?

Installing a kitchen faucet is probably easier than you think. You will need a few common tools, like a basin wrench, and a partner to provide an extra set of hands. Most popular faucet models, including the ones we featured on our list, will have multiple installation videos from both the manufacturer and customers. It's worth noting that installing a touchless or touch-sensitive faucet will be more intensive, and unless you're comfortable working around electrical wiring, you may need to hire a professional.

Which brand has the best faucets overall?

While there are several well-respected kitchen faucet brands, we consider Delta faucets to have the best models overall. They're made to last with quality components and their no-leak guarantee, combined with timely customer service, gives you the confidence that you won't be left high and dry if any issues come up. We also appreciate Delta's focus on hassle-free installation, including easily accessible manuals and videos that are well-suited for the average DIY-er. Plus, since they offer such a wide range of faucet styles — both classic and modern — and price points, you should be able to easily find an option that suits your needs.

Alex Rennie

Freelance Reporter, Insider Reviews

Alex Rennie is a freelance writer who specializes in the home improvement, DIY, and appliance space. As a former residential and commercial carpenter for four years, Alex uses his hands-on experience to write buying guides, how-to articles, and product reviews. Before Insider, Alex was a full-time carpenter living in New York City. There, he worked as part of a team designing, building, and installing large furniture pieces, as well as performing a variety of home repair and maintenance projects. His expertise also extends to the landscaping and gardening space, supported by experience as a landscaping professional. Alex currently lives in Los Angeles, CA, and spends his free time exploring the beaches and mountains with his fiancé and their dog Louie. Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here.