Choosing the right benchtop can transform the look and feel of your kitchen while also impacting its durability and functionality. With so many options available — from classic granite to innovative materials like Dekton and acrylic, it’s essential to understand the pros and cons of each to make an informed decision. Your benchtop isn’t just a surface; it’s the workhorse of your kitchen, handling everything from meal prep to hot cookware and spills. This guide breaks down popular benchtop materials to help you find the perfect fit for your style, budget, and lifestyle.
Benchtop materials vary in price from mid-range to high end. Often the benchtop will be the most expensive component in the kitchen design.
Granite
Granite is the most common type of natural stone for benchtops and is known for its natural beauty. Because it is a natural product there are huge variations in colour, texture and pattern. Granite is a porous stone and normally darker in colour making them harder to keep clean and streak free. Because of the natural divots and fissures in granite counters, they can be more prone to cracking or chipping.
Engineered Stone
If you want the feel of granite but want a lower maintenance option with a uniform appearance, then go for man-made engineered stone. It is a man-made composite material with a mix of quartz and a resin compound formed under high pressure, making it strong and durable.
Engineered stone is non-porous and antibacterial and comes in a wide range of colours and finishes. Engineered stone is harder and heavier than granite.
Porcelain
Porcelain benchtops combine style and function, offering a wide range of options, from single colours to stone textures, marble grain or metallic patinas. They are highly durable, scratch and stain-resistant, and heat-resistant, allowing hot cookware to be placed directly on the surface. Suitable for outdoor use, porcelain doesn't fade or discolour from UV rays.
Porcelain requires skilled fabrication, making it more expensive, especially where many cuts and joins are required. Chipping can occur, so avoid sitting on or using heavy force on the benchtop.
Dekton
Dekton is a mix of quartz, porcelain, and glass, offering durability like porcelain. Key features include heat, stain, and scratch resistance, with a wide range of colours and finishes to suit your style. It is slightly more expensive than other stone options. As with most benchtops, it's not resistant to heavy force.
Acrylic/Solid Surface
Acrylic benchtops give a seamless finish with no visible joins, and they can be repaired or buffed up again to look good as new. Made from moulded acrylic resin, these surfaces are hygienic and durable and can be made into any thickness, shape or length. Moulded sinks can also be added without joins. Plain white acrylics are generally at the cheaper end of the scale, while those with graining or other textures are more costly.
High Pressure Laminate
The least expensive option of all the benchtops, high pressure laminate is another material with a wide range of brands and levels of quality. At the top end they are durable and low maintenance, and can look remarkably close to engineered stone.
Stainless Steel
Used in commercial kitchens thanks to its excellent antibacterial properties and ease of cleaning, stainless steel is another option that has its pros and cons. While it is durable and available in almost any size, it is prone to scratches and scuffs.
Timber
Chosen by those who love the warm aesthetic and soft touch of wood, timber is another popular choice. Timber benchtops do require regular resealing and are less resistant to scratches, dents and staining. A bit more care needs to be taken to keep them looking their best.
Your kitchen benchtop is a major investment that can enhance both the beauty and practicality of your space.
Whether you’re drawn to timeless granite, seamless acrylic, or ultra-durable porcelain, the right choice will depend on your personal needs and preferences.
Still unsure which benchtop is best for you? Get in touch today for personalised advice and let’s bring your perfect kitchen to life!