The Most Popular Kitchen Sink Styles to Transform Your Space

We’re big fans of practicality when it comes to home improvement, and, if you're in the midst of a major kitchen renovation, there’s certainly merit in buying a basic, shiny new sink and putting dollars elsewhere. But the sink and faucet anchor your countertop, which is at eye level and (hopefully) has a generous amount of surface area. That's why spending a little more to upgrade your kitchen sink is often a wise move: It’s a relatively small purchase that can make a significant difference in the overall vibe of your space.

What to Consider

Top-mounted or drop-in sinks are the most common and typically the least expensive. They’re also the easiest to install: a hole is cut in the countertop and the sink is anchored to it by its rim. Undermounted sinks are attached to the counter from below with brackets, so there’s no rim for a cleaner, more streamlined look. Farmhouse sinks or apron sinks can be either style, and they’re distinguished by a front panel that sits flush with the cabinets.

Beyond that, your decision boils down to single-, double-, and even triple-basin, along with the number of faucet-mount holes your setup requires. Sinks are often made from stainless steel; 16-gauge is generally the highest quality available, though 18-gauge is also common, as are other metals, like chrome and copper. Higher-end metal sinks have sound-dampening pads or other treatment underneath to cut down on noise. Today’s white sinks tend to be made from fireclay, which is more durable and stain-resistant than enamel.

How We Chose

Our selection comprises the most popular sink styles, all with at least an average 4.5-star rating. We feature stainless steel and fireclay models in single- and multiple-basin style, plus several sizes and configurations. There aren’t a ton of features to consider—some include sink grates and basket strainers as a bonus–though there are variations in design for multitasking, such as ledges to hold cutting boards and strainers. We also include models across price points, from budget to high-end.