Marble, Granite, or Quartz: Which Countertop Should You Choose and How Much Will It Cost?
Which countertop is the right choice: marble, granite, or quartz? Thousands of homeowners face this question during kitchen renovations. And it’s not just about beauty—each material differs in durability, maintenance, and price. Today, we’ll break it all down to help you make an informed decision.
Which Looks Better — granite vs marble?
Marble is a timeless classic: veined patterns that look like they were painted by hand. Granite has a more “speckled” look, with a random, natural flow. If you’re after unmistakable luxury, go with marble. Want a raw, earthy texture? Choose granite. Both surfaces look great—it comes down to your personal taste and design style.
Which Is More Practical — marble versus granite?
Granite countertops vs marble countertops offer a clear win in terms of durability. Granite resists scratches, heat, and acids. Marble is more delicate—it can absorb wine or show marks from lemons. If you cook often and don’t want to worry about every spill, granite is your safer bet.
What About Maintenance?
Marble vs granite countertops require different levels of care. Marble needs regular sealing, can’t be left wet, and doesn’t tolerate direct knife contact. Granite is more forgiving—just reseal once a year and clean it regularly with a mild solution.
What About Cost — marble versus granite cost?
When comparing granite cost vs marble, granite is usually the less expensive option. Here’s the average cost of installation:
– Marble: from $80 to $200* per square foot
– Granite: from $50 to $150* per square foot
The final price depends on the rarity of the pattern, slab thickness, and finish type.
And What If We Add Quartz? What to Choose — marble or granite or quartz?
Quartz is an engineered stone made for convenience. It doesn’t require sealing and resists stains and scratches. It’s a great choice if you want a low-maintenance, modern look.
If you want the ideal balance of practicality, price, and appearance—go with quartz. If strength, natural patterns, and easy upkeep matter most—choose granite. And if you dream of elegant, timeless luxury and are ready to care for the surface—marble is the right pick.
What About Budget — marble vs granite vs quartz price?
When you compare quartz vs granite vs marble, quartz often lands in the middle:
– Quartz: from $70 to $170* per square foot
It’s more expensive than granite but cheaper than premium-grade marble.
Conclusion
If you dream of the natural beauty of stone, go with marble or granite countertops, depending on whether aesthetics or practicality is more important to you. If you want easy care and a sleek, modern appearance—quartz is the way to go. Ultimately, when choosing between marble or granite or quartz, it’s all about what you value most: maintenance, strength, or visual appeal.
Read more:
*The price is valid as of May 2025, published for informational purposes and may differ on the day the article is read. Prices are based on average data from Home Depot, Houzz, HomeAdvisor, and other relevant sources in the U.S.
