Quartz vs. Granite Countertops: Cost Comparison
Quartz and granite overlap heavily on price. The real differences are maintenance, look and how each handles heat and stains.
Short answer: Granite for natural stone and heat; quartz for no-maintenance consistency.
Installed cost
For a 40 sq ft kitchen, granite runs about $1,600 to $4,000 installed and quartz about $2,200 to $4,800. Entry-level granite starts lower than entry-level quartz; premium slabs of either can pass the top of these ranges.
| Option | Installed cost | Typical life |
|---|---|---|
| Laminate | $800 to $1,800 | Budget |
| Granite | $1,600 to $4,000 | Natural stone, needs sealing |
| Quartz | $2,200 to $4,800 | Engineered, no sealing |
| Quartzite | $3,000 to $8,000 | Natural stone, harder than marble |
Maintenance
Granite is porous and should be sealed every one to three years. Quartz is non-porous, so it resists stains without sealing. Quartz can discolor under very high heat, while granite handles hot pans better.
Look
Every granite slab is unique, with natural veining and movement. Quartz is manufactured, so colors and patterns are consistent from slab to slab and easier to match across a large kitchen.
Which should you choose?
Choose granite if you want natural stone and don't mind sealing. Choose quartz for consistency and zero maintenance. Budget shoppers can find deals on common granite colors; design-focused buyers often prefer quartz's clean, uniform look.
Common questions
Is quartz more expensive than granite?
On average slightly, but the ranges overlap and depend on the specific slab.
Which is more durable?
Both are very durable. Quartz resists stains better; granite resists heat better.
How do I measure countertop square footage?
Multiply each section's length by its depth in inches, add them up, and divide by 144.