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The 7 Best Kitchen Faucets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Including options in all styles and price points.

Water running from the Grohe 30306DC1 Eurosmart Dual Spray Pull-Out Kitchen Faucet with Sprayer into a sink
Photo:

Real Simple / Frances Crouter

Considering how much time we spend in our kitchen, we need appliances that can withstand plenty of use. No kitchen fixture is used more often than the faucet, whether it’s for cleaning dishes, washing hands, filling pots, or doing countless other essential tasks.

To find the best kitchen faucets on the market, we tested 14 models over six months, evaluating them on factors like setup, ease of use, performance, durability, quality, and value. We also spoke to Meghan Chio, senior merchant at The Home Depot, for expert insight on what to look for when shopping for kitchen faucets, how to install them, and more.

What Stands Out
  • It’s easy to change the angle of water flow.

What Could Be Improved
  • It’s on the pricey side.

Of all the faucets we tested, this pick from Kraus impressed us with its stylish and easy-to-use design made from durable brass. During testing, it delivered powerful water pressure from its high-arc spout to tackle every type of kitchen task.

We found that installing the faucet was quick and simple, thanks to the clear instructions provided by the brand. It has a single, elegant handle that, at 17 inches, is tall enough to accommodate bigger pots and pans, with a button on the head that you can push to switch between stream and spray. We found it incredibly easy to change the faucet from the stream to spray setting and equally as simple to transition between hot and cold water. Additionally, the faucet’s long hose reaches nearly 9 inches, retracts and swivels, and can adjust to almost any angle.

This attractive faucet comes in nine colors and stains, including an elegant champagne bronze. It doesn’t show fingerprints or water spots easily and thus is very easy to keep clean—even after six months of use, we've noticed no scratches on the chrome. One downside is that it is pricier than many other kitchen faucets, but considering its style, functionality, and ease of use, we believe it’s worth the extra cost.

Material: Brass | Number of Holes: 1 | Faucet Height: 17 inches | Spout Height: 8.75 inches | Spout Reach: 8.88 inches | Flow Rate: 1.8 gallons per minute

A person using the sprayer on the Kraus KPF-2820SFACB Oletto Single Handle Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet.

Real Simple / Gabrielle Renslow

What Stands Out
  • It has a pause feature that prevents splashes during multitasking.

What Could Be Improved
  • It shows fingerprints easily.

If you want to keep costs down, check out this low-priced yet high-quality kitchen faucet from Wewe. The sleek, single-handle device comes in 13 different styles, including gold, brushed nickel, and matte black, and it has a high-arc spout that makes cleaning large items a breeze.

One of our favorite things about this stainless steel faucet is how easy it is to change between temperatures and switch the modes from spray to stream. The nozzle has a long, 8.5-inch reach that, although slightly challenging to retract, helpfully clicks back into place with a lock. The faucet also boasts a convenient pause feature, which allows you to avoid splashes while multitasking in the sink. After six months of use, this faucet has become an integral part of our daily routine. We've noticed no changes in quality, and toggling between settings is still intuitive—in fact, we found that this faucet has actually become easier to maneuver over time.

Installing the faucet was relatively simple, and changing the intensity of the pressure (which can get very strong) required minimal effort. Keep in mind, however, that this faucet does show fingerprints fairly noticeably, but luckily they’re easy to clean off with a bit of scrubbing. We also wish the transition of temperature was a bit smoother, as we found it occasionally difficult to master the perfect one. In all, this is a great, low-budget pick that won’t disappoint.

Material: Stainless steel | Number of Holes: 1 | Faucet Height: 15.7 inches | Spout Height: 8.5 inches | Spout Reach: 8.5 inches | Flow Rate: 1.8 gallons per minute

Water coming out of the Wewe Single-Handle High Arc Pull-Out Kitchen Faucet into a kitchen sink.

Real Simple / MIke Navarro

What Stands Out
  • This faucet has a motion-activated sensor to start the water flow.

What Could Be Improved
  • It may be more complicated to install than a traditional faucet.

Nothing says convenience like a touchless kitchen faucet, which only requires a wave of the hand by its motion sensor to turn the water on and off. This single-handle option from Bio Bidet is an exceptional model, with an uber-accurate sensor that distinguishes between subtle hand gestures to save on time and effort.

Made from durable nylon and available in a sleek chrome color, this faucet always looks pristine (especially because you rarely have to touch it and avoid smudges). It also has a high arc and curved spout to provide enough room for large items in the sink. The faucet’s sensitive technology activates and shuts off the water flow when the head is pulled down or returned, and you can easily switch between spray, stream, and pause modes as needed.

We were amazed by the accuracy of the sensor. While some sensors require vigorous waving and flailing to activate, this one was accurate enough to detect even the most subtle gestures. In our testing, it responded to our motion almost as if it had read our mind, turning on as soon as our hand approached. And, after six months of use, it's still just as sensitive as it was on day one.

This faucet also provides robust water pressure and has a separate handle for temperature control. Overall, this touchless faucet has made it far easier for us to cook and prep foods like raw chicken and beef with minimal mess. Adjusting the neck angle and height is similarly effortless, as the hose is able to glide into any position. Our only complaint involves the complicated installation process, but if you hire a professional, you should be good to go.

Material: Nylon | Number of Holes: 3 | Faucet Height: 13 inches | Spout Height: 16.63 inches | Spout Reach: 8.38 inches | Flow Rate: 1.8 gallons per minute

What Stands Out
  • The wide and flat single lever is easy to push and manipulate.

What Could Be Improved
  • The water pressure could be stronger.

If you prefer the look of a low-arc faucet that doesn’t rise much higher than a kitchen backsplash, we recommend this great option from Grohe. While the low-profile faucet is only 7 inches tall, the flexible hose was long enough to reach the corners of our sink and retracted easily. You’ll be able to fill all your pots and pans without issue, just like with a high-arc faucet. Sure, this isn't the showiest option, but it certainly gets the job done.

Available in either chrome or steel (both of which are easy to keep clean), this faucet was simple to install and has an average price tag. It has a wide, flat single lever that you can easily hold and control, whether you’re switching modes from spray to stream or changing the temperature. After two years of use, this faucet is still working flawlessly. We've noticed no clogs or drips, and the brushed metal finish is free of smudges.

We do wish the water pressure on this faucet was better, as it came out slower than we expected when on stream mode. That said, we think its classic design, ease of use, and durable design make up for it.

Material: Brass | Number of Holes: 1 | Faucet Height: 7.1 inches | Spout Height: 5.5 inches | Spout Reach: 8.93 inches | Flow Rate: 1.75 gallons per minute

The Grohe Eurosmart Single-Handle Dual Spray Kitchen Faucet with water pouring into a pan in a kitchen sink.

Real Simple / Frances Crouter

What Stands Out
  • The water pressure is extremely strong.

What Could Be Improved
  • The neck wobbles when the water is turned on and off.

Dual-handle kitchen faucets have an old-school look that many people appreciate, and this option from Kingston will add some serious style to your kitchen. The sleek and high-quality brass faucet comes in a brushed nickel color and has handles on each side for temperature control and a separate sprayer attachment.

We found the instructions for installing this faucet easy to follow, and the handles were simple to operate, offering just the right amount of sensitivity. The faucet’s tall neck makes filling up big pots and pans a hassle-free experience, and we liked that it swings out of the way to prevent splashes. The hose's impressive water pressure has made kitchen clean up a breeze, while the dual temperature handles ensure it's safe for kids to get involved, too. Additionally, the faucet’s 360-degree swivel head allows for helpful flexibility when washing and cleaning.

This isn’t the cheapest faucet on the market, and the brushed nickel finish does show fingerprints (although they come off easily). After six months of use, we've noticed no markings or signs of degradation. We did find that the faucet’s neck wobbles slightly when the water is turned on and off, and the hot water takes a bit longer to come out than we would like. However, the style, tall neck, and impressive water pressure make it a worthwhile choice.

Material: Brass | Number of Holes: 4 | Faucet Height: 8.3 inches | Spout Height: 13.13 inches | Spout Reach: 8.56 inches | Flow Rate: 1.8 gallons per minute

A person using the Kingston Brass Heritage Bridge Kitchen Faucet to wash kale in a kitchen sink.

Real Simple / Kimberly Souza

What Stands Out
  • The separate soap/lotion dispenser is useful for hand washing.

What Could Be Improved
  • The aerator is hard to clean.

If you're all about aesthetics, you’ll love this gorgeous and eye-catching faucet from Kohler, which is made from metal, comes in four stylish finishes, and has a unique exposed-spring design that stands out from typical kitchen fare. 

This faucet has a stylish high arc with above-average reach and flexibility. The spout rotates easily and was able to reach all parts of our sink without issue, with a magnetic docking arm keeping the spray head secure. Switching from stream to sweep spray mode proved to be extremely simple—all we had to do was click a button—and the process of changing between temperatures was similarly easy, thanks to the single lever handle. We were impressed by the water pressure, too. After six months of use, the faucet works as well as it did the day it was installed.

Since installation, the aerator has gotten debris stuck in it twice, and the manufacturer provided little guidance on how to clear it. However, once we played around with it ourselves, we were able to clear the debris quite easily. While the instruction manual wasn't helpful in that department, it did help simplify the initial installation process. As a bonus, this faucet has a separate soap dispenser, and none of the finishes show noticeable fingerprints. 

Material: Metal | Number of Holes: 2 | Faucet Height: 22 inches | Spout Height: 7.5 inches | Spout Reach: 9 inches | Flow Rate: 1.5 gallons per minute

What Stands Out
  • You can customize presets so that the faucet always pours out the exact amount of water you need.

What Could Be Improved
  • There’s a short but noticeable delay after you turn on the water.

Why opt for a traditional faucet when you can get a smart one like this fantastic Moen model? The voice-activated device has a paired app and can connect to a smartphone or smart home speaker, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.

Installing this faucet takes minimal time, as does connecting it to the Moen app (which you can use to save your favorite settings and control the faucet remotely) and a smart home system. Thanks to the touchless sensors, we were able to instruct the faucet to pour a specific amount of water, operating it completely hands free. We were also able to set the water temperature by moving the lever up and down, with a handy light to indicate when the water is getting hotter. After six months of use, the faucet is still exceeding our expectations. While it did take some time getting used to the touchless design, now it's practically second nature.

In addition to its smart features, this faucet boasts powerful water pressure, a long-reaching hose, and a fingerprint-resistant make whether you pick the chrome, matte black, oil-rubbed bronze, or stainless steel finish. Our only complaints are the short yet noticeable delay when you turn the water on and the slight resistance when you pull out the fabric-coated sprayer. If you’re okay with those flaws and the faucet’s high price, you’ll love investing in such a helpful, time-saving device.

Material: Metal | Number of Holes: 1 | Faucet Height: Not listed | Spout Height: 15.5 inches | Spout Reach: 7.88 inches | Flow Rate: 1.5 gallons per minute

Final Verdict

We tested many great kitchen faucets, but the Kraus Oletto Single Handle Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet earned our top spot for its ease of use, durable make, and stylish design. For a stellar lower-priced alternative, the Wewe Single-Handle High Arc Pull-Out Kitchen Faucet offers 13 style options, a high-arc spout, and a helpful pause feature.

Our Testing Process

To find the best kitchen faucets, we tested 14 models in real-world conditions, trying them in sinks of all different dimensions and types. During the installation process for each faucet, we noted how much time and effort it required and whether we needed professional assistance or could complete it alone. Then, we evaluated each faucet’s ease of use by noting how much force we needed to use to turn the faucet on and off, go between temperatures, switch from stream to spray modes, pull out and retract the hose, and fit large pots of water underneath. For touchless models, we also noted the sensitivity and accuracy of the motion sensor.

Afterward, we studied each faucet's water pressure, evaluating whether it was strong enough to rinse dishes well and complete other tasks. Then, we analyzed each faucet’s durability by checking to see if any scratches or fingerprints appeared. For the latter, we determined how easy it was to wipe them off. We also noted whether any dripping or clogging occurred during our testing and if the faucet neck squeaked or stuck during adjustments.

Finally, we determined each faucet’s overall value by examining its retail price and deciding whether we felt that the cost reflected its performance, style, and features. For long-term insights, we continued using the faucets at home, evaluating their quality, performance, and durability over six months.

A person using the sprayer attachment of the Kingston Brass Heritage Bridge Kitchen Faucet.

Real Simple / Kimberly Souza

How to Shop for Kitchen Faucets Like a Pro

Type 

The type of kitchen faucet you choose depends on how you use it on a daily basis, Chio says, whether you're making that first cup of coffee in the morning, preparing meals, or entertaining guests.

One common faucet type is a pull-down faucet, which Chio says will give you more reach across your sink to easily clean the entire space. Other common types include single-handle and double-handle faucets, which are ideal for multitasking and precise temperature control.

When choosing a faucet type, you should also look into how many mounting holes your kitchen sink has (typically between one and four). Some faucets are designed for a specific number of holes, while others come with helpful deck plates to cover any extra holes.

Reach

“When shopping for a kitchen faucet, understanding the reach is an essential factor to consider for functionality and convenience,” Chio says. Most faucets have a spout reach between 8 to 9 inches, but it can vary. If you have a deep sink, Chio suggests looking for a pull-down faucet with a longer-than-average spout reach, which will allow you to rinse every surface of your sink.

Flow Rate

A kitchen faucet’s flow rate, or how many gallons of water per minute, is generally between 1.5 and 2 GPM. If you want a faucet with a strong flow rate, Chio recommends focusing on ones with a secondary spray setting with more power, which can make it easier to wash dishes.

Style and Finish

“When selecting a style and finish of your kitchen faucet, this is completely dependent on your own personal taste and the aesthetic of your home,” says Chio. Popular finishes include stainless steel, matte black, matte gold, bronze, and chrome. Chrome is easy to keep fingerprint-free and clean while gold or bronze can make for a stylish look. Chio notes that there are many styles available with each finish, so you can seamlessly incorporate your desired finish within the style you’re going for.

Don’t forget to consider the height of the faucet, too. "A taller faucet height can create a more dramatic aesthetic or make a statement in your kitchen,” Chio says. “Make sure you assess height options based on the size of your kitchen and if you have cabinets above your sink that may create a limited space for higher faucets.”

Additional Features

“Kitchen faucets have greatly evolved and now offer many exciting new features and enhanced functionalities designed to provide ease of use and years of trouble-free operation,” Chio says. Some popular options include motion sensors to provide a hands-free experience, smart technology to control the faucet via your voice or an app, and a side soap dispenser or sprayer.

More Kitchen Faucets to Consider

Delta 9178T-SP-DST Leland Single-Handle Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet: This faucet has a convenient touchless feature and a flexible, high-neck design that offers several different modes. It depends on a battery pack for operation, though, which can present issues, and the water pressure may be too intense for some daily tasks.

Moen 87233EWC Adler One-Handle High Arc Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet: This faucet is easy to operate, has strong water pressure, and has a stylish, smoothly retracting hose. However, the chrome finish shows fingerprints and watermarks, and the high arc can sometimes cause water to splatter.

Questions You Might Ask

How much should you pay for a kitchen faucet?

With how often you use a kitchen faucet, it can be a worthwhile investment. According to Chio, the cost of a kitchen faucet varies widely depending on factors such as the brand, material, design, and features, That said, basic, single-handle faucets with few or no features tend to be under $150, while mid-range faucets can be up to $300, and high-end faucets made from premium materials and with eye-catching designs and features can cost over $1,000.

“Keep in mind that installation costs are separate, and you may need to factor in additional expenses if you plan to hire a professional for installation,” Chio says.

Does upgrading a kitchen faucet increase home value?

Upgrading your kitchen faucet can increase home value, but usually not in an overly significant way, Chio says. “Upgrading a kitchen faucet can contribute to the overall appeal and functionality of the kitchen, but its impact on home value is typically modest compared to larger-scale renovations,” she says. 

How do you install a kitchen faucet?

While the process will vary depending on the number of holes and the style of your kitchen sink, Chio says it will still be fairly easy. The first step, she says, is to shut the water off at the supply valves, then open up the faucet handles to relieve any pressure in the lines. After that, disconnect the water supply lines to the old faucet on both sides and stabilize the water pipe to prevent compromising the connections behind the cabinets.

Then, remove the old faucet and its connections, including its mounting hardware. If you have a faucet with a three-hole installation, use the included escutcheon plate to cover up the two outside holes and a gasket to seal the gap. “If there is a rubber ring on the bottom of the gasket plate, it can be effectively sealed," Chio says. "If not, it is recommended to apply with silicone sealant."

Installation for each supply line varies as it depends on the type of faucet. “Some faucet types have state-of-the-art supply lines called PEX tubing already installed as part of the hot and cold valves of the faucet," Chio says. "On other faucets, the hot and cold valves have a threaded nut, and you’ll need to attach your flexible supply lines."

Afterward, connect your mounting hardware to the shank below the deck to anchor the hot and cold valves, she explains. Lastly, connect each supply line to its corresponding water supply valve. Once you’ve installed your new faucet, Chio says it’s a good idea to flush it out to remove any debris that may have accumulated in the lines.

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Rachel Simon, a writer for Real Simple, Travel + Leisure, The New York Times, and many other publications; and updated by Jamie Fischer, a commerce writer for Real Simple. To compile this list, we tested 14 kitchen faucets at home and evaluated them on setup, ease of use, performance, durability, quality, and value. For expert tips, we consulted Meghan Chio, senior merchant at The Home Depot.

What Is Real Simple Selects?

Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company.

Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.

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