Best Detailed Kitchen Countertop Guide in 2025

In this post you will find a complete detailed guide to kitchen countertops in 2025!

It can be quite overwhelming when renovating or designing a new kitchen and not knowing which kind of countertop would suit your kitchen best for your personal budget and needs!

Countertops can make or break the kitchen when it comes to visual impact and functional use!

There are so many factors to consider when choosing a kitchen countertop for example from what material it is made from, how durable it is, if it stains, the style and look, and the list goes on.

Kitchen design is as advanced as ever and always evolving style wise. In this post I want to explain each different kind of countertop, the pros and cons and why or why not you should consider it.

I will also show you the countertop we chose for our own kitchen and why I love it so much!

Let’s get into it! I will go from most popular to least popular in 2025 and talk more about why.

1. Quartz

Quartz countertops are one of the highest contenders for several years already and all for good reason. The pros outweigh the cons. Quartz is made from engineered stone, not natural slabs.

They usually consist of 90-95% crushed natural Quartz and then mixed with resin, polymers and pigments. This creates a super-strong surface that is non-porous but still looks like a natural stone.

Pros for quartz countertops:

• Low maintenance– meaning there is no sealing or extra care required. Cleaning is just done with soap and water.
• Stain resistant– coffee, wine or oils are no problem! The surface is non porous meaning nothing will seep in and stain.
• Very durable– it is very resistant to stains, chips and cracks.
• Wide range of design styles– Quartz can mimic natural stone slabs, marble, granite or other unique artistic designs.

Quartz kitchen countertops are perfect for busy kitchen that experience heavy cooking! However all pros come with some cons. Let’s explore those:

Cons for quartz countertops:

• Expensive- quartz is on the expensive side of countertops. Depending of which style you choose it can cost around $60-$120 per square foot.
• Not heat proof- you need to be careful with heat and make sure to use a hot pad. Placing hot pots or pans on surfaces can cause discolouration or even cracks.
• Not suitable for outdoor kitchens- when used outside quartz can yellow or warp from UV exposure.

Some popular quartz choices in 2025 are:

• Calacatta Gold
• Ceaserstone
• Cambria
• Silestone
• MSI Q Quartz
• Viatera

2. Porcelain

Porcelain is the rising star in 2025! It’s made from dense high-fired ceramic clay, mixed with minerals like feldspar and silica and then bakes at extremely high temperatures. They are one of the toughest countertops on the market! Let’s explore the pros and cons.

Pros of Porcelain Countertops:

• Extremely durable- one of the toughest countertops one the market. It is resistant to scratches, heat, UV, chemicals and stains.
• Heat proof- Unlike quartz, porcelain can handle direct hot pots and pans without any problem.
• UV- Resistant- Porcelain are perfect for outdoor kitchens as they can withstand the elements and won’t fade or yellow.
• Hygienic- it is non-porous therefore it doesn’t harbour bacteria or needs sealing, and it is easy to clean with just soap and water.
• Modern Aesthetic- Porcelain can mimic marble, wood, concrete or even metal with stunning realism.
• Thin and lightweight- Available in thin or thick slabs and can be installed over existing countertops.

Cons of Porcelain Countertops

• Edge chipping risk- Even though the surface is extremely hard and chip resistant the edges can chip and can be brittle if struck.
• Limited edging styles- porcelain cannot be shaped into as many decorative edging designs as granite or quartz.
• Complicated to install- requires special tools and skills to to fabricate and install, not everyone works with porcelain.
• Expensive- Porcelain is one of the most expensive countertop on the market.

Popular Porcelain Trends in 2025

• A marble look like Calcutta or Statuario.
• Bookmatched slabs for dramatic veining across islands and backsplashes.
• Oversized slabs for waterfall islands and full height backsplash.

Influencer Kristy Wicks is currently remodelling their home and chose a high end porcelain countertop, she talks more about it in this blog post.

3. Granite

Granite is still a top contender even in 2025 and alway a classic choice. It is known for its one of a kind natural stone slabs that are completely unique giving another level of beauty and luxury that many homeowners still love.

Granite is 100% natural stone, formed from cooled magma deep within the earth. Each piece has a unique color, veining and pattern.

Pros of Granite Countertops

• Highly durable- resistant to heat, scratches and chips
• Heat resistant- can handle instant hot pans or pans without damage
• Natural Beauty- Has hundreds of color and pattern variation with non alike, adding natural elegance and luxury
• Boost resale value- still considered a premium material.
• Long lasting- with proper care granite can last decades!

Cons of Granite Countertops

• Requires Sealing- granite is porous and needs to be sealed regularly to prevent stains.
• Heavy- required strong supportive cabinetry and professional installation.
• Visible Seams- Sometimes seams are more visible compared to quartz or porcelain.
• Expensive– granite can be expensive sometimes ranging from 50$-100$ per square foot.
• Limited color control- because it is a natural stone you can’t really customize is like with quartz or porcelain.

Granite countertops are for you if you love the uniqueness of the natural stone slabs, are ok with the regular sealing and want a durable heat resistant countertop!

Granite Trends in 2025

• Honed or leathered finishes: Matte textures with a soft sheen.
• Bold veining and movement.
• Dark and moody colours.
• Warm earth tones like deep greens, black or charcoal.

4. Marble

Marble is a natural metamorphic stone, formed when limestone is subjected to extreme heat and pressure. It is known for one of the most iconic and luxurious countertop materials. Marble has soft flowing veining with shades ranging from grey, white, beige or green.

Every slab is unique and different which adds to the luxury and appeal.

Pros of Marble Countertops

• Elegance& luxury- the one of a kind slabs are highly popular in high end kitchens, bakeries or historic homes adding to the resale value.
• Cool surface- making it great for baking, working with chocolate and usually popular with pastry chefs.
• Works with many styles- granite goes well with modern, classic, historic, farmhouse or European kitchens. It is very popular in white and black kitchens.

Cons of Marble Countertops

• Stains easily- marble is very porous and stains easily especially from coffee, wine or even water when not sealed properly.
• Scratches and chips- it is a much softer stone then granite or quart and can scratch and chip easily when not careful.
• High maintenance- Needs regular sealing (about every 3-6 months) and needs proper marble cleaners only.
• Can be expensive- Even though it is a picky countertop it can still be very expensive.

Marble is for you if you love the uniqueness and character of marble countertops and don’t mind a bit of patina over time. It is better in low traffic kitchens or areas like baking stations or islands.

Marble Trends in 2025

• Matte finishes for a more honed modern look.
• Mirrored veining across slabs for a dramatic effect.
• Mixed materials like marble islands with quartz perimeter counters.
• Dark marble for moody luxurious kitchens.

5. Concrete

Concrete countertops are made from a mixture of cement, sand, aggregates, and pigments wither poured on site or pre-cast in a mold. They are a bold modern choice that has grown in popularity in recent years especially for those looking for a industrial or earthy aesthetic.

Pros for Concrete Countertops

• Very customizable- when it comes to size, thickness, shape or colour.
• Creativity- not only the size and thickness can be tailored but you can add inlays like stones, shells, metal, add edge details or integrated sinks.
• Heat resistance- withstands heat better than quartz or laminate and great for home chefs!
• Durable and solid- when properly installed and sealed it is very durable and long lasting. It doesn’t scratch easily!

Cons for Concrete Countertops

• Requires sealing and maintenance- as is it very porous it has to be sealed to resist stains and bacteria.
• Possible cracks- while settling hairline cracks may appear, or over time due to temperature changes.
• Stains easily- especially with acidic spills like wine, vinegar or lemon there is the risks or that etching into the surface. As the sealer wears off oil and water can leave marks too.
• Very heavy- requires reinforced cabinetry and professional installation.
• Long cure time- needs several days to cure completely.

Concrete is ideal for a fully custom design, if you are going for an industrial or natural style and don’t mind the aging and patina over time. It is great if you want to make a statement in your kitchen!

Concrete Countertop Trends in 2025

• Waterfall edges and integrated sinks for a modern design.
• Stained in black, charcoal, warm beige or terracotta tones.

6. Soapstone

Soapstone is a natural metamorphic stone composed of talc which gives it a smooth, soft, “soapy” feel. It is typically found in dark shades of grey green or black, often with beautiful white veining that becomes pronounced over time.

Pros for Soapstone Countertop

• No sealing- because it is naturally non-porous it doesn’t need sealing like marble or granite. It is highly resistant to stains, bacteria and water.
• Heat resistant- Handles hot pots and pans directly making it great for bakers and cooks.
• Develops natural patina- ages gracefully over time developing a richer deeper colour.
• Easy maintenance- it is stain resistant and small scratches can be sanded out.

Cons for Soapstone Countertop

• Soft Surface- softer in compared to quartz or granite therefore more prone to scratches and nicks.
• Limited color choices- mostly available in shades of grey, blue-grey or green-grey
• Requires Oiling- oiling can be done to darken the countertop and to even out the patina, however this is optional
• Expensive- as this countertop is considered to be on the higher end it also comes at a cost, usually mid-high price range.

This countertop is great for those who love the rustic, antique farmhouse feel, want a low maintenance countertop and love to cook and bake because it does stay naturally cool!

Soapstone Countertop Trends in 2025

• Soapstone is highly sought after in 2025 because it fits in perfectly with the modern organic natural style.
• Matte soapstone is in high demand. and non-glossy is preferred in 2025.
• Paired with warm wood tones, brass and cream cabinets, soapstone is the perfect countertop for a perfect combination.

7. Butcher Block

Butcher block countertops are made from strips of hardwood glued together to make a thick sturdy countertop, perfect for warm, rustic kitchens to create an organic homey feel.

Pros for Butcher Block Countertops

• Warm look- has a homey cozy feel and paired beautifully with white or cream cabinets.
• Affordable- one of the most affordable countertops selections and great when trying to save some money.
• Eco friendly and repairable- made from renewable wood sources, eco friendly and easy to repair like sanding and refinishing when stained or worn.

Cons for Butcher Block Countertop

• Regular maintenance- requires regular oiling with food safe mineral oil, other it is prone to drying out or cracking.
• Not heat resistant- cannot handle hot pots and pans and needs hot pads at all times.
• Soft- meaning it is much softer than stone therefore prone to scratched and dents.
• Sensitive to water- if not sealed properly it can warp, stain or grow mold, especially near sinks.

Butcher block countertops are great for those who are looking for an affordable countertop option, who love a warm and cozy feel and don’t mind the regular maintenance.

Butcher Block Design Trends in 2025

• Dark walnut or white oak are the most popular wood choices for butcher block countertops this year.
• Often used as an accent counter like in pantries, laundry rooms or islands.
• Often mixed with quartz or soapstone.
• Popular in cottage style, Scandinavian, Japan or rustic homes.

8. Laminate

Laminate countertops are made from layers of plastic bonded particle board or MDF. The top layer is a decorative surface printed with a pattern to mimic a natural material like stone or wood. They have come a long way from the 1980’s reputation and are a budget friendly choice.

Pros for Laminate Countertops

• Affordable- One of the most affordable countertop options out there, great for for those with a budget.
• Huge selection of styles- available in thousands of different styles and colours and can be made to mimic, quartz, granite or other natural materials.
• Low maintenance- No sealing required, can simply be washed with soap and water. Usually stain resistant.
• Lightweight- easy to install, great for remodels and DIY’s.

Cons for Laminate Countertops

• Not heat-resistant- trivets and hot pads should always be used as it is not heat resistant.
• Prone to Scratches and Chips- this countertop scratched easily and cutting boards should always be used. Once chipped it is very hard to repair.
• Seams are visible- seams are usually more visible than with other stone countertops.
• Shorter life span- typically only last 10-20 years, depending on care.

Laminate countertops are great for those who are looking for a budget friendly option, those who are remodelling and doing the work themselves and are ok with taking proper care of their countertops.

Laminate Countertop Trends in 2025

• Laminate that mimics stone countertops like quartz, marble or soapstone.
• Butcher block look a-likes! This gives the same rustic feel as real wood without the maintenance.
• Dark dramatic countertops in charcoal, graphite or deep green are gaining popularity!

The countertop we chose

We decided to go with the Calacatta Gold Quartz countertop! We fell in love with the soft veining and slightly gold touches. Quartz is very durable and three years later we don’t regret it one single bit! We decided to install this on our kitchen island and other counters all well.

What do you think, which is your favourite choice?

I hope this post was helpful to you when deciding which kitchen countertop to go with!