Undermount vs. Drop-in Sinks: Which is Best for Your Kitchen?
Faucets Sinks
Choosing a kitchen sink isn't just about stainless steel vs. porcelain. The installation style changes how you use and clean your kitchen.
Drop-In (Top Mount) Sinks
The sink rim sits on top of the counter.
- Pros: Cheaper and easier to install. Can be used with any countertop material (laminate, wood, stone).
- Cons: The raised rim traps crumbs and water, making it harder to wipe counters clean. It has a more traditional, sometimes dated look.
Undermount Sinks
The sink is glued under the countertop.
- Pros: Sleek, modern look. You can wipe crumbs and water directly into the sink with no barrier. Highly desirable for resale value.
- Cons: More expensive to install (requires heavy-duty clips and glue). Can typically only be used with solid stone or quartz countertops (not laminate).
Verdict
If you have stone counters, go Undermount for the functionality. If you have laminate, Drop-In is your best (and often only) option.