Engineered quartz is mostly crushed quartz bound with resin. It is non-porous, needs no sealing and comes in consistent patterns, but the resin can be damaged by high heat and fade in direct sun. Granite is natural stone that handles heat well and every slab is unique, but most granites should be sealed periodically to resist stains. Both cost a similar range installed, depending on slab and edge details.
Both are durable choices. The differences are in care, heat and looks.
Compared
| Engineered quartz | Granite | |
|---|---|---|
| Material | About 90% quartz plus resin and pigment | Natural igneous stone |
| Porosity | Non-porous | Porous, varies by stone |
| Sealing | Not needed | Typically every one to few years |
| Heat | Resin can scorch | Handles heat well |
| UV / outdoor | Can fade | Suitable |
| Look | Consistent patterns | Unique slabs |
| Repairs | Chips can be filled | Chips can be filled |
Testing a granite slab
Put a few drops of water on the stone. If it darkens within a few minutes, the stone absorbs liquid and should be sealed. Ask the fabricator which sealer they use.
Other countertop materials
- Quartzite: natural stone, very hard, often needs sealing.
- Marble: beautiful, etches with acids.
- Solid surface: seamless, repairable, less heat resistant.
- Butcher block: warm, needs oiling.
- Laminate: least expensive, modern designs.
Fabrication safety
Engineered stone contains high levels of crystalline silica. Dry cutting creates dust linked to silicosis among workers. Ask fabricators about wet cutting and dust controls; see dust control on our sister site.
Budgeting
Installed cost depends on slab grade, edge profile, cutouts and backsplash. See costs and budgets, cabinets and fixtures and the paint sheen guide for walls.
Browse kitchen remodel.
Common questions
Does quartz need to be sealed?
No. Engineered quartz is non-porous, so it does not need sealing. Granite usually does.
Can you put hot pans on quartz?
Use a trivet. High heat can scorch or discolor the resin in quartz. Granite tolerates heat better, but trivets are still wise.
Which is better outdoors?
Granite. Most quartz manufacturers do not warranty outdoor use because UV light can fade the resin.
Is engineered stone dangerous?
Cutting and grinding engineered stone produces silica dust that can cause serious lung disease in fabricators. OSHA has highlighted the hazard; choose fabricators that use wet cutting and dust controls.