When designing an elegant kitchen, countertops aren’t just a surface—they’re the foundation. Every material tells a story of function, longevity, and aesthetic alignment. If you’re working with a custom countertop designer, one of the first big decisions will likely be this: Dekton or Quartz?
Let’s break down the differences between Dekton and Quartz, with a data-driven and design-savvy lens to help you choose the surface that best supports your kitchen’s beauty—and your lifestyle.
Material Composition
| Attribute | Quartz | Dekton |
| Composition | 90–95% natural quartz + polymer resins | Blend of quartz, porcelain, and glass, sintered under heat and pressure |
| Surface Type | Engineered stone | Ultra-compact surface |
| Porosity | Non-porous | Non-porous |
Key Insight: Both are low-maintenance and non-porous, making them hygienic and ideal for food prep. Dekton, however, undergoes a sintering process that gives it unique resilience.
Durability and Performance
| Feature | Quartz | Dekton |
| Heat Resistance | Moderate (use trivets) | Excellent (can withstand high temps) |
| Scratch Resistance | High | Very high |
| UV Resistance | Low | Excellent (ideal for outdoor kitchens or sunny spaces) |
| Chip Resistance | Good | Fair (edges may be more brittle) |
Analytical Note: Dekton’s heat and UV tolerance gives it the upper hand in sun-drenched kitchens or homes with indoor-outdoor flow. Quartz remains slightly more forgiving during fabrication and installation.
Design Versatility
| Element | Quartz | Dekton |
| Color & Pattern Options | Extensive – from marble-look to concrete | Moderate – matte, solid, or stone-inspired tones |
| Thickness Availability | Standard 2cm & 3cm slabs | Available in thinner 12mm–20mm options |
| Edge Profiling | Easily customizable | Limited due to brittleness |
Design Strategy: For ornate or detailed edgework, quartz is typically preferred. For sleek, architectural minimalism, Dekton delivers unmatched precision.
Cost Considerations (Installed)
| Range | Quartz | Dekton |
| Average Installed Price | $70–$120 per sq. ft. | $90–$130 per sq. ft. |
While Dekton may carry higher fabrication and installation costs, its performance benefits can offset that investment in high-usage or high-heat environments.
Final Takeaway
Working with a custom countertop designer ensures you’re not just selecting based on style—but based on data, workflow, and the specific needs of your household.
Choose Quartz if you prioritize design variety, ease of fabrication, and timeless elegance. Choose Dekton if you value extreme durability, minimalist appeal, and high-performance resilience in a bright or heavily used space.
Both materials have their strengths. The best choice? The one that works harder—for your kitchen and your lifestyle.
