Last Updated on April 2, 2023 by Kimberly Crawford
When it comes to kitchen faucets, there are a lot of different types to choose from. How do you know which one is right for your home?
In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of kitchen faucets and provide tips for choosing the right one for your needs.
We’ll also take a look at some popular brands and models. So whether you’re in the market for a new kitchen faucet or just want to learn more about them, read on!
17 Different Types of Kitchen Faucets
1. Bridge Faucet.
Bridge faucets are a great choice for homeowners who want the classic look of a traditional two-handle faucet but with the convenience of just one handle.
A bridge faucet has hot and cold handles mounted on a single stem that fits over your sink. This type of kitchen faucet is usually very sturdy and easy to maintain.
Pros:
- Traditional style with modern convenience
- Easy to install and maintain
- Variety of styles and finishes available
Cons:
- Not suitable for large sinks due to its low profile
- Must use two separate valves for hot and cold water control
- Handles may be tricky to reach on deeper sinks
Tips for Using Bridge Faucets:
- Make sure the bridge faucet is installed securely so it doesn’t move around
- Use a water filtration system with your bridge faucet so the water tastes great
- For hard to reach areas, consider a wall mounted bridge faucet
- If you’re installing a two-handle bridge faucet, be sure to use two separate valves for hot and cold water control
2. Commercial Style Faucet.
Commercial style faucets, also known as “restaurant style” faucets, are a great option for those who want a dual-handle kitchen faucet but with a more modern and industrial look.
These faucets typically have high arc spouts and long handles that make them perfect for washing large pots and pans.
Pros:
- Sleek and modern look
- High arches make them perfect for washing large pots and pans
- Handles are easy to reach on deeper sinks
- Variety of styles, finishes, and designs available
Cons:
- Must use two separate valves for hot and cold water control
- Not suitable for shallow sinks due to their tall profile
- Handles may be too long on smaller sinks
3. Double-Handle Faucet.
The double-handle faucet is the classic two-handle kitchen faucet.
This type of faucet features two handles, one for hot water and one for cold, which allows you to mix the temperatures to your desired setting.
Double-handle faucets are perfect for those who want an easy way to control their water temperature.
Pros:
- Traditional style with classic look
- Easy to control water temperature
- Variety of styles and finishes available
- Handles are easy to reach on deeper sinks
Cons:
- Must use two separate valves for hot and cold water control
- Not suitable for shallow sinks due to their tall profile
- Handles may be too short on larger sinks
4. Gooseneck Faucet.
Gooseneck faucets are perfect for those who want a modern look with maximum flexibility.
These kitchen faucets feature an angled spout and single handle, making them easy to use and keep clean.
The gooseneck shape allows the user to access hard-to-reach areas of the sink with ease.
Pros:
- Sleek and modern look
- Flexible spout is great for hard to reach areas
- Single handle makes it easier to control water temperature
- Variety of styles, finishes, and designs are available
Cons:
- Not suitable for large sinks due to its low profile
- Must use two separate valves for hot and cold water control
- Handles may be hard to reach on deeper sinks
5. Motion Detection Faucet.
Motion-detection faucets are perfect for those who want the convenience of hands-free use. This type of faucet uses infrared technology to detect motion and turn the water on and off automatically when needed.
Motion detection faucets can be a great choice for busy households as they reduce the risk of cross-contamination by using less contact with hands.
Pros:
- Hands-free convenience
- Great for busy households as reduces the risk of cross contamination
- Automatically turns water on and off when needed, reducing water usage
- Variety of styles, finishes, and designs available
Cons:
- Not suitable for large sinks due to its low profile
- Must use two separate valves for hot and cold water control
- May need adjustments to the motion detection settings for it to function correctly. Additionally, the desired results may depend on the user’s height or body type.
6. Pot Filler Faucet.
Pot filler faucets are perfect for those who want to fill large pots quickly and conveniently. This type of faucet is typically mounted on the wall near the stove and has a long, flexible spout that can be adjusted to fit around large pots.
Pot filler faucets are a great choice for busy cooks as they make it easy to fill pots without the need to lift and carry them.
Pros:
- Long, flexible spout makes it easy to fill large pots quickly and conveniently
- Easy installation as typically mounted on wall near stove
- Variety of styles, finishes, and designs available
- Handles are easy to reach on deeper sinks
Cons:
- Must use two separate valves for hot and cold water control
- Not suitable for shallow sinks due to their tall profile
- Handles may be too long on smaller sinks. Additionally, the desired results may depend on the user’s height or body type.
- Requires more countertop space due to mounting on wall.
7. Pull-Down Spout Faucet.
Pull-Down Spout Faucets are perfect for those who want the convenience of a pull-down sprayer but with classic style.
This type of faucet typically features a single handle and high arching spout that can be pulled down to access hard to reach areas of the sink.
Pull-Down Spout Faucets are a great choice for busy households as they provide convenience and ease of use.
Pros:
- Convenient pull-down sprayer makes it easy to access hard to reach areas
- Single handle makes it easier to control water temperature
- Traditional style with classic look
- Variety of styles, finishes, and designs available
Cons:
- Not suitable for large sinks due to its low profile
- Must use two separate valves for hot and cold water control
- Handles may be hard to reach on deeper sinks
- Limited hose length compared to more modern pull down faucets. Additionally, the desired results may depend on the user’s height or body type.
8. Pull-Out Spout Faucets.
A popular choice for many homeowners, a pull-out spout faucet offers both convenience and style. These specialty faucets are designed with a pull-down sprayer attached to the end of the main water supply line.
This allows you to easily move the head of the faucet to different angles, giving you more control over where you direct the water. And, because of their design, pull-out spout faucets are also great for tight spaces where a standard faucet won’t fit.
Pros:
- Easy to use: Pull-out spout faucets provide extra convenience and flexibility when it comes to using your sink. It’s easy to maneuver the head of the faucet around tight corners and hard-to-reach areas.
- Versatile: Pull-out spout faucets provide a wide range of uses, from filling buckets or pots to rinsing dishes and vegetables. They’re also great for washing your hands as you can easily adjust the head of the faucet to a comfortable angle.
Cons:
- Messy Installation: Pull-out spout faucets can be difficult and messy to install, especially if you’re replacing an existing fixture. You may need the help of a professional plumber to ensure that everything is connected properly.
- Costly Repairs: Over time, the pull-out hose and/or sprayer can become worn or damaged, necessitating costly repairs. Careful maintenance is needed to keep your faucet in good working condition.
9. Separate spray faucet.
A separate spray faucet is a two-piece fixture that combines a regular faucet with an independent sprayer.
This type of faucet provides the same convenience and flexibility as pull-out spouts, but without the added expense or hassle of installation.
Pros:
- Inexpensive: Separate spray faucets are usually more affordable than pull-out spouts, and installation is fairly straightforward.
- Easy to use: Separate spray faucets provide extra control and flexibility when it comes to using your sink. You can switch between the regular faucet and sprayer with ease.
Cons:
- Limited Reach: Separate spray faucets can be hard to maneuver around tight corners and hard-to-reach areas. You may need to use an extension hose or additional accessories to get the job done.
- No Hot Water: Because of their design, separate spray faucets cannot provide hot water. This makes them inconvenient for certain tasks like washing dishes or bathing babies.
10. Side sprayer faucet.
A side sprayer faucet is a great choice for any kitchen. It offers many benefits, such as flexibility and convenience, as well as enhanced cleaning capabilities.
With this type of faucet, you have the ability to reach into hard-to-reach areas with a powerful stream of water that can help make quick work of tough messes and grime.
The flexible hose also allows you to move the head of the faucet around your sink, so that you can easily clean all sides of dishes or pans without having to move them every time.
The side sprayer also makes it easy to fill large pots quickly, as well as making it easier and faster to clean fruits and vegetables.
You can also use the side sprayer for cleaning off countertops or backsplashes without using harsh chemicals or scrubbing.
This type of faucet is great for those who don’t have the time or energy to pull out the hose when they need a little extra water pressure.
On the other hand, side sprayer faucets can be difficult to install and maintain, especially if you don’t have much experience with plumbing. Additionally, it can also be difficult to control water pressure with this type of faucet.
If the hose isn’t connected properly or the water pressure is too high, you could end up with a mess. Thus, it’s important to be mindful of the water pressure when using this type of faucet.
11. Single-Handle Faucet.
Single-handle faucets are a great choice for those who want the convenience and flexibility of a pull-out spout or side sprayer, but don’t want to deal with the mess or expense of installation.
This type of faucet provides all the same benefits, such as easy maneuverability and quick access to hot and cold water, but in a compact, efficient design.
Pros:
- Easy Installation: Single-handle faucets are much easier to install than pull-out spouts or separate sprayers. You can usually do the job yourself with basic tools and supplies.
- Affordable: This type of faucet is much more affordable than pull-out spouts and other similar fixtures.
Cons:
- Limited Reach: Single-handle faucets are not as flexible as other types of fixtures when it comes to reaching tight corners or hard-to-reach areas. You may need additional accessories to get the job done.
12. Stationary Faucet.
When it comes to kitchen faucets, stationary models can offer a sleek and streamlined look that may appeal to many homeowners.
With a fixed-position spout, these faucets tend to be more aesthetically pleasing than pull-down, side sprayer, or two-handle varieties.
Plus, since stationary faucets don’t have any moving parts, they’re often more durable and less prone to wear and tear.
However, stationary faucets are not without their drawbacks. They offer limited flexibility when it comes to reach or angle of use—you can only turn the handle so far before it stops—which might be an inconvenience if you’re trying to clean hard-to-reach areas or fill large pots from a stationary faucet.
And because of their fixed nature, these types of faucets may also require more effort when it comes to cleaning and maintenance, as you’ll have to reach all the way around the fixture in order to adequately scrub away any dirt or grime.
13. Straight Spout Faucet.
If you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen, bath, or bar space—or all three!—you can’t go wrong with a Straight Spout faucet.
This classic style fits in well with many home designs, and its simple look is easy to incorporate into any room. Here’s why the straight spout is a great choice for your home:
Pros:
- Straight spouts are sleek and stylish, giving your kitchen or bath a timeless look.
- Their ergonomic design makes them easy to use, and with limited crevices, they’re simple to clean.
- They accommodate larger items in the sink, such as cookware or other items that require a deeper basin.
- Their shape makes them ideal for use in tight spaces, like those found in bar sinks and half baths.
Cons:
- As with any faucet, it’s important to ensure the spout is positioned correctly; if not, water may pour outside of the sink.
- Some find that straight spouts don’t provide as much power or flexibility for washing and rinsing tasks.
- Due to their static design, some may find that items too large for a standard sink bowl can become wedged under the faucet.
14. Swivel Spout Faucet.
Swivel spout faucets can add a nice touch to any kitchen or bathroom. With its sleek and modern design, swivel spouts provide the perfect accent to both traditional and contemporary decor.
The most attractive aspect of this type of faucet is its convenience – you can easily adjust the flow of water with one hand. This makes it great for filling pots and pans, or just rinsing your hands after washing dishes.
Swivel spouts are also relatively easy to install, making them a great choice for do-it-yourselfers who want to upgrade their faucet without the cost of hiring a plumber. They come in a variety of styles and finishes, so you can find one to match the look of your space.
However, there are some potential drawbacks to installing a swivel spout faucet. The most common issue is that the faucet may start to leak over time due to worn or faulty components.
If this happens, you will need to replace the entire faucet or at least some of its parts. Swivel spouts can also be difficult to clean due to their design – it’s easy for water and debris to get stuck in hard-to-reach places.
15. Touch-Activated Faucet.
A modern upgrade to the traditional manual faucet and a popular choice for homeowners looking to add style and convenience to their kitchens or bathrooms.
Pros: Touch-activated faucets are great for anyone who wants to reduce water waste, since you can quickly turn them off by touch rather than having to manually twist them shut.
This feature also helps reduce the spread of germs since you don’t need to touch the faucet handle with soapy hands. They can be quite attractive, too, offering a sleek and stylish look that is in keeping with contemporary homes.
Cons: The biggest disadvantage of a touch-activated faucet is that it requires power to operate. This means you’ll need to install wiring for an electric outlet near the sink, as well as have a working battery backup in case of power outages.
In addition, these faucets are more expensive than manual types and may require professional installation. Lastly, they can be easily triggered by pets or children—so if this is a concern, you may need to look for models that feature extra safety measures such as a built-in timer.
16. Touchless Faucet.
This new technology can be a great addition to any kitchen or bathroom. While it makes washing your hands easier, there are some potential drawbacks as well.
One of the most attractive features of touchless faucets is that they provide convenience and safety in the kitchen and bathroom. With a simple wave of your hand, you can easily turn on the sink and wash your hands without ever having to touch the handle.
This is a great option for households with young children, as it helps prevent them from accidentally touching contaminated surfaces. Additionally, since there’s no need to turn knobs or handles, it can be easier to switch between hot and cold water settings.
However, there are some potential drawbacks to touchless faucets. They tend to be more expensive than traditional models, so they may not always be the best option if you’re on a budget.
Additionally, since they use sensors that require electricity, you’ll need to make sure your kitchen and bathroom have the necessary wiring in place for them to work. Finally, they may not always be as effective at preventing germs from spreading, since people may forget to wave their hand in front of the sensor or the sensor may not recognize their movement.
17. Widespread Faucet.
It’s a common sight in bathrooms and kitchen, but don’t let its familiarity fool you. Widespread faucets are an increasingly popular option for those looking to spruce up their home décor or improve the look and feel of their bathrooms and kitchens. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of widespread faucet:
Pros:
- Widespread faucets offer more freedom of movement, with the two handles and longer spout providing greater flexibility. This makes them perfect for both larger sinks and double-basin setups.
- With a range of styles available, widespread faucets can be tailored to match any decor style—from contemporary to traditional, and everything in between.
- Widespread faucets can be installed as single-hole, which is great news if you’re dealing with limited countertop space. This also provides a clean, streamlined look that many homeowners prefer.
Cons:
- Installing a widespread faucet requires specific tools, and the process can be tricky for those without DIY experience.
- Widespread faucet fixtures should only be used in sink setups where there is plenty of space between the drilled holes. If not, it won’t look or function properly.
- These types of faucets are typically more expensive than other varieties, so if budget is a major factor for you, widespread faucets may not be the best option.
Related:
- 21 Types of Bathtub Faucets (Materials and Handles)
- 30 Faucet Brands For Your Bathroom and Kitchen (Worst and Reliable)
How to choose a kitchen faucet.
When it comes to kitchen faucets, there is no shortage of choices. From traditional two-handle models to modern touchless designs, homeowners have a plethora of options in terms of style and features. Making the right choice for your kitchen can be confusing, so here are some tips to help you choose the best kitchen faucet for your needs.
First, think about the style and finish of the faucet. Do you want a traditional look with two handles, or would you prefer something more contemporary like a single-handle pull-down sprayer? Consider how the faucet will fit in with the other elements of your kitchen space, from cabinets to countertops. The finish of the faucet can also help tie together all of these elements, so make sure to pick one that will complement your existing décor.
Next, consider the features you need in a kitchen faucet. Some models are designed with sprayers or side-sprayers for added convenience, while others feature touchless motion sensors or pull-down sprayers. If you have hard water, you may want to look for a faucet with an integrated filter system. Think about what features will make life easier and be sure to select a model that has them.
Finally, consider the installation process. Some newer models are designed for easy DIY installation while others require professional plumbing help. Make sure to look at the installation instructions included with the faucet before you purchase it and make sure that you’re comfortable with the required steps.