Quartz vs Granite: Which Countertop Material is Right for You?
Granite Guy Inc. • Updated December 2025 • 8 minute read
2025 Update: With granite prices stabilizing and new quartz patterns mimicking natural stone better than ever, the choice between these two materials is harder than it was five years ago. Here's the breakdown from a fabricator's perspective.
Choosing between granite and quartz is the most common question we hear at Granite Guy Inc. After 30 years fabricating and installing both materials across thousands of Boston-area homes, we've seen how each performs — in kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor spaces, and everywhere in between.
Both are premium, durable, and beautiful. But they behave very differently depending on how you use them. Here's what you actually need to know.
✅ The Quick Verdict
Choose Granite if: You cook seriously and need heat resistance, want a one-of-a-kind natural stone, plan to use it outdoors, or prefer the character of natural material.
Choose Quartz if: You want zero maintenance (no sealing ever), prefer consistent patterns, prioritize stain resistance, or want more control over color selection.
🔥 Heat Resistance: The Biggest Functional Difference
This is where the two materials diverge most dramatically — and it matters if you actually cook.
Granite was formed by volcanic heat over millions of years. It handles temperatures up to 1,200°F without flinching. You can set a hot pot directly on the surface without worry. We still recommend trivets out of habit, but granite won't scorch or discolor from heat.
Quartz contains polymer resins that bind the stone together, and those resins begin to melt or scorch at temperatures as low as 300°F. A hot pan pulled straight from the stovetop can leave permanent burn marks. Trivets aren't optional — they're mandatory.
What we tell homeowners: If you're the type who pulls a cast iron skillet off the burner and sets it down wherever there's space, granite is your material. If you're disciplined about using trivets every single time, quartz works fine.
🧽 Maintenance: The Sealing Question
Quartz is non-porous, meaning liquids can't penetrate the surface. It never needs sealing. Soap and water handle daily cleaning, and it resists wine, coffee, and oil stains exceptionally well. The lack of pores also means bacteria have nowhere to grow — a genuine advantage for food prep areas and bathroom vanities.
Granite is porous and requires sealing. We recommend annually for lighter colors, every 2-3 years for darker granites. Skip the sealing and you risk permanent stains from oils and acids. But here's the reality: sealing takes 15 minutes and the products cost under $20. If you can wipe down your counters, you can seal granite.
What we see in our shop: Homeowners who forget to seal granite for 5+ years usually still have counters that look fine — darker granites especially. The sealing requirement sounds more intimidating than it actually is.
⚖️ Quartz vs Granite: How They Compare
Heat resistance is granite's clear advantage. It handles up to 1,200°F while quartz resins can scorch at just 300°F. For serious cooks, this difference matters daily.
Maintenance favors quartz. It never needs sealing and wipes clean with soap and water. Granite needs sealing once a year (light colors) or every 2-3 years (dark colors) — not difficult, but it is an ongoing commitment.
Hardness is similar for both. Granite rates 6-7 on the Mohs scale depending on the slab; quartz hits a consistent 7. Both resist scratches from normal daily use.
Stain resistance goes to quartz because it's non-porous. Granite resists stains well when properly sealed, but an unsealed granite counter can absorb oils and acids.
Outdoor use requires granite. Quartz resins break down under UV exposure, causing colors to fade and yellow over time. Granite is completely UV stable and handles Massachusetts weather without issue.
Appearance comes down to preference. Granite offers unique natural patterns — no two slabs are alike. Quartz provides consistent, engineered patterns with more control over color selection.
Price ranges overlap significantly. Granite runs $45-$150+ per square foot installed, with huge variation based on rarity. Quartz is more predictable at $55-$130 per square foot installed.
🪨 How They're Made: Natural vs Engineered
Granite is 100% natural igneous rock, formed from volcanic lava cooling over millions of years. Slabs come from quarries in Brazil, India, Italy, and other regions around the world. Each piece contains a unique combination of quartz, feldspar, and mica crystals — which is why no two slabs ever look exactly alike.
Quartz countertops (sometimes called engineered stone) are manufactured. They're roughly 90-93% ground natural quartz mixed with 7-10% polymer resins and pigments. The mixture gets pressed into slabs under high heat and pressure. This manufacturing process allows for consistent colors and patterns that natural stone can't replicate.
💪 Durability and Hardness
Both materials rate highly on the Mohs hardness scale, which measures scratch resistance. Quartz hits a consistent 7, while granite varies between 6 and 7 depending on the specific slab's mineral composition. In practical terms, both resist scratches from normal daily use.
The difference shows up in flexibility. Quartz's resin content makes it slightly more flexible, which means it's less likely to crack during installation or from structural settling. Granite, being solid rock, can chip at edges if you drop something heavy on a corner — though this is rare and usually repairable.
One concern we occasionally hear about is cracking in quartz countertops. While quartz is durable, it's not indestructible. Causes of cracking in quartz countertops include thermal shock (hot pans on a cold surface), improper installation without adequate support, or stress from heavy impacts. Proper fabrication and installation prevents most issues — which is why working with an experienced fabricator matters. Read more about causes and prevention of cracking in quartz countertops if this is a concern.
💰 Cost: What to Expect in 2025
The myth that quartz is always cheaper hasn't been true for years.
Granite pricing varies widely. Entry-level "Level 1" slabs run $45-$65 per square foot installed — often the most budget-friendly option for quality stone. Mid-range granite falls between $65-$100 per square foot. Exotic slabs with rare patterns can exceed $150 per square foot.
Quartz pricing is more predictable because it's manufactured. Most options fall between $55-$130 per square foot installed, with premium brands like Cambria at the higher end.
For a typical 40 square feet of quartz kitchen countertops, expect to pay $2,200-$5,200. The same size in granite runs $1,800-$6,000+ depending on the slab you choose.
🏠 Quartz vs Granite for Massachusetts Homeowners
After 30 years fabricating and installing countertops across MetroWest and Greater Boston, we've seen how both materials hold up in New England conditions — kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor spaces, and everything in between.
Outdoor applications are where granite wins decisively. Massachusetts freeze-thaw cycles, UV exposure, and temperature swings from 90°F in August to -10°F in January will destroy quartz resin over time. We've replaced outdoor quartz counters, bar tops, and grill surrounds that homeowners installed against our advice. Granite handles all of it without issue.
Indoor spaces work well for both materials. We install thousands of square feet of each every year. What we've noticed across Framingham, Hopkinton, Natick, Wellesley, and the surrounding towns: quartz dominates in bathrooms and laundry rooms where the zero-maintenance appeal matters most. Granite remains the top choice for homeowners who cook seriously or want a natural slab with character.
Sealing in New England's climate requires some timing awareness. Granite sealed during a humid July day may not cure properly. We recommend sealing in spring or fall when humidity drops — a detail most national guides skip because they're not writing for your climate.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is quartz cheaper than granite?
Not necessarily — and often no. Entry-level granite ($45-$65/sq ft installed) is usually the most affordable quality stone option. Quartz pricing is more consistent ($55-$130/sq ft) but rarely dips as low as budget granite. At the high end, exotic granite and premium quartz cost about the same. If budget is your main concern, entry-level granite typically wins.
Is granite or quartz more expensive?
It depends on what you're comparing. Budget granite is cheaper than budget quartz. Mid-range options are roughly equal. Premium granite and premium quartz cost about the same. There's no universal answer — the specific slab you choose matters more than the material category.
How much are granite countertops?
In Massachusetts, expect $45-$150+ per square foot installed. Entry-level "Level 1" granite runs $45-$65/sq ft, mid-range granite falls between $65-$100/sq ft, and exotic slabs with rare colors exceed $150/sq ft. A typical 40 sq ft kitchen runs $1,800-$6,000+ depending on the stone you choose.
How much is granite per square foot?
Material only runs $25-$100+ per square foot depending on rarity. Installed price (material + fabrication + installation) runs $45-$150+ per square foot. The installed price is what matters — always get quotes that include everything.
How much are quartz countertops?
In Massachusetts, expect $55-$130 per square foot installed. Pricing is more predictable than granite because quartz is manufactured. Premium brands like Cambria sit at the higher end. A typical 40 sq ft kitchen runs $2,200-$5,200.
How much is quartz per square foot?
Material only runs $40-$90 per square foot depending on brand and pattern. Installed price (material + fabrication + installation) runs $55-$130 per square foot. Always compare installed prices — that's your actual cost.
Is quartz better than granite?
Neither is universally "better" — it depends on how you live. Quartz wins on maintenance (zero sealing required), stain resistance (non-porous surface), and consistent patterns. Granite wins on heat resistance (handles hot pans), natural uniqueness (no two slabs alike), and outdoor durability (UV stable). If you cook seriously and set hot pans down without thinking, granite is better for you. If you want zero maintenance and hate the idea of sealing, quartz is better for you.
Is granite better than quartz?
For some people, yes. Granite is better if you cook frequently and want to set hot pans down freely, want a one-of-a-kind natural stone, plan to use it outdoors, or prefer natural materials over engineered ones. Granite requires sealing, but that takes 15 minutes once a year.
What is the best material for kitchen countertops?
There's no single "best" — it depends on your priorities. Granite is best for serious cooks (heat resistance) and outdoor kitchens (UV stable). Quartz is best for low maintenance (no sealing, stain resistant). Entry-level granite is best for tight budgets. After 30 years of installations, we've seen every material perform well when matched to the right homeowner.
Is quartz heat resistant?
Not really. Quartz contains polymer resins that can scorch, discolor, or crack at temperatures as low as 300°F. You must use trivets or hot pads — no exceptions. A hot pan straight from the stovetop can leave permanent damage.
Is granite heat resistant?
Yes. Granite formed under volcanic heat and can handle temperatures up to 1,200°F. You can set a hot pan directly on the surface without damage. We still recommend trivets out of habit, but granite won't scorch from cooking heat.
Is quartz a natural stone?
No — quartz countertops are engineered stone. They're made from roughly 90-93% ground natural quartz mixed with 7-10% polymer resins and pigments. The quartz mineral is natural, but the countertop is manufactured. This is different from quartzite, which is 100% natural stone.
What are quartz countertops made of?
Roughly 90-93% ground natural quartz crystals mixed with 7-10% polymer resins, pigments, and binding agents. The mixture is pressed into slabs under high heat and pressure. This manufacturing process allows for consistent colors and patterns that natural stone can't replicate.
Is quartz porous?
No. Quartz is non-porous because the resin seals all the gaps between quartz particles. Liquids can't penetrate the surface. This means no sealing required, excellent stain resistance, and no place for bacteria to grow.
Is granite porous?
Yes. Granite has microscopic pores that can absorb liquids over time. That's why it needs to be sealed — the sealer fills those pores and creates a protective barrier. Properly sealed granite resists stains just fine. Unsealed granite can absorb oils and acids.
Can I put hot pans on quartz?
No. Quartz resins can scorch or discolor at temperatures as low as 300°F. Always use a trivet or hot pad.
Can I put hot pans on granite?
Yes. Granite handles temperatures up to 1,200°F. We recommend trivets out of habit, but granite won't scorch from normal cooking heat.
Can I use quartz countertops outdoors?
No. UV light causes the resins to fade and yellow over time. Massachusetts sun, even in our shorter summers, will damage outdoor quartz within a few years. For outdoor kitchens and bars, granite is the only choice between these two.
Does granite need to be sealed?
Yes. Light-colored granite should be sealed annually. Dark-colored granite can go every 2-3 years. It takes about 15 minutes and costs under $20.
Does quartz need to be sealed?
No. Quartz is non-porous and never requires sealing. Soap and water is all you need for daily cleaning.
How do you clean quartz countertops?
Soap and water is all you need for daily cleaning. For stubborn spots, a non-abrasive household cleaner works fine. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or abrasive scrubbers — they can dull the surface over time. Read our full guide on how to clean quartz countertops for more details.
How can I tell granite from quartz just by looking?
Look at the pattern. If it's perfectly uniform with no irregularities, it's likely quartz. If veins move randomly and you see unique crystals, flecks, or natural "imperfections," it's granite. Quartz patterns are engineered to be consistent. Granite patterns are whatever nature created.
What about quartzite — is that the same as quartz?
No — completely different materials. Quartz is engineered stone (90% quartz + 10% resins). Quartzite is 100% natural stone, actually harder than granite. The similar names cause constant confusion. Read our quartz vs quartzite comparison for the full breakdown.
What about porcelain — how does it compare to quartz?
Porcelain countertops are gaining popularity as another low-maintenance option. They're heat resistant (unlike quartz), UV stable for outdoor use, and extremely scratch resistant. However, porcelain is thinner and can chip at edges more easily than quartz. If you're comparing quartz vs porcelain countertops, porcelain wins on heat and outdoor durability while quartz offers more pattern variety and easier repairs. Visit our porcelain countertops page to learn more.
What about marble — how does it compare?
Marble is softer and more porous than both granite and quartz. It etches from acidic foods (lemon, vinegar, tomato) and stains more easily. Beautiful, but higher maintenance than either option. If you're considering marble, read our marble care guide to understand what you're signing up for.
Ready to See Both Materials in Person?
Reading comparisons helps, but nothing beats seeing full slabs side by side. Our Southborough showroom on Route 9 has both granite and quartz kitchen countertops in stock. Come touch the surfaces, feel the weight, and see how different finishes catch the light.
We've been fabricating countertops for Massachusetts homeowners since 1995. Whether you're leaning toward granite, quartz, or something else entirely, we'll help you find the right stone for how you actually live.
📍 Visit our showroom: Route 9, Southborough, MA
📞 Call us: 508-460-7900
💬 Get a free quote: graniteguyinc.com/contact
