Corian vs Quartz Countertops – What’s The Difference & Which Is Best?
When planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel, choosing the right countertop is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Countertops need to be durable, stylish, and functional—all while staying within budget.
Two of the most popular options on the market are Corian countertops (solid surface) and Quartz countertops (engineered stone). Both are man-made but differ in look, durability, cost, and maintenance.
So, which is better: Corian or Quartz? Let’s break down the differences, pros and cons, and best uses to help you make the right choice.
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What Are Corian Countertops?
Corian is a brand created by DuPont in the 1970s. Over time, the term has become a generic name for solid surface countertops—much like Kleenex for tissues.
How They’re Made
- ~33% acrylic resin + ~66% natural minerals
- Non-porous, making them resistant to stains and bacteria
- Can be moulded into custom shapes (seamless sinks, curves, and edges)
Look & Design
- Over 100 colour and pattern options
- Can mimic stone, marble, or granite
- Seamless appearance with invisible joints
Pros And Cons Of Corian Countertops
✅ Pros of Corian
- Wide range of colours and styles
- Non-porous (no sealing required)
- Easy to clean and repair
- Seamless installation (no visible joints)
- Can be moulded into unique designs
❌ Cons of Corian
- Softer surface → prone to scratches and dents
- Can scorch from hot pans
- May discolour when exposed to strong chemicals
- Lacks the natural depth of real stone
Popular Solid Surface Countertops Brands
- Wilsonart. These countertops are generally called laminate countertops. They are made of 100% acrylic and polyester resins, combined with added pigments for colour and style.
- Staron. This solid surface countertop is a product of Samsung. They also have translucent countertops with metallic specks. Recently, Samsung Staron launched its eco-friendly recycled solid surface countertop series. This is a great option for designing a green kitchen.
- Swanstone. These acrylic-based countertops are infused with mineral fillers, creating a unique blend of solid surface countertops.
- Formica. A solid surface countertop that also blends pure acrylic with filler minerals to produce a hard and dense, easy-to-clean surface.
What Are Quartz Countertops?
Quartz countertops are a type of engineered stone. While quartz is a natural mineral, countertops are made by combining 90–95% crushed quartz with resin and pigments.
How They’re Made
- Ground quartz particles (fine = smooth look, coarse = speckled look)
- Hardened into durable slabs with resins
- Polished for a glossy, uniform finish
Look & Design
- Mimics natural stone but with more consistent patterns
- Wide range of colours, from marble-like veining to solid neutrals
- Luxurious, high-end appearance
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Pros And Cons Of Quartz Countertops
✅ Pros of Quartz
- Extremely hard and durable (comparable to granite)
- Non-porous (stain-resistant, no sealing needed)
- Scratch-resistant
- Easy to clean with mild soap and water
- Wide variety of styles and colours
❌ Cons of Quartz
- More expensive than Corian
- Can be damaged by high heat (use trivets)
- Sensitive to harsh chemicals
Popular Quartz Countertops Brands
- Breton or Bretonstone. This is composed of a high concentration of quartz crystals, reaching up to 94%. It is made using a process that results in a solid slab that looks very much like natural stone. Breton holds the original patent for quartz countertops.
- Caesarstone. This was the first and most popular brand of quartz countertop in the US, next to Bretonstone.
- Silestone. Silestone is one of the more recognisable brands of quartz countertops in the US. It is an Italian company and is known for its distinctive countertop designs.
- Cambria. Opening in 2000, Cambria is one of the late starters in the solid countertop business. Their natural-looking countertops and smoothly polished designs make them a name in the countertop business.
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Cost Comparison: Corian vs Quartz
One of the biggest deciding factors is price.
| Countertop Type | Average Material Cost (per sq. ft.) | Installed Cost (per sq. ft.) | Maintenance Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corian | $40–$65 | $50–$80 | Very low (may need refinishing) |
| Quartz | $70–$110 | $90–$150 | Very low (no sealing required) |
💡 Quick Tip: Quartz is more expensive upfront but offers better durability and higher resale value.
Maintenance & Care
Corian Care Tips:
- Clean with mild soap and water
- Use cutting boards (to avoid scratches)
- Refinish the surface if scratches occur
- Avoid direct heat from pans
Quartz Care Tips:
- Wipe daily with soap and water
- Use trivets for hot cookware
- Avoid strong chemicals (bleach, paint removers)
- Little to no long-term maintenance required
| Feature | Corian (Solid Surface) | Quartz (Engineered Stone) |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Softer, scratches easily | Extremely hard, long-lasting |
| Heat Resistance | Low (can burn) | Moderate (still needs trivets) |
| Appearance | Seamless, customizable | Natural stone look, polished |
| Color Options | 100+ patterns, bold colors | 100+ natural stone designs |
| Maintenance | Easy to repair, no sealing | Low maintenance, no sealing |
| Price Range | $40–$80 per sq. ft. | $70–$120 per sq. ft. |
| Best For | Modern, seamless kitchens | 100+ patterns, bold colours |
Which Countertop Is Best for You?
Choosing between Corian and Quartz depends on your lifestyle, budget, and design goals:
- Choose Corian if… You want a budget-friendly, modern, and seamless look with lots of design flexibility. Great for unique shapes and integrated sinks.
- Choose Quartz if… You want a luxurious, durable surface that looks like natural stone and can withstand daily wear and tear for decades.
FAQs About Corian and Quartz Countertops
👉 Do Corian countertops scratch easily?
Yes, but they can be sanded and refinished to look like new.
👉 Are quartz countertops worth the higher cost?
Yes—if durability, resale value, and a natural stone appearance are priorities.
👉 Can Corian or Quartz be used in bathrooms?
Both work well in bathrooms thanks to their non-porous properties.
👉 Do quartz countertops fade in sunlight?
Yes, prolonged UV exposure can cause fading—better suited for indoor use.
Final Thoughts…
Both Corian and Quartz countertops are excellent choices, but for different reasons.
- Corian = affordability, design flexibility, seamless appearance
- Quartz = luxury, durability, natural stone aesthetics
When choosing, consider:
✔ Your budget
✔ How much wear and tear your kitchen gets
✔ Whether you prefer a seamless or natural stone look
If durability and resale value matter most → go with Quartz. 👍
If design flexibility and budget are top priorities → choose Corian. 👍
DISCOVER MORE
- Can You Have Two Different Countertop Materials In A Kitchen?
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- 20mm Or 30mm Quartz Worktop – Choosing The Right Thickness
Author
Michael is a kitchen designer from the UK. He's been designing and project managing new kitchen installations for over 10 years. Before that, he was an electrician and part of a team that fitted kitchens. He created Kitchinsider in early 2019 to help give people advice when it comes to getting a new kitchen.
