What is the Best Countertop to Use in a Kitchen

Your countertop is one of the most impactful parts of your kitchen’s aesthetic. Your choice guides the direction for the entire kitchen, both visually and functionally. During your kitchen remodel in Portland, OR, it’s important to choose the right look for your style, but it’s also vital to strategically plan what type of material to use. Selecting the perfect modern countertop comes down to balancing beauty, durability, and maintenance. 

We’ve come a long way from Formica and ceramic tiles; today’s homeowners have more choices than ever when it comes to countertops. To help guide your decision, we met up with our friends at Milan Stoneworks to help you find the best choice for your kitchen countertop. Keep reading below!

What is the most popular countertop material in 2025?

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of today's favorite countertop materials for kitchen remodeling: 

1. Quartz 

A man-made material composed of natural quartz crystals and resin, quartz offers a consistent appearance and minimal maintenance, ideal for busy kitchens or families with kids. 

Pros 

• Non-porous and resistant to staining.
• No sealing required.
• Highly durable and fairly scratch-resistant.
• Available in a wide range of colors and patterns.

Cons 

• Can discolor with UV exposure; not ideal for outdoor use.
• Sensitive to high heat.
• Some finishes and colors may stain or scratch more easily.

2. Quartzite 

A natural stone formed from sandstone and quartz under heat and pressure. There’s a lot of variation between types, so you can expect some to be softer and more porous than others. 

Pros

• Some types are harder and more dense than marble or granite.
• Offers dramatic, natural veining similar to marble.
• Great for high-use kitchens.

Cons

• Some varieties are more porous and prone to staining, and they require sealing.
• Variability in hardness depending on the quarry.

3. Granite 

A timeless favorite, granite is a natural stone known for its durability and one-of-a-kind patterns. 

Pros

• Extremely hard and dense. Highly scratch and stain-resistant.
• Handles heat well.
• Available in a wide variety of natural colors and patterns.
• Excellent for both indoor and outdoor use.

Cons

• Requires periodic sealing.
• Natural variation may not appeal to those wanting uniformity.
• Heavier weight requires sturdy cabinetry.

4. Marble 

The epitome of luxury, marble’s distinctive veining and luminous surface make it a showpiece in any kitchen or bath. 

Pros

• Striking, timeless aesthetic.
• Adds value and sophistication to any space.

Cons

• Prone to etching from acidic foods and cleaners.
• Can stain and scratch easily.
• Requires frequent sealing and maintenance.
• Not recommended for high-traffic kitchens.

5. Soapstone 

A natural stone with a soft, matte feel and subtle veining. It develops a rich patina over time and adds warmth to both traditional and modern kitchen designs. While it requires a lot of maintenance, it is easy for homeowners to do themselves. 

Pros

• Naturally non-porous and resistant to stains.
• Unaffected by heat or acidic foods.
• Offers a unique, organic look.

Cons

• Softer surface can scratch or dent easily.
• Requires regular oiling to maintain color depth.
• Limited color options (typically gray to green tones).

6. Neolith/Porcelain 

A man-made “super surface” created with intense heat and pressure, it is engineered to be nearly indestructible. 

Pros

• Highly resistant to scratches, stains, and heat.
• Non-porous and hygienic.
• No sealing required.
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Cons

• Can be brittle at edges or corners if not installed correctly.
• Limited through-body color (chips may show base material).
• Fewer natural-looking patterns compared to stone.

7. Limestone 

Elegant and naturally textured, limestone brings an earthy, old-world charm to interiors but requires attentive care. 

Pros

• Distinctive natural beauty with soft, organic tones.
• Can be suitable for various interior applications.

Cons

• Susceptible to etching and staining from acids.
• Softer surface can scratch easily.
• Requires regular sealing and maintenance.
• Not ideal for heavy-use kitchens or wet areas unless specified as suitable.

8. Dolomite 

Sometimes called “hard marble,” dolomite offers the look of marble with slightly better resistance to etching and scratching due to its high concentration of magnesium. 

Pros

• Elegant appearance similar to marble.
• More durable and less prone to etching than marble.
• Naturally heat-resistant.

Cons

• Still softer than granite or quartz.
• Can chip or scratch with heavy use.
• Requires regular sealing to protect the surface.

Which material is the best for kitchen countertops?

There’s no single answer, since every household’s needs and preferences differ. Every countertop material brings its own mix of beauty, character, and care requirements. From the low-maintenance durability of quartz to the timeless elegance of marble or the modern performance of porcelain, the right choice depends on how you live and what inspires you. Consider how you cook, entertain, and use your kitchen day-to-day.

Who do I contact if I want a custom countertop for my kitchen remodel in Portland, OR?