Choosing the perfect countertop material is essential for homeowners, designers, and contractors. Two of the most popular options today are quartz and porcelain slabs, each offering unique benefits in durability, aesthetics, and maintenance.
At PrimeStone Inc., we specialize in premium quartz slabs, including advanced collections like Symphony Quartz and Lucciare Genesis Quartz, which feature high-definition veining for a luxurious natural stone look. Meanwhile, porcelain countertops excel in heat and UV resistance, making them ideal for outdoor kitchens and modern interiors.
Let’s explore the pros, cons, and cost comparisons of quartz vs. porcelain countertops to help you make the best choice.
What Are Quartz Countertops?
Quartz countertops are engineered surfaces made from a combination of natural quartz crystals – one of the hardest minerals on earth – combined with resins and pigments. This composition creates a non-porous, stain-resistant, and highly durable and low maintenance surface, making quartz a preferred choice for high-traffic kitchens and bathrooms.
Key Features of Quartz Countertops:
- Engineered stone made from approximately 90-95% crushed quartz and 5-10% polymer resins.
- Non-porous surface that resists stains, bacteria, and moisture.
- Available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including designs that mimic marble, granite, and concrete.
- Consistent appearance with high-definition veining and depth, thanks to advanced quartz printing technology.
Curious to see how different designs would look in your home? Try our countertop visualizer tool! Easily explore different slab colors and patterns in various kitchen designs before making your decision.
Pros of Quartz Countertops
Non-Porous & Stain Resistant – Unlike natural stone, quartz does not absorb liquids, making it highly resistant to stains from coffee, wine, or oil.
FAIBLE ENTRETIEN – No sealing required; just clean with mild soap and water.
Extremely Durable – Quartz is one of the hardest minerals on Earth, making it highly resistant to scratches and cracks. Ideal for busy kitchens and bathrooms.
Luxurious Aesthetic – Thanks to advancements in quartz manufacturing, modern slabs now feature high-definition veining that closely mimics Calacatta marble, Statuario, and other exotic stones.
Wide Range of Colors & Styles – Available in neutral tones, bold hues, and intricate stone-like patterns.
Uniform Appearance – Unlike natural stone, quartz has consistent coloration and veining, reducing waste during fabrication.
Looking for premium quartz slabs? Browse our Symphony and Lucciare Genesis Quartz collections for stunning designs with lifelike veining!
Cons of Quartz Countertops
Heat Sensitivity – Quartz resins can be damaged by high heat. Always use trivets or heat pads under hot cookware.
Not Ideal for Outdoor Use – UV exposure can cause discoloration over time, making quartz unsuitable for outdoor kitchens.
Heavy & Requires Professional Installation – Quartz slabs are dense and heavy, requiring reinforced cabinetry and professional fabrication.
Considering an outdoor countertop? Porcelain might be the better choice. Keep reading to learn why.
What Are Porcelain Countertops?
Porcelain slabs are made from highly refined clay, feldspar, and mineral oxides, which are fired at extreme temperatures to create an ultra-hard, non-porous surface. This makes porcelain highly durable, heat-resistant, and perfect for outdoor applications.
Key Features of Porcelain Countertops:
- Fired at over 2,500°F, making it exceptionally heat-resistant.
- Available in large-format slabs that mimic marble, wood, and concrete.
- Extremely durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and UV exposure.
- Lightweight compared to quartz – available in 6mm and 12mm slabs – making it suitable for wall cladding, fireplace surrounds, and custom furniture.
Looking for a seamless, modern look? Explore our selection of porcelain slabs and visualize how they would fit in your space!
Pros of Porcelain Countertops
Heat & UV Resistant – Perfect for outdoor kitchens and hot cookware. Unlike quartz, porcelain won’t fade in direct sunlight.
Scratch & Stain Resistant – The ultra-hard surface resists scratches and daily wear.
Low Maintenance & Hygienic – Its non-porous nature prevents bacteria, mold, and stains from penetrating the surface.
Versatile Appearance – Wide range of colors and patterns that can mimic natural stones.
Lightweight & Thin Slabs – Ideal for backsplashes, furniture tops, and vertical wall applications.
Cons of Porcelain Countertops
❌ Difficult to Fabricate & Install – Porcelain is brittle before installation, requiring specialized cutting and handling.
❌ Limited Edge Profile Options – Due to its thinness, porcelain is typically finished with a straight edge, whereas quartz allows for more intricate edge detailing.
❌ Higher Installation Costs – While porcelain slabs are often less expensive than quartz, the installation can be more costly due to specialized labor and tools.
Speak to our specialists to find your perfect low-maintenance countertop today!
Quartz vs. Porcelain: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Quartz | Porcelain |
| Appearance | Wide range of colors and patterns. Can mimic natural stones. | Wide range of colors and patterns. Can mimic natural stones. |
| Heat Resistance | Sensitive to heat | Highly heat resistant |
| Stain Resistance | Non-porous, excellent stain resistance | Also non-porous and stain-resistant |
| Durability | Highly resistant but can scratch with excessive force | More scratch-resistant than quartz, but prone to edge chipping |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance, easy to clean | Low maintenance, easy to clean |
| Installation | Heavy, requires professional installation | Fragile before installation, requires expert handling |
| Outdoor Use | Not recommended (UV-sensitive) | Excellent for outdoor kitchens |
| Cost | Varies by design and quality | Higher installation costs due to handling |
Appearance & Design Options
Quartz:
✔ Offers realistic natural stone aesthetics with veining and depth.
✔ Modern printing technologies allow for hyper-realistic marble patterns.
✔ Available 2cm and 3cm slabs, and in polished finish.
Porcelain:
✔ Can mimic marble, concrete, and wood textures.
✔ Large format slabs reduce seams, creating a sleek, contemporary look.
✔ Available in 12mm and 6mm slabs, and matte/honed and polished finishes.
Pro Tip: If you want a hyper-realistic marble look with depth, quartz is the better option due to new advancements in printing technology. Try our Quartz Visualizer Tool to see how different quartz slabs look in real kitchens!
Durability & Resistance
Quartz:
✔ Highly scratch-resistant but can be damaged by excessive heat.
✔ More impact-resistant than porcelain (less prone to edge chipping).
Porcelain:
✔ Extremely heat-resistant and won’t scorch under hot cookware.
✔ Harder surface but more brittle—edges can chip if struck forcefully.
Verdict: If durability and impact resistance are a priority, quartz is the better option for long-term performance.
Stain & Porosity
Quartz:
✔ 100% non-porous, meaning it doesn’t absorb liquids or require sealing.
✔ Resists staining from coffee, wine, oils, and acidic foods.
Porcelain:
✔ Also non-porous, making it highly stain-resistant.
✔ Can be cleaned easily with mild detergents.
Both materials perform excellently in stain resistance, making them low-maintenance choices.
Cost Comparison
Quartz countertops: Typically range from $90–$150 CAD per square foot installed (depending on the brand, thickness, and finish).
Porcelain countertops: Generally range from $120–$200 CAD per square foot installed due to specialized fabrication and installation techniques.
Installation for porcelain is often more expensive than quartz due to specialized fabrication techniques. So, quartz may offer better value for homeowners seeking a luxury look without exceeding budget constraints.
Heat Resistance
Quartz: Can withstand moderate heat but may discolor or crack if exposed to high heat directly. Using trivets or hot pads is recommended.
Porcelain: Can handle direct heat from pots and pans without damage.
Porcelain wins in heat resistance, but quartz remains highly durable with proper care.
Installation & Maintenance
Quartz:
✔ Easier to fabricate and install.
✔ No sealing required.
Porcelain:
✔ Requires specialized fabrication due to its thin profile.
✔ Harder to cut, making installation more complex and costly.
If you’re looking for an easier installation and low-maintenance solution, quartz is the way to go.
Quartz vs Porcelain – Which Countertop Material Is Right for You?
Choosing between quartz and porcelain depends on your lifestyle, design preferences, and how you plan to use the countertops.
Choose Quartz If:
You want a realistic natural stone appearance with intricate veining.
You need a durable, stain-resistant, and low-maintenance surface.
Your countertops will be installed indoors.
Choose Porcelain If:
You need heat-resistant and UV-stable countertops for an outdoor kitchen.
You prefer lightweight, large-format slabs for seamless designs.
You want a hygienic and ultra-hard surface with minimal maintenance.
Visit our showroom to explore the latest quartz and porcelain collections in person!
Final Thoughts
Both quartz and porcelain slabs offer exceptional benefits, making them ideal choices for modern countertops. If you want a luxurious, natural stone aesthetic with low maintenance, quartz is a fantastic option. On the other hand, if you need a heat-resistant, UV-stable surface for outdoor applications, porcelain is the superior choice.
💡 Explore our premium collections of quartz and porcelain slabs to find the perfect countertop for your home!
FAQs
Which countertop is better for a busy kitchen?
Both quartz and porcelain are durable, but quartz offers slightly better impact resistance. Quartz is better at resisting chips and cracks, while porcelain is more heat-resistant.
Is quartz cheaper than porcelain?
Quartz typically has a lower installation cost. Porcelain can be more expensive due to fabrication and installation challenges.
Can I install quartz or porcelain in an outdoor kitchen?
Porcelain is the best choice for outdoor kitchens because it is UV-resistant and won’t fade.
Quartz is not recommended for outdoor use, as prolonged sun exposure can cause discoloration.
Which material has more design options?
Quartz offers high-definition veining and natural movement, especially with new advanced quartz printing technologies. Porcelain is versatile but may lack the depth seen in high-end quartz slabs. Porcelain also comes in ultra-thin 6mm slab options.
How do I maintain quartz vs. porcelain countertops?
Both materials are low-maintenance and easy to clean. Simply use mild soap and water for daily care. Neither quartz nor porcelain require sealing.
Can I cut directly on quartz or porcelain countertops?
Both are highly scratch-resistant, but using a cutting board is recommended to protect your knives and the countertop’s surface.
How much do quartz and porcelain countertops cost including installation?
Quartz ranges from $90–$150 CAD per square foot installed, while high-quality porcelain can cost $120–$200 CAD per square foot installed.
Is porcelain harder to install than quartz?
Yes. Porcelain requires specialized fabrication techniques, making installation more complex and expensive.
Where can I see these slabs in person?
Visit our PrimeStone Inc. showroom at 4205 Poirier Blvd!
Have more questions? Our team is happy to help. Reach out to us today!
