Short answer: quartz is the low-maintenance choice (no sealing, consistent colour, stain-proof); granite is the natural choice (unique slabs, better heat resistance, needs sealing every 1–2 years). Both last decades when installed by a professional fabricator.
Durability
Quartz (engineered stone) is about 90% ground quartz bound with resin — it is harder than granite and will not chip at the edges as easily. Granite is 100% natural and extremely hard, but porous: a yearly sealer keeps wine and oil out.
Heat
Granite shrugs off hot pots. Quartz resin can discolour above about 150 °C, so use a trivet. If you cook on a wood stove or love cast iron straight from the oven, granite or porcelain is the safer pick.
Looks
Quartz gives you Calacatta and Carrara marble looks without marble maintenance, and every slab matches. Granite gives you movement and sparkle that no two kitchens share — visit our showroom and pick your exact slab.
Value
Prices overlap: entry-level granite is cheaper than designer quartz, and vice versa. Fabrication (templating, cut-outs, edges, installation) is a similar cost for both. Ask for a price on the Countertop flyer and we will quote the slab and the install together.
Our recommendation
Busy family kitchen or rental: quartz. Statement kitchen with a budget for care: granite or marble. Outdoor kitchen or cottage: porcelain slab.