Though sink faucets seem minor elements of a bathroom, they are much more important and deserve special attention. The wrong model may not fit your sink, causing constant splashing, wet clothes, and installation complications.
Today, we present our buyer’s guide, where we collected the best faucets from three manufacturers. The Delta vs Moen vs Kohler battle will help you pick up the optimal one or two-handle product. And additional brand comparison and choosing tips will make the process easier!
Main Differences Between the Brands
While faucet models are all too different for a reasonable comparison, brands are those things we’d like to focus on. Faucets by one company share lots of similarities. Two brands differ deeply enough for you to make the right choice. So, here are the most significant differences between the Delta, Moen, and Kohler, which may influence your purchase:
- The Kohler is the most expensive brand of the three. Moen can be called a golden mean in terms of price-quality balance. Delta is the most affordable manufacturer; however, the difference between Delta and Moen is minimal.
- For the money, Kohler does its best to provide customers with the fullest installation kit possible. Delta keeps up with it and also offers all plates, valves, and hoses. Moen usually provides fewer items in the kit.
- If you’re looking for the most leakage protected options, try Kohler and Delta appliances. The first adds ceramic disc valves. And the second develops patented technologies such as the Diamond Seal and InnoFlex PEX for no leaking. Moen cannot boast of such additions. Its models are distinguished by reliability and simplicity.
- When it comes to dimensions, Kohler produces the most compact faucets. Delta tries to elaborate a certain standard and save approximately equal dimensions. Moen has the most diverse faucets. This characteristic is quite important as it influences the installation and sink compatibility.
- Kohler is the easiest for installation. So are the Moen products for bathroom and kitchen sinks. Delta may cause some complications when plumbing experience or professional help is needed, but they are minor.
1. ONE-HANDLE FAUCETS
Comparison table
1. Moen 6702 Genta Bathroom Sink Faucet
Moen Genta series presents a one-handle faucet for modern bathroom interiors. The combination of straight lines and smooth curves contribute to the stylish look.
Like all products in the first section, the Genta faucet is developed for deck mounting in single hole sinks. However, thanks to an additional deck plate, you can install it on three-hole sinks.
A single handle helps easily adjust the water temperature and pressure at one turn. We also love the simple blue and red color markings for cold and hot water that make usage much more convenient right from the start.
A 255 Duralast cartridge withstands tough conditions. Together with corrosion-resistant materials, they form a very durable faucet for years of usage.
The item is quite compact. Its spout height is 5.16″, and spout reach is 4.56″. Moen Genta has a recommended wall clearance of 2-1/2″ from the center mount to the backsplash. The weight is 4.32 pounds.
The drain assembly is included, so don’t worry about installation. An optional 4″ spread plate is also included.
Please also pay attention that the faucet requires frequent cleaning as its mirror surface keeps all fingertips and spots. Some users also complain about low water pressure caused by the product’s water saving design.
All the above-mentioned things and the price make Moen Genta an excellent option for your bathroom.
- compact and stylish faucet
- suits both single-hole and three-hole sinks
- easy water adjustment
- water temperature markings
- simple installation with drain assembly included
- durable and resistant materials
- water-saving model
- ADA compliant
- affordable
- requires frequent cleaning
- pressure may feel low
2. Moen 84144SRN Sarona Bathroom Sink Faucet
One more Moen product by the Sarona series can boast of many advantages met in the previous faucet. We mean single or three-hole sink installation, drain assembly, materials, WaterSense and ADA certifications. In a word, this faucet is absolutely identical in terms of functionality.
Design and dimensions are the things that really differ here. This time, we deal with a retro faucet in a rustic farmhouse design. Only smooth curves and nostalgic shapes will fit your cozy bathroom.
Dimensions have been slightly enlarged. It concerns the spout height, which is now 7.38″. The optional deck plate also became longer and formed 6″. The spout reach is the same standard 5″ as well as the minimum clearance – we need 2-1/2″ from the center mount to the backsplash. The whole body weighs 4 pounds.
Moreover, its mat surface resists fingerprints and water splashes, which contributes to the ease of cleaning.
When it comes to wishes, we’d like to see water temperature markings here. At the moment, there are no indicators for cold and hot water, and you need time to get used to the faucet.
- warm retro design
- suits both single-hole and three-hole sinks
- wider optional plate
- easy water adjustment
- simple installation with drain assembly included
- durable and resistant materials
- water-saving model
- ADA compliant
- mat design requires less cleaning
- no water temperature markings
- may be pricey
3. Delta Faucet Lahara Bathroom Faucet 538-SSMPU-DST
Delta faucets will suit those who seriously care about leakages. Though the brand costs over the average market price, you do invest in durability and exquisite quality.
This one-handle faucet offers the Diamond Seal and InnoFlex PEX technologies. Both use a patented design to reduce leak points and make the faucet last for more than 500000 cycles. Besides, we get a diamond-embedded ceramic disc that requires no lubrication and eliminates wear on seals.
As usual, the faucet suits both one- and three-hole sinks as the kit includes an optional 6.5″ deck plate for 3-hole installation and coordinating metal pop-up drain assembly.
In terms of style, here we have a universal model, which can fit both modern and classic bathrooms.
The dimensions are as follows: spout height and reach are 6.94″ and 5.5″, respectively. The minimum clearance forms 1.13″. The manufacturer managed to combine solid body, anti-leakage design, convenient dimensions, and quite a small weight of 3 pounds.
A single handle means easy temperature adjustment, and cold/hot color markings really facilitate it. However, many users complain about a too sensitive handle that changes its direction at the slightest touch.
Complicated installation is another minus. You will highly likely need a professional help, especially if you have little experience.
Still, for us, exquisite durability, design, and universal dimensions redeem the drawbacks.
- universal design
- suits single hole and three-hole sinks
- wide optional plate
- perfect leakage protection thanks to the Diamond Seal and InnoFlex PEX technologies
- easy water adjustment with water markings
- drain assembly included
- durable and resistant materials
- water-saving model
- ADA compliant
- requires rare cleaning
- expensive
- complicated installation
- too sensitive temperature adjustment
4. Delta Bathroom Faucet 567LF-PP
If you like Delta quality but need a more budget option with simpler construction, the Delta 567LF-PP is for you. This is the most affordable one-handle faucet of our review. And apart from the price, installation compares favorably with the previous Delta.
Surely, we’ll get no anti-leakage systems and the like, but the brand saved so desired one and three-hole compatibility with a 6″ plate. However, please mind the plate is not included.
This model design is quite similar to the first Moen 6702 Genta Bathroom Sink Faucet. The Delta vs Moen comparison will show a close minimalistic design with straight sharp lines and corners. And like with the first faucet, be ready for constant cleaning due to a glossy surface.
Dimensions allow us to call it quite a compact faucet. The spout reach is only 4.5″, while the spout height is 6.88″. The clearance is standard 2.5″. The product weighs about 3-4 pounds.
Among the things we have to sacrifice are temperature indicators. Many users also note the connector hoses are too short.
All in all, we would recommend Delta 567LF-PP as a nice budget one-handle faucet for small sink areas. The drawbacks are obvious, but if you don’t mind frequent cleaning and don’t need a deck plate, the product is yours.
- affordable option
- compact
- stylish modern design
- simple installation
- made for the single hole and three-hole sinks
- easy water adjustment
- drain assembly included
- durable and resistant materials
- water-saving model
- ADA compliant
- requires frequent cleaning
- the deck plate is purchased separately
- no water temperature markings
- short connector hoses
5. KOHLER Bathroom Faucet by Fairfax Collection K-12182-CP
Kohler Fairfax model closes our top 5 one-handle faucets section. Like the first Delta, it features a reinforced anti-leakage system and prolonged service life. Ceramic disc valves make it possible as they exceed industry standards of longevity.
Otherwise, we see a common set of characteristics, from the drain assembly to the ability to install it in three-hole sinks. The escutcheon plate is not included but is supported, which allows us to call it a universal faucet.
The top of the handle is crowned with a sweet hot and cold direction sign for quick adjustment. By the way, the whole model looks very nice due to mild lines in classic style. However, polished chrome traditionally causes difficulties with cleaning.
Spout height is 6.5″, spout reach is 5″, while the recommended wall clearance is 2-1/2″. The item weighs 4 pounds.
Not only do Delta and Kohler coincide in leakage protection, but they both also belong to the top-level caste. The Kohler Fairfax will cost you over $200, thus being the most expensive one-handle faucet of the review. Though it may scare, the price is just considering almost no drawbacks.
Lots of plastic elements (like an aerator and knob caps) are the only moments to mind.
- classic design
- standard dimensions
- suits single hole and three-hole sinks
- ceramic disc valves for longer usage
- easy water adjustment with water markings
- drain assembly included
- water-saving model
- ADA compliant
- expensive
- the plate is not included in the original kit
- lots of plastic elements
- requires frequent cleaning
2. TWO-HANDLE FAUCET
Comparison table
1. Moen 6410BN Eva Bathroom Faucet
This seems to be a well-designed product that works well, aside from a few design decisions. Let’s discuss all pros and cons.
First of all, we now face a two-handle centerset product with a separate spout and two lever handles. Thus, even without markings, we can adjust cold and hot water right from the first days.
Attention! Unlike the one-handle models, two-handle faucets are suitable for three-hole sinks only!
The product is complemented by an aerator. The aerated flow is ideal for everyday bathroom tasks and is also quite water-saving.
Moen Eva won’t ruin your budget on plumbing as the installation is elementary, even for inexperienced homeowners. The drain assembly is traditionally included.
However, please mind that they don’t include hoses with the faucet, unlike most other manufacturers. This requires a separate trip to a shop and extra investments.
When it comes to dimensions, the faucet features a 6.19″ spout height, a 3.88″ spout reach, and a 2.5″-3″ wall clearance. Size is quite compact. But, like many bathroom faucets, the depth is very shallow from back to front. This means you may hit your hands on the side of the sink away from you while using the faucet.
Moen Eva model will suit classic bathrooms as it features a tender design with a swan-like spout. Mild lines and brushed material mean easy cleaning.
Overall, the faucet seems to be a well-designed product with an excellent price. And the mentioned drawbacks can be explained by the manufacturer’s attempts to save our money and produce a more budget product.
- tender design
- universal dimensions
- two lever handles contribute to more accurate water adjustment
- water aerator for saving
- simple installation with drain assembly included
- durable and resistant materials
- easy cleaning
- ADA compliant
- no hoses included
- dimensions may feel too small for comfortable usage
- pressure may feel low
2. Moen T6620BN Brantford Bathroom Faucet
The Moen Brantford series is definitely very similar to the previous Eva series described above in terms of appearance. We see the same lines and gentle curves. However, while the first option was a solid unit, this faucet is wide-spread as its handles stand aside from the spout. Separate elements can be installed between 8″ to 16″ for greater customization.
Another advantage of the product is its Moen M-PACT common valve system. It allows you to update the faucet style in the future without replacing any plumbing.
The addition is more than handy, especially minding that installation is a mess. This faucet comes with no valve – you’ll need valve # 9000 to complete the kit. The lack means extra expenses as well as more complicated installation.
Though the wide-spread design may not be very convenient, the overall dimensions allow us to call this faucet one of the most compact. We have 5″ spout height and reach with the 2.25″ of recommended clearance.
The lack of the valve makes it slightly overpriced. Otherwise, there are no complaints.
- classic design
- compact dimensions
- two lever handles contribute to more accurate water adjustment
- customized handle installation to fit various three-hole sinks
- Moen M-PACT common valve system compatibility
- drain assembly included
- durable and resistant materials
- easy cleaning
- ADA compliant
- no valve included
- messy installation
3. Delta Faucet Lahara Bathroom Faucet 2538-SSMPU-DST
The owners of three-hole sinks that loved Delta Lahara faucet from the One-Handle section will be greatly pleased to see this option. The brand offers a product almost identical to the above described Delta in terms of design and function.
This time, we get a centerset product specially for three-hole sinks with a united spout and two handles for temperature adjustment.
The unit measures 6.38″ in spout height, 5″ in spout reach, and 10.5″ in width with both handles and the spout (4″ between the holes are required). The clearance is 2.5″.
That’s it. Here are all differences you’ll notice between the one-handle and the two-handle options. Once again, we see DIAMOND Seal Technology and InnoFlex PEX supply lines for fewer leakages and twice longer service life. They are accompanied by a diamond-embedded ceramic disc.
Customers finally get everything they need for installation, including metal pop-up drain assembly. Nevertheless, the mounting process isn’t as easy as we wish.
Besides, many users note the faucet is pretty noisy, which can be provoked by thin construction.
Despite drawbacks, you can safely pay for this leak-protected, durable appliance.
- fits all bathroom interiors
- improved leakage protection thanks to the Diamond Seal and InnoFlex PEX technologies
- two lever handles contribute to more accurate water adjustment
- full kit for installation
- drain assembly included
- durable and resistant materials
- water-saving model
- ADA compliant
- requires rare cleaning
- complicated installation
- noisy work
4. Delta Windemere Bathroom Faucet B3596LF-SS
The Windemere faucet is a simple and nice option for customers on a budget. There is nothing super special that may distinguish the product from others. However, you get all the basic functions necessary for a comfortable bathroom experience.
From first glance, we noticed a fascinating similarity between the Windemere and the Moen T6620BN Brantford. Moen vs Delta comparison shows almost identical design and wide-spread configuration. Thus, you can install handles independently in the 6″-16″ width range.
Other dimensions include a 6.81″ spout height, 4.63″ spout reach, and 2.5″ clearance.
The metal drain assembly is traditionally included, and the whole installation is quite a piece of cake, except for the handles.
According to users’ reviews, it’s hard to get the handles tightened just right. One handle is often looser than the other.
Let us also note that Delta Windemere is WaterSense and ADA certified.
- classic design that also suits modern bathrooms
- compact dimensions
- two lever handles contribute to more accurate water adjustment
- wide-spread handle installation to fit various three-hole sinks
- drain assembly included
- durable and resistant materials
- easy cleaning
- ADA and WaterSense compliant
- easy installation
- frequent issues with handle tightening
- may leak after 2 years of application
5. KOHLER Devonshire Bathroom Faucet K-394-4-BN
Devonshire is a well-known, famous collection. So, it’s a pleasure the brand still produces the faucets. The quality has stayed the same for years. So has the design. The model looks modern in any conditions and interior trends with its smooth lines. And a wide-spread configuration contributes to the ease of sink matching.
The faucet is suitable for 8″-16″ wide hole placement. The spout height and reach are 4.75″ and 4.5″, respectively. As you see, the product is quite compact. Though the manufacturer doesn’t give exact information on the recommended clearance, we can state it should take at least 2.5″ like in most faucets.
Kohler is known for its full kits with metal drains and supply lines. The last come pre-installed to make installing faster and easier. And ceramic disc valves serve for extended longevity.
Lastly, the manufacturer boasts of premium corrosion and tarnish-resistant finishes. The moment is debatable as the cover seems to come off quicker than you expect for the money.
The price is another minus of the product. Though the cost has currently dropped by at least $100, it’s still very high for an average customer. It does feature excellent durability and installation. But some more affordable models offer the same things. That’s why, in our opinion, Kohler Devonshire is a decent but overpriced faucet.
- universal, popular design
- compact dimensions
- two lever handles contribute to more accurate water adjustment
- wide-spread handle installation to fit various three-hole sinks
- flexible pre-installed supply lines included
- ceramic disc valves serve for extended longevity
- drain assembly included
- resistant materials
- quick installation
- very expensive
- materials are not as durable as expected
Now when you get familiar with our favorite one-handle and two-handle faucets, let’s go deeper into the brands’ comparison.
Face to Face Comparison
Design and Dimensions
The three brands are not that different in terms of design. All companies try to provide their customers with the maximum faucet color options to help them find a perfect match for their bathrooms. However, some tendencies can be found.
- Moen prefers nickel, chrome, and bronze shades. They have all options, including glossy surfaces, but we note their special love for mat faucets. Usually, each product has about 3 color options.
- Delta uses chrome, stainless steel, bronze colors, giving preference to the last. One can find up to 4 color versions of each model.
- Kohler is the most generous in terms of colors. Thus, its Devonshire Collection counts as many as 6 modifications. The brand is a blessing for fans of glossy faucets.
Surprisingly, all manufacturers prefer mild smooth lines and curves to straight angles and sharp corners. However, there are some more urbanistic, vulturine models, too, like Delta Bathroom Faucet 567LF-PP.
When it comes to dimensions, a comparison is useless. All products differ too significantly. If you want exact data, please consult our comparison table.
Materials
Moen, Delta, and Kohler occupy the leading positions in most plumbing manufacturers’ ratings for a reason. High-quality materials are that clue. Thus, all their models are made of durable metals resistant to corrosion, detergents, and time.
Plastic parts are inevitable, and you can find them in cheaper Delta products as well as in the most expensive Kohlers. But the brands try to minimize their usage.
Pressure and Flow Rate
We’ve discussed ten faucets in this article. All are developed for 60 psi supply systems.
Moen, Delta, and Kohler are equally consensual in the flow rate characteristic. All one-handle and two-handle products provide 1.2 gallons per minute (GPM).
Installation Parts Included
Models’ comparison allows us to conclude that Moen is slightly tight-fisted when it comes to certain kit parts. Thus, you’ll find no hoses and valves in Moen 6410BN Eva Bathroom Faucet and Moen T6620BN Brantford Bathroom Faucet.
The lack explains by the attempt to save balance between quality and affordability. Still, the majority of its faucets are equipped with everything necessary.
Sometimes, Kohler also loses its generosity. Thus, its one-handle models may come without deck plates for installation on three-hole sinks. The cases are isolated.
But no matter what brand you chose – your faucet will come with drain assembly. All in all, the brands take care of easy installation and kits.
WaterSense and ADA Certifications
As we’ve already stated, Moen, Delta, and Kohler meet all requirements necessary for the title of a modern, caring manufacturer. In the plumbing industry, WaterSense and ADA certifications are crucial.
All our faucets comply with WaterSense (EPA) standards, which restrict water flow to 1.2-1.5 gallons per minute. This is accomplished by means of a water restrictor placed inline just before the aerator. The feature means a greater water economy that contributes both to the environment and your pocket.
ADA Compliance stands for the American Disability Act. It’s based on the principle of considering all people’s needs, regardless of their health state, abilities, and age. ADA certification means the faucet doesn’t require additional adaptation or specialization for comfortable use.
Warranty
Pick up the top-level Kohler, optimal Moen, or more affordable Delta – in all cases, your faucet will be backed by the so-called Limited Lifetime Warranty.
The Warranty means the manufacturer guarantees a warranty against breakages caused by products’ defects as long as you own it. However, please pay attention that your item should be installed and used in correspondence with all requirements.
Limited Warranty also means a reasonable lifetime of a product stated by the manufacturer. The Warranty also expires when the model is discontinued.
Guide – How to Choose the Best Faucet for a Bathroom?
What are the secrets that help us choose the most durable and practical bathroom or kitchen faucet that will meet all our requirements? Let’s find it out!
Two-handle faucets are the simplest mixers, which were the only possible and the most popular options until recently. They have two handles for cold and hot water. These models offer quicker installation, more precise temperature adjustment, and common use even without color markings. However, they are not very convenient since you cannot always turn on the water and adjust it with two hands.
Nowadays, one-handle faucets are the most popular mixers. They are equipped with only one lever handle, which can have various designs. You can turn it from side to side, up and down with one light movement. So, water pressure and temperature adjustment are as simple as possible. That’s why one-handle faucets are very saving. Let’s also note that such devices are more difficult to install and repair. Faucets are more demanding on the water quality because increased hardness can cause breakages.
There are also thermostatic, touchless, and sensor faucets. They are relatively young and expensive. Each of them has its advantages and will be irreplaceable in specific situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Delta vs Moen vs Kohler: what is the most affordable faucet brand?
2. Delta vs Moen vs Kohler: what is the best faucet brand for self-installation?
3. What faucet brand do plumbers recommend?
4. Why is Kohler so expensive?
5. Are Delta, Moen, and Kohler faucets made in China?
Conclusion
Here we are. As you see, the three names are loved by customers for a reason. No matter what brand you’ll choose – there are plenty of high-quality faucets for various sinks, installation conditions, bathroom designs, and pockets. All models have their pros and cons, but in any case, you get a reliable device.
Hi! I’m Markus Robertson, and water is my passion.
Five years ago, I graduated from the University of California-Los Angeles and was going to become a professional marine biologist. However, my fate had other plans for me, and due to family problems, I had to find a more stable and well-paid job. I had only one wish for my job to be connected with water.
During this period of my life, I worked as a sales manager at Olympic Pool & Spa Supplies. The job helped me learn everything about swimming pools and related pool equipment, as well as how to choose the best option and what to pay attention to.