--- title: "Above-Counter vs Under-Mount Faucets: Which To Choose?" date: 2025-11-12T14:35:02Z modified: 2026-01-13T01:37:03Z permalink: "https://www.aimfaucet.com/blog/product/above-counter-vs-under-mount-faucets/" type: post status: publish excerpt: "" wpid: 1269 categories: - Product featured_image: "https://www.aimfaucet.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Above-Counter-vs-Under-Mount-Faucets-Which-To-Choose.jpg" featured_image_alt: Above-Counter vs Under-Mount Faucets Which To Choose timestamp: 2026-01-13T01:37:03Z tags: - Product --- Do you know? The way faucets are installed can change how a kitchen looks? Surprising, but it’s true. Some faucets sit on top of the counter. Others are mounted below the surface. These are two common kitchen sink faucet installation types, and each has its own use case. We’ll explain the difference between above-counter vs under-mount faucets so you can understand it better. For current styles, see what’s trending in \[[Kitchen Faucet Design Trends 2025](https://www.aimfaucet.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/post/kitchen-faucet-design-trends.md)\]. ## What Is an Above-Counter Faucet? [![Chrome Round Wash Basin Tap Mixer DG01210](https://www.aimfaucet.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Chrome-Round-Wash-Basin-Tap-Mixer-DG01210.webp) ](https://www.aimfaucet.com/product/chrome-round-wash-basin-tap-mixer-dg01210/) An **above-counter faucet** is the most common type there is. It sits directly on top of the sink or countertop. It’s easy to reach, easy to clean around, and quite simple to replace. It’s often used in combination with [vessel sinks](https://www.aimfaucet.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/taxonomy/product_cat/vessel-sink-faucets.md) or drop-in sinks. In terms of design, above-counter faucets work pair really well in kitchens with an open, industrial, or modern look. Compared to other types, above-counter faucets also give you more flexibility when replacing older models or upgrading. --- ## What Is an Under-Mount Faucet? [![Black Round Vessel faucet for bathroom wash basin DG01211](https://www.aimfaucet.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Black-Round-Vessel-faucet-for-bathroom-wash-basin-DG01211.webp) ](https://www.aimfaucet.com/product/black-round-vessel-faucet-for-bathroom-wash-basin-dg01211/) An under-mount faucet is installed through holes underneath the counter. The faucet base is not exposed. Instead, it blends into the surface. This gives the kitchen a clean, [seamless look](https://www.aimfaucet.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/faucet-design.md). Under-mount installations usually go with under-mount sinks. They’re often used in [high-end](https://www.aimfaucet.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/quality.md) or custom kitchens where every detail matters. But the tradeoff is that they’re harder to install, and reaching the plumbing can be tricky. --- ## Above-Counter vs Under-Mount Faucets Installation Which installation type is better? That depends on your kitchen setup. In a countertop faucet vs undermount faucet comparison, you’ll see that the right choice depends on how visible you want the faucet to be and how easy you want it to be to clean or service. Above-counter faucets, like [AIM’s DG09311 L-shaped vessel sink faucet](https://www.aimfaucet.com/product/black-side-lever-tall-basin-mixer-tap-dg09311/), are easier to install, clean, and replace. They work with most sink types and are ideal for standard homes or budget-conscious projects. **Under-mount faucets** are more subtle. They’re designed for modern, minimal kitchens with under-mount sinks. The hidden installation keeps the surface looking clean, but the setup is more complex. The faucet handle style also matters, more so if space is tight or the countertop is thick. You can learn more about that in our guide to \[[Single-Handle vs Double-Handle Kitchen Faucets](https://www.aimfaucet.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/post/single-vs-double-handle-faucets.md)\]. ## Here’s a Quick Comparison Table Want to quickly see how each fare against the other? Here’s a side-by-side comparison table for your reference: | **Feature** | **Above-Counter Faucet** | **Under-Mount Faucet** | | --- | --- | --- | | **Installation** | On top of the counter | Through holes below the surface | | **Visual Style** | More visible, bold | Minimal, seamless look | | **Maintenance Access** | Easy to reach and clean | Can be harder to access | | **Best For** | Vessel sinks, exposed setups | Under-mount sinks, modern kitchens | | **Common In** | All types of homes | High-end or custom kitchens | ## Above-Counter vs Under-Mount Faucets: What’s Your Pick? When comparing above-counter vs under-mount faucets, think about: - The kitchen space - Countertop style - Who will use the faucet Also note: **above-counter** options are flexible and easier to work with, while **under-mount styles** give a sleek finish, but require more planning.If you need help matching the right installation type to your faucet design, [get in touch](https://www.aimfaucet.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/contact-us.md) with us. [AIM Faucet](https://www.aimfaucet.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/about-us.md) can support you with product advice and OEM options tailored for your market. [Get a Free Quote](https://www.aimfaucet.com/wp-content/uploads/wp-mfa-exports/page/contact-us.md)