We are in the midst of designing our second kitchen remodel however this time we are replacing the cabinets. We have lived in our home for 25 years and do not plan on staying here forever but who knows. We currently have dark laminate counter tops with an extra large, not farmhouse, cast iron sink. We both cook pretty much daily and I am struggling with deciding on the next sink. We are going with quartz counter tops and I feel the undermount sinks look so much better with type of design and it looks like art to me. Placing a large over the counter drop sink in the middle just seems like it will ruin the aesthetics. However when it comes to factuality, we both love having the extra large sink and it is definitely used to the max. Our sink is currently 42" wide. Not sure why our only other option is 33" wide. As much as the smaller undermount sink would probably look better, I'm still leaning towards the larger cast iron. Any ideas or thoughts to consider to help in this decision would be very helpful. Thanks!

Ever try shopping for a kitchen sink and end up with 23 tabs open, five half-read reviews, and no clear answer? I’ve been there. You just want a sink that works. One that fits, holds up, and doesn’t turn prep and cleanup into a mess.

So I did the homework for you.

I went through hundreds of reviews, watched install videos, checked posts on r/BuyItForLife and r/HomeImprovement, and read what actual builders and homeowners said. I skipped the paid promotions and filtered out the junk. I focused on what matters in real kitchens, size, build, accessories, and how it handles daily use.

This list is the result of all that digging. I’ve filtered out the noisy marketing and focused on what actually matters... durability, layout, accessory usefulness, and ease of maintenance. If you're sick of tabs open for hours, this roundup is meant to save you that pain.

Check out the list below, and if you’ve used any of these sinks (or hated one not on the list), drop your experience in the comments.

How To Choose Workstation Sink For Kitchen

Size & Configuration: Start With the Basics

Measure First

If you don’t measure your cabinet and counter space first, you’re asking for regret. These sinks are big — 24–36" is common, but some go up to 42". Here’s a cheat sheet:

Single vs. Double Bowl

If you use a dishwasher a lot, go single bowl. If you do everything by hand, double may be better.

Material: What It’s Made Of Matters

16- or 18-gauge steel is where you want to be. Thicker = better.

Built-In Accessories: Use 'Em or Lose 'Em

Here’s what usually comes with a workstation sink:

Cutting board + colander = the MVPs. The rest depends on how you cook.

Installation Style

If your counter's laminate, skip undermount.

Budget: Don't Go Broke for a Sink

Factor in install costs too:

• Undermount or apron-front: usually $200–500

• Plumbing tweaks? Extra $$

Tip: Look for bundles that include accessories. More value, less shopping around.

Other Stuff to Think About

• Depth: 9–10" gives space but may cause back strain. If you're short, test before buying.

• Noise Pads: Especially for stainless steel.

• Faucet Fit: High arc or pull-down sprayer works best.

• Maintenance:

  • Stainless: Easy

  • Granite: Use gentle cleaner

  • Fireclay: Avoid drops

  • Copper: Needs polishing (unless you want that aged look)

Quick Install Advice

• Hire someone for undermount/apron-front

• DIY? Stick with drop-in models

• Double check drain location vs plumbing