Porcelain VS Quartz | Cheapest Stone Benchtops Melbourne

Durability: Porcelain is extremely hard and resistant to scratches, heat, and UV light. It’s ideal for both indoor and outdoor use, as it won’t fade or degrade in sunlight.
Design Versatility: Porcelain slabs can mimic the appearance of natural stone, wood, or concrete, offering a wide range of design options. They come in various finishes, from matte to glossy.
Thickness and Weight: Porcelain is generally thinner and lighter than quartz, which can be advantageous in certain design applications. However, this also means it can be more prone to chipping along the edges.
Maintenance: Porcelain is non-porous, making it resistant to staining and easy to clean. It does not require sealing, and its low maintenance is a significant benefit.
Installation: Due to its thinness, porcelain requires careful handling during installation. It can be more difficult to work with than quartz, and specialized tools and expertise are often needed.

Durability: Quartz is also highly durable, with excellent resistance to scratches, stains, and impacts. It’s not as heat-resistant as porcelain, so caution is needed with hot pots and pans.
Design Options: Quartz is available in a wide range of colors and patterns, including some that mimic the look of natural stone like marble or granite. It has a more consistent appearance than natural stone.
Thickness and Weight: Quartz slabs are generally thicker and heavier than porcelain, which can provide a more substantial look and feel. This thickness can also make quartz more durable in terms of edge chipping.
Maintenance: Like porcelain, quartz is non-porous and easy to maintain. It’s resistant to staining and does not require sealing, making it a low-maintenance option.
Installation: Quartz is easier to work with during installation due to its thickness and weight, reducing the risk of breakage. It’s a popular choice for its ease of use and wide availability.

Heat Resistance: Porcelain has higher heat resistance, making it better suited for areas exposed to high temperatures.
UV Resistance: Porcelain doesn’t fade under UV light, making it ideal for outdoor spaces, while quartz can discolor if exposed to direct sunlight over time.
Thickness and Weight: Porcelain is thinner and lighter, which can be beneficial for certain designs but may require more careful installation. Quartz offers a thicker, more substantial option.
Edge Chipping: Porcelain is more prone to edge chipping due to its thinness, while quartz’s thicker slabs are more resistant.

Porcelain is a great choice for those looking for a durable, heat-resistant, and UV-stable material with a modern, thin profile. It’s particularly well-suited for outdoor kitchens or spaces with high sunlight exposure.
Quartz is ideal for those who prefer a thicker, more substantial benchtop with a wide range of color and pattern options. It’s easier to work with and install, making it a popular choice for indoor kitchens.

Your choice will depend on your specific needs, design preferences, and where you plan to install the benchtop.