The 5 Best Stainless Steel Undermount Kitchen Sinks in 2023

Without a doubt, the kitchen is the busiest room in your home, and the kitchen sink sees most of the action. That’s why it’s imperative that you purchase the best sink for your particular needs, and that’s where we come in. In our review of the best stainless steel undermount kitchen sinks, we’ve made it our prime directive to ensure that you are not only made aware of the choices available to you but how to properly care and maintain your brand new, stainless steel sink. The brand names we’ve selected for you, Krause, Zuhne, and Ruvati are not only well known but are also brands selected by some of the best architects and builders in the country.

How We Made Our Selections

All of our selections below were made with you, the consumer in mind. Each of our sinks has garnered superior customer reviews, based on function and design. All are from dependable brands which not only offer excellence in design and quality but also offer you excellence in customer care. In fact, that was one of our main considerations. We had to be certain that each of our brands listed here, were customer-driven brands, meaning that they took care of the customer even both before and after the product was purchased.

Type of Installation

All of the stainless steel sinks in our review are undermount sinks. This means they are installed underneath the countertop. Top benefits of an undermount stainless steel sink include the ability to more any cooking debris, such as peelings and other waste directly into the sink for easy cleanup. The undermount sink also provides you with a smooth and sleek appearance, as both countertop and sink seem to blend seamlessly together. Finally, all of our sinks come with installation instructions, as well as cut-out templates and all hardware necessary to achieve a perfect fit.

Intended Use

We intentionally targeted the homeowners intended use for the kitchen sink as one of our considerations. For instance, those of you who enjoy to cook and entertain, would be in the market for a versatile, multi-functional sink, such as the Ruvati Workstation. While others require nothing more than a single bowl for basic kitchen duties, such as the Kraus models.

Care, Maintenance and Overall Durability

The ease of care, maintenance and how durable an undermount stainless steel sink depends on the build. Therefore, we only selected those that used high quality, T304, 16 gauge stainless steel. Let’s face it, the everyday consumer in the market for an undermount stainless steel sink might not know the difference between the different gauges, and think one stainless steel sink is the same as another when in reality they are not. The best undermount stainless steel kitchen sinks are those made with T304 16 gauge stainless steel. This means these sinks are super easy to clean and maintain and are tough enough to endure years of contact with heavy cook pots and dishwashing detergents.

Comparison of the Top 5 Stainless Steel Undermount Kitchen Sink

5 Best Stainless Steel Undermount Kitchen Sinks Reviews

Welcome to our review of the best undermount stainless steel kitchen sinks. We’re proud of our choices, and believe you’ll find much useful information here which will provide you with enough background to make a solid, informed choice for yourselves. Before you read the below sink descriptions, it’s a good idea to see what it is you require in a sink, in order to find your perfect match. For instance, do you require a sink that is multi-functional or a simpler model? Once you are sure of what you need, shopping for a sink will be a snap!

#1. The Kraus Stainless Steel Undermount Kitchen Sink KHU100-30 – Editors Choice (Best for Overall)

Our top pick for the best stainless steel undermount sink belongs to Kraus. Founded in 2007, and headquartered in Port Washington, New York, Kraus is known as one of the top manufacturers of high-quality sinks in the world. They are driven by the marriage of design and function, always demanding more out of their designs than most of their competition. Their goal is to make high quality, unique designs which are affordable for most, and it shows in the Kraus KHU100-30 stainless steel sink.

The Kraus KHU100-30 stainless steel sink is part of their esteemed Standart PRO Collection, which is famous for its ability to merge high quality with affordability. Manufactured with industrial grade, scratch and rust resistant T-304 stainless steel, and TRU16, 16 gauge thickness, you’ll be able to wash and rinse your heavy-duty cook pots without damaging your sink. As for noise, Kraus’ utilizes NoiseDefend technology. NoiseDefend provides you with a superior undercoating which thoroughly insulates and soundproofs your sink, providing you with excellence in soundproofing.

When it comes to daily kitchen chores, this sink can handle them with ease. The deep, 10-inch basin gives you more than enough space to wash and rinse your dishes, while preventing excessive splashing. if you take a look at the sink, you’ll notice that the corners are slightly rounded. These rounded corners have been incorporated in the design in order to facilitate care and maintenance. Finally, Kraus has included a scratch resistant, commercial grade satin finish which provides your sink with even more protection. The 3.5-inch drain is set back, in the rear to allow for the best drainage, as as the carefully placed channel grooves move the water and food debris toward the drain for fast and easy elimination.

This under-mount, single bowl stainless steel sink measures 30 x 18 x 10 inches, and also comes with a bottom grid, 3-piece basket strainer set and Kraus kitchen towel. Take note, that this is an undermount sink, designed to give your countertop a nice, seamless look. Undermount sinks may require a professional to help with the installation. All installation hardware needed to install your sink is included in the purchase. This is a fabulous sink, large and deep enough for your biggest roaster, or to perhaps give your family pet a nice, summer bath.

Pros

✅ Large and deep sink gives the homeowner more than enough room to wash anything from roasting pans to cooking utensils
✅ Patented NoiseDefend technology ensures that you’ll receive outstanding soundproofing
✅ Constructed with TRU16 gauge, T-304 stainless steel to ensure years of service
✅ Free Accessories: Bottom grid, basket strainer set, and Kraus kitchen towel
✅ Scratch resistant, commercial grade, satin finish

Cons

⛔ Can scratch for some users if cared for improperly

#2. Kraus KHU100-32 Standart PRO

Our second featured stainless steel sink is also from the Krause Standart PRO collection. The KHU100-32. Sinks in the Standart PRO Collection, are all designed to give your kitchen a modern, contemporary look. If you take a closer look, you’ll notice that the walls are straight, with no slope, and the four corners are tightly curved. The KHU100-32 is constructed with top of the line, high quality scratch and rust-resistant T-304 stainless steel, along with Kraus’ very own, patented NoiseDefend soundproofing technology. Built solid, with thick, TRU16 gauge stainless steel, means you can accidentally drop that large, cast iron pan, and your Kraus sink will not be worse for wear.

For your convenience, this model, like others in the Standart PRO series, comes in three different methods of installation: Undermount, farmhouse and drop-in. The undermount gives you the look of both sink and countertop melding together beautifully. The Farmhouse is for those who prefer below the counter installation, and the drop-in option is designed to fit any kitchen counter. The outer sink measures 32 x 19 x 10 inches and comes with all the hardware necessary to install the sink, including a cut-out template, and instructions. As you can see by its size, this sink will have no problem handling your cookie sheets, large pots, or frying pans. As for the finish, you’re getting a commercial grade, scratch and rust resistant finish that’s easy to maintain and care for. Simply soap it up with dishwashing detergent and wipe down with a soft cloth. Finally, rinse it down, and dry with a soft towel to prevent droplet stains. Another feature that helps maintain your sink is the 3.5-inch drain. The drain is set towards the back to promote drainage. Channels have been added which serve to move any water toward the drain.

Pros

✅ Large and deep, it easily handles large, roasters, heavy cast iron skillets and long baking sheets with ease
✅ Made with TRU16 gauge, T-304 stainless steel means dents are a thing of the past
✅ NoiseDefend soundproofing technology keeps noise down
✅ Commercial grade, scratch resistant, satin finish
✅ Superior drainage keeps water and any waste from pooling at the bottom of the sink
✅ Free Accessories: Bottom grid, Krause kitchen towel, 3 piece basket strainer set

Cons

⛔ Water may slightly pool at the bottom of the sink for some users

#3. Zuhne Modena 28 Single Bowl Undermount Stainless Steel Kitchen Sink (Best Budget)

Our choice for the best budget-friendly stainless steel sink is the Zuhne, 28 inch Single Bowl Undermount sink. For those of you who are not familiar with the brand, know that Zuhne is dedicated to the development and manufacture of high-quality fixtures made with the customer’s needs in mind. So, is it any wonder that we chose the Modena 28 for our best budget stainless steel sink?

The Modena 28 by Zuhne is a single bowl, undermount, premium sink which is certified to suit all building standards and codes, which is why it’s one of the top models chosen by builders and architects. This is a solid stainless steel sink, manufactured with surgical grade, 16 gauge T-304 stainless steel, sourced from Posco. It’s one of the top rated producers of high quality steel, which means your scratch, stain and corrosion resistant Modena 28, with the proper care and maintenance, will serve you a lifetime. In fact, according to their website, the Modena 28 is manufactured with 25 percent more steel than required by industry standards.

By containing 25 percent more steel, you will have no worries when it comes to accidentally denting your sink via large, cast iron cook pots. The Modena 28 can and will handle the weight, and do it without bowing under pressure. As for the gorgeous satin finish, know that it’s guaranteed not to rust or lose its shine. To facilitate drainage, the 3.5 inch sink drain is placed toward the rear, as channels help to move the water toward the drain. Finally, the Zuhne is constructed to have excellent soundproofing, absorbing most of the clink and clatter which come from washing dishes in a stainless steel sink.

Your purchase of the 28 x 18 x 10 inch Modena 28 includes a three piece, stainless steel basket strainer, bottom mat, cut-out template, plus all the hardware needed to install your sink. As previously mentioned, all Zuhne sinks exceed industry standards in build, and are certified as cUPC, UPC, IAPMO and ANSI.

Pros

✅ Free Accessories include: 3 piece stainless steel basket strainer set, caddy, colander, bottom mat, and installation hardware
✅ Superior soundproofing
✅ Constructed with surgical grade, 16 gauge T-304 stainless steel sourced from Posco Steel in South Korea
✅ Scratch and stain resistant, easy to maintain satin finish
✅ cUPC, UPC, IAPMO and ANSI certified

Cons

⛔ Some users may find their sinks stain if cared for improperly

#4. Ruvati 32-inch Workstation Ledge RVH8300 (For the Cook Who Wants More than Just a Sink)

The next offering on our list of the best undermount stainless steel kitchen sinks from the Roma Workstation Series by Ruvati. The workstation series is designed to give you the most workspace possible. Designers at Ruvati wanted to craft a series whereby your countertop space was maximized to its fullest by the addition of accessories which were integrated into the sink itself, and that’s what you get with this model.

As for construction, Ruvati made this sink using 16 gauge, premium T-304 stainless steel, 18 percent Chromium and 10 percent Nickel. With such construction, this sink is guaranteed to remain corrosion and stain free for the life of the product. The finish is brushed metal, so conveniently disguises any accidental scratches that may occur over the years of use. Soundproofing is provided by a thick, SoundGuard undercoating, along with NoiseDefend padding.

The Ruvati 32 inch ledge stainless steel sink has been designed with ledges which provide the tracks whereby the accessories are placed. To get a better idea of just how the Workstation model works, take a look at this video from Ruvati

As you can see, all you need do is to place the accessories on the tracks when you need them, then remove, clean and store them when finished. This is the perfect idea for those of you who love to cook, as it helps keep the area organized while you prep your food. This way, your kitchen sink now becomes an extension of your countertop. This is a fabulous idea for kitchens with little space to spare, or perhaps your mobile home, or recreational vehicle.

Your Ruvati comes with a stainless steel colander, dish drying rack, and hardwood cutting board. It should be mentioned that the dish drying rack actually rolls up when not needed, and is extended flat when it is. Besides the accessories, your Ruvati stainless steel sink also comes with a stainless steel rinse grid, basket strainer/drain assembly, mounting hardware and cut-out template.

Pros

✅ Versatile combination sink and workstation provides you with much needed workspace for cooking
✅ Workstation accessories include: Stainless steel colander, roll-up dish rack, and hardwood cutting board
✅ Free Accessories include: Stainless steel rinse grid, basket strainer/drain assembly, mounting hardware and template
✅ SoundGuard soundproofing
✅ Constructed with T-304, 16 gauge thick stainless steel

Cons

⛔ Some may find the sink bottom too flat for their liking

#5. Ruvati 32-inch Undermount RVH7400

Our final offering is the Ruvati 32 inch undermount stainless steel sink, model RVH7400. A member of Ruvati’s Gravena Collection, this sink is designed for those who wish to add a touch of contemporary to their kitchen decor, while not sacrificing functionality. This particular model is perfect for those of you just looking for a basic, reliable, hassle-free sink design that will last for years.

Linear in design, this versatile sink is easy to care for and maintain, with a 3.5-inch drain placed towards the rear of the sink so water directed via the drain grooves facilitates proper drainage. This model comes with an attractive, decorative drain cover which keeps the strainer out of sight as the debris and water filter through.

Manufactured from premium, 16 gauge T-304 stainless steel with a composition of 18 percent Chromium to 10 percent Nickel is guaranteed to never stain or rust during its lifetime, given the proper care. As for the finish, its scratch resistant, commercial grade brushed metal finish camouflages any accidental scratches that may occur. Soundproofing is provided by thick SoundGuard undercoating and thick, NoiseDefend padding.

The depth of this model is a good 10 inches, so you’ll have plenty of room to wash those skillets and roasting pans with ease and comfort. External dimensions are 32 x 19 inches, with interior dimension measuring 30 x 17 x 10 inches, and the minimum cabinet size is 36 inches. When you purchase this Ruvati model, you can expect to get all mounting hardware, the rinse grid, basket strainer and cut-out template as well.

Pros

✅ Crafted with thick, durable and strong 16 gauge, T-304 stainless steel
✅ Large, single bowl sink can handle all dishwashing needs easily
✅ Accessories include: rinse grid, basket strainer mounting hardware, and cut-out template
✅ Comes with SoundGuard undercoating and NoiseDefend padding
✅ Free Accessories include: Mounting hardware, rinse grid, basket strainer and cut-out template

Cons

⛔ Some users may find tiny scratches if sink is not properly cared for

Features to Consider When Selecting Your Stainless Steel Undermount Kitchen Sink

Type of Stainless Steel

No matter if you require a stainless steel sink for industrial use, commercial or kitchen use, know that there are two types of stainless steel used: T-201 and T-304. Stainless steel sinks are a blend of Chromium and Nickel. It’s the Chromium which provides your sink with its shine and durability, whereas the Nickel adds the strength. Of the two, T-201 is the weaker steel, and should be avoided. T-304 is the stronger of the two, and should be the only type you choose for your sink.

■ T-201 Stainless Steel

T-201 stainless steel is made with 16 to 18 percent chromium and 3.5 to 5.5 percent nickel. The T-201 stainless steel sink is not as durable as its counterpart and can scratch and pit easily. Even your basic kitchen cleansers can do damage to it over a prolonged period of time. Avoid any sinks that come with this grade of steel if you’re searching for quality and longevity in a sink.

■ T-304 Stainless Steel

T-304 stainless steel is where it’s at when looking for stainless steel sink that offers strength, beauty and longevity. Here, both the chromium and nickel have a higher percentage, with chromium taking up 18 to 20 percent and nickel 8 to 11 percent. This makes your sink much more durable. This stainless steel is scratch, rust and stain resistant as well.

Thickness or Gauge

Many people make the mistake of thinking that the higher the number the thicker the steel, but such is not the case. When looking at the specs, know that it is the lowest number which represents the thickest steel. For instance, 16 gauge is much thicker than 18 gauge. Thicker gauge steel will be able to resist dents much easier than thinner gauge.

■ 16 gauge

16 is the thickest gauge sink available on the market today. 16 gauge sinks come with more than adequate sound deadening and with an excellent finish. All of the stainless steel sinks in our review of the best stainless steel undermount sinks are of this gauge.

■ 18 gauge

The 18 gauge stainless steel sink is the one you’ll generally see in the average home and commercial kitchens. Sound deadening is good, and the finish is adequate for its use. This sink has no trouble dealing with heavy cook pots but is not as durable in the long run.

■ 20 gauge

One of the first things you’ll notice with a 20 gauge stainless steel sink, is the course, rough finish. Purchasing a sink at this gauge might be cheap, but you risk pitting, scratching and denting during your daily sink chores. If you have a garbage disposal, expect noise and vibration.

■ 23 gauge

The 23 gauge is the thinnest gauge offered for stainless steel sinks. These are among the cheapest sinks, so don’t expect too much of a smooth, shiny finish. This sink is often referred to as the “Builders Special”. They are referred to as the builders special because they are the cheapest for the builder to purchase and install. However, they will dent, scratch and make quite a bit of noise, especially if connected to a garbage disposal

Undercoat

Let’s face it, no one wishes to hear a bunch of cook pots and utensils clanging against a stainless steel sink. This brings us to sound-dampening undercoating. However, not all undercoatings are the same. Look for an undercoating that has been applied in a thick layer to the entire bottom of the sink. A word to the wise, different stainless steel sink companies may have their range of undercoating, so check with your chosen seller for details.

The Correct Depth and the Thump Challenge

The size of the sink, depends on your countertop. Avoid sinks with a 6-inch depth. They may be cheaper, but you won’t get much use out of them, and the splashing can become a messy annoyance over time. Instead, look at a bowl depth of between 9 to 12 inches. While you’re testing out the depth of the sink, it might not hurt to give it the Thump Test. Here, you’ll give the bowel a nice thump, and wait for the sound. If it sounds tinny or clings like a metal drum, then it won’t have the soundproofing that you need or want.

Installation

For you do-it-yourselfers, you’ll find that it’s the top-mount, stainless steel sink that is the easiest to install. However, if you want to preserve as much countertop as possible, then go for an undermount, which might be a bit harder to install, but will give you a return of more space on your countertop. In our review of the best stainless steel sinks, we’ve chosen the undermount as it maximizes both countertop space and makes it easier to keep the countertop clean from debris, as you just push it into the sink.

Care and Maintenance of Your Brand New, Stainless Steel Undermount Kitchen Sink

The best stainless steel undermount kitchen sinks are built to handle the daily grind of food prep and cleaning of cooking utensils. They are also one of the more popular kitchen sinks as they are easy to care for and maintain. Like anything else, stainless steel sinks require a bit of care and maintenance in order to retain their original value and appearance. A stainless steel sink is an investment in your home, so it only benefits you to treat it well, and that means limiting its contact with chemicals as much as possible and giving it the proper care. Below, we’ve included some tips to help you get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

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