When you compare composite, synthetic, and granite composite sinks, you’re looking at two popular materials designed to handle everyday use but with very different structures and price points. Knowing the difference helps you choose a sink that suits your kitchen’s demands and your cleaning habits.
At TapsUK, we stock a wide range from trusted names — Astini, Carron Phoenix, Franke, and The London Sink Company for synthetic composite sinks, and Luisina, Rangemaster, Chambord, Hansgrohe, and Harlyn for granite composite sinks. Each brand brings a mix of design, durability, and colour choice to suit any kitchen layout.
This article explains how each material is made, how it performs, and what to expect for maintenance, cost, and long-term reliability — giving you everything you need to make an informed choice.
Key Material Differences Between the Two
What is a composite synthetic sink?
Composite synthetic sinks are made from resin blends and synthetic polymers. They are lighter, impact-resistant, and often come in more flexible shapes and colours. TapsUK describes them as “lightweight, incredibly durable, and resistant to impacts, heat and scratches.
What is a granite composite sink?
Granite composite (or composite granite) sinks are made of crushed stone (often ~80 %) mixed with acrylic or resin binders. They mimic real stone texture yet avoid brittleness. TapsUK says that their granite composite sinks “offer the premium look of stone with superior resistance to scratches, chips, and stains
Material contrast at a glance
Feature
Synthetic Composite
Granite Composite
Weight
Lighter, easier to handle
Heavier, more solid feel
Texture
Smoother, uniform finishes
Stone-like grain and texture
Composition
Resin/polymer heavy
Stone aggregate with resin binder
Colour options
Broad range (matte, gloss, bold colours)
Many shades, especially neutrals and dark tones
Performance Comparison
Here’s a comparison table of how synthetic and granite composite sinks fare in key performance areas:
Factor
Composite Synthetic
Granite Composite
Durability / Scratch Resistance
Good, depends on resin quality
Very good — stone content helps resist scratches
Heat & Thermal Shock
Resins can be more sensitive to sudden heat changes
Typically withstands higher temp and shock (some tolerate ~560 °F / 293 °C) ( ajmadison.com)
Stain Resistance & Non-Porosity
Non-porous surface, resists staining well
Also non-porous, good stain resistance
Impact Resistance
More forgiving, less brittle under force
Harder but may chip on extreme impact
Noise / Sound
Quieter (less metal resonation)
Stone base can dampen sound too
Weight / Support
Light – easier fitting, less structural demand
Heavier – needs stronger support beneath
Price Comparison: Synthetic vs Granite Composite Sinks
Durability & Scratch Resistance
Granite composite tends to edge ahead in scratch resistance because of the stone content. But high-quality synthetic composites from brands like Astini, Carron Phoenix or London Sink Company are still quite tough.
Heat & Thermal Shock Resistance
Granite composite often can sustain sudden temperature shifts better. For example, a dual-mount granite composite sink is said to tolerate thermal shocks and temperatures up to ~560 °F (293 °C). Synthetic composites are good, but extreme heat (e.g. placing red-hot pans) may be more risky.
Stain Resistance & Non-Porosity
Both types are non-porous and resist stains well. Synthetic composites’ uniform resin surfaces can be easier to clean. Granite composite surfaces resist staining, especially from food acids, dyes, etc.
Price point note
Granite composite sinks tend to cost more, because of the stone content and heavier construction. According to TapsUK listings, there are dozens of granite sinks from premium brands (Luisina, Rangemaster, Chambord, etc.). Synthetic composite ranges also include many from Astini, Carron Phoenix, Franke and London Sink Company.
Which Sink Is Easier to Clean and Maintain?
What cleaners to use/avoid:
Use: mild dish soap, diluted white vinegar, and non-abrasive sponges.
Avoid: strong acids, bleach, scouring powders, harsh abrasives — these can degrade resin or scratch surfaces.
How to Clean a Composite Sink Without Damage:
Step-by-step:
Rinse sink after use to remove food particles
Use warm water + mild soap with soft sponge
For persistent spots, apply baking soda paste, or a specifc synthetic or granite cleaner and leave 5 minutes, gently wipe
Rinse thoroughly and dry with soft cloth
Preventing Limescale and Stains on Granite Composite Sinks
Wipe down after every use, especially if your water is hard.
Use a 50:50 vinegar–water mix occasionally (test on a corner first).
Some owners of granite composite sinks report that soap scum shows more easily.
Use stone-safe sealers or wax (if supported by the manufacturer).
Daily Care Tips to Keep Your Sink Looking New
Don’t leave metal utensils or pans sitting — they can leave marks
Use a sink grid or rubber mat
Dry the sink after use to avoid water spots
Avoid dropping heavy pots in — even tough composites have limits
Performance Trade-Offs to Consider
Every sink material has limits. Here’s how synthetic composite and granite composite compare when things go wrong.
Concern
Synthetic Composite
Granite Composite
UV exposure/fading
May yellow or fade slightly over years
Colour stays stable, even in sunlight
Impact resistance
Can flex under force — less likely to chip
Very tough, but can chip if hit sharply
Heat exposure
Sudden high heat can cause warping
Handles heat better, less risk of deformation
Repairs
Simple resin filler or polish fixes
Requires specialist repair or full replacement
Weight
Lightweight, easy to handle
Heavy, needs strong support
Synthetic composite pros
Easier to repair if scratched or chipped
Lighter — less strain during installation
More affordable for replacement
Feels warmer to the touch
Synthetic composite cons
Can discolour if exposed to UV or harsh cleaners
May not handle sudden heat changes as well
Granite composite pros
Exceptional heat and scratch resistance
Dense feel and premium appearance
Better long-term colour stability
Granite composite cons
Heavier and more strain to fit
More difficult to repair if damaged
Prone to visible water marks or soap residue on dark finishes
Which Type Suits Your Kitchen and Lifestyle?
Synthetic Composite
If your kitchen sees heavy use, synthetic composite can be forgiving, lighter to install, and easier to repair. Also easier to clean by multiple users.
Granite Composite
Granite composite offers a more premium texture, a stone-like appearance, and a solid aesthetic. If budget and structure allow, it gives your kitchen a “luxury” feel.
What to Consider Before Buying
Cabinet strength and support
Colour and design match with surfaces
Budget for purchase + installation
Your water hardness and cleaning habits
Long-term durability vs. repair options
Final Takeaways for Homeowners
When comparing composite synthetic vs granite composite sinks, there’s no one best — it depends on priorities. Synthetic composite gives you lighter weight, easier handling, and easier repairs. Granite composite gives a premium look, superior scratch / heat resistance, though with more weight and cost.
Synthetic composite: lighter, easier to repair, lower cost
Granite composite: more stone-like, tougher in some performance areas
Both are non-porous, stain-resistant, and good for kitchens
Consider your kitchen usage, installation constraints, and cleaning habits
Explore the Composite Synthetic Sink Range
Upgrade your kitchen with a durable, lightweight, and stylish composite synthetic sink. Browse top brands including Astini, Carron Phoenix, Franke, and The London Sink Company, all available at Taps UK.
Bring strength and style to your kitchen with a premium granite composite sink. Discover designs from Luisina, Rangemaster, Chambord, Hansgrohe, and Harlyn — all known for their durability, texture, and modern appeal.
Granite composite is generally safer for extreme heat. Synthetic composite handles typical hot use, but placing red-hot pans directly should be avoided.
Do these sinks scratch easily?
Both resist scratches, but granite composite has an advantage due to its stone content. However, any sink can scratch if abused.
Can I repair chips or damage?
Yes. Synthetic composite is easier to repair with resin fillers. Granite composite is more complex; you may need a kit or a pro's help.
Is colour fading an issue?
Synthetic resin composites may be more susceptible long term to long-term UV or chemical wear. Granite composites tend to maintain colour better due to the stone aggregate.
Which is better for hard water areas?
Both are non-porous and resist staining, but granite composite may better resist mineral buildup. Still, regular cleaning matters most.
Taps UK is a prominent online retailer in the United Kingdom, specializing in a wide variety of kitchen and bathroom products. The company boasts a large selection of taps, sinks, and accessories from both well-known industry brands and its own exclusive lines, catering to a broad customer base that includes the general public as well as trade professionals like developers and builders.
