Centerset VS Widespread Faucet, Which One is Better?

Choosing a faucet for your bathroom or kitchen sink is a very important functional choice. There are many types of faucet mounts to choose from on the market, the two most commonly used are centerset faucets and widespread faucets. However, what confuses many people is, which of these two types of faucets is suitable for their bathroom and kitchen? What is the main difference between a centerset faucets and a widespread faucet? What are their pros and cons?

If you are also confused about these, don't worry, here we will help you make the right choice. Here, we differentiate between the two types and highlight some important pros and cons so you can figure out which faucet is best for your needs.

What is the Centerset Faucet?

Centerset faucet, as the name suggests, mount the entire faucet assembly in the center of the sink. Nozzles and valve sockets are usually located close together and are attached to a unit's center plate. They are the backbone of faucet fixtures, and their faucet handles typically measure four inches, although some measure six inches.

Centerset faucets, also known as mini-spreader faucets, are installed in three-hole bases on sinks and countertops. Centerset faucets are best for small lavatory, undermount and pedestal sinks. They come in a variety of finishes and also in single handle models.

What are the Advantages of the Centerset Faucets?

Centerset faucets work well in many bathroom and kitchen settings. It is a ubiquitous sink fixture whose popularity is unmatched. Equipping your sink with a center tap has many advantages.

• Space-saving: Centerset faucets are no more than six inches in diameter, and most are four inches in diameter. This is a plus for smaller bathrooms and lavatory sinks where space is limited. Centerset bathroom faucets require only one pre-drilled hole and are perfect for small bathrooms or vanities. This saves valuable counter space and makes for a more organized and clutter-free environment.
• Cost-Effective: Compared with widespread faucets, centerset faucets are usually cheaper. They are simpler, have fewer components, and are less expensive, making them an attractive option for homeowners on a budget.
• Easy installation: The monolithic design of the centerset faucet simplifies the installation process. They require less connection and plumbing work, making them a convenient choice for DIYers or those looking for a hassle-free installation experience.
• Ease of maintenance: Centerset faucets are usually easier to clean and maintain due to fewer individual parts. Its streamlined design minimizes the risk of debris buildup, ensuring a longer service life and reducing the need for frequent servicing.

What are the Disadvantages of the Centerset Faucets?

Although centerset faucets are efficient and effective, installing one over your sink also has some drawbacks. Their functional advantages are limited to the specific space and type of sink used. Plus, having parts in such close proximity to each other can present unique challenges.

• Limited customization: Centerset faucets typically offer fewer design options than ubiquitous faucets. Homeowners may find more limited choices in finish, style, and handle options, limiting their ability to achieve a particular aesthetic.
• Less space for water flow: The handle and spout of a centerset faucet are combined into one unit, resulting in less space between them. This can restrict water flow and make it slightly less comfortable to use, especially for people who prefer a stronger water flow or have larger hands.
• Difficult to keep clean: While a centerset faucet provides many conveniences during installation, it can be challenging to maintain on a daily basis. Dirt and scale can get under faucets and faucet handles, making cleanup difficult and hard to reach. Not to mention, the immovable design required creative "housekeeping gymnastics" to reach all the nooks and crannies.

What is the Widespread Faucets?

The widespread faucet consists of 3 separate parts. One piece for the nozzle and two pieces for the handle, each with its own separate mounting hole. The distance between the handles can vary, usually between 8 and 16 inches. Widespread faucets are very popular due to their versatility and good looks. By measuring the size and type of the countertop, you can easily adjust the gap between the nozzle and the handle. They are available in a variety of styles and finishes.

What are the Advantages of the Widespread Faucets?

The widespread faucet is suitable for any installation scenario, especially for non-traditional installations. Its spatial and aesthetic flexibility allows for countless design possibilities. There are many benefits to installing a widespread faucet.

• Adjustable: Widespread faucets can be easily inserted into standard 4" and 6" sink locations. But because the components are self-contained, you can install a widespread faucets in holes eight to sixteen inches apart. In addition, they can be used for corner-mounted sinks or as wall-mounted elements.
• Easy to clean: Unlike centerset faucets, widespread bathroom faucets allow space to fully reach every part of their components. Effectively and thoroughly cleaning individual components is much easier than trying to reach smaller spaces. The widespread faucet allow for easier access to each component, which makes cleaning faster and with less effort.
• More Varieties: Widespread faucets have more design possibilities than centerset faucets. From metal finishes to themed shapes, the possibilities for high-end and stylish faucet looks are endless. The widespread faucet is the only design capable of recreating vintage hot and cold taps, perfect for historically faithful restorations.
• Enhanced Water Flow: Widespread faucets provides ample space between the handle and spout, resulting in a more comfortable and spacious water flow. This is especially beneficial for those who prefer greater water flow or have larger hands.
• Aesthetic Impact: Widespread faucets are generally considered more visually appealing and luxurious due to their unique three-piece design. They can act as a focal point in the bathroom, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall decor.
• Easier to repair or replace: If one part of the centerset faucet breaks, we will have to buy a new component and replace the whole part. Since the components of widespread faucets are installed separately, we may only need the faucet spout or handle. This single part may be cheaper and quicker to replace than an entire new faucet.

What are the Disadvantages of the Widespread Faucets?

Despite their wide flexibility, widespread faucets do have some drawbacks. Their respective components introduce some more complexities concerning how and where to use them.

• Installation More Complicated: Widespread faucets are harder to install -- more components mean a more complicated installation process. Each piece must be properly spaced and connected individually. As a result, installation may take longer and have a wider margin of error. This can be especially time-consuming if your sink or countertop didn't come pre-drilled. For centerset faucets, some models only require one hole. But widespread faucets require three holes for each faucet part, which requires more measuring and cutting time.
• Take up More Space: What makes the widespread faucet so attractive is precisely its disadvantage in fixed or confined spaces. The individual components of a widespread faucet may be too large to fit in a compact environment. Also, there may not be enough space under the sink for plumbing and connections.
• Higher Cost: The flexibility in spacing and styling comes at a price: the average price of a widespread faucet is twice that of a centerset faucet. The cheapest widespread faucets run about $40. If your home improvement budget is small or you need multiple fixtures, the cost can be prohibitive.

What is the Difference Between Widespread Faucet and Centerset Faucet?

• The most obvious difference is that the widespread faucet is a three-piece faucet with two handles and a spout, each of which can be installed individually. Centerset faucets are only one piece and very compact.
• Faucets are commonly found on kitchen sinks, countertops, and even bathrooms. Centerset faucets are mainly used for washbasins and are mainly suitable for small spaces.
• The gap between widespread faucet handles is about 8 inches in most cases, but can be adjusted slightly to 12 inches as each part can be tightened independently. There is usually a 4-inch gap between the handles on centerset faucets, but other faucets may have a slightly longer gap, up to 6 inches. But unlike ordinary faucets, it cannot adjust the gap.
• Widespread faucets allow people to remove one of the handles and automatically adjust to a single handle faucet when not in use or in need of maintenance. However, it's nearly impossible to remove any parts with a centerset faucet because they're all joined together as one unit.
• Widespread faucets can usually be used for both large and small sinks, while centerset faucets can only be used for small sinks because it does not allow more space between the handle and the spout.

Both centerset and widespread faucets are suitable for bathroom and kitchen sinks. They each combine form and function and are installed in many different environments. However, in the widespread faucet vs. centerset faucet debate, the choice ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. A centerset faucet is a practical and space-saving option that is easy to install and low maintenance. On the other hand, widespread faucets offer design versatility, enhanced water flow, and a more luxurious aesthetic. However, they cost more and require more complicated installation. When making your decision, consider your bathroom size, budget, desired design and flow preferences. Both types of faucets can enhance the function and style of your bathroom, so choose the one that best suits your requirements and style.

FAQ About Centerset Faucet VS Widespread Faucet

Q: What is the main difference between a centerset faucet and a widespread faucet?
A: The main difference between a centerset faucet and a widespread faucet is the design and installation. Centerset faucets combine the spout and handle into one unit, while widespread faucets have separate spouts and handles. Centerset faucets are designed to mount on sinks or countertops with pre-drilled holes spaced 4 inches apart, while widespread faucets require three separate mounting holes with handles and spouts spaced farther apart.

Q: Which type of faucet is better in terms of design options?
A: Widespread faucets offer more design options than centerset faucets. Widespread faucets with separate handle and spout units available in a variety of styles, finishes and handle options for more customization and flexibility to achieve your desired bathroom aesthetic. Centerset faucets, on the other hand, usually offer fewer choices in terms of finishes, styles, and handle options.

Q: Are centerset faucets and widespread faucets better for smaller bathrooms?
A: Centerset faucets are usually better for smaller bathrooms due to their compact design. They only require one pre-drilled hole, saving valuable counter space and making the bathroom more organized and tidy. A widespread faucet has three separate units, requires more installation space, and may not be as space-efficient in a smaller bathroom setting.

Q: Which faucet has more spacious water flow?
A: Compared with the centerset faucet, the widespread faucet can provide a more spacious water flow. In widespread faucets, the distance between the handle and the spout is wider to provide a more comfortable and plentiful water flow. Centerset faucets have a combined handle and spout arrangement, and there may be less space between them, potentially restricting water flow.

Q: Which type of faucet is generally more cost-effective?
A: Centerset faucets are usually more cost-effective than widespread faucets. A centerset faucet is simpler, has fewer components, and costs less, making it an affordable option for homeowners. Widespread faucets tend to be more expensive due to having additional components and complicated installation.

Q: Which one is easier to install, a centerset faucet or a widespread faucet?
A: Centerset faucets are usually easier to install than widespread faucets. The one-piece design of the centerset faucet simplifies installation and requires less connection and plumbing work. This makes them a convenient choice for DIYers or those looking for a hassle-free installation experience. Widespread faucets, with three separate units and multiple mounting holes, can be more complicated to install and may require professional help for proper alignment and installation.

Q: Does the higher the faucet, the more water it splashes?
A: All faucets create some degree of splash as water flows from the spout to the sink. However, the higher the curvature of the faucet, the greater the chance of increased splash. That's why high-arc faucets are often paired with restricted-flow aerators, or people pair them with deep basin sinks.

Q: How much space should there be between the backsplash and the faucet?
A: You should measure enough space so that the handle can be turned fully and clear of the back wall. To ensure clearance, start by measuring where the back edge of the faucet meets the countertop. This distance should be at least 3/4 inch. Next, measure the distance from the center of the faucet hole to the back wall. You should measure at least 2 inches. This allows 1/4 inch clearance for the faucet handle to clear the backsplash when fully open.