The Type Of Quartz Countertop You'll Be Seeing Less Of In 2026

Quartz countertops have long been the go-to for countless designs and contractors. This modern, manmade material is prized for its durability, resilience, and ease of upkeep. However, all trends come and go — especially when it comes to countertops. If you're about to jump on the quartz countertop train, hold your horses. There is a certain kind of quartz that might not be as popular in the coming year: unrealistic-looking ones.

As practical as quartz may be, we are seeing a major shift towards organic, natural design themes. This is also directly reflected in countertop material trends. Although there are some quartz countertops that can mimic the look of natural stone, designers are starting to stray away from the faux marbling and manmade striations due to their pixelated appearance. Libby Baker, owner of Libby Baker Design Co., told Southern Living: "The dated countertops I don't want to see in 2026 are manmade quartz countertops that do not come close to looking like the real thing." Choosing your perfect surface is a personal choice, and it's important to consider what will stand the test of time, not just physically but also stylistically. Hence, we also ranked 8 beautiful countertop materials by durability so you can weigh the pros and cons.

Not all quartz is created equally. If you want to ensure your quartz countertops will last — and give natural stone a run for its money — make sure that your choice is made of at least 90-95% natural quartz. Lower quality options contain a larger percentage of resin, which will compromise the resilience that they are prized for. This can also affect the appearance when it comes to natural-looking veining and tonality. Plus, high-grade quartz countertops come in a wider range of colors and design options, too. When it comes to finishes, keep in mind that this is the polished countertop trend you'll be seeing less of in 2026.

If you're trying to decide whether quartz or natural stone is more suitable for your space, it all depends on your priorities. With marble or granite, every slab is 100% one-of-a-kind and cannot be replicated exactly. However, natural stone can't compete with quartz when it comes to durability, and it will need to be sealed regularly to maintain its condition. Although quartz is also typically more affordable, if you want to source quartz that realistically mimics the look of stone with non-pixelated veining, you will have to pay a higher price for more advanced technology. This brings us to the question: Which trendy kitchen countertop would you add to your home?