If you’re updating your kitchen and searching for Sacramento countertops, there’s a good chance you’ve come across two heavy hitters: Dekton and quartz. Both are sleek, durable, and wildly popular in modern kitchens—but which one’s right for your space?
Let’s break it down Bob Vila–style, listicle included.
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Material 101: What Are They, Really?
- Quartz: An engineered stone made from crushed quartz and resin. It’s strong, non-porous, and consistent in appearance.
- Dekton: A composite surface made from porcelain, glass, and quartz that’s sintered (think high heat + pressure). Ultra-compact and super durable.
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Heat Resistance: Winner = Dekton
Dekton can handle hot pots and pans without flinching. Quartz? Not so much—high heat can damage it, so you’ll need a trivet.
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Scratch & Stain Resistance: Tough Call
Both are resistant, but:
- Quartz holds up well in daily use
- Dekton edges out slightly in scratch resistance (think knives or dropped pans)
- Both resist stains, though Dekton’s ultra-low porosity gives it a slight edge

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Color & Finish Options: Quartz Takes the Lead
Quartz is known for its wide range of colors, veining, and natural stone lookalikes. Dekton has gorgeous options too—but a smaller palette, especially in textured finishes.
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Installation Challenges: Quartz Is Easier
Dekton is harder to cut and more prone to chipping during fabrication. It takes an experienced installer. If you’re hiring out in Sacramento, make sure your pro has Dekton-specific experience.
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Price Point: Pretty Close, But…
- Quartz: $70–$120 per sq. ft. installed
- Dekton: $90–$130 per sq. ft. installed
Dekton usually comes in a bit higher due to handling and installation complexity.
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Overall Aesthetic for Modern Kitchens: Both Are Stunners
- Quartz gives you softness, warmth, and classic stone vibes.
- Dekton delivers sleek minimalism, thin profiles, and bold tones—perfect for ultra-modern or industrial looks.
Final Word
If you’re leaning classic and want a wide color range, quartz is your go-to. If you’re going bold, heat-resistant, and ultra-modern, Dekton might just win you over.
And when you’re sourcing Sacramento countertops, ask local fabricators which material they specialize in—it’ll make all the difference in your final result.