Selecting the right sink is a complex process. Choosing the right type and size of sink for your kitchen can be easy, but finding the best brand and model is harder. In the wide variety of sink brands, there are two that stand out from others: Ruvati and Elkay. Both are famous names in the kitchen sink industry, and today we will compare them to find out who is better for your exact kitchen.

Ruvati

Ruvati is a U.S.-based brand with an Italian craftsmanship history. Founded by an Italian immigrant family, the company now has its headquarters in Austin, Texas. This blend of classic Italian design, American manufacturing strength, and a desire to make the best sinks has made it one of the most famous brands in the North American market.

Their philosophy is based on a custom approach. Besides manufacturing, they place strong emphasis on the personal experience. Working with professional renovators and builders, they reach out directly to homeowners to help find the best sink for the exact style and needs of the home.

The quality of their sinks is truly exceptional. Made from premium-grade steel and rigorously tested, their sinks are reliable and durable. As they say themselves: "Each component is handpicked and exhaustively tested to offer the utmost in functionality and reliability." With their beautiful designs, these sinks are made to last and to impress.

Ruvati 32-inch Workstation Ledge Rounded Corners Undermount 16 Gauge Kitchen Sink Single Bowl

Elkay

Founded in 1920 on Chicago’s Near North Side, today Elkay is America’s number 1 selling stainless steel sink company. They are one of the most interesting brands in terms of company history: in 1957 they became the world's largest manufacturer of residential sinks, and in 1985 Elkay manufactured its 1 millionth water cooler. Check out their interactive storyboard to see why they have been so famous for over 100 years, and you will fall in love with them.

But rich history is not the only thing that made them popular. Outstanding quality, wide product range, classic elegant designs, and the spirit of American manufacturing have proven them to be one of the best.

Elkay Crosstown® 18 Gauge Workstation Stainless Steel 28-1/2" x 18-1/2" x 8-1/2" Single Bowl Undermount Sink Kit

Design

In terms of design, both brands are making practical and beautiful sinks, but their approach is slightly different. Ruvati's European aesthetics show in their sinks, especially in designer lines like Fiamma fireclay, where they have decorative edges and unique finishes. In their stainless steel sinks, they use matte finishes, colored finishes, and an innovative nano-PVD finish that is resistant to wear. Another signature is their workstation sinks, where they created probably the most useful sinks in any kitchen. Built-in accessories are amazing for small kitchens, and they allow you to customize them for your exact needs.

Elkay follows a more classic American design. Simple but beautiful, their sinks balance practicality with aesthetics. Their standout feature is "Perfect Drain" - a sink designed without a gap around the drain, which looks amazing and reduces areas for grime and bacteria to accumulate. It comes with drain assembly or InSinkErator disposal with Quick Lock mounting.

Elkay Perfect Drain

Stainless Steel

Most manufacturers produce their sinks in 16, 18, or 20 gauge steel. A lower number means thicker steel. Thicker steel is better, because it is more durable, better at soundproofing, and resistant to scratches, but it's pricier. Ruvati uses 16 gauge steel as a standard for most of their models. Elkay tends more towards 18-gauge, with 16-gauge used in their premium models like the Iconix series.

A nice benefit from Elkay is their stainless steel restoration kit, available in many models, containing abrasives and a cloth to blend scratches into the finish.

Final Decision

So, what is the best brand of the two? Ultimately the answer depends on your needs, design preferences, or a specific feature you like. Both brands are reliable options and they both have their pros and cons, as you could see.

There is much more to tell about both brands, so if you're interested in choosing one of their products for your own kitchen, we will be happy to help you.