The difference between a widespread and a centerset faucet comes down to how far apart the handles and spout are, and how they mount to the sink. A widespread faucet has separate hot and cold handles, spaced apart, usually 8 inches or more. A centerset faucet has the handles and spout combined on a single base, typically 4 inches wide, and fits smaller sinks.
In this article, we’ll compare widespread and centerset faucets by size, style, sink compatibility, installation, and pros and cons.
What Is a Widespread Faucet?
A widespread faucet is pretty straightforward. It’s got three separate pieces—a spout and two handles—and they’re spaced apart, usually 8 to 16 inches. This gives you room to adjust how everything sits, which is why they’re awesome for bigger sinks or counters. They also have this high-end vibe, perfect for giving your space a touch of elegance. But, here’s the thing—they’re not exactly the easiest to install. If you’re not handy with tools, you might want to call in a pro. Still, the range of designs and finishes makes them worth it if you’ve got the space. For tips on choosing durable and stylish faucets, especially if you’re dealing with challenging water conditions, check out our guide to the kitchen faucets for hard water.
What Is a Centerset Faucet?
Centerset faucets are all about keeping it simple. Everything—spout and handles—comes as one solid piece, with the handles just 4 inches apart. They’re compact and super easy to work with, especially if you’re doing the install yourself. They fit small sinks perfectly, making them great for guest bathrooms or tight spaces. Sure, they don’t offer as much in terms of design flexibility, but they’re practical, budget-friendly, and reliable. If you want something quick and easy, a centerset faucet just works without a fuss.
Key Differences Between Widespread vs Centerset Faucets
Widespread and centerset faucets may both do the same job, but they’re quite different when it comes to design and practicality. Here’s a closer look at how they compare:
- Design: Widespread faucets come in three separate pieces—a spout and two handles—giving you flexibility to place them farther apart. Centerset faucets, on the other hand, have a single compact unit where the spout and handles are fixed together, keeping things neat and simple.
- Spacing: The spacing between the handles is another key difference. Widespread faucets usually allow for 8 to 16 inches between the handles, making them ideal for larger sinks or countertops. Centerset faucets, with their fixed 4-inch spacing, are a better match for smaller sinks or limited counter space.
- Where They Work Best: Widespread faucets are perfect for big, spacious bathrooms or kitchens where you want to add a touch of elegance. Centerset faucets, however, are better suited for compact sinks or smaller bathrooms where space-saving is a priority.
- Ease of Installation: Because widespread faucets have separate pieces, they can be a little tricky to install, and you might need a pro to get it just right. Centerset faucets, being one solid piece, are much easier to install and are often a good option if you’re planning to do it yourself.
- Style and Look: If you’re going for a high-end or customizable look, widespread faucets are your best bet. They offer a lot of style options and can make a sink feel more luxurious. Centerset faucets, while simpler, still look clean and modern and get the job done without drawing too much attention.
Knowing these differences can help you figure out which faucet suits your sink and space best. Whether you’re looking for elegance or practicality, there’s a faucet that fits the bill perfectly.
What Are the Advantages of Centerset Faucets?
Centerset faucets are compact and practical, making them a popular choice for smaller sinks and bathrooms. Here’s why they’re a great option:
- Space-Saving Design: Perfect for small sinks or countertops where space is limited.
- Easy Installation: Comes as a single unit, making it simpler to install, even for beginners.
- Affordable Option: Generally more budget-friendly compared to widespread faucets.
- Widely Available: Comes in a variety of styles and finishes, so you can find one to suit your space.
- Minimalist Look: Offers a clean and modern design that fits into many bathroom styles.
What Are the Disadvantages of Centerset Faucets?
While centerset faucets are practical, they come with a few limitations that might not work for everyone:
- Limited Customization: The fixed design means no flexibility in handle spacing or placement.
- Harder to Clean: Tight spaces between the handles and spout can be tricky to keep spotless.
- Less Visual Impact: Compared to widespread faucets, they can look less elegant or high-end.
- Not Ideal for Large Sinks: May feel undersized or out of place on spacious countertops.
What Are the Advantages of Widespread Faucets?
Widespread faucets bring style and flexibility to your sink, making them a top pick for larger spaces. Here’s what makes them stand out:
- Customizable Design: Handles and spout are separate, so you can adjust placement to suit your setup.
- Elegant Appearance: Adds a luxurious, high-end look to any bathroom or kitchen.
- Easy to Clean: The spacing between the components makes it easier to wipe down and maintain.
- Great for Larger Spaces: Perfectly complements bigger sinks and countertops.
- Variety of Styles: Available in a wide range of designs and finishes to match your decor.
What Are the Disadvantages of Widespread Faucets?
Despite their appeal, widespread faucets aren’t without their downsides. Here are a few potential drawbacks:
- More Expensive: Typically cost more than centerset faucets due to their design and materials.
- Complex Installation: Requires more effort to align the handles and spout correctly, often needing professional help.
- Takes Up More Space: Not ideal for small sinks or limited counter areas.
- Replacement Challenges: Separate components mean replacing one part can sometimes be tricky.
How to Choose Between Widespread and Centerset Faucets
Choosing between a widespread and centerset faucet depends on a few key factors, including the size of your sink, your design preferences, your budget, and how much effort you’re willing to put into installation and maintenance. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Consider Your Sink Size
The size of your sink plays a big role in determining the right faucet. Matching the faucet to the sink ensures the space looks balanced and functions well.
- For larger sinks, widespread faucets are the better choice. Their customizable spacing makes them proportional to spacious countertops.
- For smaller sinks, centerset faucets are the go-to. Their compact design fits perfectly without overwhelming the space.
Evaluate Your Design Preferences
Your faucet can make a big impact on the overall style of your bathroom or kitchen. Think about the vibe you’re going for.
- Choose a widespread faucet if you want a luxurious or classic look. The separate components allow for more customization and can create a high-end feel.
- Opt for a centerset faucet if you prefer a clean, modern, or minimalist design. They’re simple and practical, making them a great fit for contemporary spaces.
Factor in Your Budget
Budget is always an important consideration when making home improvements. Both faucet types cater to different price points.
- Widespread faucets tend to be more expensive due to their customizable design and premium appeal. They’re an investment, especially for larger or high-end spaces.
- Centerset faucets are typically more affordable. They’re a practical option if you’re on a budget or upgrading a guest bathroom.
Think About Installation and Maintenance
How easy or difficult the faucet is to install and maintain can also influence your decision.
- Widespread faucets often require professional installation because the components need to be aligned and properly spaced. However, they’re easier to clean due to the separation between parts.
- Centerset faucets are much easier to install, making them a great choice for DIY projects. However, their compact design can make cleaning around the handles and spout a bit more challenging.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can confidently choose the faucet that best suits your sink, style, and budget. Whether you value elegance or practicality, there’s a faucet that fits
Comparison Chart: Widespread vs Centerset Faucets
Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison to help you see the main differences between widespread and centerset faucets. This chart makes it easy to match the faucet type to your sink size, style preferences, and practical needs.
| Feature | Widespread Faucets | Centerset Faucets |
| Design | Separate spout and handles | Single unit with handles and spout |
| Spacing | Customizable (8-16 inches) | Fixed (4 inches) |
| Best For | Large sinks, spacious countertops | Small sinks, compact spaces |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Installation | More complex, requires professional help | Simple, suitable for DIY |
| Cleaning | Easier due to wide spacing | Harder due to compact design |
This comparison highlights the key points to consider when deciding which faucet type is the right fit for your space. Whether it’s style, budget, or ease of use, you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Wrapping It Up!
Choosing between widespread vs centerset faucets depends on your sink size, style preferences, and budget. Widespread faucets offer a customizable, elegant look, perfect for larger spaces and high-end designs. On the other hand, centerset faucets are compact, easy to install, and practical for smaller sinks or tight spaces.
By understanding the key differences—like design, spacing, and functionality—you can pick a faucet that fits both your space and needs. Whether you prioritize style, simplicity, or affordability, there’s a faucet that’s just right for you.
Related FAQs
What’s the main difference between widespread vs centerset faucet?
The biggest difference lies in the design and spacing. Widespread faucets have separate spout and handles with customizable spacing (8–16 inches). Centerset faucets are a single compact unit with handles fixed 4 inches apart.
Can You Put a Widespread Faucet in a Centerset?
No, a widespread faucet won’t fit into a centerset setup without some modifications. Centerset sinks have pre-drilled holes spaced just 4 inches apart, while widespread faucets need at least 8 inches of space. Since the holes are too close together, a widespread faucet won’t align properly.
If you really want to swap a centerset faucet for a widespread one, you’d need to drill new holes or replace the sink entirely. This can be a hassle, but if you’re remodeling, it might be worth the upgrade.
Can You Replace a Centerset Faucet with a Widespread Faucet?
Yes, but it’s not always a simple swap. A widespread faucet requires more space, so your sink or countertop must have at least three holes with enough distance between them—usually 8 to 16 inches apart. If your sink only has pre-drilled holes for a centerset faucet, you’ll likely need to modify the sink or install a new one.
If you’re working with a countertop, you might be able to drill new holes, but this depends on the material. Stone and solid surfaces can usually be modified, while pre-made porcelain sinks often can’t. Before making the switch, check if your sink has the space for the new setup.
Can You Use a Widespread Faucet on a Centerset Sink?
No, a widespread faucet won’t work on a centerset sink unless you make modifications. The biggest issue is spacing—centerset sinks are designed for faucets with a fixed 4-inch spread, while widespread faucets need more room for installation.
If your sink is already drilled for a centerset faucet, your best options are:
- Sticking with a centerset faucet for an easy replacement.
- Switching to a mini widespread faucet (some are designed for 4-inch spacing).
- Replacing the sink with one that accommodates a widespread faucet.
If you love the look of a widespread faucet but have a centerset sink, upgrading the entire setup might be the way to go.
Which type is better for small sinks?
Centerset faucets are the better choice for small sinks. Their compact design fits limited spaces perfectly without overcrowding.
Can I switch from a centerset to a widespread faucet?
Yes, but you’ll need additional holes for the widespread faucet. This could mean modifying your sink or countertop to fit the new setup.
Are widespread faucets worth the higher cost?
If you value customization, a luxurious look, and a better fit for larger sinks, then yes, widespread faucets are worth the investment. They bring more style options and flexibility.
Which faucet type is easier to install?
Centerset faucets are easier to install because they come as a single piece. Widespread faucets, with their separate components, often require professional installation.
Do widespread faucets work in small spaces?
Not really. Widespread faucets need more counter space and are better suited for larger sinks. In small spaces, they can feel cramped or out of place.
Dylan Foster is a family man with years of hands-on experience in plumbing, household maintenance, and fixing everyday issues around the home. A former plumber, Dylan knows what it’s like to deal with tricky leaks, worn-out parts, and all the little problems that pop up in a house. From plumbing repairs to kitchen fixes and garden hose setups, he’s done it all. Dylan shares real-world solutions to help others keep their homes running smoothly and avoid costly mistakes.
