Choosing a Faucet Finish
Updated February 20, 2026
Faucet finish affects how the faucet looks, how easy it is to clean, how it ages, and how well it matches other fixtures. Chrome is the classic default. Brushed nickel hides fingerprints. Matte black is the current trend. Oil-rubbed bronze develops character over time. The finish you choose should coordinate with cabinet hardware, light fixtures, and other bathroom or kitchen metals.
Overview
Faucet finish affects how the faucet looks, how easy it is to clean, how it ages, and how well it matches other fixtures. Chrome is the classic default. Brushed nickel hides fingerprints. Matte black is the current trend. Oil-rubbed bronze develops character over time. The finish you choose should coordinate with cabinet hardware, light fixtures, and other bathroom or kitchen metals.
What to Know
Comparison
| Chrome: $$ — most durable, shows spots, widest selection, matches everything |
| Brushed nickel: $$$ — hides spots, warm tone, great all-around upgrade |
| Matte black: $$$ — bold statement, shows dust, trending, pairs with white |
| Oil-rubbed bronze: $$$$ — living finish, traditional, develops character |
Buying Tips
- Match your faucet finish to other hardware in the room -- cabinet pulls, towel bars, light fixtures.
- Buy all fixtures in the same finish at the same time from the same brand for consistency.
- PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) finishes are the most durable -- look for PVD in the product description.
- If you cannot decide, brushed nickel is the safest choice for any style.
Common Mistakes
- Mixing finishes unintentionally. Brushed nickel from Brand A may not match Brand B.
- Choosing matte black everywhere. It is a strong look that can overwhelm a small bathroom.
- Ignoring durability. Painted or lacquered finishes chip and peel. PVD and chrome are most durable.
- Buying the cheapest option in a specialty finish. Budget matte black faucets often have thin coatings.
Bottom Line
Chrome is the safest, most affordable, and most durable choice. Brushed nickel is the best upgrade for most homes. Matte black is a design statement -- commit to it across the room or skip it.