When time comes to upgrade your faucet, there’s no shortage of options to choose from. Maybe you’re looking for something fancy and with a bit of flair, or maybe you just want a simple, utilitarian faucet that easy to use and easy to install. Whichever you’re looking for, there’s a single handle faucet that will work for you and your budget.
There are a few advantages to a single handle faucet. First – besides having a look that is entirely sleek and modern – they make selecting water temperature and controlling the water flow simple and nearly effortless; just turn the handle to the right position to get what you want, and there’s no need to fidget with separate Hot/Cold faucets to find a comfortable temperature.
Second, single handle faucets take up less space than their two handle counterparts, and can be installed on sinks with only one mounting hole (as well as on sinks with two, three or even more holes). Two-handle faucets generally require three or more mounting holes.
If you’ve decided to go with a single-handle faucet for your kitchen, keep reading to see our picks for the best of 2018.
| Faucet Model | Flow rate | Material | Style | Finishes | ||
 | Derenngge Single Handle Pull Down Kitchen Faucet | 1.8 gpm | Brass | Pull Down | Brushed Nickel |  |
 | WEWE Single Handle High Arc Faucet | 1.5 gpm | Brass, Zinc, Plastic | Pull Down | Stainless Steel | |
 | Delta Linden Single-Handle Kitchen Pull-Out Faucet | 1.5 gpm | Brass, Plastic | Pull Out | Chrome, Arctic Stainless, Venetian Bronze | |
 | Delta Addison Single Handle PullDown | 1.5-2 gpm | Brass | Pull Down | Arctic Stainless, Champagne Bronze, Chrome, Stainless, Venetian Bronze | |
 | Hansgrohe Talis S Single Hole Kitchen | 1.75 gpm | Brass | Pull Out | Chrome, Steel Optik | |
What To Look For When Choosing A Singe Handle Faucet
So what do you need to look for when shopping for a single handle faucet? Pay attention to these things, among others…
How Many Mounting Holes Does A Single Handle Faucet Need?
In most cases, a single handle faucet will mount perfectly on a one-hole sink, as that’s all they need. Some styles may occasionally require an additional hole for a side sprayer or separate handle. One-hole faucets can usually be mounted on three-hole setups, as well, with the use of an additional escutcheon, which may or may not be included.
Does The Handle Move Smoothly? Or Does It Stick? Is It Easy To Change Water Temperature?
While two-handle faucets may be a bit more forgiving when it comes to how smoothly the handles work, single handle faucets don’t have much room for error. With only one handle, you need to be able to pinpoint the exact spot and exact water temperature. A smooth handle will make this easy, but a handle that sticks or jerks around won’t be of any help. If you can, try out a few handles in person to get a good feel for them, and read reviews to see what other users have to say.
How Tall Is The Arc? What About Reach?
Faucet arc refers to the highest point of the faucet above where it connects to the sink and countertop. High arc faucets (about 10” tall ) are popular right now, but more compact options (about 6” – good if you have a smaller, tighter kitchen setup) can definitely be found. A higher arc is wieldier when filling very large containers in a smaller sink, while a shorter arc fits better where cabinets or backsplash might get in the way.
Also pay attention to reach – how far the faucet comes out from the sink. 8” to 10” is usually a good amount.
How’s The Flow Rate and Water Pressure?
A faucet without strong water pressure and ample flow is more than an annoyance; it’s practically useless. You will find faucets with flow rates as slow as 1.5 gpm and as strong as 2.2 gpm. 1.75+ is ideal. For water pressure, 60 PSI is usually more than adequate.
The stronger the the flow rate and water pressure, the easier it is to wash dishes, fill pots and other miscellaneous tasks. Many newer faucets even have spray modes that boost water strength and pressure, without increasing water consumption.
Are The Valves Rubber or Ceramic?
Valves (also called cartridges) come in several different types. Ceramic are the best: they’re higher quality than rubber valves, provide a much tighter seal, and generally last much, much longer. Whenever possible, opt for ceramic valves, and you won’t be disappointed.
Best Single-Handle Kitchen Faucet Reviews
Derenngge Single Handle Pull Down Kitchen Faucet
On a budget but don’t want to sacrifice looks? This Derenngge Single Handle will do nicely. It’s significantly less-expensive than faucets of a similar style but doesn’t compromise on quality or function.
Pros
- It’s built entirely from metal. Unusual for such an inexpensive faucet (they’re usually plastic), but definitely welcome. It feels solid and sturdy in your hand. Even the spray wand is made from metal.
- Water pressure is good, at 1.8 gpm and 60 PSI. While that’s not the strongest you’ll find on a faucet, it’s standard and more than enough for most jobs.
- The high-arc fits makes filling large pots easy, but doesn’t splash water everywhere. The entire faucet swivels side to side for versatility, too.
- It has two spray modes – regular spray and aerated flow. Simply toggle between them with a press of a button.
- It has ceramic disc valves. It can be difficult to find ceramic valves on faucets this inexpensive, but Derenngge made it happen – and they’re worth it.
- Did we mention it’s affordable? This faucet delivers quite the value and it holds its own against more expensive models.
Cons
- The spray wand doesn’t retract and fit tightly. It’s supposed to sit flush in the faucet, but sometimes hangs loosely and leaves a gap where it should be nice and tight.
- The spray button sticks when switching between spray modes.
WEWE Single Handle High Arc Faucet
The WEWE Single Handle faucet costs a bit more than the Derenngge but is still an incredible value when it comes to a high-quality, metal kitchen faucet. If you’re looking to outfit a contemporary or modern kitchen with something sleek, smooth and sturdy on a budget, look no further.
Pros
- Metal construction means it’s tough and durable. The main body is brass, and the spout is stainless steel. Both have a beautiful brushed nickel finish. The handle is zinc alloy. Only the sprayer head itself is plastic.
- Setup and installation is simple and easy. WEWE says you can DIY and have it done in less than 30 minutes.
- There are two spray modes – Stream and Aerated Spray – and a pause function. It’s nice to be able to pause the flow without having to turn the water off with the handle; it makes cleaning with one hand much easier.
- It will install on both 1-hole and 3-hole sinks. An escutcheon can be used to mount it on 3-hole setups.
- The spout smoothly swivels a full 360 degrees. Always a nice addition.
- It has ceramic disc valves. These provide the best seal and longevity of all valve/cartridge types and are usually reserved for more-expensive models.
Cons
- Parts come loose and need to be tightened upon installation. It can take some adjusting and tightening in the beginning to get everything tight and without leaks.
- The spray head doesn’t always fit tightly. There’s no magnet (found on nicer models) and you may need to play around to get the spray head flush into the faucet.
Delta Linden Single-Handle Kitchen Pull-Out Faucet
Those minimalist modern faucets are nice and all, but your kitchen is a bit more traditional. You also have a slightly bigger budge. So, you opt for a single-handle faucet from the Delta Linden line, which has the quality, features and classically sophisticated looks you’d like for your kitchen.
Pros
- It has Delta’s DiamondSeal technology. Diamonds are embedded throughout the valve and the faucet for years of added durability and a leakproof seal.
- A Multi-Flow Spray Wand toggles easily between regular spray modes and features an enhanced flow option of 2.0 gpm. That’s 33% more water in the same amount of time.
- The pull-out hose is 54” long. That’s long for a kitchen faucet and should allow you to reach anywhere you might reasonably need – dishes, countertops, the dishwasher.
- It fits both 1-hole and 3-hole sinks. An optional escutcheon is included for installing on 3-hole sinks.
Cons
- The spray wand is plastic. It feels light, not sturdy, and is more likely to crack or develop leaks over time.
- Temperature control is finicky. There isn’t much of a difference between hot and cold, and finding that perfect temperature in the middle can be tricky.
- It’s short. Unless your kitchen sink is extremely small, the faucet could stand to be a couple inches longer and taller – there just isn’t much reach and filling large containers in a shallow sink can be difficult.
Delta Addison Single Handle PullDown
Ready to spend a bit more money on something even more exquisite? The Delta Addison is a high-end single handle faucet with a beautiful design and all the features you need for an easy, reliable kitchen experience. And, it comes in five beautiful finishes to match your chic interior.
Pros
- MagnaTite docking helps the spray wand retract into place. A single integrated magnet helps keep it firmly locked there – no drooping or fishing to get it back into the faucet.
- DiamondSeal technology ensures a tight seal and long-lasting durability. Delta says it will last twice as long as standard faucets.
- It has a TouchClean spray head, which helps prevent calcium buildup. Simply wipe any buildup away with your finger.
- The Multi-Flow Spray wand toggles between spray, aerated flow and a 33% boosted spray. This increases the flow rate from 1.5 to 2 GPM for heavy-duty dishwashing, etc.
- It’s brass (even the spray head) and comes in 5 sleek finishes. Choose from Arctic Stainless, Champagne Bronze, Chrome, Stainless and Venetian Bronze.
- Delta includes a limited lifetime warranty.
Cons
- It’s a bit pricey. If you have the money, however, it can be worth it.
- Installation is confusing and time-consuming. But, all necessary pieces are included, including InnoFlex PEX lines.
Hansgrohe Talis S Single Hole Kitchen
From German faucetmaker Hansgrohe, the Talis S LowRider is a modern, minimalist single handle faucet without the large size and high arc that usually accompany the style. Instead, it’s a compact pull out faucet (with an 8.75” reach) for when you want a slim piece that doesn’t take up a whole of room. They don’t call it the Lowrider for nothing.
Pros
- It’s built from solid brass for a durable, long-lasting construction. Even the spray wand is brass; no cheap plastic parts here.
- The faucet swivels 150 degrees for flexible use. Throw in the removable spray wand and you can wash down virtually anything within reach.
- It has M2 ceramic cartridges. Ceramic valves are far higher-quality than rubber valves, have a tighter seal and last years longer.
- A QuickClean nozzle resists mineral buildup and is easily cleaned. Like Delta’s TouchClean nozzles, it just needs to be wiped with your finger.
- The Talis S fits in both 1-hole and 3-hole sink configurations. You will, however, need to purchase the additional escutcheon separately.
Cons
- The Talis S doesn’t have magnetic docking. Magnetic docking would be a nice addition and make getting the spray wand back into place much easier.
- Water pressure is a bit low, at only 44 PSI. Flow rate is a good 1.75 gpm, but pressure of at least 60 PSI would be better.
