Laminates such as Formica, Pionite, and Wilsonart offer many beautiful colors, patterns, and textures. Laminates have come a long way from the old "butcher block" pattern and are still one of the most durable, most cost-effective products available. It is not heat resistant or scratch resistant, but most of the matte finishes have made this a durable, affordable, lasting product.
Acrylic surfaces such as LG-Himacs, Staron by Samsung, and Corian by Dupont are wonderful surfaces for value, stain resistance, non-porous/easy to clean, renewable, versatility, and warranty. Most acrylic surfaces are great for horizontal and vertical applications. From smooth solids to varied patterns, there are hundreds of colors to choose from along with integral sinks options. Depending on your layout, you could receive a completely seamless installation.
Quartz surfaces are considered "simulated" granite. This product contains real quartz and granite particles, along with certain resins. Each manufacturer is different. Quartz is a terrific alternate to "real" granite. Usually costing slightly more than real granite, you gain the stain resistance, heat resistance, scratch resistance, and the maintenance-free factors. Quartz never needs sealing like most granites do. This product still comes in various thicknesses and edge profiles as well. It is always wise to view hard samples of this product vs. looking in a literature book. Colors always vary. Unlike granite, there is no need to "tag" or view slabs at various distributors, which does take a few steps out of the countertop process. Our favorites are Hanstone, Cambria, and Zodiaq by Dupont.
Real granite is and always will be a popular choice. Most popular is the 3cm thickness, also known as 1-1/4 or 1-1/2. Pricing usually is set up in groups, where "A" is the most cost effective. The grade and quality are not necessarily related -- a number of considerations impact group pricing on granite. Having a great fabricator before you tag and view your slabs at a distributor is a huge plus. Since granite slabs come in various sizes, having a smooth template, fabrication, and installation process is definitely a must.
All are custom bid by the fabricator to give you an accurate cost for surfacing. Most offer several edge profiles, and options. Most quotes include templating, fabrication, and installation by a state-certified installer. Laminates and cultured marble bath products can be sold for installation by a contractor or builder.
Laminates such as 
Acrylic surfaces such as 
Quartz surfaces are considered "simulated" granite. This product contains real quartz and granite particles, along with certain resins. Each manufacturer is different. Quartz is a terrific alternate to "real" granite. Usually costing slightly more than real granite, you gain the stain resistance, heat resistance, scratch resistance, and the maintenance-free factors. Quartz never needs sealing like most granites do. This product still comes in various thicknesses and edge profiles as well. It is always wise to view hard samples of this product vs. looking in a literature book. Colors always vary. Unlike granite, there is no need to "tag" or view slabs at various distributors, which does take a few steps out of the countertop process. Our favorites are 
