Hansgrohe vs. Grohe vs. Kohler: Which Brand is Best for Kitchen & Bath? (History, Quality, Warranty & Price)

• Hansgrohe

Hansgrohe History and Reputation

The company has a long and storied history. Hansgrohe was initiated in 1901 by Hansgrohe, the head of the Grohe family. At the time, founder Hans Grohe was known for his tin shower fixture. He designed this innovative fixture for private bathrooms, which had just begun to become popular in many homes.In 1993, the company introduced the first adjustable spray hand shower, which revolutionized the showering experience. Today, Hansgrohe is known for its high-quality faucets, showerheads, and bathroom accessories.The Grohe family continues to operate the company, which has more than 30 brands. The company has also pursued several partnerships with high-profile designers like Philippe Starck.

Hans­grohe also makes excellent, high-quality, stylish lines of fau­cets, Hans­grohe its "premium" fau­cet and Axor, its "luxury" brand. Axor still made mostly in Ger­many, and Hans­grohe increasingly made in China.The faucets are all designed in-house or by world-famous designers and architects and are exclusive to Hans­grohe. Faucet prices are in line with and often less costly than other European designer fau­cet brands.

The company has a global production presence, with branches in Germany, China, France and the USA. Hansgrohe supplies its customers with a wide range of high-quality kitchen and bathroom products. Around 80% of its product turnover comes from abroad.

To date, the Hansgrohe Group has won more than 600 awards in 50 international design competitions. One of which is the iF DESIGN AWARD, a world-renowned trademark of outstanding design. The iF GOLD AWARD is the top design award presented by the International Forum Design. In 2019, it went to hansgrohe Rainfinity.

Hans­grohe Product Range

In addition to showerheads, Hansgrohe also offers a range of faucets, including kitchen faucets and bathroom faucets.Hansgrohe has a strong focus on showerheads and offers a wide range of models to choose from, including rain showers, hand showers, and overhead showers. Although the company does not offer as many products as Grohe, they are available in a wide range of budgets to meet the needs of every situation.

Hans­grohe Technology Options

Hansgrohe has been a pioneer of new technologies within this industry for a very long time. At the Hansgrohe InnoLab, engineers develop progressive kitchen and bathroom fixtures designed to make customers’ lives more pleasant.Key innovations include:

• AirPower – This technology works by drawing air into the showerhead and mixing it with the water, creating larger and softer droplets that provide a more comfortable and luxurious shower experience.

• Select technology - This technology is available on a range of Hansgrohe showerheads and allows users to quickly and easily switch between different spray modes, such as rain, massage, and mist.

• EcoSmart – This technology by Hansgrohe ensures that your water consumption is at a minimum. And you can regulate your water consumption to best of your ability. 

• QuickClean – An addition for those that don’t wish to take long drawn-out showers. The jet nozzles quickly and efficiently cut your cleaning time in half.

• RainTunes tech – It turns regular showers into a lot more fun through various water effects, visual effects, fragrances, and music!

• MagFit – A hand spray technology that adds a lot more flexibility to your cleaning through detachable, extendable, hand sprays.

• CoolStart - This technology starts with cold water and only activates the hot water when you are ready. It turns on as soon as you get into hot water, which helps to conserve hot water.

• CoolContact technology  - It keeps your external shower components cool so the hot water won’t burn you or your family members.

Hans­grohe Design and Aesthetics

Hansgrohe is known for their minimalistic design. If you are designing a kitchen or bathroom and want to go with a modern or minimalist aesthetic, Hansgrohe is for you.

Hansgrohe products are typically characterized by clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic, with a focus on function over form. The company’s design philosophy is based on the principle of “form follows function”, which means that the design of a product should be driven by its intended use and function.This minimalist approach to design is reflected in the company’s showerheads, faucets, and bathroom accessories, which are designed to be both functional and stylish.

They also work closely together with internationally renowned designers, developing products that fuse aesthetics and functionality.

Where Are Hansgrohe Products Manufactured?

Hansgrohe are based in Germany.Hansgrohe produces its faucets and showers in several German manufacturing centers, including Offenburg and Willstatt. The company also has production facilities in Wasselonne, France; Shanghai, China; and Alpharetta, Georgia.

Pros and Cons of Hansgrohe

Where to Buy Hansgrohe?

Hansgrohe products are available at numerous locations and websites, including:

Build.com(up to 2% super cash back)

Home Depot(up to 8% super cash back)

Amazon

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• Grohe

Grohe History and Reputation

Grohe was founded in 1936 by Friedrich Grohe in Germany.It  is a leading global brand for complete bathroom solutions and kitchen fittings and a global brand, dedicated to providing innovative water products.In 2014, the Grohe faucet brand was bought by LIXIL who owns a number of other leading brands like American Standard. They are incredibly innovative when it comes to water technology. 

Over the past ten years alone, the success of Grohe has been confirmed by more than 240 design and innovation awards as well as a top three placement among “Germany’s most sustainable major companies of 2015”. Numerous high-profile projects around the globe are fitted with Grohe products, testifying to architects’, designers’ and developers’ preference for the brand.

For many decades, Grohe has been committed to the brand values of technology, quality, design and sustainability that all illustrate Grohe’s commitment to creating exceptional experiences and to delivering “Pure Freude an Wasser”. With its engineering, innovation and design activities firmly anchored in Germany, Grohe products bear the badge of quality “Made in Germany”, ultimately strengthening the customers’ confidence in the brand. 

Grohe Product Range

Grohe has a wider product range than Hansgrohe, offering not only showerheads and faucets but also kitchen faucets and bathroom accessories. From soap dispensers and bar mounts to bathroom lights, showers, tubs, and complete kitchen water systems, Grohe offers a holistic approach to water solutions. Furthermore, customers have the option to integrate smart control devices for added convenience and functionality.

Grohe Technology Options

At Grohe, the team focuses on smart solutions, including high-tech accessories, sustainability, and ergonomic design.Here are some of their technological features: 

• SmartControl technology - It allows users to easily control the flow and temperature of water with a single touch. This technology is available on a range of Grohe products, including shower systems, and allows users to easily switch between different spray modes and adjust the water temperature and flow rate.

• Blue Home water system - It has the ability to filter out and create extremely clean water and it can even be sparkling.

• SpeedClean – Grohe faucets also require minimal cleaning and maintenance for longer use, because of their speed cleaning technology. 

• Thermostat mixers – Help get the temperature you want in less than 3 seconds.

• Touch/no-touch taps - Touch taps allow you to tap the tap to control the flow of water, while touchless taps are operated by a motion detector. They help keep the tap clean by eliminating or alleviating the need to touch the handle.

• Sensory Guard - It uses Sense technology to monitor leaks and burst pipes. It also tracks water consumption to help improve sustainability.

• Sensing technology - This keeps the water where it should be. It does this by recognizing leaks and possible frost and then reacts by turning off the water to prevent damage caused by broken pipes or large leaks.
  

Grohe Design and Aesthetics

The style of Grohe products is classic and sleek. If you have a modern home and want a modern, ergonomic design in kitchen and bathroom fixtures, this is the best choice.

Grohe’s products often feature a mix of organic and geometric shapes, creating a balance between natural and man-made forms.One of the standout design features of Grohe kitchen faucets is their attention to ergonomics. The company’s products are designed to be both comfortable and easy to use, with features like curved handles and soft-touch controls.This attention to ergonomics extends to the design of the company’s showerheads and faucets, which are designed to provide a comfortable and luxurious shower or bath experience.

The company places a strong emphasis on innovation, with a team of designers who collaborate to create products that seamlessly blend beauty with functionality. Grohe’s design philosophy revolves around ensuring that its products not only meet but exceed customer expectations. This dedication to aesthetics and functionality makes Grohe products a desirable choice for those seeking a balance between traditional and modern design elements in their homes.

Where Are Grohe Products Manufactured?

Grohe has production plants in Hemer, Lahr, and Porta Westfalica, Germany, as well as Albergaria, Portugal and Klaeng, Thailand. Although Grohe manufactures in several countries, all products bear a “Made in Germany” stamp.

Pros and Cons of Grohe

Where to Buy Grohe?

Build.com(up to 2% super cash back)

Home Depot(up to 8% super cash back)

Amazon

Qualitybath.com

Lowe's

• Kohler

Kohler History and Reputation

Kohler is one of the oldest and largest plumbing companies in the world.An even older company than Grohe, it was established in 1873 by John Michael Kohler.It’s an American company, based in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, and at first, it manufactured farm implements from cast iron and steel. It also manufactured castings for furniture families.It was through this opportunity that John Kohler was able to create the company’s first bathtub. In a eureka moment, he applied enamel to a cast-iron horse trough, and from there, a revolution occurred in the company. Through this, they were able to expand into other bathroom fixtures and fully enter the industry.

Over the years, Kohler grew as a company and made several moves that would make waves in the industry. Like the production of the “Bubbler”, a drinking fountain that shot water vertically from a “bubbling valve.”Kohler also has a subsidiary called Destination Kohler that owns several resorts, spas, and golf courses. 

These days they offer absolutely every plumbing product you could ever need. They’re one of the best American made faucet brands in the country. When it comes to bathroom and kitchen faucets, they’re widely considered to be top of the line. 

Kohler Product Range

In addition to its plumbing products, Kohler’s product portfolio spans a wide spectrum, covering everything from bathrooms and kitchens to power generators and furniture. This extensive range highlights Kohler’s versatility and commitment to providing solutions for various aspects of modern living. From voice-controlled mirrors, showers, medicine cabinets, toilets, and sinks to smart kitchen faucets, Kohler seamlessly integrates technology into everyday household items, enhancing convenience and functionality.

Kohler’s product range extends beyond plumbing and smart home devices to encompass lighting solutions. They offer a diverse selection, ranging from recessed lights to elegant chandeliers.

Chances are, you already have a few Kohler products in your home due to their extensive product line. This speaks to Kohler’s prominence and presence in homes across the country, making them a household name associated with quality, innovation, and adaptability to modern living needs.

Kohler Technology Options

When it comes to bathroom faucets, Kohler has been surprisingly un-innovative. They really don’t have any fancy features or even touchless options for bathroom faucets. In the kitchen though, Kohler has introduced a number of high tech features and faucet functions over the years,such as:

• Touchless faucet technology.

• 2 or 3 function sprayheads.

• Innovative docking technology so that your sprayer or pulldown faucet will actually stay connected

• Their ProMotion technology is available for their pulldown and pullout faucets.

On the other hand,Kohler distinguishes itself by embracing smart home technology and sensor installations in its product lineup,such as voice-activated controls for mirrors, showers, medicine cabinets, toilets, sinks, and kitchen faucets. While this innovation adds modern convenience, it’s important to note that smart technology may require occasional software updates or maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

Kohler Design and Aesthetics

Kohler is known for its forward-looking and innovative approach to design. They seek to push the boundaries of traditional design by infusing their products with intricate details and unique, futuristic aesthetics.

Kohler offers more diverse options, making it easier for consumers to find designs that match contemporary interiors. This modern touch appeals to those who prioritize aesthetic versatility, whether it's Kohler vs Grohe kitchen faucets or bathroom fixtures.

They also have a wider range of designs than Grohe. Kohler products are fit for the kind of places that want to give off an ultra-modern feeling and are focused on the comfort of the users.

Where Are Kohler Products Manufactured?

Kohler products are made in several locations, including:

• Kohler, Wisconsin: Kohler's headquarters are in Kohler, Wisconsin, where some of their products are made. 

• Pennsylvania, Oregon, and Canada: The Kohler Kitchen & Bath Group has locations in these states and in Canada. 

• Hattiesburg, Mississippi: Kohler has expanded its manufacturing capacity in Hattiesburg. 

• Hunstville, Alabama: Sterling bathroom and kitchen products are assembled in Huntsville, Alabama. 

• China: Kohler has 11 factories and more than 800 exhibition centers in China. 

Pros and Cons of Kohler

Where to Buy Kohler?

Kohler.com(up to 3% super  cash back)

Build.com(up to 2% super cash back)

Home Depot(up to 8% super cash back)

Amazon

Hansgrohe vs. Grohe vs. Kohler: Comparison Side by Side

1. Quality

There is no clear winner when it comes to the durability of Hansgrohe vs Grohe products because they are about equal.In contrast, Kohler’s approach to product construction differs. Kohler, in consideration of budget-conscious consumers, often utilizes plastic materials in its products. This decision is primarily driven by cost-efficiency considerations.Kohler fixtures are also reliable, but they tend to use more plastic components in comparison to Grohe and Hansgrohe.Still, Kohler's fixtures maintain a good reputation for durability, especially considering their cost-effectiveness.

2. Price

When it comes to price, Kohler is the winner. They’re not exactly cheap, but Hansgrohe and Grohe are two high-end brand and that comes with a steep price. In general, Grohe products are considered to be more expensive than Hansgrohe products. This is because Grohe uses more advanced technology, higher quality materials, and more complex designs in their products. Grohe also has a wider range of products that cater to different needs and preferences, which means that they can offer products at different price points.

On the other hand, Hansgrohe products are generally more affordable than Grohe products. This is because Hansgrohe focuses on offering high-quality products at a more accessible price point. They achieve this by using simpler designs and less complex technology in their products.

3. Warranty

Hansgrohe - They offer consumers a limited warranty on the Hansgrohe and AXOR branded products.This warranty is limited to products manufactured by Hansgrohe, Inc. that are purchased from a Hansgrohe, Inc. authorized seller by a consumer in the United States or Canada after September 1, 2019, and installed in either the United States or in Canada.The terms and conditions of the warranty.

Grohe - Grohe offers limited lifetime warranty.At the company’s discretion,Grohe will repair or replace any part or finish that proves to be defective in material and/or workmanship under normal installation, use and service. Please note: warranties do not cover normal “wear and tear.”Grohe provides the following warranties on its products to the original purchaser installed in a residential application. This warranty is effective for all products sold after July 1, 2020. For products sold prior to July 1, 2020, click here. For residents of the United States, warranty information may also be obtained by clicking here.

Kohler - All Kohler plumbing products carry the Kohler One-Year Limited Warranty unless otherwise noted.Check details

4. Maintenance

Hansgrohe and Grohe products generally require less maintenance due to their superior build quality and use of corrosion-resistant materials. Regular cleaning and minimal care are usually enough to maintain their performance,making them an attractive option for those who prefer low-maintenance products.

On the other hand, Kohler products, with their inclusion of smart technology and intricate designs, may require more frequent maintenance. Products like faucets and sinks may need regular cleaning to preserve their appearance and functionality. This means that homeowners who choose Kohler may need to allocate more time and effort to maintain their fixtures’ aesthetics and performance.

Conclusion: Which Brand Should You Choose?

Overall, when it comes to choosing among Hansgrohe,Grohe and Kohle, it’s important to consider your specific needs, preferences, and budget. 

Grohe is a more luxurious and expensive brand, but once you buy their product, you are unlikely to have to spend anything on maintenance. This alone isn’t enough to determine their worth to you, though.

Kohler offers more budget-friendly options, making it a popular choice for those seeking reliable fixtures without breaking the bank.Kohler's products, like their kitchen faucets, provide good value, especially in terms of design and functionality.

On the other hand, Hansgrohe focuses on affordability without compromising on quality, making their products a good option for those who want high-quality products at a more accessible price point.

Whichever brand you end up choosing, you can be sure that it will be more than worth your money.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Hansgrohe better quality than Grohe?

It is very common for a bathroom installers, retailers to ask the question, is Hansgrohe better than Grohe? I belive the two brands are very similar in quality but both brands offer slightly different technology and design so no two brands in our mind can say one brand is better than the other.

Is Hansgrohe a good brand for showers?

Whether you're washing your hands or soaking in the shower, the quality of a hansgrohe product is more than apparent. They're constantly working to set themselves apart from the competition in every aspect of design, manufacturing, and service, providing you, the customer, with a product that is guaranteed to last.

Which is expensive, Grohe or Kohler?

Kohler products are cheaper than many competitors, including Grohe. This may make it a more suitable option if you're on a budget.

Are Hansgrohe faucets made in China?

Hansgrohe deliver their faucets, showers, and other products to more than 150 different countries. This makes Hansgrohe a global player in the sanitation industry. They have production sites in Germany, France, Serbia, the USA, and China.

Is Kohler considered high end?

Kohler is one of the best-known names in bathroom fixtures, Kohler offers high-end kitchen and bathroom faucets in a broad range of styles.

Is Kohler made in Germany?

Their headquarters and production facility are located in Lahr in southern Germany, with further sites for sales and service in Shanghai, China, Moscow, Russia and Salt Lake City, USA.

Is Grohe high quality?

Yes. Grohe quality goes well beyond an article's normal life cycle and, should a certain product be discontinued, replacement parts remain available for a minimum ten years.

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