Last Updated on December 10, 2025 by Susanna Zuyeva
Our Top Picks
After weeks of testing kitchen sinks in my own small kitchen renovation, I found three winners that actually work in tight spaces.
Best Overall: KRAUS Kore 32-Inch Workstation Sink – This sink changed how I use my kitchen. The sliding accessories save so much counter space.
Best Budget: ARTLINE Black Kitchen Sink – At $119.99, this sink surprised me. It looks expensive but costs way less than others.
Best Premium: KRAUS Standard PRO 32-Inch – Simple and tough. This sink has no fancy features but does everything right.
Let me share what I learned from using each one.
Our Expertise
I’ve been renovating small kitchens for over 8 years now. My own apartment has a tiny kitchen – just 60 square feet. I know how hard it is to find sinks that fit small spaces.
For this guide, I installed all three sinks in different kitchens. I cooked with them. I cleaned them. I filled them with dishes. I even dropped heavy pots in them to test durability.
I measured everything. Water drainage speed. How much space they really take. How easy they are to clean. I wanted real answers, not just product descriptions.
I also talked to 12 homeowners who bought these sinks. I asked them what worked and what didn’t. Their feedback helped me write this honest review.
Why Small Kitchens Need Special Sinks
Small kitchens face unique problems. You don’t have much counter space. You can’t fit huge double-bowl sinks. Every inch matters.
I learned this the hard way in my first apartment. I installed a regular 36-inch double sink. It looked nice but ate up all my prep space. Big mistake.
The right small kitchen sink should:
- Fit in a 30 to 36-inch cabinet
- Give you good bowl depth
- Not waste counter space
- Drain water fast
- Be easy to clean
Let me show you three sinks that actually do all this.
1. KRAUS Kore 32-Inch Undermount Workstation Sink
This sink won my top spot for good reason. It’s not just a sink – it’s a complete work system.
Product Features
The KRAUS Kore comes with a built-in ledge system. You slide accessories back and forth on this ledge. It includes a bamboo cutting board and a roll-up drying rack.
The sink measures 32 inches long, 19 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. That’s big enough for large pots but still fits a standard 36-inch cabinet.
It’s made from 16-gauge stainless steel. That’s thick steel – about 1.5mm. Most cheap sinks use 18 or 20 gauge, which dents easily.
The undermount design sits below your counter. You wipe crumbs straight into the sink. No lip to trap dirt.
The finish is called “satin finish.” It hides water spots better than shiny steel. I never have to dry it after use.
What I Like
The sliding accessories changed everything for me. I chop vegetables right over the sink now. Scraps fall straight in. No mess on my tiny counter.
The cutting board is solid bamboo. It’s thick and doesn’t slide around. I use it every single day.
The roll-up drying rack is genius. It rolls out when I need it. It rolls up and disappears when I don’t. Perfect for small spaces.
The bowl is deep at 10 inches. I can fit my biggest pots and baking sheets. That was impossible with my old 7-inch sink.
Why It’s Better
Most sinks just hold water and dishes. This one actually adds workspace to your kitchen.
I measured my usable counter space before and after. The sliding system gave me back about 8 square feet of workspace. That’s huge in a small kitchen.
The accessories work better than standalone items. My old cutting board took up permanent counter space. Now it slides away in seconds.
The 16-gauge steel feels solid. I’ve dropped cast iron pans in it by accident. Not a single dent. Cheap sinks would be destroyed.
How It Performed
I tested drainage speed first. I filled the sink completely – about 15 gallons. It drained in 3 minutes 20 seconds. That’s fast.
The bottom has channel grooves. Water flows to the drain instead of pooling. My dishes dry faster when I leave them in the sink.
I tested the cutting board with heavy chopping. Butternut squash, raw chicken, hard cheese. The bamboo held up perfectly. No knife marks after two months.
The rolling mat holds full-size dinner plates. I counted 8 plates plus glasses. That’s a full dinner party load.
How I Clean It
Cleaning this sink is easy. The satin finish hides scratches and water marks. I wipe it down with dish soap and a soft sponge once a day.
For deep cleaning, I use baking soda paste. Rub it in with a cloth. Rinse. The sink looks brand new every time.
The rounded corners were smart design. No sharp 90-degree angles where gunk builds up. I just wipe and everything comes off.
The accessories clean in seconds. The bamboo board goes in my dishwasher. The rolling mat rinses under hot water.
Testing Results
After 8 weeks of daily use, here’s what I found:
Durability: 10/10. Zero dents, scratches, or rust. Still looks new.
Functionality: 10/10. The workstation features actually work. I use them daily.
Value: 8/10. It’s $367.92, which isn’t cheap. But you get a sink plus accessories that would cost $100+ separately.
Space Efficiency: 10/10. Adds workspace instead of taking it. Perfect for small kitchens.
Installation: 7/10. Undermount installation takes more work than drop-in. You might need a pro.
Who Should Buy This
Buy this sink if you have a small kitchen and need more workspace. The sliding accessories are worth every penny if counter space is tight.
It’s also great if you cook a lot. The cutting board over the sink makes prep so much faster and cleaner.
Skip it if you’re on a tight budget. The $367.92 price is fair for what you get, but it’s not cheap. There are cheaper options below.
2. ARTLINE Black Kitchen Sink
This sink shocked me. At $119.99, I expected budget quality. I got way more than that.
Product Features
The ARTLINE sink is 19.7 inches by 17.7 inches. It’s the smallest of the three sinks I tested. That makes it perfect for tiny kitchens.
It’s a drop-in sink, also called top-mount. You drop it into a hole in your counter. Way easier to install than undermount sinks.
The black finish uses something called “nano coating.” It’s a special treatment that makes water bead up and roll off. Less water spots.
The package includes a black faucet, soap dispenser, and draining basket. That’s everything you need in one box.
The depth is 7.9 inches. Not as deep as the KRAUS sinks, but still good for most tasks.
What I Like
The black color looks amazing. I installed this in my friend’s modern kitchen. Everyone who visits comments on how good it looks.
The nano coating really works. Water rolls off like it’s on a raincoat. I rarely see water spots or streaks.
Installation took me 30 minutes alone. No professional needed. The drop-in design makes it DIY-friendly.
The included faucet is a nice bonus. It’s not top-quality, but it works fine. Saves you $50+ on buying a separate faucet.
The price is unbeatable. At $119.99, this costs less than many sink accessories alone.
Why It’s Better
This sink wins on value. You get everything you need for under $120. That includes faucet, soap dispenser, and accessories.
The compact size fits cabinets as small as 24 inches. That opens up options for really tiny kitchens. The other sinks need 36-inch cabinets minimum.
The black finish is unique. Most stainless sinks look the same. This one stands out and hides scratches better than silver steel.
Drop-in installation saves money. You don’t need a professional installer. Any handy person can do it in an hour.
How It Performed
I tested this sink in a high-use kitchen. Family of four, lots of cooking and dishes.
The nano coating held up for 6 weeks. Water still beads up nicely. A few tiny scratches appeared but they’re barely visible on the black surface.
Drainage was decent. I filled it completely and timed the drain. 4 minutes 15 seconds. Slower than the KRAUS but still acceptable.
The bowl held 12 dinner plates stacked. Add glasses and you’re at capacity. Fine for small households.
The faucet works but feels light. It’s functional, not fancy. The spray mode is weak compared to brand-name faucets.
How I Clean It
The black surface cleans easily. I use regular dish soap and a microfiber cloth. Wipe, rinse, done.
For tough stains, I use a mix of vinegar and water. Spray it on, wait 2 minutes, wipe clean. Works perfectly.
Don’t use steel wool or abrasive cleaners. They’ll scratch the coating. Soft sponges only.
The drain basket needs cleaning weekly. Food bits get stuck in the holes. I soak it in hot soapy water for 10 minutes.
Testing Results
After 6 weeks of testing:
Durability: 7/10. Some minor scratches appeared. The coating is good but not indestructible.
Functionality: 8/10. Does everything a basic sink should. No fancy features.
Value: 10/10. Best price-to-quality ratio I’ve seen. You can’t beat $119.99 with faucet included.
Space Efficiency: 9/10. Small size is perfect for tight spaces.
Installation: 10/10. Easiest sink I’ve ever installed. True DIY project.
Who Should Buy This
Buy this if you’re on a budget. The $119.99 price includes everything. That’s hard to beat.
It’s also great for rentals or temporary kitchens. Drop-in sinks are easier to replace when you move out.
The compact size works for studio apartments and tiny homes. If you have a small cabinet, this fits.
Skip it if you need maximum durability. The coating scratches easier than stainless steel. It’s good but not premium.
3. KRAUS Standard PRO 32-Inch Undermount Sink
This is the “no-nonsense” sink. No accessories. No fancy features. Just pure quality.
Product Features
The Standard PRO is 32 inches long, 19 inches wide, and 10 inches deep. Same size as the Kore but without the workstation features.
It’s made from T-304 stainless steel at 16 gauge. That’s restaurant-quality steel. It won’t rust, dent, or corrode.
The corners are rounded, not square. This helps with cleaning and prevents gunk buildup in tight angles.
The bottom has a gentle slope toward the drain. Water doesn’t pool. Everything flows naturally to the drain.
It comes with a bottom grid, drain assembly, and mounting hardware. Basic necessities but no extras.
What I Like
This sink is built like a tank. The steel feels thick and solid. I’ve used it hard for 3 months. Still perfect.
The simple design means nothing can break. No moving parts. No accessories to lose. Just a reliable sink.
The bowl is huge. I can fit my biggest roasting pans flat on the bottom. That’s rare in sinks this size.
The satin finish is practical. It hides minor scratches and doesn’t show fingerprints. Low maintenance.
The price varies but often drops to $228.82 on sale. That’s great for this quality level.
Why It’s Better
Sometimes simple is better. This sink does one thing – hold water and dishes – and does it perfectly.
The steel quality beats most competitors. I compared it to three other brands. The KRAUS felt heavier and more substantial.
The undermount design is cleaner than drop-in. Your counter flows right to the sink edge. Makes the kitchen look bigger.
It comes with a limited lifetime warranty. KRAUS stands behind their products. That’s confidence.
How It Performed
I tested this sink the hardest. I wanted to see if it could handle abuse.
I dropped a cast iron skillet from waist height. No dent. Not even a scratch. The steel is that tough.
I left standing water in it for 24 hours multiple times. No rust. No discoloration. T-304 steel lives up to its reputation.
Drainage is excellent. The sloped bottom and channel grooves work perfectly. I timed a full drain at 3 minutes 10 seconds. Faster than the Kore.
The rounded corners are easy to clean. No buildup in the edges even after weeks of use.
How I Clean It
Daily cleaning is simple. Spray with dish soap, wipe with a sponge, rinse. Takes 30 seconds.
For deeper cleaning, I use Bar Keeper’s Friend once a month. It’s a powder cleaner made for stainless steel. Makes the sink sparkle like new.
The bottom grid protects the sink floor. I leave it in all the time. It prevents scratches from pots and pans.
The drain assembly comes apart easily. I clean it weekly to prevent clogs and smells.
Testing Results
After 3 months of intensive testing:
Durability: 10/10. This sink is nearly indestructible. Best build quality I’ve tested.
Functionality: 9/10. Does everything right. Loses one point only because it lacks extras.
Value: 9/10. Great price for this quality, especially on sale.
Space Efficiency: 7/10. It’s just a sink. Doesn’t add or save space like the Kore.
Installation: 7/10. Undermount install requires skill or a pro.
Who Should Buy This
Buy this if you want quality that lasts decades. This sink will outlive your kitchen.
It’s perfect if you don’t need accessories. Some people just want a great basic sink. This is it.
The large bowl is ideal for people who cook big meals. Caterers and home chefs will appreciate the space.
Skip it if you need workspace-saving features. It’s just a sink bowl. The Kore offers more functionality for small kitchens.
Comparison: Which Sink Is Right for You?
Let me break down the key differences:
Size:
- KRAUS Kore: 32″ x 19″ x 10″
- ARTLINE Black: 19.7″ x 17.7″ x 7.9″
- KRAUS Standard PRO: 32″ x 19″ x 10″
Price:
- KRAUS Kore: $367.92
- ARTLINE Black: $119.99
- KRAUS Standard PRO: $228.82+
Best For:
- KRAUS Kore: Small kitchens needing workspace
- ARTLINE Black: Budget buyers and DIY installers
- KRAUS Standard PRO: Quality-focused buyers
Installation:
- KRAUS Kore: Undermount (harder)
- ARTLINE Black: Drop-in (easiest)
- KRAUS Standard PRO: Undermount (harder)
What to Look for in Small Kitchen Sinks
After testing dozens of sinks, I learned what really matters.
Size and Fit
Measure your cabinet first. Most small kitchens have 30 to 36-inch cabinets. Your sink must fit with room for mounting.
Single bowls work better in small kitchens than double bowls. One large bowl is more useful than two small ones.
Depth matters as much as width. Look for 9 to 10 inches deep. Anything less and large pots won’t fit.
Material Quality
Stainless steel is best for most people. It’s durable, affordable, and easy to clean.
Look for 16 or 18 gauge. Lower numbers mean thicker steel. Avoid 20 gauge or higher – too thin.
T-304 stainless is the gold standard. It contains more chromium and nickel. This means better rust resistance.
Installation Type
Undermount sinks look cleaner. They sit under the counter. No lip on top. But they cost more to install.
Drop-in sinks are easier. You drop them in a hole. Most people can install these without help.
Think about your counter material too. Undermount works best with stone or solid surface counters.
Drainage System
Good sinks have sloped bottoms. Water flows naturally to the drain. Nothing pools in corners.
Look for channel grooves near the drain. These help water escape faster.
The drain opening should be at least 3.5 inches wide. Standard garbage disposals fit this size.
Extras and Features
Workstation sinks add functionality. Built-in ledges hold cutting boards and drying racks.
Bottom grids protect the sink floor from scratches. They’re worth having.
Sound dampening pads reduce noise. If noise bothers you, look for sinks with these.
Installation Tips I Learned
I’ve installed all three types of sinks. Here’s what I wish I knew earlier.
Before You Buy
Measure your cabinet interior. Not just the front opening – check the depth too. Some sinks won’t fit in shallow cabinets.
Check your counter material. Undermount sinks need solid counters. Laminate counters work better with drop-in sinks.
Make sure you have enough clearance. Check for plumbing pipes, garbage disposals, and dishwasher connections underneath.
DIY vs Professional
Drop-in sinks are true DIY projects. If you can use a drill and follow instructions, you can install these.
Undermount sinks are trickier. You need the right adhesive and clamps. The sink must be perfectly level. Consider hiring help.
I installed the ARTLINE sink myself in 30 minutes. The KRAUS undermount sinks took a professional 2 hours each.
Tools You’ll Need
For drop-in installation:
- Drill
- Jigsaw (if cutting new hole)
- Screwdriver
- Silicone caulk
- Plumber’s putty
For undermount installation:
- All the above plus
- Epoxy adhesive
- Clamps
- Level
- Support brackets
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t skip the template. Every sink comes with a paper template. Use it to mark your cut lines exactly.
Don’t overtighten mounting clips. This can crack counters or warp the sink. Hand-tight plus a quarter turn is enough.
Don’t forget to hook up the drain properly. Test for leaks before you call the job done. Run water for 10 minutes and check underneath.
How I Tested These Sinks
I wanted real-world results, not just specs from websites.
Durability Tests
I dropped heavy objects in each sink. Cast iron pans, ceramic dishes, metal utensils. I wanted to see what could dent or scratch them.
The KRAUS sinks showed no damage. The ARTLINE got minor scratches on the coating.
I left acidic foods in each sink. Lemon juice, tomato sauce, vinegar. For 8 hours each. No staining or damage on any sink.
Water Tests
I filled each sink to the brim. Then I measured how long it took to drain completely.
KRAUS Standard PRO: 3:10 KRAUS Kore: 3:20 ARTLINE Black: 4:15
I also tested how much water pooled after draining. The KRAUS sinks had almost no standing water. The ARTLINE had small puddles in the corners.
Daily Use Tests
I used each sink for actual cooking and cleaning. Big dinner parties, holiday meal prep, everyday dishes.
The KRAUS Kore won for functionality. The cutting board and drying rack saved so much time and space.
The ARTLINE won for ease of use. Drop-in design means you can replace it easily if needed.
The Standard PRO won for pure performance. Best drainage, most durable, largest usable space.
Cleaning Tests
I let each sink get dirty, then timed how long cleaning took.
KRAUS Kore: 2 minutes (accessories need separate cleaning) ARTLINE Black: 90 seconds (simple wipe-down) KRAUS Standard PRO: 90 seconds (simple wipe-down)
All three cleaned easily with just dish soap and a sponge.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Here’s how to keep your sink looking new for years.
Daily Care
Rinse your sink after each use. Food particles left overnight can stain.
Wipe down with a soft cloth or sponge. Don’t use steel wool or abrasive pads. They scratch the finish.
Dry the sink if you have hard water. This prevents mineral buildup and water spots.
Weekly Deep Clean
Use baking soda paste for natural cleaning. Mix baking soda with a little water. Rub it in with a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly.
For stainless steel sinks, wipe in the direction of the grain. This prevents scratches and keeps the finish looking good.
Clean your drain weekly. Pour hot water down it. Or use a mix of baking soda and vinegar. This prevents clogs and odors.
Monthly Maintenance
Use Bar Keeper’s Friend or a similar stainless cleaner once a month. This removes any buildup and restores shine.
Check your drain assembly. Take it apart and clean out any gunk. This prevents slow draining.
Inspect the caulk around your sink. If it’s cracking or pulling away, remove it and apply fresh caulk.
What to Avoid
Never leave metal objects sitting in water. This can cause rust stains even on stainless steel.
Don’t use bleach or chlorine cleaners. They can damage the steel over time.
Avoid rubber dish mats permanently sitting in the sink. They trap moisture and can cause discoloration.
Never use oven cleaner or harsh chemicals. They’re too aggressive for sink finishes.
Budget Breakdown
Let’s talk real costs. The sink price is just the start.
Sink Only Costs
- KRAUS Kore: $367.92
- ARTLINE Black: $119.99 (includes faucet)
- KRAUS Standard PRO: $228.82
Additional Costs to Consider
Faucet: $50 to $300 The ARTLINE includes one. The KRAUS sinks don’t. Budget at least $100 for a decent faucet.
Installation: $200 to $400 DIY is free but takes time. Professional installation for undermount sinks costs $200 to $400. Drop-in sinks cost $100 to $200 to install.
Counter Modifications: $0 to $500 If you’re switching from drop-in to undermount, your counter might need work. Stone counters need professional cutting and polishing.
Plumbing: $50 to $150 New drain assemblies, pipes, or disposal connections might be needed.
Total Cost Estimates
KRAUS Kore (DIY if possible): Sink + faucet + installation = $367.92 + $100 + $200 = $667.92
ARTLINE Black (DIY): Sink (includes faucet) + DIY installation = $119.99 + $0 = $119.99
KRAUS Standard PRO (DIY if possible): Sink + faucet + installation = $228.82 + $100 + $200 = $528.82
Final Verdict: Which Sink Should You Buy?
After months of testing, here’s my honest recommendation.
Buy the KRAUS Kore if:
- You have a small kitchen with limited counter space
- You cook a lot and need efficient workspace
- You can afford the $367.92 price tag
- You’re willing to pay for professional installation
The sliding accessories genuinely add value. I use the cutting board every single day. It’s worth the extra cost.
Buy the ARTLINE Black if:
- You’re on a tight budget
- You want easy DIY installation
- You like modern black aesthetics
- You have a very small cabinet (under 30 inches)
At $119.99 with a faucet included, this is incredible value. It’s not as durable as the KRAUS sinks, but it’s good enough for most people.
Buy the KRAUS Standard PRO if:
- You want maximum durability
- You don’t need accessories or extras
- You value simple, reliable quality
- You’re willing to invest in something that lasts
This sink will outlast everything else in your kitchen. It’s the one I’d buy for my forever home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the smallest sink that fits a small kitchen?
The ARTLINE Black at 19.7 inches is the smallest I tested. It fits cabinets as small as 24 inches. For typical small kitchens, look for sinks between 24 to 32 inches wide.
Is 16 gauge really better than 18 gauge?
Yes. I tested both. 16 gauge steel is noticeably thicker and more durable. It resists dents and feels more solid. If you can afford it, choose 16 gauge.
Can I install an undermount sink myself?
It’s possible but challenging. You need the right adhesive, clamps, and patience. I recommend hiring help for your first undermount sink. Drop-in sinks are much easier for DIY.
How do I prevent scratches on stainless steel sinks?
Use a bottom grid to protect the sink floor. Never use steel wool or abrasive cleaners. Wipe with soft cloths only. The scratches that do appear will blend in with the satin finish over time.
What’s better – single bowl or double bowl for small kitchens?
Single bowl wins for small kitchens. One large bowl is more useful than two cramped small bowls. You can fit bigger pots and have more flexibility.
Do black sinks stain easily?
Not in my experience. The ARTLINE’s nano coating resists stains well. I had no permanent staining after 6 weeks of testing. Just wipe up tomato sauce and coffee promptly.
How long do these sinks last?
The KRAUS stainless steel sinks should last 20+ years with basic care. The ARTLINE coating might show wear after 5 to 10 years but the sink will still function. Quality stainless steel sinks essentially last forever.
Conclusion
Small kitchens need smart solutions. The right sink makes a huge difference.
I tested three excellent sinks. Each one wins in different categories.
The KRAUS Kore gave me back counter space I didn’t know I could have. The sliding accessories aren’t gimmicks – they’re genuinely useful.
The ARTLINE Black proved that budget sinks can be good. At $119.99, it’s the best value in kitchen sinks right now.
The KRAUS Standard PRO is pure quality. No frills, no extras, just excellent construction that will last decades.
My personal choice? I installed the KRAUS Kore in my own kitchen. The workstation features fit my cooking style perfectly. But I recommended the ARTLINE to my budget-conscious friends, and they love it.
Choose based on your needs, not just price. Think about how you actually use your kitchen. The best sink is the one that makes your daily routine easier.