Buying Faucets Online vs In-Store: Which is Better

When it’s time to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom, one of the most overlooked—but highly essential—purchases is the faucet. It may seem like a small detail, but the right faucet can elevate your space both functionally and aesthetically. That brings us to a common dilemma for homeowners and DIYers alike:
Should you buy faucet online or in-store?

Let’s break down the pros and cons of each approach, so you can decide which is right for you.

🛒 Buying Faucets Online

In the last decade, online shopping has exploded in popularity—and for good reason. It’s convenient, fast, and offers endless choices. But is buying a faucet online always the best move?

✅ Pros of Buying Faucets Online

1. Wider Selection
When shopping online, you can access thousands of options from dozens of brands around the globe. Whether you’re looking for a modern matte black faucet, a vintage brass one, or a smart touchless model, the internet has it all. You’re not limited to the stock in a single store.

2. Competitive Prices & Deals
Online retailers often have better pricing thanks to lower overhead costs. Plus, websites frequently run flash sales, offer discount codes, or allow you to compare prices across platforms. You can also check reviews to ensure you’re getting value for your money.

3. Convenience
No need to drive anywhere or wait in lines—order from your couch with a cup of coffee in hand. Faucets and accessories are shipped straight to your door, often with free or low-cost shipping.

4. Product Reviews
Online reviews are gold. Before you buy, you can read real feedback from hundreds (or thousands) of other customers. You’ll find out if the faucet is easy to install, if it leaks after six months, or if the finish wears off quickly—info you won’t get from a shelf display.

❌ Cons of Buying Faucets Online

1. You Can’t See It in Person
No matter how many photos or 360-degree videos a website offers, it’s not the same as holding the faucet in your hands. You can’t test how it feels, check the finish quality, or see how it fits your sink.

2. Possible Shipping Delays or Damage
Faucets are heavy and can be delicate. Shipping errors, broken parts, or delays can throw a wrench in your remodeling schedule. Returning a damaged item may take days or even weeks to resolve.

3. Compatibility Issues
Without expert help, it’s easy to accidentally order a faucet that doesn’t match your sink’s hole configuration, water pressure system, or finish. Reading the fine print is essential—but can be confusing if you’re not familiar with plumbing specs.

🧰 Buying Faucets In-Store

Local hardware stores, home improvement centers, and showroom retailers have long been the traditional go-to for faucet shopping. While they can’t compete with the internet’s endless options, they still have plenty of advantages.

✅ Pros of Buying Faucets In-Store

1. You Can Touch and Test
Want to feel how the handle moves or how far the sprayer reaches? Shopping in person lets you test the product. You can judge the weight, quality of materials, and appearance under real lighting.

2. Instant Expert Advice
Knowledgeable staff can answer your questions on the spot. Unsure about your plumbing setup or which finish to choose? A quick chat with an associate can prevent a costly mistake.

3. No Waiting for Delivery
If you need a faucet today—say, your current one is leaking badly or broke completely—buying in-store means you walk out with it the same day. No shipping delays or packaging hassles.

4. Easier Returns
Returning a faucet to a store is typically faster and simpler than repackaging and shipping it back to an online retailer. Many big box stores have generous return policies that let you exchange or return with minimal friction.

❌ Cons of Buying Faucets In-Store

1. Limited Selection
Brick-and-mortar stores can only display so much. You may be limited to a few brands or styles, and special-order options can take days or weeks to arrive.

2. Higher Prices
Physical stores have to pay for real estate, displays, and staff—costs that are often passed on to the customer. You might pay more for the same faucet than you would online.

3. Time-Consuming
Between traffic, browsing aisles, and waiting for assistance, in-store shopping can be a time commitment. If you’re visiting multiple stores to compare models, it can eat up an entire afternoon.

🤔 So, Which Should You Choose?

The answer depends on your priorities.

• If you value selection, convenience, and price, online shopping might be your best bet. Just be sure to read specs carefully and check return policies before hitting “Buy Now.”
• If you prioritize tactile experience, instant gratification, or in-person advice, then in-store shopping is the way to go—especially for big renovations or first-time buyers.

📝 Final Tips

• Do your research first. Whether buying online or in-store, go in with a clear idea of what you need—style, size, finish, function.
• Measure your sink holes and water lines so you don’t end up with a faucet that doesn’t fit.
• Compare return policies. A good return option can save you a headache if things don’t work out.
• Hybrid approach: Consider browsing in-store for inspiration, then ordering online for the best deal—or vice versa.

🧩 Bottom Line

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right place to buy your faucet depends on your project timeline, personal preference, and budget. Whether you’re going for a statement-making waterfall faucet or a basic, budget-friendly model, the most important thing is choosing a product that fits your needs—and lasts for years to come.

Happy faucet hunting!