When your hands are full while working in the kitchen, a touch-activated faucet is a great convenience. There’s no need to turn a knob or rub your messy hands into the faucet handle. And aside from the convenience, the best touch activated kitchen faucet also adds a futuristic appeal to your home.
Touch-activated faucets aren’t really a new thing. Hotels, restaurants, and other commercial establishments have been using it for years. Thanks to remodeling trends, touch-activated faucets are now a big thing among homeowners.
And if you’re looking for one of these to upgrade your kitchen, these 7 picks will not disappoint:
TOUCH FAUCET | BRAND | EXPERT RATING | CHECK PRICE |
---|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick! American Standard Beale MeasureFill Touch Faucet | Check Price | ||
HGN Touch-On Kitchen Faucet | Check Price | ||
Fapully Touch Activated Kitchen Faucet | Check Price | ||
Delta Faucet Trinsic Pro Kitchen Faucet | Check Price | ||
Delta Faucet Mateo Kitchen Faucet | Check Price | ||
BWE Touch Sensor Kitchen Faucet | Check Price | ||
YITAHOME Touch Kitchen Faucet | Check Price |
How does a touch-activated faucet work?
Touch faucets are just like any faucet, except that the means of turning them on are different. Instead of turning a knob, you only need to touch the spout, neck, or base. The touchpoints depend on the design of the faucet, which is always indicated on its packaging or instructional manual.
While each manufacturer has its own technologies to boast about, most of these faucets use capacitive sensing. This technology detects the small electrical charge that every human body produces. It explains why random objects like towels or kitchen gloves won’t trigger a touch faucet even when in contact.
Moreover, most touch activated faucets in the market use at least two sensors. It’s often installed on the neck and spout, though other models offer multiple sensors for convenience.
With this system, the faucet will switch on after it’s touched the first time. You’ll have to touch it one more time to turn it off. In short, the technology used in touch activated faucets is the same as the one used in smartphones.
This allows users to activate the faucet using their elbow, back of the hand, or arm. For example, if you have oil all over your hands, you don’t have to rub it into the faucet. This is why many are switching to this option.
If you’re looking for a touch faucet that you can install in your kitchen, the 7 picks below will not disappoint.
Best Touch Activated Kitchen Faucet – Top 7 Picks!
OUR #1 CHOICE
OUR TOP PICK: American Standard Beale MeasureFill Touch Faucet
Product Name: American Standard Beale MeasureFill Touch Faucet
Product Description: When it comes to the best touch activated kitchen faucet, I highly recommend the American Standard Beale MeasureFill Faucet. This is a premium option with a deck mount design. It’s contemporary, sleek, and minimalist to suit almost every kitchen sink. Aside from that, this uses touch technology, with the sensor installed right on the faucet dial window. This window also lets you use the MeasureFill technology. Basically, this technology allows you to set a specific water volume that the faucet will dispense on demand. Moreover, this faucet has an auto shut-off feature after five minutes if you use the continuous flow through the touch functionality.
Offer price: $$$
Availability: InStock
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I also like the dual-function spray head that allows you to use it as a powerful spray or a regular faucet. It’s equipped with a retraction system that offers smooth pull-out all hose all over your sink. In addition, this has a ceramic disc valve cartridge that lets you set precise temperatures and flow. American Standard also promises a lifetime drip-free and maintenance-free performance. Overall, this is a well-made touch faucet. However, it’s not the cheapest option, but it will soon pay for itself, given the convenience and its set of features.
Pros
MeasureFill technology Re-Trax head retraction system Lead-free material Dual-function spray head Can be used as battery-powered or plugged in
Cons
The upfront cost is a bit intimidating. This only covers one hole in the sink, so you have to cover the rest.
RUNNERS-UP
HGN Touch-On Kitchen Faucetd Litter Box Kit
If you can’t afford the American Standard option just yet, you can try the HGN Touch-On Kitchen Faucet first. This uses a touch control technology that lets you activate the faucet by touching the spout or neck.
Moreover, this faucet has three spray settings: stream, spray, and pause. This allows users to switch the water flow based on their cleaning needs.
Aside from that, this has a 360-degree pull-down design that allows you to pull the spout and use it as a flexible sprayer. It’s also equipped with a ceramic valve that prevents leakages and expands the lifespan of the faucet.
The HGN touch-on faucet uses the standard 3/8” water hose, which fits in most U.S. kitchens. Overall, it’s easy to install since the supply lines are already included. You can also use it with or without the touch function as you wish.
Overall, this touch faucet provides the best bang for the buck. In my opinion, this can give more expensive options a run for their money.
However, this is smaller than the usual faucets I’ve installed. If your sink has a bigger slot, you can fix it by using an extra hose fitting.
Fapully Touch Activated Kitchen Faucet
The Fapully Touch Activated Kitchen Faucet has an assistive touch control technology that lets you activate it throughout the gooseneck. It has an auto shut-off feature once the faucet is running for 3 minutes. This prevents water wastage and flooding in your kitchen.
Aside from that, this has an 18.3-inch height that fits underneath most kitchen cabinets. It’s also designed with a 360-degree pull-down sprayer for your convenience. Overall, this works in stream, blade spray, and spray modes.
The best thing about the Fapully Touch Activated Kitchen Faucet is it fits single-hole and 3-hole sinks. It’s also easy to install and no professional plumbing is necessary.
There’s also a single handle that allows users to adjust flow and temperature on the fly. And like most touch faucets, this is fitted with ceramic disc valves that prevent leaks even under high water pressure conditions.
Overall, you can get this touch faucet in brushed gold, brushed nickel, and matte black colors. However, I noticed that when using very cold temperatures, the sensor may need a few taps to work.
Delta Faucet Trinsic Pro Kitchen Faucet
If you have the budget to splurge for a premium touch faucet, you’ll never go wrong with the Delta Faucet Trinsic Pro Kitchen Faucet. This model uses the brand’s proprietary Touch20 technology that can detect differences between grab and touch. It prevents false activation in case you accidentally held on to the faucet.
Aside from that, it has a magnetic MagnaTite docking that snaps the sprayer into place. Unlike other touch faucets, the sprayer won’t droop, which keeps your sink neat. Also, the pull-down hose has a 20-inch reach.
Moreover, the Delta Faucet Trinsic Pro has a diamond seal technology that makes the faucet last twice as other options. It also ensures leak-free operation throughout the lifespan of the faucet.
At the base of the faucet, there’s the TempSense LED light that changes in color based on the water temperature. The blue color means that the water is within 80F, purple is 95F, and red is 110F.
Overall, this is one of the best touch faucets in the market. However, the spray head is made of plastic and not metal. For this price range, I expected a full-metal build, but it feels sturdy anyway.
Delta Faucet Mateo Kitchen Faucet
For the ultimate splurge, you can treat your kitchen with the Delta Faucet Mateo Kitchen Faucet. It sports the brand’s Touch20 technology that prevents false detections. This also boasts of the ShieldSpray Technology to prevent splashes.
Moreover, the Mateo faucet is also equipped with the Delta TempSense with changing LED light colors to indicate water temperature. This is aside from the MagnaTite dock that pulls the sprayer hose back, so it doesn’t droop on the sink.
On top of that, this high-end Delta Faucet is also equipped with an auto shut-off feature and diamond seal technology.
This runs in 6 AA batteries with a one-year lifespan. If you wish for longer battery life, you can use a 6 C type that can last for up to 3 years, but it’s not included in the package.
Although this is more expensive than other options, Delta Faucet backs this with a limited lifetime warranty. For me, that’s solid proof of the faucet’s quality.
Overall, this has decent water pressure, but if you’re quite picky, you may want a little more flow for sure. But other than that, this is both an aesthetic and functional choice.
BWE Touch Sensor Kitchen Faucet
The BWE Touch Sensor Kitchen Faucet provides a reliable touch activation feature without the unnecessary bells and whistles. It’s also priced reasonably, which is perfect if your budget is tight.
Moreover, this has spray, stream, and sweep modes to suit your rinsing needs. This is also designed to fit both 1-hole and 3-hole sinks for your convenience.
Aside from that, this has a pull-down hose with a 360-degree design for a full range of washing experience. There’s also a ceramic disc valve fitted into this faucet to prevent leaks and minimize the need for maintenance.
This BWE Touch Faucet is made of quality brass to ensure longevity. You can also get this in brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, and matte colors to match the motif of your kitchen.
Overall, I don’t have major complaints about this faucet. It does the job well and although it doesn’t have many features, I think it’s reasonable enough for the price.
YITAHOME Touch Kitchen Faucet
My last recommendation for this list is the YITAHOME Touch Kitchen Faucet. This has a minimalist design made of quality brass and stainless steel to resist corrosion.
As for the touch technology, this faucet is optimized to have a 0.3-second touch response for real-time opening and closing. It will also shut off automatically after 3 minutes of a continuous stream.
You can also use this in spray mode to clean your dishes or wash produce. The pull-down hose can be extended for up to 19 inches for your convenience. To change the faucet mode, you simply need to press the Rocker Switch right at the spout.
Overall, this is a well-made touch faucet. However, it’s important to remember that this isn’t a full-metal type. The sprayer is made of ABS plastic, which isn’t really a deal-breaker.
However, I noticed that YITAHOME didn’t extend the supply line further, which is probably why this faucet is quite affordable.
How to choose the best touch activated kitchen faucet
There are many touch faucets in the market, but not all of them live up to their promises. So if you want to avoid the dud options, you should consider the following carefully:
💧Check your sink configuration
Before you start browsing for touch faucets in the market, you must consider your current sink configuration. Make sure that your choice of faucet matches the slot on your sink. Otherwise, you may have to perform adjustments.
The good thing is that most faucets in the market follow standard sizing. But just in case, it will save you a lot of time and money if you double-check its compatibility.
💧Consider the spout height
Another thing you should consider is the spout height of the touch faucet. This is critical, especially for those with low cabinets above their sinks.
When in doubt, you should consider getting a drop-down touch faucet. This integrates a sprayer that can be pulled at a lower height and in different directions for convenience.
Overall, checking the spout height is easy since manufacturers always indicate this when marketing their faucets.
💧Check the number of sensors
The number of touch sensors varies per faucet model. The base number is two, but you can find a model with multiple sensors to remove the guesswork.
Overall, the touch activation should be easy to trigger. Ideally, it should be located in the spout or neck since these are the most accessible spots.
💧Check the power source
Most touch activated faucets in the market are battery-powered. This is easy to install, but you’d have to recharge or replace the batteries once the power runs out. As much as possible, you should opt for rechargeable batteries as the cost of replacements can easily add up.
On the other hand, there are wired touch faucets, which are plugged into a direct power source. This is convenient if you don’t like changing or recharging batteries. The only struggle here is the wiring job in case you don’t have a power source close to your sink.
💧Choose the design you like
Touch faucets are available in various colors, finishes, and styles. You can easily choose one that matches the motif of your kitchen.
The most common option is stainless steel since it blends well with most kitchen setups. But if you want to try something new, you can also consider bronze, copper, nickel, and matte finishes.
Aside from that, you can also choose the style of the faucet itself. Many touch-types have modern and minimalistic appearances. Still, you can find other options, including vintage if you are into the classic look.
💧Consider the price range
Take note that touch faucets are more expensive than traditional types. This is due to the added technology, which doesn’t come cheap.
Nevertheless, you can find options that you can fit into your budget. But if you’re going to opt for the cheapest find, make sure that it has at least reliable sensors.
Advantages and disadvantages of touch faucets
Touch faucets offer a futuristic vibe in your kitchen, but it sure comes with a share of pros and cons. It’s important to consider the following points before you get one.
Pros
- Hygienic. With touch faucets, you don’t have to hold any knob just to get the water on. You can use your arm, elbow, or back of the hand to activate the faucet. This helps reduce the spread of bacteria and it also cuts the risk of cross-contamination.
- Eco-friendly. Since touch faucets only take a single tap to use, users can turn it off when not in use as opposed to keeping the water running. Some models even have an auto shut-off when there’s nothing underneath the spout.
- Versatility. Touch faucets can still function as traditional faucets when a power source isn’t available. You’ll still enjoy the value of your money even when there’s a power outage or when the batteries have run out.
Cons
- Maintenance. Unlike manual faucets, touch types require more maintenance whenever it encounters glitches. This could mean higher operating costs, especially if the faucet you got has poor quality.
- Power source. The touch feature of the faucet will only work when it’s connected to a power source. It could mean replacing or recharging batteries repeatedly.
- Cost. There’s no denying that touch faucets are more expensive than traditional types. Nevertheless, this is often a price tag that many are willing to pay for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are touch activated faucets worth it?
A: Touch activated faucets are excellent ways to upgrade your kitchen. If you have the extra budget, switching to this faucet type is a good investment. Aside from its modern appeal, touch activate faucets add convenience to your kitchen. It’s also a more practical option than touchless types, which are prone to false detections.
Q: Do touch faucets still work when they run out of battery?
A: Most touch activated faucets will work as standard faucets if it runs out of power. This is why many have standard knobs even though it’s marketed as a touch type. This way, your sink won’t become useless in case you don’t have a backup battery to use.
Q: Why is my touch activated faucet turning on its own?
A: A touch activated faucet turning on its own might be running out of power. Also, it’s important to ensure that you’re getting a quality item, so you won’t experience activation issues. But before you conclude that your faucet is defective, you should check if something is touching any of its surfaces.
Q: Do touch type faucets break easily?
A: Touch activated faucets can last just as much as standard types. It all depends on the frequency of use, wear and tear, and the overall quality of the faucet. Just remember that touch activated faucets will need maintenance to ensure their reliable functions.
Q: How long do the batteries of touch activated last?
A: Depending on the model you’re going to purchase, it could last from a few months to two years. Take note that the battery life of the faucet depends on the frequency of use. You’ll usually see an average battery life rating on the packaging.
Q: Do touch faucets help save water?
A: Since it’s easier to turn off, touch faucets can help save water. If you’re always busy in the kitchen, a touch faucet can help save hundreds of gallons of water per year. Still, this also depends on the habits of the users.
Final words
The best touch activated kitchen faucet will level up your kitchen with added convenience. It will also increase food safety by preventing cross-contamination.
Just make sure that you invest in a faucet that has decent features for the price. You should also check if it matches your current sink configuration.