The two most common Hong Kong kitchen countertop choices are granite and engineered quartz. Both work well but have very different characters. Granite is natural: hard, heat-resistant, with unique patterning in every slab. Quartz is engineered: non-porous, highly consistent and needs no sealing. Your choice depends on whether you value heat resistance, appearance or maintenance most.
Granite formed under extreme heat, so hot pans are generally fine. Quartz contains resin, and prolonged contact with high temperatures can discolour or crack it, so use a trivet. If you cook with fierce heat or simmer soups often, granite gives peace of mind.
Quartz is non-porous, so soy sauce, coffee and wine cannot penetrate and no periodic sealing is needed. Granite has low but real absorption, so dark liquids left standing can stain; annual sealing is recommended. For zero maintenance, quartz is the easier choice.
Granite is about 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, quartz around 7; both resist wear and everyday knife work, though a chopping board is still recommended. Granite has natural granular patterning; quartz is consistent across a whole home and also comes in convincing stone-look decors.
Prices are comparable depending on variety and decor. In practice: choose granite for heat resistance and natural character; quartz for low maintenance and colour consistency; and marble if you want the most dramatic veining, accepting sealing and care.
Yes, recommended. Granite absorbs little but still has capillaries, and dark liquids left standing can stain. An annual penetrating sealer greatly reduces the risk.
Quality quartz has good UV stability, but prolonged direct sunlight can slightly yellow pale slabs. Kitchens are fine; outdoor use is not recommended.
Both are durable. Granite handles heat and weathering better; quartz resists stains with less care. Real lifespan depends mostly on installation quality and daily habits.