1) Granite Counters

Granite is the countertop material of choice when money is not an issue. Granite is great because it is so elegant, but will go in even the most modest kitchen, thus it is great for all walks of life.
The pros of granite is that it holds up to heat; comes in beautiful colors; looks permanent and substantial.
The cons of granite are that it is very expensive, requires lots of maintenance, including periodic sealing; absorbs stains; can crack; and there is a limited range of colors available.

2) Engineered Stone

Engineered stone is composed of quartz particals. It is available in a larger range of colors than granite and has a nonporous surface that resists scratches. It's easy to maintain, without the annual sealing required by natural stone. Brands on the market are DuPont Zodiaq®, Cambria Quartz, and Silestone. The pros, it is resistant to stain and acid; easy care. The cons, like granite, it is expensive.

3) Solid Surface

Because solid surface counters are just what they're called, solid, any scratches can be sanded out. The countertops are custom-made to your specifications by companies such as Avonite, Corian, and Swanstone. The other pros include that it comes in a rainbow of colors and patterns; it is seamless; it is stain resistant. The big cons are that it is vulnerable to hot pans and stains which can damage the surface; can be moderately expensive.

4) Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is durable and easy to clean. Add to that inexpensive and you've got a really good choice for countertops for the average home. Because it's installed a section at a time, it can be done by most resourceful homeowners. The pros: it takes hot pans; easy to clean; wide range of price, color, texture and design. The cons: the counter surface is uneven; tiles can easily chip or crack; grout lines become stained; custom-designed tiles are very expensive.

5) Laminates

Laminate counters such as the ones by Formica, Nevamar, and Wilsonart are made of plastic-coated synthetics with a smooth surface that's easy to clean. The pieces are cut to size and finished on the ends. The pros are that you can buy laminates in lots of colors; it is easy to maintain, durable, and inexpensive. The cons are that if it scratches or chips, it is almost impossible to repair; seams show; end finishing and front edge choices can be pricey.

6) Wood or Butcher Block

Wood countertops offer a beautiful warm look and are available in a wide range of colors and finishes. Hardwoods such as maple and oak are most often used as countertop woods. The pros are that it is easy to clean, smooth, and it can be sanded and resealed as needed. The cons, it can be damaged by water and stains over time; scratches must be oiled or sealed according to manufacturer's instructions.

7) Stainless Steel Counters

If you like the really contemporary and industrial look for your kitchen, stainless steel is a good choice. Stainless steel counters are heat resistant and durable. Because they're constructed to your specifications, you can have a seamless countertop. Other pros include that they can take hot pans without damage, and are easy to clean. The cons? Expensive; noisy; may dent; fabrication is expensive; you can't cut on it.

8) Soapstone Counters

Soapstone is usually dark gray in color and has a smooth feel. It is often seen in historic homes but is also used in modern homes as both a countertop and sink material. The pros: rich, deep color; smooth feel; somewhat stain resistant. And the cons: requires regular maintenance with applications of mineral oil; may crack and darken over time.

9) Marble

Marble is not typical in the whole kitchen, not because people don't want it, but because it is so expensive. Marble requires constant maintenance, as it easily stains. Some new sealers retard staining. The pros of marble is that it is waterproof; heatproof; and very beautiful. The cons: expensive; porous; stains easily unless professionally sealed; can scratch; may need resealing periodically.

10) Concrete Counters

Concrete is a great option for the very unique and custom kitchens, especially since they can be cast right in sight. The pros of concrete are that it is heat and scratch resistant; can be color-tinted; looks exotic and unusual; there are new treatments that eliminate cracking; additives reduce porosity; new finishes are more decorative. The cons include that it can cost a lot depending on the amount custom work; cracking is possible; can look somewhat industrial; porous but can be sealed.