What is the difference between a 4 and an 8 faucet?

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Picking a new faucet for your bathroom can be a ton of work. The last thing you want to do is buy a faucet that doesn’t fit your sink or bathroom.

There are way too many different types of bathroom faucets: centerset vs widespread, single hole or three hole, deck mount or wall mount, etc.

Two of the most popular faucet designs in the world are 4-inch and 8-inch faucets.

I’ll help you learn the difference between 4 inch vs 8 inch faucets so you can decide which one is right for you.

What is the difference between a 4 and an 8 faucet?


What is the Difference Between a 4 inch and 8 inch Faucet?

The main difference between 4 inch and 8 inch kitchen and bathroom faucets is the distance between the faucet handles. They each come with a faucet spout and two handles placed on either side of the spout.

What is the difference between a 4 and an 8 faucet?

The difference is how far apart the handles are from each other.

The 4 inch faucet (also called a centerset faucet) has a more compact design. The distance from the middle of one handle to the middle of the other handle is 4 inches. These are great for smaller bathrooms.

The 8 inch faucet (also called a widespread faucet) has a wider faucet spread. If you take the same measurement between the handles it will be 8 inches. Widespread faucets are best for larger bathrooms and similar rooms where a larger faucet style is the best option. 

What is the difference between a 4 and an 8 faucet?

This faucet spread is an incredibly important measurement if you’re replacing an existing faucet. 4 inch and 8 inch faucets are not compatible with each other. You’ll also want to make sure you measure your faucet hole sizes as well.

What is the difference between a 4 and an 8 faucet?


Comparison Chart: 4 inch vs 8 inch Faucet

I’ve done a quick breakdown of 4 inch vs 8 inch faucets so you can decide which one is right for your bathroom.

4 inch 8 inch
Best For Smaller bathrooms, compact spaces Master bathrooms, spacious vanities.
Distance between handles 4 inches 8 inches
Faucet type Centerset Widespread
# of Handles Single or double handle Double handle
# of holes Normally 3, but can be one Must be three
Installation Very easy More difficult
Price More affordable 50% more expensive

If you’re replacing a faucet, you really don’t have much of a choice in what you get. You need to measure your faucet spread and pick the right one.

If you’re designing your bathroom from scratch, I highly recommend going with an 8 inch widespread faucet. I think they look way sleeker and are a great touch for a master bathroom.

Faucet Spread

The faucet spread is the measurement we’ve been talking about – the distance between the center of one faucet handle to the other.

If you have an existing faucet that you’re replacing, measure that distance. That’s what kind of faucet you HAVE to choose unless you want to replace your sink or countertop.

Sink Compatibility 

If you are designing a bathroom and get to pick whether you want a 4 inch or 8 inch faucet then the next biggest deciding factor is your sink.

You want to make sure to pick a faucet that is compatible with your sink. If you have a smaller sink like a vessel sink, then you won’t be able to get an 8 inch faucet. You’ll likely need a 4 inch faucet.

Cost

Price is always a factor when it comes to remodeling. 8 inch faucets are typically 50% more expensive than 4 inch faucets so if you’re on a tight budget, keep this in mind.


Pros & Cons of 4 inch Faucets

Both 4-inch and 8-inch bathroom faucets come with a range of pros and cons. We own both kinds in our house and thought it’d be helpful to share what you can expect from each type of faucet.

A 4-inch centerset faucet is one of the smallest designs you can find. They are the ideal option if you don’t have enough room for a full-sized widespread faucet. 

Pros:

  • Compact design – 4 inch faucets take up less space than 8 inch faucets and fit better in smaller bathrooms or smaller sinks.
  • Cheaper – The 4 inch faucets have a simpler design and are typically cheaper than widespread faucets.
  • Easy installation – These faucets are easier to install because you don’t have to worry about lining up three separate holes like you do for the 8 inch. Just get the deck plate in the proper place and you’re good to go.

Cons:

  • Basic design – The 4 inch faucets look better than single handle, but they don’t look as good as 8 inch faucets (in my opinion!).
  • Difficult to clean – It can be tough to clean in the small gap between the faucet handles and spout.
  • Not suitable for large sinks: If you have a big sink or a larger bathroom vanity, a 4 inch faucet sink will look awkward.

Pros & Cons of 8 inch Faucets

An 8 inch widespread faucet is the perfect size if you have a larger bathroom or sink. They are easily one of the most eye-catching faucets out there.

Pros:

  • Modern design – My wife and I love the modern and sleek design that 8 inch faucets offer.
  • Great for large bathrooms – The wider faucet spread makes them perfect for larger sinks or vanities.
  • Extremely popular – If you’re looking for an 8 inch faucet then you’re in luck. For most faucet brands, this is one of the most common products which means you’ll have lots of styles and designs to choose from. 

Cons:

  • More difficult installation – Unlike 4-inch faucets, 8-inch faucets don’t use a deck plate meaning they can be fairly tricky to install. 
  • More expensive – 8 inch faucets are a bit more intricate and are typically 50% more expensive than 4 inch faucets.

Common Questions About Faucet Spreads

What is an 8 inch faucet spread?

An 8-inch faucet spread is a type of widespread faucet that has an 8-inch gap between the pre-drilled holes used for installation. Due to their larger size, they are best suited for people looking for a large kitchen or bathroom faucet as opposed to a mini design. 

Is 4-inch centerset faucet standard?

The standard faucet spread for a centerset faucet is 4 inches. This is one of the most popular types of faucet installations.


Final Thoughts: Is a 4 inch or 8 inch Faucet Best for your Bathroom?

Both 4-inch and 8-inch designs are easily some of the most popular types of bathroom faucets on the plumbing market.

I hope this 4 inch vs 8 inch faucet showdown helped you figure out exactly what you need for your bathroom or kitchen!

If you’re replacing a faucet, it’s crucial that you measure your faucet spread and pick the right one.

If you’re designing from scratch, I highly recommend going with an 8 inch faucet spread if it fits your bathroom aesthetic.

Check out our similar guide on centerset vs widespread faucets if you need more help deciding!

Can you use an 8

Most of the 8-inch or widespread faucets have three pieces, the tap and the hot and cold handles, which means some 8-inch faucets can fit holes not exactly 8 inches apart. If the span is 4 inches, a 4-inch faucet is what you need. These usually have a base and come in one solid piece.

What does 8

DIY Frequently Asked Questions / What does it mean when a faucet is said to have 8-inch centers? The faucet mounts with the fixture holes set 8 inches apart. It's important that you buy the right size faucet to fit.

What does 4

4-inch centerset faucets are made for washbasins with three holes and have handles that are 4 inches apart. They combine a spout and handles on a single base unit.

How do I know what size faucet to buy?

Measure the distance between the handles. Hold the the tape measure above the faucet if it's in the way. If the distance is six inches or more you need a “widespread" or “eight inch spread" faucet.