Fake Quartz Countertops: What Are They Called?
Quartz countertops are the darlings of modern kitchens—sleek, durable, and oh-so-chic. But their price tag? Ouch. If you’re in Little Rock or Sherwood dreaming of that quartz vibe without the hefty cost, you’re probably wondering: What are fake quartz countertops called? Spoiler: they go by a few names, and they’re stealing the show in 2025 for budget-savvy folks from Conway to Hot Springs. Whether you’re upgrading in Maumelle or flipping a rental in Pine Bluff, this guide’s your ticket to affordable quartz lookalikes that don’t skimp on style.
These “fake” quartz options—think laminate, porcelain, or even solid surface—mimic quartz’s polished charm at a fraction of the price. But what exactly are they, and how do they stack up? Let’s dive into the world of countertop imposters and find the best fit for your Central Arkansas home—because luxe doesn’t have to mean expensive!
What Makes a Countertop a “Fake Quartz”?
Before we name names, let’s clarify what “fake quartz” means. Real quartz countertops are engineered—crushed natural quartz mixed with resin for a tough, non-porous finish. They’re pricey ($40-$70 per square foot installed) and loved in Benton or Bryant for their low upkeep and stone-like beauty. “Fake quartz” refers to materials that copy that look—smooth, speckled, or veined—without the quartz content or cost.
Here’s the vibe in North Little Rock or Jacksonville:
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Lookalike Goal: Mimics quartz’s shine and patterns.
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Price: Way cheaper than the real deal—think $10-$50 per square foot.
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Catch: May lack quartz’s exact durability or heat resistance.
So, what are fake quartz countertops called? Let’s meet the top contenders.
Fake Quartz Countertops: Names and Options
These affordable alternatives wear many hats—here’s what people call them and why they’re hot in 2025.
Laminate: The Quartz Impersonator
Often dubbed “faux quartz” or “quartz-look laminate,” this budget champ uses high-tech printing to nail quartz’s sparkle. It’s a go-to in Sherwood or Cabot.
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Cost: $10-$40 per square foot installed.
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Why It Works: Cheap, easy to install, and mimics quartz patterns like a pro.
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Best For: Quick upgrades in Beebe rentals or starter homes in Alexander.
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Downside: Heat-sensitive—trivets are a must!
Local Tip: The Countertop Store (501-658-6511) has laminate that fools even quartz fans!
Porcelain Slabs: The Sleek Pretender
Called “quartz-like porcelain” or “porcelain quartz mimics,” these thin slabs replicate quartz’s polish with a modern twist—big in Hot Springs or Conway.
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Cost: $30-$60 per square foot installed.
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Why It Works: Tough, heat-resistant, and quartz-style designs.
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Best For: Trendy kitchens in Maumelle or Bryant craving stone vibes.
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Downside: Install can be tricky—shop pros.
Solid Surface: The Smooth Stand-In
Known as “quartz-inspired solid surface” (think Corian), this option echoes quartz’s uniformity—popular in Benton or Jacksonville.
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Cost: $35-$60 per square foot installed.
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Why It Works: Seamless, repairable, and budget-friendly quartz vibes.
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Best For: Minimalists in Pine Bluff who love clean lines.
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Downside: Lacks quartz’s wild veining.
Visual Idea: Add a “Fake vs. Real” photo—laminate vs. quartz. Alt text: “Fake quartz countertop vs. real quartz in a Little Rock kitchen.”
Why Choose Fake Quartz Countertops?
So, what are fake quartz countertops called in your world—laminate, porcelain, solid surface? Whatever the name, here’s why they’re winning in 2025:
Budget Bliss
Real quartz can hit $70 per square foot—fake versions start at $10-$30 in Searcy or Cabot, saving you big.
Easy Upkeep
No sealing needed—unlike granite, these lookalikes wipe clean in North Little Rock homes.
Style on a Dime
Quartz’s glossy, speckled look for less—perfect for a Sherwood glow-up or Bryant flip.
Pro Tip: Email The Countertop Store (thecountertopstore.co) for faux quartz samples!
How to Pick Your Fake Quartz Countertop
With all these names floating around, how do you choose? Here’s a quick guide for Central Arkansas:
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Budget: Tight in Beebe? Laminate’s your friend—$10-$40 keeps it light.
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Look: Love quartz’s shine in Conway? Porcelain or laminate nail it.
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Use: Heavy cooking in Benton? Porcelain’s heat resistance wins.
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Feel It: Visit The Countertop Store in North Little Rock (501-658-6511) to touch samples.
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Install: DIY in Jacksonville? Laminate’s easiest—pros handle porcelain.
Real-Life Win: A Maumelle renter swapped quartz for laminate—$600 total and tenants adore it!
Fake Quartz vs. Real Quartz: The Showdown
Still torn? Here’s how fake quartz countertops stack up to the real deal in Pine Bluff or Hot Springs:
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Cost: Fake wins—$10-$60 vs. $40-$70 per square foot.
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Durability: Real quartz edges out—fake needs care with heat and scratches.
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Look: Both dazzle—fake’s patterns are close, but quartz feels heftier in Bryant.
Visual Tip: Include a comparison chart—fake vs. real quartz. Alt text: “Fake quartz countertop vs. real quartz for a Sherwood kitchen.”
Overcoming Fake Quartz Challenges
These lookalikes aren’t perfect—here’s how to dodge their quirks:
Heat Sensitivity
Laminate burns over 200°F—use trivets in Conway to keep it pristine.
Less Depth
Solid surface skips quartz’s 3D vibe in Searcy—pair with bold edges for oomph.
Install Costs
Porcelain’s cuts can add up in Cabot—grab pre-cut slabs or remnants.
Pro Tip: Hunt deals at https://remnantsnearme.com/—save on your Jacksonville project!
Advanced Tips for Fake Quartz Success
Level up your countertop game with these hacks:
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Remnants Rock: Score porcelain or solid surface scraps—ideal for a Beebe bath.
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Edge Play: Beveled laminate edges mimic quartz’s heft in Alexander.
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Mix It Up: Laminate counters, quartz island—dual style in Benton.
Case Study: A Hot Springs flipper used faux quartz laminate—$800 total and sold fast!
Frequently Asked Questions About Fake Quartz Countertops
Got questions? Here’s what Central Arkansas folks ask:
What Are Fake Quartz Countertops Called?
Faux quartz, quartz-look laminate, or porcelain quartz mimics—depends on the material!
Are They Cheaper Than Real Quartz?
Yes—$10-$60 per square foot vs. $40-$70 in Pine Bluff.
Do They Look Real?
Close! Laminate and porcelain fool most eyes in Conway—touch reveals the trick.
Where Can I Find Them Locally?
The Countertop Store in North Little Rock! Call 501-658-6511 or email thecountertopstore.co.
Your Fake Quartz Countertop Awaits
So, what are fake quartz countertops called? Faux quartz, quartz-look laminate, porcelain mimics—they’ve got many aliases, but one mission: delivering quartz’s luxe look for less. From Little Rock to Jacksonville, these countertop stars bring style to Sherwood kitchens and Bryant baths without the splurge. Imagine a sleek faux quartz counter in your Cabot home—gorgeous, affordable, and yours.
Ready to snag your quartz lookalike? Start at https://remnantsnearme.com/—your perfect countertop’s waiting in Central Arkansas!