The Best Showerheads to Update Your Bathroom
Whether you're looking for a strong spray or a gentle shower, the right showerhead can make all the difference in your daily routine.
An essential bathroom fixture, showerheads can be simple and efficient or spa-like with multiple settings. Your individual preference and household needs will guide the style and features that you need. And while some specialty showerheads might require advanced plumbing installation or special connections, most will fit a shower arm with standard half-inch NPT threads, giving you plenty of options to choose from.
The best showerhead will deliver a consistent stream of water, meet your local guidelines for water flow usage and resist leaking for years to come. Below, we're sharing some of the top showerhead options to consider from brands like Kohler, Moen, Delta and more.
Types of Showerheads
Fixed: Fixed showerheads are the most common wall-mounted option and are widely available at big-box retailers. They're often easy to install, budget-friendly and feature a simple design.
Handheld: Handheld showerheads have a spray face attached to a hose for more maneuverability. This type of showerhead is especially useful if you want more control over the water output or for bathing children or pets.
Rainfall: The quintessential spa option, a rain showerhead has a wide spray face (usually six to 10 inches in diameter) and a gentler spray pattern. They can be wall-mounted or installed in the ceiling.
Dual: Two showerheads give you more dispersion of water flow. Sometimes, the setup involves a pair of wall-mounted showerheads, or you might have a fixed showerhead with a detachable handheld showerhead.
High-Pressure: High-pressure showerheads use a strong and direct spray pattern. They typically have a 2.5 GPM flow rate to maximize the water pressure.
Low-Flow: You can expect low-flow showerheads to have a flow rate of 2.0 GPM or less. These showerheads conserve water but often compensate with air-infused water droplets or special spray patterns that maximize the water stream.
Filtered: To remove contaminants from the shower stream, this type of showerhead has a filter to trap chlorine, heavy metals or sediment. Sometimes, the filter attaches to the shower arm and other times it's integrated into the showerhead itself. The filter will need regular replacement to maintain its effectiveness.
Showerhead Tips From Our Experts
The best showerhead should be remarkable for its spray patterns and water pressure, adjustable to fit a range of preferences and made of durable materials. The Speakman Icon checks all those boxes and is our top recommendation for a showerhead. It has 48 total spray nozzles, three spray patterns and all-brass construction with eight different finish options.
True to its namesake, the showerhead features a simple but iconic, cone-shaped silhouette. More than a stylish choice, this showerhead uses a proprietary plunger system inside the showerhead to amplify the water pressure so that you have a strong, full flow from the six jets on the spray face. If that initially sounds intense, it's helpful to know that there's a small lever to adjust the jets, meaning you can soften it as needed or turn it up for a more forceful, invigorating stream.
- Flow Rate 1.75 GPM, 2.0 GPM, 2.5 GPM
- Finishes Available Polished chrome, brushed bronze, brushed nickel, matte black, oil rubbed bronze, polished brass, polished nickel, aged brass
- Features Brass construction, patented internal plunger system
For a filtered showerhead that catches contaminants without sacrificing performance or aesthetics, we recommend the Kohler Cinq. The round showerhead features an internal replaceable KDF-55 filter that traps chlorine, heavy metals and other contaminants. Reviewers consistently comment on how much softer their hair and skin feel when using the showerhead.
The Cinq filter lasts up to six months, which is especially appealing when compared to the shorter, three-month filter life commonly seen on other popular filtered showerheads. An integrated date dial on the showerhead gives you the option to select the month you installed a new filter so you can keep tabs on the replacement schedule. This wall-mount showerhead is available in various finishes and attaches to your existing standard shower arm. There's only a single spray setting, but the 5.5-inch spray face provides a satisfying, full-body spray according to reviewers.
- Flow Rate 1.75 GPM, 2.5 GPM
- Finishes Available Polished chrome, brushed nickel, brushed brass, matte black
- Features KDF-55 filter media, 6-month filter life, filter date tracker
Low-flow showerheads help conserve water but often draw complaints for having a weak flow. The High Sierra Classic is a water-saving showerhead that still delivers a full, drenching stream of water, according to reviewers. Rather than relying on individual spray nozzles, this showerhead has a single nozzle with a cone spray pattern. The resulting column of water feels invigorating, especially considering that the most conservative option only has a flow rate of 1.25 GPM.
The High Sierra Classic also stands out for being constructed of solid metal, with a variety of available finishes. And while individual spray nozzles can become clogged with mineral deposits or sediment, the single, large nozzle on this showerhead is clog-proof. A nylon insert inside the showerhead also helps to protect against corrosion over time. This low-flow showerhead is affordable and easy to install, but some users find it to be noisier when in use than other options.
- Flow Rate 1.25 GPM, 1.5 GPM, 1.8 GPM, 2 GPM
- Finishes Available Chrome, oil rubbed bronze, nickel, matte black, polished brass
- Features Cone spray pattern, nylon insert to protect against corrosion
If you're going to spend big on a statement showerhead, it should be eye-catching but functional. The Delta H2Okinetic Pendant Raincan has a trio of pendants that hang down for a unique take on a rainshower. Adding to the showstopping effect, each shower pendant has a built-in LED light that is automatically activated by the water flow, requiring no electrical supply or batteries. With a 2.5-GPM flow rate and Delta's H2Okinetic water dispersion technology, you can expect a full and enveloping shower spray.
To fit into any high-end bathroom design, this showerhead is available in six different finishes, including on-trend options like black stainless or champagne bronze. Keep in mind that this is a ceiling-mount showerhead, so you'll want to check the installation requirements and consult with a plumber if needed.
- Flow Rate 2.5 GPM
- Finishes Available Chrome, stainless, black stainless, matte black, champagne bronze, polished nickel
- Features Water-powered LED lights with no electrical hard-wiring, more coverage than a standard showerhead
Rain showerheads deliver a softer, fuller stream of water for a sense of relaxation. If that's what you're after, we suggest the Moen Velocity because it has a wide, eight-inch spray face, dual spray patterns and a self-pressurizing design to boost water pressure. We especially like that a simple thumb lever allows you to switch from a soothing, full-body spray to a more focused rinse — ideal for rinsing shampoo from your hair.
Upgrading your bathroom with this rain showerhead is straightforward since the Moen Velocity attaches to most standard shower arms. It's available with a standard 2.5-GPM flow rate or a slightly more conservative 2.0-GPM flow rate. The showerhead is made of metal and has rubber spray nozzles that can be quickly rubbed clean to remove mineral deposits.
- Flow Rate 1.75 GPM, 2.5 GPM
- Finishes Available Chrome, brushed gold, brushed nickel
- Features Rubber spray nozzles, self-pressurizing, dual spray patterns
The Best Rain Showerheads for a Spa-Like Shower
These are the best rain showerheads to upgrade your shower from routine to ritual.
Budget-friendly and popular, the AquaCare Handheld Showerhead is tough to beat in terms of value. Although the spray face is only 4.25 inches, this option features eight different spray functions to cover a range of showering scenarios. It offers five spray patterns, a pause feature, and two powerful streams from the top of the showerhead that come in handy for rinsing down tub surfaces or shower walls. It also has a generously sized six-foot metal hose for plenty of maneuverability as you use the showerhead.
This showerhead retails for around $30 in a chrome finish (with other finish options available). Because it offers tool-free installation, it's an affordable and easy-to-tackle DIY bathroom project. It's also simple to maintain the showerhead since the rubber spray nozzles are designed to resist clogging and have an antimicrobial coating. However, it's worth noting that the showerhead is made of ABS plastic rather than metal, which is generally considered a more durable pick for showerheads. Because of that, it's especially important not to over-tighten this showerhead during installation.
- Flow Rate 1.8 GPM, 2.5 GPM
- Finishes Available Chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, satin nickel, matte black
- Features Antimicrobial spray nozzles, 8 spray functions, extra-long hose
The Kohler Statement is a modern showerhead that delivers design and function. Compared to standard round-shaped showerheads, this option has a more unique oblong shape. Aesthetically, it stands apart for its design, but it also creates a wider shower spray to envelop your shoulders as you stand under the showerhead.
There are three spray patterns to rotate between, including a soft mist, a stronger massage stream setting, and a full-coverage spray that uses Kohler's air induction technology for big, saturating drops. One of the most unique design features of this showerhead is the push buttons on the spray face that make it quick and easy to switch between spray patterns without fumbling for a lever or turning the showerhead. The spray face is also treated with a special coating to reduce the effort needed to keep it clean, shiny and looking its best.
- Flow Rate 1.75 GPM, 2.5 GPM
- Finishes Available Polished chrome, brushed brass, brushed nickel, brushed bronze, matte black, French gold, polished nickel, titanium
- Features Air-induction technology, easy-clean coating, push-button spray pattern adjustments
The Moen Engage Magnetix is a handheld showerhead that offers the convenience of directing your shower spray wherever you need to. Like other models in the Magnetix line-up, the showerhead docks magnetically. Reviewers say this function is especially helpful if you’re not especially tall and would otherwise have trouble nestling the showerhead into an overhead cradle. The five-foot-long, kink-free metal hose offers sufficient reach for most scenarios, although some other handheld showers have even longer six-foot hoses.
This model offers six different spray functions so it's especially versatile for showering, during bathtime for kids or washing down your dog. It's available with a 1.75-GPM flow rate that meets the criteria for the EPA's WaterSense program, or you can opt for a model with a standard 2.5-GPM flow rate. You can choose from finishes like classic chrome, trendy matte black or spot-resistant brushed nickel.
- Flow Rate 1.75 GPM, 2.5 GPM
- Finishes Available Mediterranean bronze, chrome, matte black, spot-resistant brushed nickel
- Features Six spray functions, magnetic docking, kink-free metal hose
To double your shower spray, consider a dual showerhead setup. This option from Boona requires no modifications to your plumbing but gives wall-to-wall spray coverage. The four-piece system sets you up with a secondary showerhead and offers tool-free installation. Since it's DIY-friendly and isn't permanent, it's also a good pick for renters who want to make improvements to their shower situation. It's worth noting that Boona is compatible with a wide range of standard, wall-mounted showerheads, but you can also purchase a second head for a tandem shower with matching heads.
With an insulated design, you can expect hot water output from both showerheads, but a diverter also gives you the option to switch the flow to a single showerhead. There are three spray settings to pick from, and the system is often praised for its excellent water pressure.
- Flow Rate 2.5 GPM
- Finishes Available Brushed nickel, black, retro Miami, chrome
- Features Insulated design for heat transfer, tool-free installation, multiple spray settings
How to Choose the Right Showerhead for Your Bathroom
Water Pressure: If you're not happy with your current showerhead, start by understanding if you have a water pressure problem in your house. For optimal shower performance, your home's water pressure should be 40 to 60 pounds per square inch (PSI). "The incoming water pressure coming to your house is going to impact your showerhead water pressure, which a higher flow showerhead can't compensate for," says Megen Rapp of Kohler. If your water pressure is within range but on the low-end of the spectrum, consider a showerhead that infuses air into the water stream for a fuller spray sensation.
Flow Rate: Flow rate is a measure of a showerhead's output, and it's measured in gallons per minute. The lower the flow rate, the less water you will use for each minute of your shower. There's a federal limit of 2.5 GPM for showerheads, but your state or county may impose a lower flow rate limit. Low-flow showerheads typically have a flow rate of 2.0 GPM or less; this is also the threshold to meet the criteria for the EPA's WaterSense label.
Spray Settings: Some basic showerheads only offer a single spray setting, but models with adjustable spray settings give you greater control. Typically, an adjustable showerhead will have two or more spray patterns, with at least one being a softer, gentler option compared to a more focused, higher-pressure rinse. With multiple spray patterns, you can adjust your shower to fit your needs. You might, for instance, opt for a gentle mist shower spray when unwinding after a long day but use a high-pressure rinse to remove conditioner from your hair or for an invigorating wake-up.
Material & Finish: Showerheads are usually made of metal or plastic. "A difference in materials is going to result in a difference of design style and pricing," says Rapp. Metal showerheads are often used for classic-looking shower fixtures, and they are usually heavier and cost more. At the same time, they also offer more durability and less chance of leaking — especially if the fittings inside are brass. Plastic showerheads are more affordable but can be prone to cracking or leaking if they are overtightened during installation or dropped. Both metal and plastic showerheads come in a range of finishes, including metallic or matte options.
Ease of Maintenance: Showerheads are in a damp, humid environment, so it's no surprise that these bathroom fixtures need regular cleaning. However, some models have special features that streamline the maintenance needed. Most notably, many showerheads have anti-clog nozzles that are made of rubber and only need to be rubbed clean of mineral deposits every so often. Some models also use special coatings that are anti-microbial or that resist mineral build-up.
Low-Flow Showerhead Benefits
Drastically reduce monthly water consumption — and save money — by switching to a low-flow showerhead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of showerhead is best overall?
Wall-mount showerheads with an adjustable spray pattern are the best pick for most households. Often, these showerheads have a 45-degree angle, which Rapp says is most common "because of its versatility, both in the ability to tweak the spray angle for users of different heights, and because they come in an array of designs." Usually, a standard shower arm has half-inch NPT threads so you can interchange showerheads easily.
Do rainfall showerheads reduce pressure?
Rainfall showerheads don't throttle your home's incoming water pressure, but the spray pattern can lessen its impact on your shower experience. "Rainheads are typically a larger surface area than a showerhead, so you're feeling the water in a less concentrated stream," explains Rapp. So if you have strong water pressure but want a gentler, more relaxing shower experience, a rainfall showerhead can help.
What is a good flow rate for a showerhead?
Any showerhead you choose will meet or beat the 2.5 GPM flow rate set by the federal government. Reviewers generally find showerheads with this flow rate to be very satisfying with good water pressure. That being said, a showerhead with a lower flow rate of 2.0 GPM or less can still offer great coverage if the spray face has good water distribution. Some brands also infuse air into the water stream for bigger droplets that mimic the feeling you get from a showerhead with a higher flow rate.
Are filtered showerheads worth it?
According to Rapp, filtered showerheads can support your hair and skin by reducing exposure to chlorine, heavy metals, chemicals and sediment. It might be worth investing in a filtered showerhead if you have especially hard water or you notice that your hair and skin are becoming dry and you suspect that chlorine is the culprit.
Why You Should Trust Our Writer
Erica Puisis is a freelance product tester and writer with expertise in floor care appliances like vacuums and robot mops, clothing care and other cleaning products, as well as small kitchen appliances. She has conducted dozens of interviews with industry experts about everything from water filtration and air purification to mold prevention and best practices for cleaning. Combined with hands-on product testing experience for sites like The Spruce, Forbes Vetted and Business Insider, she has a keen eye for what makes a product effective and worth buying.
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