Chrome
Chrome is the shiny, silver-colored metal finish that used to be the standard for kitchen-sink fixtures. It has much to recommend it. Chrome is flashy and adds sparkle to a room. It is usually the cheapest finish, not because it's lower quality, but because it's considered basic. Chrome shows water spots but is easy to clean.
Brushed Nickel
Brushed nickel has a slight matte, gray-colored finish. It has a soft glow, rather than the hard shine of chrome. This sophisticated finish works well in a contemporary kitchen. It also shows spots but is easy to clean and also tends to be inexpensive.
Bronze and Brass
These finishes are on the warm side of the color spectrum, so they look best in rooms that have other warm colors. Bronze is a dark brown that works particularly well with country decor. Bronze finishes may change color over time, so find out if you need to add a sealant to prevent the color from changing. But you may prefer the weathered look.
Brass faucets are unexpected and stand out with their bright golden color. They add both warmth and sparkle and give a room a luxe look.
White
Plastic and enameled metal fixtures come in white and other colors. A white faucet at a white sink has a clean look that is particularly suitable in modern decor. Be aware that plastic fixtures are not as durable as metal.