Drop-in sinks: This very common type fits into an opening cut into the countertop. There will always be a raised lip where the edge of the sink rests on the countertop. This is a very easy type for DIYers to install. These sinks are also known as top-mount or self-rimming sinks.
Undermount sinks: This type is mounted beneath the countertop along the edges of the countertop cutout. It is therefore suitable only for solid-surface, stone or engineered-stone countertops and not for laminate or ceramic tile countertops. This type is normally secured with brackets and/or adhesive, and DIY installation is more complicated than for drop-in sinks. A recent innovation is for manufacturers to sell units in which the sink basin is already attached to a countertop with a cutout. Although technically this is an undermount sink, its installation more closely resembles that for an integral sink because the sink is already installed.
Integral sink/countertops: With this style, the sink basin is built right into the countertop unit with openings for the faucets already drilled into the countertop behind the basin. This style is most often found with solid-surface, cultured marble and quartz countertops. While installation is fairly simple — the entire unit is purchased and simply set in place atop the vanity — these units can be very heavy, requiring at least one helper to move and position them.
Vessel sinks: This is a highly ornamental, decorative sink that sits raised above the vanity countertop with a small hole that accommodates the sink drain. These sinks often require a wall-mounted faucet. Many types are round basins made of tempered glass, but there are also square and rectangular china or porcelain vessel sinks in this style.
Farmhouse/drop-apron sinks: Shortly after farmhouse sinks regained popularity in the kitchen, smaller versions of the same style became available for bathrooms. These sinks sit within a large, wide cutout made in the countertop and vanity cabinet. Normally made of vitreous china or porcelain enamel, these sinks have a front apron that extends well down in front with a backsplash portion that extends partway up the back wall. These sinks are best for very large bathrooms, and they are best suited for rustic decorating styles.