We Tested the Best Handheld Shower Heads for Your Bathroom Update

Hello, my friend, hello again; today we come together to talk about We Tested the Best Handheld Shower Heads for Your Bathroom Update and hope the blog can help you.

Add versatility to your shower with one of these top handheld shower heads.

When massaging aching muscles, bathing young children, or giving the family dog his monthly bath, a handheld shower head can be a handy upgrade to your bathroom. A handheld shower head features a long hose that allows you to remove it from its mount and aim the stream of water from the head. This design is also ideal for households with shower safety concerns, allowing users to bathe in a chair to limit injury.

The best handheld shower head features simple and seamless functionality, multiple spray settings for massaging or rinsing, and a kink-free shower hose. If you are hoping to purchase one of these versatile shower heads but need some help deciding which model is right for you, you’re in luck.

In addition to our shopping tips, we’ve taken the time to test some of the most popular handheld fixtures on the market. We also interviewed experts in this area, getting valuable tips from experienced plumbers and general contractors. After our testing had been completed, we chose the Couradric Handheld Shower Head as the best overall for its 2.5 gallon-per-minute (GPM) water output, six spray settings, and five finish options.

Read on to learn about the various features of each and how they stood up to our standards.

1. BEST OVERALL: Couradric Handheld Shower Head
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: AquaDance High-Pressure 6-Setting Handheld Shower
3. BEST LUXURY: Delta Faucet H2Okinetic In2ition Dual Shower Head
4. BEST WITH RAIN SHOWER: American Standard Spectra+ Duo
5. BEST FOR LOW PRESSURE: Lokby High-Pressure Handheld Shower Head
6. BEST FOR MODERN BATHROOMS: Bright Showers Rain Shower Head with Handheld Spray
7. BEST DUAL SHOWER HEAD: AquaDance 7″ High-Pressure 3-Way Rainfall Combo
8. BEST MASSAGING SHOWER HEAD: G-Promise High-Pressure Shower Head

How We Tested the Best Handheld Shower Heads

We tested all of the handheld shower heads on our awards list by wall-mounting each, taking note of the tools needed for installation and the level of difficulty. Each fixture was examined for its weight, feel, and durability. We tested each shower head a minimum of two times, adjusting spray patterns and shower head direction and taking note of the hose length and flexibility. We observed whether there was any leaking or sputtering, changes in water pressure, unusual sounds, and hot water longevity.

We logged how many spray settings there were and whether they all functioned equally well, taking note of the water pressure, coverage, and ability to distribute water evenly. For dual shower heads, we observed how they functioned while used separately and simultaneously. We considered the features for the price point as well as the shower head’s overall attractiveness and several finish options available. Our top picks were chosen for ease of installation, durability, good design, even and ample water pressure, and spray options to suit differing needs.

When choosing our product options for hands-on testing, we also took advice from Ross Kesterson, a licensed general contractor and vice-president of Southern Design Build Group in Hull, Georgia, who suggested that for some budget options, shoppers should be aware of build quality. “It’s not all about the looks, it’s what’s underneath. The interior parts are sometimes made with plastic, but should be made of brass. This helps the fixture last longer and not leak.” With this expert tip in mind, we made sure that our list of recommendations includes high-quality options with brass interior parts to ensure longevity, while also providing more budget-friendly options that still managed to stand up to our testing.

Our Top Picks

This curated list highlights some of the best handheld shower head options available, according to our own careful installation and testing. From traditional models to sleek rain shower head combinations, these reliable picks can upgrade your bathroom and bathing experience.

Best Overall

Couradric Handheld Shower Head

See It

Product Specs 

• GPM: 2.5, available in 1.8 for California users
• Number of spray settings: 6
• Finishes available: Brushed nickel, chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, polished brass, and matte black

Pros

• Long 70-inch hose allows for better freedom of motion
• Includes 6 easily adjustable spray types
• 48 self-cleaning nozzles are easy to maintain

Cons

• Not as water-saving as other shower heads

Making the top of our list for its high-pressure output, durable metal and plastic construction, and easy-to-adjust spray settings, the Coruadric handheld shower is likely to please most users. The 5-inch-diameter spray head has six easily adjustable settings, including bubbling rain, bubbling water, shampoo rinsing, pulsating massage, and water-saving mode. All the modes worked effectively, with sprays to suit different user preferences. The fixture comes standard with a 2.5 GPM but is available in 1.8 GPM for California users.

Easy installation and 48 self-cleaning rubber nozzles to prevent mineral buildup add to the value of this shower head. A 70-inch stainless steel hose gives this model a greater range of motion and mobility, while a copper wall-mounting bracket adds stability. Its rounded features and brushed-nickel finish make it an attractive addition to any bathroom.

Get the Couradric Handheld Shower Head at Amazon.

Best Bang for the Buck

AquaDance High-Pressure 6-Setting Handheld Shower

See It

Product Specs 

• GPM: 2.5
• Number of spray settings: 6
• Finishes available: Chrome, brushed nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze

Pros

• Good value while still maintaining decent build quality
• 6 spray settings are easy to swap between
• 5-foot hose provides plenty of room to move it around

Cons

• Buzzing sound on massage setting can be quite annoying

Numerous spray patterns and an affordable price make this shower head a great option for those looking to upgrade their existing fixture to a handheld model without breaking the bank. This small shower head packs a punch with plenty of water pressure. Six different settings range from power rain to mist, offering a nice array of options from a softer spray to an intense massage. One drawback we found was that the shower head began to buzz when it was switched to the pulsating massage setting. However, we also found that the setting was slightly too strong for a comfortable shower, with the other settings more preferable.

A 5-foot hose provides enough length for bathing young children or even pets, while a mounting clip allows it to function as a standard shower head. It was simple to install without any tools and is available in chrome, brushed nickel, or oil-rubbed bronze.

Get the AquaDance Handheld Shower Head at Amazon or Wayfair.

Best Luxury

Delta Faucet H2Okinetic In2ition Dual Shower Head

See It

Product Specs 

• GPM: 1.75
• Number of spray settings: 5
• Finishes available: Chrome, black stainless, champagne bronze, stainless, matte black, polished nickel, and Venetian bronze

Pros

• Dual functionality—fixed and handheld sprays
• WaterSense certified; provides great coverage compared to similar models
• Available in multiple finishes to suit most bathroom styles

Cons

• Lower pressure when both sprays are turned on

Delta’s H2Okinetic shower combo has a lot to like, including its attractive appearance and robust build. We love the innovative design that allows this fixture to function as both an overhead rainfall shower head and a handheld option, the latter of which is fitted inside using a simple magnetic connection, which felt snug and secure during our testing. The handheld works effectively with five powerful spray patterns, including kinetic power drench, full body, massaging, and full-body spray with massage.

The hose can be stretched to over 6 feet, making it perfect for cleaning children and pets. When the outer overhead spray is turned on along with the handheld, coverage increases to a 7-inch diameter. The overhead spray gives off medium water pressure, characteristic of a rain shower. The regulator is built-in and not intended to be removed, so some users may crave more spray pressure. We thought the overall pressure was a little light but appreciate its water-saving qualities.

This shower head uses the company’s H2Okinetic technology, which allows its nozzles to create larger water droplets than a standard shower, designed to mimic a drenching rain forest shower. The technology provides ample coverage at 1.75 GPMs and earns a WaterSense certification.

The H2Okinetic was simple to install and comes in seven finishes, including chrome, bronze, polished nickel, and black stainless.

Get the Delta H2Okinetic In2ition at Amazon.

Best with Rain Shower

American Standard Spectra+ Duo

See It

Product Specs 

• GPM: 2.5, 1.8 available
• Number of spray settings: 5
• Finish options: Chrome, brushed nickel, legacy bronze, and polished nickel

Pros

• Overhead rain shower option, rare among other handhelds
• Wide spray pattern provides plenty of coverage
• Magnetic docking makes it simple to pick up and put away

Cons

• Gap in spray when handheld is removed
• Light pressure when used with regulator

For shoppers who enjoy the feel of a rain shower, the American Standard Spectra+ Duo provides this experience along with the bonus of a handheld shower head integrated into the center of the fixture. The unique design includes a 9.5-inch diameter that provides plenty of coverage with a comfortable, even spray. Our testing found the water pressure on the 2.5 GPM version to be light to medium when used with a regulator and medium to high without. There is also a 1.8 model available for those looking to save water.

The shower head was simple to install to our existing piping with just the use of a wrench. A magnet keeps the handheld securely attached but easily removable. Each of the four spray settings—drench, sensitive, massage, and power wash—were easily adjustable and comfortable, offering options for the different preferences of family members. At about 5 feet, the hose is plenty long for cleaning children and pets.

We didn’t love the pattern of the overhead spray once we removed the handheld. While we appreciate that it can function with both sprays on simultaneously, the overhead has a wide gap in the rain shower without the handheld in place, leaving us craving better coverage. You can turn off the outer spray when using the handheld, which may be the better option.

Get the American Standard Spectra+ Duo at Amazon or AmericanStandard-US.com.

Best for Low Pressure

Lokby High-Pressure Handheld Shower Head

See It

Product Specs 

• GPM: 1.8
• Number of spray settings: 6
• Finishes available: Chrome, matte black, brushed nickel

Pros

• Lower pressure allows for impressive water-saving
• Provides a soft and comfortable spray
• Can be turned off using a switch on the head itself

Cons

• May be too little pressure for some users

This handheld shower head uses nozzles that compress the water as it passes through to increase velocity, improving low water pressure. The flow rate is 1.8 GPMs, allowing users to save water while still obtaining a comfortable, even spray. This choice is well suited for those who want to save water or like a gentler spray. It also has five settings that boost the water pressure, including massage, rain, power rain, mist, and rain plus mist.

Between the mid-level pressure and a lengthy 59-inch hose, this shower head is an excellent option for bathing young children. A convenient off button lets the operator turn the shower off from the head, while silicone jets keep this shower head functioning properly by resisting buildup from hard water. It was easy to install and features a bracket that attaches to the spigot with a 60-degree pivot, allowing this handheld to function as a standard mounted shower head.

Get the Lokby Handheld Shower Head at Amazon.

Best for Modern Bathrooms

Bright Showers Rain Shower Head with Handheld Spray

See It

Product Specs 

• GPM: 1.8 with restrictor and 2.5 without
• Number of spray settings: 3 on each shower head
• Finishes available: Chrome, brushed nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze

Pros

• Mounted and handheld shower head included
• Effective when using overhead and handheld simultaneously
• Large square shower head provides rain-shower experience

Cons

• Diverter might be out of reach in taller showers
• Not suitable for mounting on textured tiles, frosted glass, or wood
• Mount cannot be reattached if removed

This fixture combo combines the enveloping feel of a rainfall shower head with the versatility of a handheld one. This 8-inch-square shower head features 200 nozzles and mounts above your head, providing a true rainfall experience with a gentle, even spray. The handheld model, also with a square-shaped design, matches the modern styling of the rainfall shower head and can be attached to the wall with an included suction cup.

Each has three spray settings, including massage, saturating, and combination sprays, as well as an on/off switch, making it suitable for bathing pets and children. A three-way diverter control, which is located on the overhead fixture, allows you to direct water flow from the faucet to the handheld shower head, the rain shower head, or both. One thing we appreciated about this model is its performance when using both sprays simultaneously. Unlike other models, we found the shower heads worked just as well together as they did individually.

Get the Bright Showers Rain Shower Head with Handheld Spray at Amazon.

Best Dual Shower Head

AquaDance 7" High-Pressure 3-Way Rainfall Combo

See It

Product Specs 

• GPM: 2.5
• Number of spray settings: 6 on each shower head
• Finishes available: Brushed nickel, chrome, and oil-rubbed bronze

Pros

• Overhead and handheld combo covers most user needs
• Multiple setting combinations
• Provides good water pressure even with the regulator

Cons

• Diverter may be out of reach for some users
• Low water pressure when both sprays are used simultaneously