KOHLER 596 Review: Is it Worth the Money? (2025)

Detailed Analysis

Deep dive into each aspect of performance

Design and Build Quality

According to the technical specs and KOHLER’s manufacturing reputation, the Simplice 596-VS features a robust, high-arch spout crafted from corrosion- and tarnish-resistant Vibrant Stainless. Customers on Amazon repeatedly mention its modern yet timeless look—one buyer even compared it favorably to a much pricier brass kitchen faucet in terms of visual impact and feel. The single-lever handle makes temperature adjustment almost effortless, and the spout’s 360-degree swivel offers extraordinary reach in double or single basin sinks.

KOHLER’s MasterClean sprayface is purpose-built to resist mineral buildup, ideal for those living with hard water. While the manufacturer touts its DockNetik magnetic docking system as foolproof, a handful of customers noted that the pull-down head can take a week to “break in” before the hose returns as smoothly as advertised. However, once it does, users describe the handle as lightweight and smooth, with the braided ProMotion hose allowing quiet, tangle-free maneuvering—a noticeable upgrade over stiffer hoses found in some value options.

Features & Functionality

What really sets the Simplice apart within the kitchen faucet world? For many, it’s the combination of its three-function sprayhead and the easy-to-use buttons. Amazon reviewers say even with soapy or greasy hands, switching from “stream” for basic filling, to the “Sweep spray” (which creates a wide, forceful fan of water for power-cleaning), is intuitive. The special “Boost” mode, increasing water flow by 30% with the press of a button, emerges as a customer favorite for quickly filling pots or blasting away stubborn residue—one mom remarked that Boost mode cut her sink-scrubbing time in half.

The integrated ceramic disc valves are designed to significantly outlast industry longevity standards—meaning you won’t be dealing with drips and leaks as quickly as with some discount options. Several users who previously owned a delta kitchen faucet or moen kitchen faucet praised the Simplice for its leak-free performance and substantial, weighty feel.

Installation is often top-of-mind for DIYers. The Simplice supports most deck configurations (single or three-hole), and according to multiple verified purchasers, install took less than an hour with clear instructions—”easier than expected,” as one put it. That said, a handful of buyers did raise issues about limited clearance behind the faucet for handle movement if your sink is close to a wall. If you’re searching for step-by-step help on how to install a kitchen faucet, KOHLER’s video guides and customer support resources are held in high regard.

Performance (Based on Customer Reviews)

Buyers consistently report that the spray modes deliver as promised. One reviewer dealing with notoriously tough water spots on pans called the Sweep spray “a total game changer.” Others praised the precise stream for filling narrow-neck bottles and the Boost mode for powering through pasta night’s dishes. The temperature memory feature—where the faucet resumes at the last used temperature—gets repeatedly mentioned for convenience when multitasking or wrangling kids.

On negatives, a minority noted a slight delay in hot water delivery, common in high arch kitchen faucet designs with long spouts. Another pattern: Some felt the plastic sprayhead didn’t match the visual heft of the rest of the faucet, though most found it “solid enough.” For persistent drips or handle looseness, KOHLER’s lifetime warranty and replacement parts earned high marks—many felt the company stands behind its products as well as (or better than) competitors like grohe kitchen faucet and hansgrohe kitchen faucet.

Cleaning, another big concern, gets high marks: the MasterClean nozzle design means fewer calcium buildup headaches and simple wipe-downs, tackling a common frustration with most kitchen faucet replacement scenarios.

Value for Money & Comparisons

At around $148, the Simplice is neither the cheapest option nor the most expensive. Side-by-side with similarly spec’d competitors, here’s what matters:

• Moen kitchen faucet models: Comparable features in the $120-$180 range, but some buyers say Moen’s pulldown action isn’t quite as smooth. Warranty and finish options are similar.
• Delta kitchen faucet: The Delta Leland series rivals the Simplice for flexible spray options, though KOHLER’s Sweep spray gets slightly better marks for cleaning power. Both offer lifetime warranties, but Delta’s magnet dock is also highly rated.
• Kraus kitchen faucet: Often cheaper, but some Kraus models use more plastic and a less refined spray touch, according to reviewers upgrading to the KOHLER.

What about the premium crowd (brizo kitchen faucet, gold kitchen faucet, or black kitchen faucet finishes)? You’ll pay double or triple for advanced styling or touchless sensors, so if you want ultimate tech or a designer finish, this isn’t the model for you. But if you want reliable, effective, and easy-to-maintain performance, hundreds of US buyers say the Simplice delivers—and stays trouble-free years down the line.

FAQ: Common Buyer Concerns & Best Use Cases

• How to replace a kitchen faucet: Many DIYers found the Simplice’s install straightforward. It fits standard 1 or 3-hole decks. Install videos are available on KOHLER’s site.
• How to clean kitchen faucet head: The MasterClean sprayface wipes clean with a sponge; reviewers say even hard water spots come off easily.
• How to fix a leaky kitchen faucet: Ceramic disc valves mean leaks are rare early on. If needed, KOHLER provides parts under warranty; one buyer noted support sent replacement cartridges within days.
• How to tighten kitchen faucet nut under sink: Standard wrench fits; instructions guide you through it (one Amazon review said, “didn’t even need to watch a video”).

Bottom line: As a full-featured, daily-use kitchen faucet with thoughtful extras, the KOHLER Simplice holds its own against top brands—just be realistic about your needs. If you want touchless sensors, dramatic gold or matte black finishes, or advanced tech, look at higher-end options. But if you care most about cleaning power, ease of maintenance, and reliable daily function, this faucet makes a compelling case.

Ready to Experience the Difference?

Join thousands of satisfied customers who have already made the switch. KOHLER 596 is waiting for you.

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