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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.
- BEST OVERALL: Couradric Handheld Shower Head
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: AquaDance High-Pressure 6-Setting Handheld Shower
- BEST LUXURY: Delta Faucet H2Okinetic In2ition Dual Shower Head
- BEST WITH RAIN SHOWER: American Standard Spectra+ Duo
- BEST FOR LOW PRESSURE: Lokby High-Pressure Handheld Shower Head
- BEST FOR MODERN BATHROOMS: Bright Showers Rain Shower Head with Handheld Spray
- BEST DUAL SHOWER HEAD: AquaDance 7″ High-Pressure 3-Way Rainfall Combo
- 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Out of the box, this AquaDance fixture looks attractive and installs easily. The setup includes two separate shower heads, a 7-inch broad rainfall shower head, and a 4-inch handheld shower head that mounts alongside it. Leave the handheld shower head attached for maximum water coverage from both heads, or detach it and use it as a handheld. We found both sprays to have ample water pressure, even with the regulator in place.
Several flow options allow you to run water through either head or both. The diverter is on the overhead spray, making it difficult to access if mounted out of reach. Each shower head features six effective and comfortable flow settings for massage, rainfall style, or standard. When using both simultaneously, the water pressure drops, especially in the handheld. The fixture is constructed of plastic with a chrome finish.
Get the AquaDance Rainfall Combo at Amazon or Wayfair.
Best Massaging Shower Head
G-Promise High-Pressure Shower Head
Product Specs
- GPM: 2.5
- Number of spray settings: 6
- Finishes available: Brushed nickel
Pros
- Capable of supplying an impressive water pressure
- Multiple massage settings; ideal for multiple user preferences
- Lever allows for easy spray adjustment
Cons
- Only one finish option available
When it comes to massage, it’s all about a shower head’s spray settings, and this model from G-Promise has plenty of them. Its attractive round face can be rotated to access six spray settings, most of which are devoted to massage, including power massage, rainfall plus power massage, massage, and rainfall plus circular massage. Each mode offers a different spray pattern, but all work equally well and, in our opinion, with the perfect amount of water pressure.
An adjusting lever makes switching between the spray settings with wet hands easy. A long, stretchable 70-inch stainless steel hose gives this fixture plenty of length to massage hard-to-reach muscles and clean shower corners.
The G-Promise feels durable and is easy to install using an included mini wrench tool. It is made from high-grade plastic and comes in a brushed-nickel finish.
Get the G-Promise Shower Head at Amazon.
ALSO TESTED:
PureAction Luxury Filtered Shower Head with Handheld Hose
We also tested the PureAction filtered shower head, and while we loved that the unit filters out chlorine, heavy metals, rust, sand, and sediment, unfortunately, it didn’t meet our functionality standards. We had some trouble adjusting the spray, which includes three settings—rain, massage, and combo. When turned on, the massage mode made a brief whining noise and didn’t produce the spray described in the manual. It also filled the bottom of our shower with water, causing us some concern about water usage.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Handheld Shower Head
There are several factors to consider before purchasing a handheld shower head, including material, flow rate, spray modes, and water pressure.
Type
The typical handheld shower head sits in a cradle with a flexible hose attached. These shower heads come in several types, either as individual pieces or part of a set.
- Combination shower heads have both a fixed and handheld shower head. Users can use one or the other or both while showering. A three-way diverter allows each of the two heads to be used simultaneously or independently. Due to flow rate regulations, however, water pressure is reduced when both heads are used at the same time.
- Low-flow shower heads control the amount of water usage to help conserve water. Water-saving shower heads, according to the EPA, have a flow rate of no more than 2 GPM (gallons per minute). These water-efficient shower heads are available with flow rates as little as 1.5 GPM.
- High-pressure shower heads provide a nicer rinse and a massage-like feeling on the body. They’re designed to increase the water pressure with air inside the head. While these shower heads may cost you more upfront, they’ll save you money in the long run by reducing your water bill.
- Rain shower heads are a popular option for combination sets. Water flows down over the top of your head, creating a relaxing sensation reminiscent of a spa. They’re either mounted to the wall or ceiling and usually have a wider spray and lower pressure compared to standard fixed shower heads.
Material
Most shower heads have a combination of metal and plastic parts. Stainless steel and brass are typically used for the threaded fittings to the shower spigot as well as the internal parts that direct water flow. The external components usually consist of high-grade plastic, which is not susceptible to rust or corrosion like many metals.
Some showers use aluminum with a chrome, brushed nickel, or bronze coating. High-end shower heads are made of brass or stainless steel, which also resist rust and corrosion. Most handheld shower heads use silicone nozzles, which are clog-resistant and require little maintenance.
Flow Rate and Pressure
Energy consumption is directly related to the flow rate. The lower the flow rate, the less water the shower head uses, and the more you save on your water bill. The maximum flow rate for a shower head is 2.5 GPM, but some have outputs as low as 1.5 GPM, which can save you a significant amount of money.
Since the National Energy Act was passed in 1992, the maximum allowable flow rate for shower heads is 2.5 GPM, significantly less than older models with flow rates of 3.5 GPM or more. With the exception of high-pressure shower heads, flow rate typically dictates water pressure; the higher the flow rate, the higher the water pressure.
WaterSense Certification
Water-saving shower heads that earn the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) WaterSense label use no more than 2 GPM while providing a shower that is equal to or better than standard shower heads on the market. EPA estimates that replacing a conventional shower head with a WaterSense shower head can save nearly 3,000 gallons of water each year.
When shopping for an efficient shower head, don’t just take the manufacturer’s word for it. Look for the WaterSense label. These shower heads have been tested and approved for their ability to save water and energy and provide a shower of equal or better quality.
Spray Patterns
Most shower heads offer various flow patterns, with some featuring more than 40 spray settings. In general, flow patterns can be distilled into the following types:
- Broad spray patterns allow for maximum coverage.
- Pulsating and targeting spray settings create a narrow, intermittent stream of hot water for massaging sore back and neck muscles.
- High-pressure spray settings work well for rinsing shampoo and conditioner from hair.
- Oversize rain-style shower heads offer maximum coverage while simulating the feel of rain.
Aesthetic
Handheld shower heads lack the sleek, minimal look of standard shower heads because of their long hoses, which give them a more utilitarian look. Unless you’re planning to redo the entire bathroom, you’ll likely want to match the new shower head to the current bathroom fixtures, including the finishes and materials.
Some of the most popular finishes are chrome, polished brass, brushed nickel, and stainless steel. Keep in mind that shiny finishes may show water spots, while matte finishes resist staining. The size of the shower head can play a role in design and style.
If you have space in a nice stand-up shower and want a square rain shower head up to 18 inches, why not? It can add a modern look and provide a relaxing shower experience. Conversely, those with compact shower spaces may need to stick with something smaller.
Additional Features
Some nice extras that you can look for when purchasing a shower head include:
- Filtered shower heads feature a built-in filtration system that softens water and removes contaminants such as chlorine and lead.
- Nonslip grip shower heads come with rubberized handles so that they don’t easily fall out of your hand while showering.
- LED lights add an extra level to the shower experience. Users can select from various colors depending on mood, or users can turn off the lights and just hide out if they need to ignore the world for a while.
- On/off switches allow users to pause the shower while shampooing or shaving to save water.
- Magnetic docking connects the handheld shower head to its cradle and is a relatively high-end feature.
Installation
Most handheld shower heads are easy to install. Our interview with expert plumber Roy Barnes, co-owner of Service Force Plumbing in Rockville Maryland, confirms this: “Pipes [for shower arms] are almost always ½” NPT, and with a wrench and a little Teflon tape to wrap the threads, it should be a pretty straightforward DIY job for just about anybody.”
Installation typically involves unscrewing the old shower head from the spigot, applying plumbers’ tape to the threads, and screwing on the new head. Depending on the type of shower head, installation may involve an extension arm, which attaches to the spigot on one end and the shower head on the other.
Installing a shower head normally requires only a crescent wrench. Since virtually all shower spigots are a standard ½-inch size, you don’t need to worry about compatibility.
FAQs
If you still have questions about handheld shower heads, read on for answers to the most common questions.
Q. How do I choose a handheld shower head?
The best handheld shower heads should provide the right settings for your needs. If you plan on using it to massage sore muscles, make sure it has a pulse setting. For rinsing hair or bathing pets, get a shower head with ample pressure for removing soap. A good handheld shower head should also have a hose long enough to facilitate various uses.
Q. Are there shower heads that increase water pressure?
Some shower heads can increase water pressure by circulating air into the shower head, which results in a more intense flow of water from the head.
Q. Do all shower heads have flow restrictors?
The National Energy Act of 1992 requires all shower heads to include flow restrictors limiting water flow to a maximum of 2.5 GPM. In areas with low water pressure, a flow restrictor can reduce your water pressure to well below 2.5 GPM. In these cases, you may need to remove the flow restrictor from the shower head.
Q. How much does a water-efficient shower head save?
A water-efficient shower head that uses just 1.6 gallons per minute saves more than 26 liters of water for the average seven-minute shower. That adds up to about 9,000 liters of water per household member per year. On this list, Delta’s H2Okinetic shower combo earned a WaterSense certification, which is an easy way to take note of a fixture’s water efficiency.
Q. What does a shower head filter do?
A shower head filter protects skin and hair from chemicals and minerals that can cause damage and dryness, including chlorine and chloramines.
Meet the Tester
Tony Carrick is a freelance writer specializing in home improvement, landscaping, technology, home security, and design. His articles have been featured on such sites as Angi, Popular Science, Futurism, 360 Reviews by U.S. News & World Report, Domino, and more. Carrick has conducted rigorous product testing on everything from power tools to home security systems to backyard grills. With each review, his goal is to help readers determine whether a product meets their needs and if it is or isn’t worth its price tag.
