By Kat Hodgins, Kristen Mosier
Updated on May 23, 2024 4:44 PM EDT Brushed Gold Thermostatic Shower
We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›
Oversize shower heads—also referred to as rain shower heads—offer a feeling of standing in a gentle rain. They are designed to distribute water so it flows down over the top of the head at just the right pressure, prompting relaxation. We researched and tested some of the best rain shower heads on the market that strive to achieve this spa-like experience.
While a rain shower head may feel like an extravagant purchase, it’s actually an affordable way to elevate a shower by simply replacing the existing shower head. Additionally, many rain shower heads feature durable construction and are made with low-maintenance parts, ensuring moments of luxury during the morning routine—or as a way to decompress at the end of a long day—for years to come.
Our best overall rain shower head is the Grohe Euphoria 260 Shower Head for its 2.5-GPM water output, three spray settings, and large 10-inch diameter. This model is constructed from durable chrome and brushed nickel.
This guide explores a variety of rain shower heads available today, and our testing offers insights into installation, performance, and durability. Read on to learn more about what to consider when shopping for a rain shower head and why these models are among the top choices.
We tested all of the rain shower heads in this guide by mounting each model either on the ceiling or on the wall, taking note of the required tools and the level of difficulty of the installation. We then initially examined each fixture for its overall design and durability. After installation, we tested each product at least twice, adjusting spray patterns and shower head direction and observing hot water longevity, changes in water pressure, and any instances of leaking or sputtering.
Additionally, we tested each model’s spray settings and how they impacted coverage, water pressure, and the ability to distribute water evenly, along with the overall level of comfort for differing shower preferences. Finally, we considered the available features for the price point for each shower head, as well as the number of finish options and the overall attractiveness.
We selected these top picks for the best rain shower heads in a variety of categories based on seamless integration, quality design, even and ample water pressure, and spray options to suit differing needs. Keep reading to discover how these models performed in our rigorous testing.
The Grohe Euphoria 260 rain shower head feels durable and looks attractive right out of the box. We easily mounted it on the ceiling as well as on the wall. We preferred it overhead, but wall mounting would work well in spacious showers with the proper arm attachment.
Unlike most rain shower heads on the list, this model includes adjustable spray settings that the user can control with a button in the center of the shower head. We loved having options and found it ideal for those who like a gentle rain shower but still want added pressure at times. The construction features three concentric circles serving as varying spray zones.
When used on its own, the innermost circle offers a powerful, directed jet spray that delivers on comfortable pressure. The second circle highlights the manufacturer’s SmartRain Spray technology, which provides the rain shower experience while saving on water output. When the outermost ring is turned on, users get a full 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM) water output for more body coverage yet with an even, comfortable spray. (For a more detailed discussion of GPM, read the section Water Pressure, which appears below our product reviews.) The Speed Clean nozzles are integrated into the head, allowing the user to easily wipe away limescale.
The only drawbacks to this product are the higher price tag and the plastic construction, although we didn’t feel the latter affected the overall look or feel of the shower head.
Get the Grohe rain shower head at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Grohe.
The Dream Spa rain shower head also includes a handheld shower head with a 5-foot stainless steel hose, offering the best of both worlds for a spa-like shower. This entire model—both the shower head and the handheld option—can be mounted overhead to offer a higher-pressure spray and waterfall option. We easily mounted it on the existing arm without the use of tools, and a solid brass ball joint nut allows for easy angle adjustments. It also includes a suction-cup mount for those who prefer to hang the handheld fixture on the wall. The drawback to this setup is that both options can’t be used simultaneously, but the water diverter switch to engage the attachment is on the shower head, possibly leaving it out of reach in bathrooms with higher ceilings.
This shower head is made with ABS plastic and covered with a chrome finish. It feels slightly less sturdy than other models, raising some concerns about long-term durability.
Get the DreamSpa rain shower head at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
The SR Sunrise rain shower head elevates style and functionality with the option of either a spa-like experience with the rain shower head or a quick clean-and-go option with the handheld shower head. This model is constructed of stainless steel with a 10-layer chrome-plated finish, and its 12-inch oversize face offers more water coverage than some other options. The incorporation of air energy technology aims to offer powerful pressure so water flows well even under low-water-pressure conditions.
A 15.7-inch metal arm on the shower head ensures the water falls comfortably over the user. However, the arm doesn’t adjust, so an extension could be needed to mount the shower head higher for concealed installation. The L-style brass handheld shower head propels water farther outward than other types of shower heads, so users don’t need to hold it as close to the body to target areas. The sleek, modern style comes in five finishes to match the rest of most bathroom fixtures, including faucets and knobs.
We were only able to test the shower head since the handheld fixture requires professional installation, including access to internal piping. With this in mind, we think the SR Sunrise rain shower head is best suited for a remodel rather than a simple upgrade.
Get the SR Sunrise rain shower head at Amazonor SR Sunrise.
It’s no surprise that the Studio S rain shower head by American Standard is a solid midrange pick, given the track record of its manufacturer. This model was simple to install, but it doesn’t include a shower arm, so users will want to purchase one separately or use an existing one.
The 8-inch round head offers a medium-pressure spray that is even and comfortable. We tried it with 2.5 GPM of output, which offered ample pressure, but it is also available in 1.8 GPM for those looking to conserve water without sacrificing comfort. The latter model is WaterSense certified for up to 30 percent water savings.
This model is constructed of coated brass, giving it a solid yet lightweight feel. The super-sleek matte black finish delivered a stylish look, and it’s also available in chrome and brushed nickel.
Get the American Standard rain shower head at Amazon or The Home Depot.
This combination model from Moen offers substantial and evenly distributed water pressure, both from the main shower head and the handheld attachment. The water diverter is large and easy to click into place with three options—one for the main shower head, one for the handheld attachment, and one that allows them to be used simultaneously. As expected, the dual setting isn’t as strong but still offers ample water pressure and coverage.
Based on the online photos, we were surprised at how substantial this product felt out of the box. Most combination options come with a smaller main spray head, so the 6.5-inch face was a welcome surprise. This shower head features six spray settings, all with strong water pressure, especially the massage function. The handheld attachment secures to the main shower head via a magnetic docking system. While the magnet worked well, we thought it could be stronger and wondered about long-term durability. The kink-free 60-inch hose was easy to maneuver.
We installed this Moen shower head easily on our existing wall arm, simply tightening it with a wrench. The brushed nickel finish is resistant to water spots and fingerprints, and it is also available in matte black and chrome.
Get the Moen rain shower head at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Moen.
This model from Delta integrates a soft-click button into the design of the 6-inch shower head, making it simple to adjust the water flow. It required barely any effort to switch among the five settings, including an H2OKinetic spray, full-body spray, full spray with massage, massaging spray, and pause, the last of which reduces water flow to a trickle to allow users to save water while lathering. While all the settings worked equally well, we preferred the full spray with massage for its coverage and because it offered the most pressure. The full-body spray didn’t push water out through the center and instead created a donut-shaped spray that we found less than ideal.
The WaterSense label indicates that this rain shower head uses 20 percent less water than comparable products on the market. However, the lower water flow didn’t affect performance; we found the water pressure to be in line with other models, emitting a gentle but ample flow.
This shower head felt durable and looked stylish covered in a sleek matte black finish, although the ABS plastic construction could limit long-term use. We attached it to our existing shower arm—it doesn’t come with its own—in under 3 minutes without any tools. The soft rubber spray nozzles allow for easy cleaning.
Get the Delta rain shower head at Amazon or Walmart.
WaterSense and Environmental Protection Agency certified and registered with the California Energy Commission, this Kohler rain shower head is ideal for those hoping to save water without sacrificing functionality. The 10-inch round shower head offered so much evenly distributed coverage that we didn’t even notice its water-saving qualities with an output of just 1.75 GPM. For smaller spaces, it’s also available in an 8-inch round version.
The single-setting shower head features an adjustable swivel ball joint for precise spray adjustment and angled nozzles that we found simple to maneuver. The manufacturer’s MasterClean spray face makes it easy to wipe clean.
Like most Kohler products, this rain shower head lends an attractive design to any bathroom. We tested it in polished chrome, which looked sleek and modern, but it’s available in five finishes. While the plastic construction didn’t detract from the look, it also didn’t feel as durable as some of the brand’s metal models. The overhead installation, which we recommend due to its size, was quick and easy; it only required tightening the fixture with a wrench. This model doesn’t include a shower arm, which is a drawback given the unique finishes like brushed brass and matte black.
Get the Kohler rain shower head at Amazon or Kohler.
The first feature we noticed about this large 16-inch rain shower head from Qomolangma was its ample water pressure. Featuring several hundred spray nozzles, this showering experience could be too intense for some users. Luckily, a swivel connector allows for 360-degree rotation so each individual can angle it to their comfort level. It can be mounted on the wall or overhead, the latter being more ideal due to its large size. A 12-inch model is also available for shoppers with a smaller shower space.
Though this model is ultrathin at 2 millimeters, it is constructed of durable stainless steel with a brushed nickel finish. The many silicone nozzles make them susceptible to clogging or even loss; however, five replacement nozzles are included should this occur. Installation was simple; we only needed a wrench to screw the shower head to the existing overhead pipe. The fixture also comes with Teflon tape to protect from leakage.
Get the Qomolangma rain shower head at Amazon.
The SparkPod rain shower head conserves water with a 1.8 GPM flow rate. However, while this model offered an even spray, we found it to be a bit light on the pressure compared to other 1.8 GPM picks. The 6-inch rain shower head features 90 easy-to-clean rubber jets that make it a low-maintenance shower head. It is also rustproof and resists water deposits, such as limescale. Installation was easy and didn’t require any tools. We simply mounted it to the wall where the old shower head was previously located.
A BPA-free, ABS plastic construction could call into question long-term durability, but we loved the simple, modern design and the fact that it is available in six finishes to match many aesthetics.
Get the SparkPod rain shower head at Amazon or SparkPod.
The best rain shower head revitalizes a shower routine, offering a place of relaxation and a spa-like experience. While shopping, there are factors to consider before purchasing a rain shower head, such as installation, finishes, size, and more.
There are two places to install a rain shower head, either on the wall or on the ceiling.
Rain shower heads increase the sophistication and elegance of a shower. Durability is key when selecting a rain shower head; however, taking into account a particular style creates cohesion with other design elements in a bathroom. For example, the preference may be to match the rain shower head with the other bathroom fixtures, such as the shower faucet set, so nothing seems out of place.
The finish of a rain shower head is a coating that gives it a visual aesthetic but doesn’t represent the actual material used to build the shower head, which is typically ABS plastic or stainless steel. Some popular finishes are chrome, brushed nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze.
For more modern bathrooms, both matte black and brushed gold brass finishes are growing in popularity and becoming increasingly common in standard offerings.
Rain shower heads are quite a bit larger than standard shower heads so they can provide more area for the water to mimic rainfall. Rain shower heads start at 6 inches in diameter, but they can be 16 inches or more in diameter—extra-large sizes may require professional installation. The typical size for rain shower heads is between 8 and 10 inches in diameter. In general, the larger the shower head, the more the water coverage.
Some rain shower heads are combination models that also include a handheld shower head. The face of a handheld shower head is generally around 4.5 inches in diameter. These devices are intended as an extra feature to target specific body areas, such as massaging the neck or shoulders.
Water pressure is measured by the gallons per minute that flow through the shower head. Shower heads can be as low as 1.5 GPM and as high as 2.5 GPM. A lower GPM is common for eco-friendly models that conserve water, while a higher GPM naturally indicates higher water pressure.
Rain shower heads are made to produce the feel of soothing rainwater as opposed to a blast of concentrated spray. While many rain shower heads advertise that they provide high water pressure, it may not feel that way for those who are used to a standard high-pressure shower head. Typically, the larger the shower head, the weaker the pressure since the water distributes over a greater surface area. If the option of more water pressure is desired, a rain shower head and handheld shower head combination model mentioned above may provide the best of both worlds.
Regular shower heads may offer a variety of spray settings to target areas for quick and efficient showers. Since rain shower heads are designed for a luxury shower experience that is consistent and calming, they may include other spray settings geared toward relaxation, such as a mist spray that turns the water into fine water droplets or a waterfall setting that outputs the water in a thin and wide stream.
Rain shower heads offer a rainlike spray that covers more area in the shower, which can be enhanced with technology. Some rain shower heads feature aerated styles and advanced air-induction technology that help to save water without compromising water pressure. With this technology, a device fits into the shower head and fills the water droplets with small air bubbles. The shower feels just as wet as a normal shower while using about 30 percent less water.
The best rain shower head provides a relaxing shower without compromising on style, space, or water pressure. While rain shower heads may seem like an easy-to-use addition, how they work and what they require may generate some questions. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions and their answers about rain shower heads.
Choose a rain shower head that fits in an existing shower without infringing on space, allows for easy installation (unless you’re willing to hire a plumber), and offers the desired water pressure and coverage.
No, they don’t. Manufacturers have a limit on the GPM that a shower head uses, which is 2.5 GPM. Rain shower head options must all adhere to this same limit.
There is no hard-and-fast rule, but a rain shower head should be high enough for the tallest person who uses the shower to have a few inches between them and the shower head.
Many rain shower heads are an easy DIY project with standard piping. Simply remove the existing shower head and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to install the rain shower head. Some rain shower heads do not require any tools for installation; others only need a common household tool, such as a wrench.
Remove the shower head (and shower filter, if applicable) and soak it in a container of distilled white vinegar for about an hour. Then, rinse it with water and scrub any parts that need additional attention. Reattach the shower head and flush it with running water.
Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.
Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.
Kristen Mosier reviews products with an eye for functionality, design, and value. She previously worked as an editor for both Kitchen & Bath Business magazine and This Old House. During her 10 years in the field, Kristen covered new product releases and trends within these spaces. She continues to cover related topics as a regular contributor to BobVila.com.
Additional research provided by Kat Hodgins.
We’re committed to testing and reviewing products so you can make an informed decision. Advertising does not influence our product reviews and it never will. We always focus our coverage on standout products and never hesitate to mention their flaws and quirks. By using our affiliate links, you’re supporting our work and helping us continue to provide expert analysis. Find out more about our product evaluation process.
By Tony Carrick, Amy Lynch, Tiffany Lewis
By Katie Barton, Additional research provided by Carol Benton
By Glenda Taylor, Deirdre Mundorf
By Glenda Taylor, Mark Wolfe, Jodi Webb
By Glenda Taylor, Bob Beacham
Subscribe to our newsletters for the best tips, tricks, and ideas to transform your home and yard.
By signing up you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
Single Handle Tub And Shower Faucet Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made. Registration on or use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Service.