Drop-in sinks (also called overmount sinks) tend to be the cheapest, while undermount and apron-front sinks can get pricey. Drop-in sinks have the distinct advantage of being a DIY-friendly project, provided your countertops are laminate or butcher block—you shouldn’t attempt to cut through natural or engineered stone yourself. But drop-in sinks all have a lip that wraps the perimeter of the sink and clings to the countertop. That lip makes it harder to wipe crud from your countertops directly into the sink, which is the primary selling point of undermount sinks.
Undermount sinks also tend to look a little more finished and refined, but they’re definitely not a DIY job. You’ll sometimes see promotions on countertops that include a free undermount sink with purchase. That’s an ideal option because you’ll get professional installation performed by the same company that’s measuring and installing your countertops and cutting out for the sink anyway. Apron-front sinks have a tall, visible front panel (the apron) that protrudes past the front edge of your countertops. They come in drop-in and undermount varieties.