Question: are satin nickel and brushed nickel the same thing?
Answer: Satin nickel is a plating. Brushed nickel (real brushed nickel) uses a tool to put small abrasions on the metal, all going in the same direction. This brushing takes the natural shine off the metal, but not as much as the satin nickel finish. Both finishes hide water or dirt spots better than polished nickel or chrome.