Short definition

The three primary faucet handle configurations are single-handle, two-handle centerset (4-inch), and widespread (8-inch). Single-handle has one lever for both temperature and flow. Centerset has separate hot and cold handles four inches apart on a one-piece body. Widespread is three independent pieces with eight inches between handles.

What it is

  • Single-handle. One lever rotates and tilts to mix hot/cold and adjust flow. The internal mechanism is a cartridge, a ball valve, or a ceramic-disc pair. Cleanest aesthetic, one-handed operation, standard on modern kitchen faucets and contemporary bath designs.
  • Two-handle centerset (4-inch). Separate hot and cold handles on a 4-inch-spread one-piece body. Each handle controls one side independently. Standard on traditional bath lavatories.
  • Widespread (8-inch). Three independent pieces — left handle, spout, right handle — with 8 inches between handle centers. Higher-end aesthetic; allows custom positioning and larger spouts.

A fourth common variant is mini-widespread: 4-inch spread with three independent pieces, fitting a centerset-drilled sink but with widespread looks.

Why it matters to a homeowner

For kitchens, single-handle is almost always the right choice — one-hand operation while cooking, simple internals, fewer drips. For bathrooms, the choice is partly aesthetic (widespread looks more upscale) and partly geometry (your sink is drilled for one of these, not all three).

For tubs and showers, the choice is made for you by code: WA UPC 408.3 requires a single-handle ASSE 1016 anti-scald valve on every new shower and tub-shower. Two-handle and three-handle tub/shower setups are non-compliant in new installs and trigger the upgrade requirement during any remodel that touches the valve.

Cost-wise: single-handle bath runs $40 to $300, centerset $30 to $250, widespread $80 to $1,500.

Common variants

  • Single-handle (lever) vs. single-knob (round). Same category; different knob style.
  • Two-handle centerset vs. mini-widespread. Mini-widespread fits a centerset sink with three independent pieces.
  • Widespread (deck-mount) vs. wall-mount widespread. Wall-mount uses 8-inch pipe spacing through the wall.