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Head-to-head · Best Shower Heads

Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535 vs Kohler Forté Multifunction Showerhead K-22169

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Kohler Forté Multifunction Showerhead K-22169 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.6 vs 4.0). Kohler Forté Multifunction Showerhead K-22169 is best for: spa-like experience seekers wanting water efficiency. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535
Ranked #4 in Best Shower Heads
Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535
2 sourcesall derived$82.9as of Sep 25

The Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535 offers exceptional value with its five spray modes—ranging from a broad rain shower to a targeted scalp rinse—delivered through an intuitive toggle system. Reviewers praised its ease of cleaning due to its shallow design and sleek polished chrome finish, which resists mineral buildup. While it lacks a built-in filter, the showerhead's practical features and affordable price point make it a standout choice for those seeking versatility without premium pricing. It's ideal for renters or homeowners wanting reliable performance and longevity, though those seeking integrated filtration should consider a separate filter.

Strengths
  • — Five distinct spray settings including a powerful rain shower and focused scalp rinse
  • — Intuitive toggle mechanism for switching between settings without removing the head
  • — Shallow profile allows easy submersion for cleaning mineral deposits
Watch-outs
  • — No built-in water filter included (requires separate purchase)
$82.9 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Kohler Forté Multifunction Showerhead K-22169
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Shower Heads
Kohler Forté Multifunction Showerhead K-22169
2 sourcesall derived$171.16as of Oct 11

The Kohler Forté Multifunction Showerhead K-22169 offers a premium spa-like experience with its three spray settings and Catalyst air induction technology that enhances water pressure. Consumer Reports praised its easy installation and water-saving capabilities. While the polished chrome finish delivers a sleek look, some users noted it may show mineral buildup. This showerhead is ideal for those seeking an upgrade from basic models but may not suit users wanting a complete shower package without additional components.

Strengths
  • — Features three distinct spray modes: full coverage, pulsating massage, and silk spray
  • — Provides up to 30% water savings while maintaining strong water pressure
  • — Earned the highest scores in Good Housekeeping's hands-on testing across all spray settings
Watch-outs
  • — Requires separate purchase of shower arm and flange for installation
  • — No pause setting for shaving or lathering
  • — Mist setting gives off a mild staticky hiss
$171.16 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535

The Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535 has five spray settings, against three on the Kohler Forté Multifunction Showerhead K-22169 and the Speakman Hotel Anystream S-2005-HB. It flows at 1.75 GPM like the Kohler and costs less, though its body is plastic where the Kohler's is brass. Its shallow profile lets it be submerged to clean off mineral deposits.

Kohler Forté Multifunction Showerhead K-22169

The Kohler Forté Multifunction Showerhead K-22169 has three spray modes, against five on the Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535. It flows at 1.75 GPM like the Delta, and its 5.5-inch brass head is slightly smaller than the 6-inch heads of the Delta and the SparkPod High-Pressure Rainfall, with the Delta's made of plastic. It costs more than both, and a shower arm and flange must be bought separately.

Specs side-by-side

SpecDelta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535Kohler Forté Multifunction Showerhead K-22169
Spray Settings5three distinct sprays
MaterialPlasticBrass
FinishPolished ChromePolished Chrome
Flow Rate1.75 GPM (default)1.75 GPM
Showerhead Size6 inches5.5-in
Connection Type—1/2 inch NPT
Features—Katalyst technology
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