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.
Full review
Five distinct spray modes
The Delta 5-Setting Showerhead delivers exactly what its name promises with five distinct spray modes that users can toggle between with ease. The first setting produces a broad, drenching rain-shower-like spray that is lively without being ticklish or trickly. The remaining four settings shoot water through concentric rings of apertures, each with a progressively more focused, denser spray. Users report that the widest rinsing spray helps them shower quickly, while the tightest, strongest hair rinse spray feels fantastic on the scalp. The fifth setting functions as a pause, reducing the flow to all but a burble from the centermost ring. This pause function saves water for tasks like shaving without stuttering the temperature, and is particularly appreciated in small-footprint shower stalls where it prevents contortions and potential slipping injuries.
Intuitive toggle operation
The five spray modes are intuitive to switch between using a toggle that protrudes from behind the showerhead. Users find the toggle easy to operate and appreciate that they can easily swivel the head in its socket to position the toggling handle to their liking. The toggle mechanism allows for smooth transitions between settings, with one reviewer noting that they initially had difficulty spinning the device but found it manageable once installed. The toggle's placement behind the fixture keeps it out of the way during use while remaining accessible for adjustments. Some users report that the toggle is slightly harder to manipulate when the showerhead is not yet mounted, but once installed, the operation becomes seamless.
Design and installation simplicity
The showerhead has a simple disc shape, similar to a hockey puck, though more elegant in its functionality than that sounds—understated, sleek, and timeless. It comes in polished chrome, brushed stainless steel, bronze, and matte black finishes, allowing for aesthetic flexibility. Installation is straightforward, with no need for additional tape as the device has a gasket inside that creates a seal. One reviewer noted that the device is made of plastic, which they found slightly less durable than metal alternatives, but still functional. The lightweight design makes it easy to handle during installation, and the shallow profile allows for easy cleaning by submerging the unit to remove stubborn mineral deposits. The polished chrome finish is mostly seamless and wipes clean without too much elbow grease.
Water pressure and flow performance
The Delta 5-Setting Showerhead operates efficiently at 1.75 gpm, balancing water savings and strong performance. Users report that the full body spray provides consistent pressure, and the pause mode reduces water flow to a trickle, which is helpful for conserving water during lathering or shaving. One reviewer noted that they initially experienced reduced pressure when using the first setting, but found that spinning the toggle to other settings resolved the issue. The device is designed to withstand twice the industry standards for corrosion resistance, ensuring long-lasting shine and durability. Some users note that while the pressure is adequate for daily use, it could be stronger for those seeking a more intense shower experience.
Cleaning and maintenance ease
The shallow profile of the Delta 5-Setting Showerhead makes it easy to clean, as it can be submerged to remove stubborn mineral deposits that can clog spray apertures over time. The self-cleaning touchscreen spray holes make maintenance effortless, and users can easily wipe away lime and calcium buildup with a finger swipe. The polished chrome finish resists corrosion and tarnishing, maintaining its appearance over time. The device is designed to be easy to clean, which is particularly important in areas with hard water. Users appreciate that the unit does not require extensive maintenance and that the materials used are durable enough to withstand regular use without degrading.
Limited functionality without hose
The Delta 5-Setting Showerhead does not include a hose for more-ranging, directed spraying. Users who want to clean their shower and douse water in areas where the stream of the showerhead can't reach must switch to a focused spray setting, which quickly fills a bucket. This works fine for most users, but those who prefer more flexibility in their cleaning routine may find this limitation somewhat restrictive. The lack of a hose means that users cannot direct water to specific areas of the shower, such as corners or tiles, without using an alternative method. This is a minor inconvenience for users who value versatility in their cleaning routine, but not a dealbreaker for those who primarily use the fixed spray modes.
Durability and warranty support
The Delta 5-Setting Showerhead is built from durable plastic with a polished finish, and it is tested to withstand twice the industry standards for corrosion resistance. Users appreciate the longevity of the product and the reliability it offers. The device comes with Delta's limited lifetime warranty, which provides peace of mind for long-term use. One reviewer noted that they have purchased around 10 to 15 Delta products and had problems with only two, indicating strong customer service and product reliability. The device is lightweight and compact, making it easy to handle during installation and use. The materials used are designed to resist wear and tear, ensuring that the showerhead maintains its appearance and functionality over time.
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
- +Polished chrome finish that wipes clean with minimal effort
Watch-outs
- −No built-in water filter included (requires separate purchase)
- −Plastic construction may feel less durable than metal alternatives
How it compares
The Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535 stands out for its intuitive toggle mechanism and shallow profile, making it easier to clean than the Grohe Euphoria 260 or Kohler Forté, which both require more complex installation or have limited spray options. Unlike the Waterpik High-Pressure Dual Shower Head, it doesn't include a handheld component but offers more spray settings and better build quality.
Rating sources
“Surprisingly satisfying and practical, we prefer this showerhead over competitors' luxury models for its basic operation and convenient features.”
“i'm probably going to be using this setting this is probably going to be my my setting right here that i can shower with”
“Overall, it's an excellent, budget-friendly choice for upgrading any modern bathroom.”
Our 4.0 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
