The Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535 offers exceptional value with its five distinct spray modes—ranging from a broad rain shower to a focused scalp rinse—plus a convenient pause setting that reduces flow without changing temperature. Wirecutter praised its intuitive toggle design and ease of cleaning, noting that it delivers luxury features typically found in much pricier models. Reviewers appreciated its simple installation process and sleek, understated design that works well in small bathrooms. While it lacks a hose for directed spraying, the showerhead's affordable price point and durable construction make it ideal for renters or those seeking a practical upgrade.
Full review
Design and Functionality
The Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535 presents a sleek, understated design that belies its sophisticated functionality. Reviewers from The New York Times noted its 'hockey puck'-like disc shape, which they found both elegant and practical. The showerhead features concentric rings of apertures that deliver five distinct spray settings: Full Body, Full Spray with Massage, Massaging Spray, Shampoo Rinsing, and Pause. The toggle mechanism for switching between settings protrudes from behind the fixture, making it easily accessible and intuitive to use. As noted by Wirecutter's Katie Okamoto, 'the five settings are intuitive to switch between using a toggle that protrudes from behind the showerhead.' The device's shallow profile allows for easy cleaning, with reviewers emphasizing that it can be submerged to remove mineral deposits, a common issue in hard water areas.
The showerhead's construction includes Delta's proprietary Touch-Clean® spray holes, which use soft rubber to allow mineral buildup to be simply wiped away rather than requiring soaking or chemical cleaners. This feature was particularly praised by reviewers who noted that it maintains the fixture's appearance and performance over time. The product is available in multiple finishes including Chrome, Stainless Steel, Matte Black, and Champagne Bronze, with the Chrome and Stainless Steel variants being most commonly reviewed. The design accommodates easy installation without special tools, requiring only standard plumber's tape, making it an attractive option for DIY enthusiasts and renters alike.
Performance Across Settings
The Delta 5-Setting Showerhead delivers a range of spray experiences that cater to different showering needs. The Full Body spray provides a broad, drenching experience that reviewers found lively without being ticklish. The Massaging Spray offers a more focused, dense spray that many users described as 'fantastic on the scalp.' The Shampoo Rinsing setting is designed to provide a strong yet controlled flow that effectively rinses hair without over-saturating. The Pause feature, which reduces water flow to a trickle, was particularly appreciated by users for tasks such as shaving or lathering. As noted by Okamoto, 'the pause setting saves water for tasks like shaving without stuttering the temperature,' and 'this setting has saved me from many a contortion.' The device's ability to maintain consistent temperature during flow adjustments was also highlighted as a key benefit.
Professional reviewers from Delta's official website confirmed that the showerhead's five settings provide a comprehensive range of spray options, from gentle to powerful. The company's own documentation states that the pause feature 'reduces water to a trickle, giving you space for shaving, lathering and other shower tasks while maintaining your temperature settings.' The effectiveness of each setting was consistently praised, with reviewers noting that the device offers features typically found in much more expensive models. The ability to switch between settings seamlessly without disrupting water pressure or temperature was also noted as a significant advantage.
Installation and Compatibility
Installation of the Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535 is straightforward, with reviewers consistently noting that it requires no special tools beyond standard plumber's tape. The device is designed to fit standard shower arm connections, making it compatible with most existing bathroom setups. According to Delta's official product documentation, the showerhead 'can be installed without special tools' and 'all you need is standard plumber’s tape, making it an easy DIY project.' The company's support materials emphasize that the fixture is designed to work with standard plumbing configurations, which makes it accessible to a broad range of users, including renters and homeowners with limited plumbing experience.
However, some users have noted that compatibility with certain older or non-standard shower arms may require minor adjustments or adapters. The product's design includes a swivel head that allows positioning of the toggle handle to user preference, which was appreciated by reviewers who found it convenient for ergonomic use. The showerhead's dimensions and weight were also noted as factors that contribute to its ease of handling during installation and daily use. The included hardware and clear instructions make it a relatively simple upgrade for most users, though those with complex plumbing setups may need to consult a professional.
User Experience and Satisfaction
User satisfaction with the Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535 is consistently high, with reviewers praising its practicality and performance. The New York Times' Katie Okamoto described it as 'surprisingly satisfying and practical,' noting that it offers 'features that many pricier fixtures do not' and that she 'fully expect to take this setup with me to my next home.' The device's ability to provide multiple spray options within a reasonable price point was a major selling point for many reviewers. The pause feature, in particular, was highlighted as a standout feature that adds convenience to the showering experience.
Delta's own customer reviews, which rate the product 4.6 out of 5 stars, reflect a similar sentiment. Users frequently mention the ease of switching between settings and the device's durability. The Touch-Clean® spray holes were specifically praised for their maintenance benefits, with users noting that the soft rubber construction allows for easy cleaning without the need for soaking or harsh chemicals. The product's compatibility with Delta's limited lifetime warranty was also seen as a positive factor, with reviewers noting that it provides peace of mind regarding long-term performance and reliability.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535 does have some limitations that reviewers have noted. One significant drawback is the lack of a hose for more ranged spraying, which some users find limiting for tasks like cleaning the shower or reaching difficult areas. As noted by Okamoto, 'the Delta showerhead doesn't have a hose for more-ranging, directed spraying,' which can be inconvenient for users who prefer more flexibility in their showering routine. This absence is particularly noticeable for those who frequently need to clean their shower or adjust spray direction for different body parts.
Another area of concern involves the device's pricing, which is positioned at a premium compared to basic showerheads but may still seem steep for budget-conscious consumers. While the product is priced competitively within its category, some reviewers have noted that the value proposition becomes less clear when compared to cheaper alternatives that offer fewer features. Additionally, the product's availability has been inconsistent, with some retailers reporting it as out of stock, which may limit access for some consumers. The lack of a built-in water filter, which many users might expect from a premium showerhead, was also mentioned as a potential shortcoming by some reviewers.
Who It's Best For
The Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535 is best suited for users who value versatility, ease of use, and a balance of performance and affordability. It's particularly appealing to renters or homeowners who want a high-quality upgrade without the complexity of installation or the expense of more advanced systems. Reviewers like Okamoto, who noted its suitability for small bathrooms, emphasize that it's ideal for those who 'don’t even have space for a tub' and still want a satisfying showering experience. The device's five settings, including the pause feature, make it especially useful for users who need flexibility in their daily routine.
The showerhead is also well-suited for individuals with hard water issues, as its Touch-Clean® spray holes make maintenance easier and more effective. Users who prioritize long-term durability and want a product backed by Delta's limited lifetime warranty will find the device particularly appealing. However, those who require more advanced features such as a built-in water filtration system or a hose for directed spraying may find the Delta 5-Setting Showerhead insufficient for their needs. The product's design and functionality make it a strong choice for those seeking a practical upgrade over basic showerheads, but it's not ideal for users looking for luxury features or extensive customization options.
Comparison to Alternatives
When compared to other showerheads in the market, the Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535 stands out for its combination of features and value. While some premium models offer additional features like integrated water filtration or more advanced spray technologies, the Delta 5-Setting Showerhead provides a solid set of five distinct spray settings at a price point that's significantly lower than many competitors. The device's ability to offer a pause feature, which many higher-end models lack, was noted as a key differentiator by reviewers. The New York Times' Wirecutter praised it for 'offering more control than models twice its price,' indicating that its feature set provides good value for money.
In contrast to basic showerheads, the Delta 5-Setting Showerhead offers significantly more functionality, including the ability to switch between multiple spray types and a pause function. However, it falls short of more specialized models that include water filtration or smart features. The product's design and build quality were compared favorably to other mid-range options, with reviewers noting that it provides 'a great choice for most' users who don't require the bells and whistles of more expensive alternatives. The lack of a hose or built-in filtration system differentiates it from some premium models, but its simplicity and reliability make it a strong contender for those seeking straightforward functionality.
Value at This Price
At a price point of around $55, the Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535 offers solid value for money, particularly when compared to more expensive alternatives that offer similar features. The New York Times' Wirecutter noted that it was 'the cheapest we recommend' and 'less than half the cost of the filtered showerhead that served me a nice helping of buyer’s remorse,' indicating that its price reflects a good balance between cost and quality. The product's inclusion of a pause feature, which many higher-end models lack, adds significant value for users who appreciate the convenience of reduced water flow during tasks like shaving or lathering.
Delta's own pricing information shows that the Chrome variant is listed at $54.90 with a suggested retail price of $78.45, indicating a 30% discount. The Stainless Steel variant is priced at $72.00 with a suggested retail of $104.15, also showing a 30% discount. These prices reflect Delta's competitive positioning in the mid-range showerhead market, where the product offers a good mix of features and performance. The company's limited lifetime warranty and WaterSense® labeling further enhance its value proposition, as these features provide long-term benefits and environmental advantages that justify the cost for many users.
Strengths
- +Five distinct spray settings including rain shower, focused rinse, and pause function
- +Intuitive toggle control located behind the showerhead for easy switching
- +Easy installation without requiring plumbing changes
- +Shallow profile allows for simple cleaning by submerging in water
- +Available in multiple finishes including polished chrome, brushed stainless steel, bronze, and matte black
Watch-outs
- −Does not include a hose for directed spraying
- −Requires separate purchase of water filter for full functionality
How it compares
The Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535 offers intuitive toggle control and easy installation without plumbing changes, unlike the American Standard Spectra Duo which is discontinued, and it's more affordable than the SR Sun Rise Wall Mounted Rain Shower Head Set which requires professional installation and is more expensive.
Who this is for
At a glance: renters or those seeking practical upgrades.
Why you’d buy the Delta 5-Setting Showerhead 52535
- Five distinct spray settings including rain shower, focused rinse, and pause function.
- Intuitive toggle control located behind the showerhead for easy switching.
- Easy installation without requiring plumbing changes.
Why you’d skip it
- Does not include a hose for directed spraying.
- Requires separate purchase of water filter for full functionality.
Rating sources
“Surprisingly satisfying and practical, we prefer this showerhead over competitors' luxury models for its basic operation and convenient features.”
“this installation will work for most standard Delta shower heads this product adds extra functionality without requiring any changes to your plumbing and the best part is that this upgrade is both quick and straightforward”
“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”
Our 4.2 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.
