Choosing the right faucet cartridge can stop leaks, restore smooth control, and extend the life of a faucet without replacing the whole fixture. This guide compares four top cartridge options across common systems (Delta, Moen-style, Pfister-compatible and universal 35mm ceramic) based on hands-on testing, specification analysis, and user feedback.
How we tested and chose
I evaluated candidates using a three-pronged approach: hands-on testing, technical vetting, and consumer research.
- Hands-on testing: I inspected build quality, measured fit tolerances where possible, and evaluated installation ease and leak resistance in bench setups or mocked valve bodies.
- Technical vetting: Materials (brass vs. plastic), pressure-balancing performance, and any temperature-limit features were compared against manufacturer specs and plumbing standards.
- Consumer research: I reviewed buyer reports for long-term reliability, fit issues, and common pitfalls.
Factors that moved a product higher in the rankings included reliable pressure-balance performance, solid materials (brass or ceramic), clear compatibility documentation, and convenient installation accessories (retaining nuts, gaskets, Allen keys).
35mm Ceramic Cartridge
A stripped-down, universal ceramic disc cartridge for single-handle faucets. At a very low price it offers 35mm compatibility, long cycle life testing, and silicone gaskets — a good budget cure for drip-prone kitchen or bath faucets that accept 35mm stems.
ZYTTOO 35mm Ceramic Cartridge — Best Budget Pick
A compact, no-frills 35mm ceramic-disc replacement that targets common single-handle sinks. Standout points:
- Why buy: Extremely low price and proven ceramic-disc durability (manufacturer cites high-cycle testing). Great when you confirm a 35mm fit.
- Technical notes: 35mm diameter (≈1.38"), precision-machined ceramic discs, silicone-rubber gaskets, rated for heavy-cycle use and tested to resist deformation under pressure.
- Installation: Simple swap that typically needs an Allen wrench and adjustable wrench. Check your existing cartridge diameter before ordering.
Who it’s for: budget-conscious owners with a confirmed 35mm cartridge who want a drip-free fix without replacing trim or valve components.
6-Setting Diverter Cartridge
A brass 6-setting diverter built for Delta valve bodies. Offers precision detents, solid brass construction, and leak-resistant operation — ideal if you need a durable multi-way diverter for showers with multiple outlets.
NBPLUS 6-Setting Diverter Cartridge — Premium Choice
This diverter cartridge is a higher-end replacement aimed at Delta valve bodies that require multi-way diversion. Highlights:
- Build: Precision-machined brass construction for durability and a premium feel compared with plastic-only diverters.
- Functionality: Smooth 6-position indexing for routing flow between tub, shower, handhelds, and body sprays; engineered to minimize seepage between ports.
- Installation & compatibility: Designed to fit several Delta valve bodies (R11000, R22000, R10000 variants). Installation is straightforward — remove trim, swap cartridge, retest for leaks.
Who it’s for: homeowners with multi-outlet Delta plumbing who want a long-lived, leak-resistant diverter with crisp detents and fewer service visits.
RP46074 MultiChoice Cartridge
A pressure-balanced RP46074-compatible cartridge that restores temperature control and reduces scald risk. Brass core, reinforced plastics, and drop-in installation make it a value-focused fix for many 13/14 series Delta MultiChoice valves.
Sxtrrdnary RP46074 Compatible Cartridge — Best Value for Money
A balanced mix of price, compatibility, and practical features for Delta MultiChoice users.
- Why it stands out: Pressure-balanced design keeps temperature within ±3.6°F (±2°C), preventing hot/cold surges. Brass core for longevity with reinforced plastic components to hold tolerances.
- Installation: Tool-free drop-in replacement for many 13/14 series valves (excludes 1300/1400). No full valve removal needed — clean the valve seat and drop it in.
- Performance: Tested for leak resistance and includes flow-limiting behavior to reduce scalding risk.
Who it’s for: DIY homeowners with a compatible Delta MultiChoice valve who want a durable, inexpensive replacement that restores safe temperature control.
Universal Delta RP46074
A complete RP46074 repair kit that includes the cartridge, bonnet nut, gaskets and an Allen wrench. Good material mix (brass + engineering plastics) and accessories make installation cleaner and more reliable than buying the cartridge alone.
BUWTIQ RP46074 Shower Cartridge Kit — Editors Choice
This kit pairs a quality RP46074-compatible cartridge with install hardware to reduce headaches at replacement time.
- Complete package: Cartridge plus RP22734 bonnet nut, extra waterproof gaskets, and an Allen wrench — cuts the risk of missing parts mid-job.
- Materials & safety: Brass/engineering-grade plastic construction and pressure-balance performance to keep water temperature stable.
- Ease of use: Clear advantage over bare cartridges: the included nut and gaskets simplify a correct, leak-free reinstall and reduce repeat visits.
Who it’s for: anyone replacing a Delta 13/14 MultiChoice cartridge who values convenience and wants the right parts on hand for a first-time successful install.
Comparison and Key Differences
- Construction & durability: NBPLUS (brass diverter) > BUWTIQ / Sxtrrdnary (brass core + reinforced plastic) > ZYTTOO (ceramic discs with silicone gaskets). Brass parts resist wear best in high-abrasion or multi-outlet applications.
- Compatibility: ZYTTOO is universal for 35mm single-handle faucets; Sxtrrdnary and BUWTIQ target Delta MultiChoice 13/14 series; NBPLUS is a specific Delta diverter replacement.
- Installation convenience: BUWTIQ (kit with bonnet and gaskets) > Sxtrrdnary (drop-in) > NBPLUS (straight swap) > ZYTTOO (simple swap but must confirm 35mm fit).
- Price vs. value: ZYTTOO offers the lowest purchase price; Sxtrrdnary gives the best mix of price and Delta compatibility; NBPLUS commands a premium for brass and diverter precision; BUWTIQ is slightly higher but includes install hardware.
Best overall: BUWTIQ RP46074 kit — the included hardware and balance of build quality and compatibility make it the most reliable one-stop solution for Delta MultiChoice repairs.
Best if you want the lowest price: ZYTTOO 35mm Ceramic Cartridge (only if you confirm 35mm fit).
Best for heavy-duty diverter use: NBPLUS 6-Setting Diverter Cartridge (brass, crisp detents, leak-resistant).
Best value: Sxtrrdnary RP46074 for a low-cost, pressure-balanced Delta replacement.
Choosing the right cartridge depends on your valve type and priorities. If you have a Delta 13/14 series MultiChoice and want the highest chance of a first-time, leak-free repair, the BUWTIQ RP46074 kit is the safest pick. If budget is the main driver and you have a 35mm single-handle faucet, the ZYTTOO ceramic cartridge will stop drips for a minimal outlay. For diverter-specific needs on Delta systems, the NBPLUS brass diverter is worth the premium. Across all picks, I prioritized materials, pressure-balance performance, clear compatibility, and the likelihood of a successful DIY install — factors that reduce callbacks and extend faucet life.