Designing Kitchens and Bathrooms - Solid Surface Countertops Question

Hi folks. New poster here.

We are about to buy new solid surface countertops from our local Lowes, but I would like your advice on which sink to get. We can get a sink of the same material (in other words, molded, integrated with the CT, OR we can get an 18 gauge (supposedly a $400 sink) UNDERMOUNTED stainless sink for the same price as the integrated.

I am a bit afraid of the integrated type because of possible problems with the sink down the road. I believe I'd prefer to get the s. s. What do you all advise?

If you like the integrated type, would it be any more difficult to install the plumbing than an undermounted type?

I want to thank you in advance for helping me.

If you think you would rather have the SS sink, then go for it. Personally, I would rather have the solid surface sink because of the seamless construction. It's hard seamed to the countertop, as opposed to clips holding the sink with a silicone seal to keep it from leaking. It's easy to keep clean with a green Scotch Bright and Bon-Ami. Plumbing is the same as for stainless, except for using silicone to seal the drains instead of plumber's putty. Either way the faucet mounts through the deck, so holes have to be drilled to accommodate whatever faucet you choose. Most problems with solid surface sinks are either heat or impact related. When draining hot water use your faucet to run cold water in the sink to absorb heat and avoid thermal shock. Also, try not to drop the 12" cast iron skillet into the sink. If you have a garbage disposer, don't overtighten the mounting ring. I have changed out sinks where the name of the disposal manufacturer is imprinted into the sink from being installed too tight. Good luck