I am a fabricator. I always tell my customers to select the look they want 1st and then start evaluating different material options. Typically an exotic granite has a lot of movement (swirls, whorls, and splashes of color) while a solid surface is very mundane. Significantly different looks. re: maintenance; most granites require, at most, a reseal once a year. A large kitchen can be resealed in about 30 minutes with most of the time spent removing and then replacing all the countertop items.

It is really up to you. What look are you going for? What element will have the starring role in your kitchen? Pros/Cons for YOU of both surfaces. Personally, I had Corian Linen 10 years ago and loved it soooo much for the 7 years we lived in that home. It still looked beautiful after 7 years, and resale was NO problem. I just had Corian Sea Salt installed on the vanities in two bathrooms. I had forgotten how much I love the warmth and Matte finish of Corian. I also love that I can have it resanded to a new finish whenever I need to. I now plan to move ahead with using it in our Main Bath. So pretty! I do have quartz, a fairly uniform color, in my kitchen, and that has been great too--but definitely harder, more "clattery" than Corian.

It’s a personal choice so go with what you want, but personally I just ripped 84 sq ft if Corian out of my kitchen because I hated it. I hated the way it felt, I hated the way it scratched, I hated the look of it. That’s just me & I know several people love it. I replaced it with granite which I love the feel, look & maintenance of. Mine came with a 15 year seal. I assume I’ll reseal in half of that time. I know people also love quartz which I didn’t want for my own kitchen even though I love it in other kitchens.

Its all a personal choice & instal what will make you happy.