Are you looking to upgrade your shower head but don't know where to start? Discover what our plumbing professionals want you to know about the different types of shower heads.

Here, you'll learn: the different types of shower heads, their pros and cons, and how to gauge which shower head is best for you. I'll be highlighting the main shower head types, specifically covering replacement shower heads that you can literally upgrade on your own in a matter of minutes.

*Heads Up* You'll be getting real insight into the differences, especially what manufacturers and other distributors don't want you to know. Let's Go!

Why Trust HammerHead® Showers

At HammerHead® Showers (formerly The Shower Head Store), we live and breathe everything about showers. We started this company after years in the plumbing industry, frustrated by cheap plastic fixtures that broke too quickly and never delivered a great experience. That’s why we focus on designing and manufacturing solid metal shower heads built for durability, performance, and style. 

Every day, our team tests spray patterns, flow rates, and finishes to make sure we’re giving you not only the right shower head, but products that truly transform your shower. So when we share advice about different types of shower heads, you can trust it comes straight from the people who build, test, and use them.

Top 7 Types of Shower Heads for Your Bathroom

When you’re ready for a bathroom upgrade, changing out your shower head is one of the easiest things you can do. Updating your shower head will not only give your shower a fresh look, but can significantly improve the functionality of your shower, too.

Of course, the impact a shower head has on your bathroom depends on the type of shower head you choose for a replacement. From different materials and colors to different functions and features, you’ll have many options to choose from when picking the best shower head for your space.

In today’s post, we’ll be taking a closer look at 7 different kinds of shower heads and all the styles available for each:

1. Fixed Shower Heads
2. Rain Shower Heads
3. Handheld Shower Heads
4. Dual Shower Heads
5. Filtered Shower Heads
6. Low-Flow Shower Heads
7. High-Pressure Shower Heads

 

1. Fixed Shower Heads

A fixed shower head (or wall mount shower head) is one of the most common types of shower heads, and what most people have in their home. It's no-frills and typically smaller in size, with diameters from 5 inches or less. For those of you who just want solid pressure from a shower head without all the bells and whistles, this is the way to go.

If you want to get a little bit fancier, you can look for a multi-function fixed shower head. The multi-function type of shower head allows you to change the spray patterns, usually ranging from a very concentrated massage setting to a more gentle wide spray setting. 

Here is our Best Selling Fixed Shower Head:

2. Rain Shower Heads (Rainfall and Waterfall Shower heads)

While rain shower heads are essentially fixed shower heads, they are much larger in size. Ranging from 6 inches and up, you can significantly increase the coverage in your shower. The wide water spray from the extra coverage is sure to leave you feeling warmer in the shower.  

Rain shower heads are one of the more luxurious types of shower heads available, and can transform your shower into a spa-like experience.

Like most other types of shower heads, you have several different options when buying a rain shower.

A. Mounting From The Wall Or The Ceiling

Rain shower heads can be mounted from the wall or from the ceiling. You can easily install wall mounts in a matter of minutes, like most shower heads.

That said, if you are going to have the full effect of the ceiling mount rainfall shower head, you'll need to consult with a plumber and/or contractor to run the pipes through your ceiling in the shower.

Don't worry though, if you really want that rainfall shower head experience coming from your ceiling but don't have the time or money to have the plumbing done, there is still a solid compromise – using an overhead shower arm. 

At HammerHead® Showers, we offer rain shower bundles that come with an overhead shower arm, so you have everything you need in one easy-to-install set.

These shower arms extend between 12 and 16 Inches from your wall and sometimes even raise the height of the actual shower head. That makes it possible for you to stand underneath the rainfall shower as if it were coming from the ceiling.

In the United States, the standard connection for shower heads is 1/2" NPT. Pretty much every shower head will use this size. As long as you have the shower arm plumbing coming from your ceiling or your wall, you can choose any shower head you want and mount it wherever you want.

B. Single Function Versus Multi-Function

The next step is deciding between a single-function or multi-function rain shower head. To make it simple, if you are going to mount your rain shower from your ceiling, go for a single function. It will likely be hard to change the settings if your shower head is mounted 3-4 feet above your head.

If, on the other hand, you are mounting your rain shower head from your wall or have a fairly low ceiling, deciding which is the best rain shower head is up to you. Do you just want one full flow, or prefer to adjust to a more concentrated spray? At HammerHead® Showers, we're all about the single-function spray, focusing in on the one spray that's actually giving you the most satisfaction – the rainfall spray! 

C. Larger The Diameter, Weaker The Pressure

With new water flow regulations, manufacturers restrict the output of water to a maximum of 2.5 Gallons Per Minute (GPM), going as low as 1.5 GPM for some of the more serious eco performance shower heads.

That means whether you choose an 8-inch rain shower head or a 12-inch rain shower head, you'll get the same amount of water output. Larger rain showers are great, but you need to keep the decreased pressure in mind if you are into more of a strong flow. The rainfall is all about relaxing under large water droplets, not getting blasted by a concentrated spray.

The newest of our rain showerheads, the 8-inch square rain shower head, not only offers wider coverage than standard round rain showers, it also features our custom-engineered nozzles that pressurize the water, ensuring you get the highest-pressure spray possible.

Still not enough pressure? You can always consult with a plumber or contractor to see if your house pressure can be adjusted. These flow rates are typically based off 60 PSI, meaning if the pressure is less in your house, the flow rate has already been restricted.

D. Styles of Rain Shower Heads

• Round Rain Shower Heads: Round or circular rain heads are a classic shower head option. They offer an even spray pattern, which many people find relaxing. Round rain heads also tend to be a safe bet for balancing coverage and pressure — especially in more constrained shower plumbing setups.

• Square Rain Shower Heads: Square rain heads deliver a more modern, bold aesthetic. The straight edges and corners allow slightly more coverage area, especially when compared to a round head of the same width.

• Rain Shower Size Considerations: One of the biggest choices you'll make is how large your rain head should be. HammerHead® offers both 8″ and 12″ rain heads, and each size offers different trade-offs. One of the most common questions we get at HammerHead® Showers is whether to go with an 8-inch rain shower head or a 12-inch rain shower head. Here’s the quick breakdown:

• For Wall Mounts: If your shower arm comes out of the wall, stick with the 8-Inch Solid-Metal Rain Shower Head. It’s designed to deliver that relaxing, rain-like coverage without sacrificing water pressure. Larger rain heads (like the 12-inch) rely on gravity for even flow, so when they’re mounted at an angle, the water can lose intensity. Pair your 8-inch rain head with the 7-Inch Shower Arm and Flange for the ideal angle and coverage.

• For Ceiling Mounts: If you’re going for that true spa experience with water falling straight down, the 12-Inch Solid-Metal Rain Shower Head is the way to go. Mounted overhead, the larger face gives you maximum coverage and that luxurious rainfall feel you can’t quite get from a wall-mounted setup. Because it’s installed above you, gravity helps maintain a consistent, gentle flow across the full surface area.

Here's our Best Selling Ceiling Mount Shower Arm and Rainfall Shower:

12 Inch Ceiling Mount Shower Arm	12" Rain Shower Head

 

Here's our Best Selling Overhead Shower Arm Mount:

16" Overhead Shower Arm	12” Overhead Rain Shower Bundle

Here's our Best Selling Wall Mount Rainfall Shower Head:

7-Inch Shower Arm and Flange	8" Rainfall Shower Head

 

-> Check out our in-depth article here <-  

3. Handheld Shower Heads

No doubt, handheld shower heads are the most popular type of shower head on the market. Whether you are building out a new shower or just need to replace your existing shower head, this is the most versatile option.

Handheld shower heads are usually sold in packages which include a detachable hose and holder to mount the shower head. You get all of the freedom to leave the shower head in place like a fixed shower head or take it off the wall to rinse soap off your body, clean the shower walls, fill up a bucket outside the shower, or whatever purposes you may find. 

These shower heads with detachable hoses are also great for bathing kids or dogs, and for those who are recovering from an injury or are elderly and need to sit on a shower bench. Simply pull the shower head off the wall and control where the water goes. 

Types of Handheld Shower Heads

You have a variety of handheld options when it comes to choosing a shower head.  Some of the most common types of handheld shower heads on the market include: 

• Single Spray Handheld: Single spray units deliver one consistent spray pattern - often high pressure. This simplicity means fewer moving internal parts (and thus fewer failure points), making them ideal for reliability and maintenance ease. The Solid-Metal 1-Spray Handheld Shower Head Set from HammerHead®, for example, features a 2.5 GPM single-spray unit.

• Multi-Spray Handheld: Multi-spray (also known as multi-function) handheld shower heads let you toggle among different spray modes, such as massage, wide, mist, etc., from one fixture. They offer versatility, letting each user tailor their experience. The HammerHead® 3-Spray Handheld Shower Head offers the reliability of the 1-Spray shower head with the flexibility of a multi-function handheld.

• Dog Shower Head: Handheld shower heads are ideal if you’re using a shower to wash your dog (or kids!). The HammerHead® 3-Spray Handheld Shower Head with Pause Control is the ultimate pet shower head. In addition to three spray modes, this shower head comes complete with a trickle valve to reduce the flow of your water (perfect for when you’re scrubbing your furry friend) and an extra-long 108” meta hose for easier maneuvering.

Know What You Are Getting

While most hand held shower heads are sold in sets with all the needed pieces, there are still many options to buy only the shower head, which may not include the hose and holder. Be sure to double-check with the manufacturer or distributor.

All of our HammerHead Showers® solid metal handheld shower heads come with a 72" shower hose (a full foot longer than the industry standard!) and a durable, brass shower holder that will not wear out over time. 

We also offer a variety of handheld shower bundles that include everything from a slide bar mount or shower filter to an extra-long shower hose or shower valve to upgrade your showering experience.

Shower Head & Slide Bar Bundle	Handheld Shower Head & Filter Bundle

Handheld Shower Head, Valve & Trim	Shower Head, Valve, Trim & Tub Spout

Upgrading Your Handheld Shower Hose

While a 60" hose is what most shower heads come with, we are all too aware that it doesn't always cut it. But not only can the hose be too short, you may find it's not flexible enough, or you want a different color. 

Again, like most things relating to shower heads, you can easily upgrade this part in just a matter of minutes (with most shower heads on the market). An extended 108-inch shower head hose could be exactly what your shower needs. The connection size is 1/2" NPT to fit shower heads and accessories sold in the USA.

Hands down, the most important feature to look for is the material. I strongly recommend a metal hose as it provides the flexibility and durability that you'd hope for in a hand held shower head. 

Here's 2 of our Best Selling Hand Held Shower Heads:

This was our very first shower head, and it continues to stand the test of time. Available in the industry max 2.5 GPM or in California Compliant 1.75 GPM. 

 

4. Dual Shower Head (or Combo Shower Head)

What happens when a hand held shower head meets a fixed shower head? A dual shower head is born! In fact, companies are getting so creative these days that there are even fixed shower heads paired with rain shower heads too!

For those truly looking for a great way to upgrade their shower experience on their own, this is the way to go. Even more good news – these combination shower head kits typically come with all the components for installation. You'll get the fixed/rain shower head, hand held shower head, hose and diverter mount. 

Dual Shower Head Types

• Single-Spray Dual Shower Heads: A single-spray (or 1-spray) dual shower head combo pairs a rain shower head with a handheld for the best of both worlds. In the HammerHead® 1-Spray Dual Shower Head, for example, each shower head has one high-pressure spray mode for a simple yet versatile setup. Switch from the focused handheld stream to the full, immersive rain shower, or run both at once when you’re ready to turn the pressure all the way up.

• Multi-Function Dual Shower Heads: Multi-function combo shower heads let you customize your shower experience with different spray settings to match your mood, from a gentle mist to a focused massage. The HammerHead® 3-Spray Dual Shower Head, for example, combines a powerful rain shower with a handheld that features three unique spray modes, giving you total control.

1-Spray Dual Shower Head Set	3-Spray Dual Shower Head Set

Drawbacks Of Dual Shower Heads

Similar to very large rain shower heads, these 2-in-1 shower heads lose pressure the larger they are. Something many people ask us at HammerHead® Showers is, "Can I run both shower heads at the same time?". And the answer is...sometimes. If that's a feature that you want, you'll have to check the specs to make sure.

But there is one drawback of dual shower heads. As of 2017, the highest flow rate you'll find on the market is 2.5 GPM. That means if you run both the fixed and hand held shower head at the same time you will get 1.25 GPM flow out of each shower head. That's because the flow restrictor is often in the diverter holder, not the individual shower heads. Nevertheless, they are still super fun and will give you the full 2.5 GPM flow when you are running one shower head at a time.

If you can’t find the dual shower head you want in a pre-built kit, don’t be afraid to build your own! There are lots of ways you can design a DIY dual shower head to update your shower with your favorite handheld and rain shower heads.

Here's our Best Selling Dual Shower Head Combo:

Solid Metal Dual Shower Head Combo

5. Filtered Shower Heads

Sick of dry skin or frizzy hair? You need to consider a filtered shower head. These shower heads can greatly reduce the amount of chlorine, heavy metals, and scale that come through your shower head.

The filtration media used inside of the filter is by far the most important factor to consider. Many companies advertise impeccable coverage thanks to loads of stages, but most of the materials they use won't do a thing to improve the quality of your water. 

When you want a filtered shower head, you have two primary options: buying a new shower head with built-in filter or adding a filter to your existing shower.

Buying a New Filtered Shower Head

A filtered shower head is a great way to upgrade your shower if you’re in the market for a new shower head. 

Classic filters act by blocking or trapping contaminants - think of screens, mesh, or activated carbon cartridges. But in a high-flow, warm shower environment, those trap-based systems often clog, break down, or lose effectiveness over time.

HammerHead® takes a better route. Instead of just blocking particles, our filter media chemically converts harmful compounds into safer forms. That gives you sustained performance, less clogging, and better results in the shower.

The solid-metal filtered shower head from HammerHead® is packed with over 450 grams of the highest-quality filtration media and converts free chlorine and some combined chlorines into a harmless chloride salt while also removing heavy metals.

Adding A Filter Without Changing Your Shower Head

While there are a variety of shower heads that have a filter built-in, you may want to keep your existing shower head or upgrade to a different one. That's no problem. You'll just need to look for an inline filter, like this model by HammerHead® Showers.

You simply attach this filter onto your shower arm pipe and then you can attach whichever shower head you'd like onto the threading at the end of it. Very easy! 

Maintaining a Shower Filter 

Another thing to consider is buying filter replacements. It's recommended that you change your shower filter every 3 months at maximum. If your water is worse or you have a larger household using the shower head, you'll want to change it more frequently. Replacing the filter cartridge is a breeze and can be done without needing a plumber.

Do Shower Head Filters Actually Work?

So, do shower head filters really work? Yes, but only if they’re built right. Many budget or “miracle” filters rely on gimmicks like dozens of thin “stages” or carbon media that stop working once the water gets hot. The result? Weak filtration and wasted money. 

Real results come from filters designed for high-temperature, high-flow conditions, using proven materials like KDF and Calcium Sulfite. These media chemically transform chlorine and trap heavy metals before they ever reach your skin or hair—no marketing fluff required.

The key is to look past the flashy packaging and focus on the science. A well-built shower filter with durable, solid-metal housing and high-quality filter media will actually reduce chlorine, sediment, and impurities while maintaining strong water pressure. Skip the gimmicks and vitamin-C fads; when engineered correctly, shower filters absolutely work—and they make a noticeable difference in how your hair and skin feel after every shower.

Here's our Best Selling Filtered Shower Head:

HammerHead® Showers Solid Metal Shower Head Filter

 Want To Learn More About Filtered Shower Heads?

-> Check out this article here <-

6. Low-Flow Shower Head

In some parts of the U.S. (notably California), building codes and water-use regulations require low-flow shower heads. This type of shower head limits water delivery (typically to around 1.75–2.0 gallons per minute) to conserve water. Other homeowners may choose low-flow shower heads because they want to lessen their environmental impact or even save money on their water bill.

But while low-flow shower heads typically do a good job of saving water, they can impact user experience. A common complaint about these shower heads is that the water restriction results in low water pressure or uneven water coverage in the shower.

At HammerHead®, our low-flow shower heads are made with solid metal and pressurized nozzles that optimize the flow of water, reducing the amount of water used while still maintaining a strong and even spray.

Types of Low-Flow Shower Heads

At HammerHead®, we offer a wide variety of low-flow shower heads, so you can have the best of both worlds: a compliant, water-saving unit and a great shower.

• Low-Flow Fixed Shower Heads: Fixed units, like the HammerHead® 2-Inch Low Flow Shower Head, are the simplest low-flow option. Because the head is stationary, it’s easier to fine-tune internal flow paths to maintain good pressure and spray shape.

• Low-Flow Rain Shower Heads: Rain-style low-flow models, like the HammerHead® 8-Inch Low Flow Rain Shower Head, offer a spa-like experience while still adhering to water limits.

• Low-Flow Handheld Shower Heads: Handheld low-flow designs, like the HammerHead® Low Flow 3-Spray Handheld, offer flexibility without sacrificing regulatory compliance. They balance hose length, spray modes, and pressure.

• Low-Flow Dual Shower Heads: Dual systems, including both low-flow rain and handheld units, are a tougher engineering challenge because both heads share limited volume, and each branch must maintain usable pressure. The HammerHead® Low Flow 3-Spray Dual Shower Head is designed to ensure that switching between heads or running both still maintains strong water pressure.

• Low-Flow Filtered Shower Heads: With a filtered unit, you get the water-saving benefits of low-flow and safer water. HammerHead’s 1-Spray Low-Flow Handheld Filtered Shower Head, for example, filters out chlorine, heavy metals and more -all without sacrificing water usage or pressure.

Here's our Best Selling Low-Flow Shower Head:

3-Spray Low-Flow Handheld Shower Head Set

7. High-Pressure Shower Head

If you’ve ever struggled with a weak trickle of water in the shower, you know why high-pressure shower heads exist. These shower heads are engineered to maximize water force, making it easier to rinse shampoo, conditioner, or soap.

High-pressure shower heads are especially helpful in homes with naturally low water pressure or older plumbing systems. They use smaller spray nozzles, pressurizing designs, or concentrated flow patterns to intensify the feel of the water without increasing actual water usage.

Types of High-Pressure Shower Heads

At HammerHead®, you’ll find high-pressure options in a variety of styles to fit your needs, including:

• High-Pressure Fixed Shower Heads: Fixed models, like the HammerHead® 2-Inch High-Pressure Shower Head, are compact and powerful. Their smaller size helps concentrate water flow, creating a strong, steady spray.

• High-Pressure Rain Shower Heads: If you want spa-like coverage with the force of a high-pressure stream, a model like the HammerHead® 8-Inch Square High-Pressure Rain Shower Head gives you both. The broad faceplate ensures full-body coverage, while the nozzle design keeps the flow strong and even.

• High-Pressure Handheld Shower Heads: For flexibility plus power, the HammerHead® Solid-Metal High-Pressure Handheld Shower Head Set provides a targeted spray you can move where you need it most. These handhelds are especially useful for rinsing hair, cleaning the shower, or helping kids and pets at bath time.

• High-Pressure Filtered Shower Heads: For households that want cleaner water and stronger spray, HammerHead® also offers filtered high-pressure models, such as the Shower Head Filter with 1-Spray Handheld Set.

 

Here's our Best Selling High-Pressure Shower Head:

2-Inch Fixed High-Pressure Shower Head

 

Common Questions About the Different Types of Shower Heads

How do I know which shower head I need?

It really comes down to your different preferences and what you want out of your shower. If you’re looking to save water or meet state requirements (like in California), go with a low-flow model. If you’re fighting weak water pressure, a high-pressure shower head is your best bet. Want a refreshing shower with spa vibes? Choose a rain shower head. Need versatility for rinsing, cleaning, or family use? Handhelds or dual systems are the way to go. At HammerHead®, we design each type to maximize performance, so you don’t have to sacrifice pressure, coverage, or durability no matter which you choose.

Can any shower head fit on any shower?

Yes — almost always. Shower arms in the U.S. use a standard ½-inch pipe thread, which means any HammerHead® shower head will screw right on without special adapters. The only real choice is style: fixed, handheld, rain, or dual. And if you’re ever unsure, we’ve got installation guides and support to walk you through it.

How often should you replace a shower head?

A quality solid-metal shower head, like those from HammerHead®, can last for decades with basic care. Many people only replace shower heads when they’re clogged, leaking, or simply ready for an upgrade. Plastic models often need replacing every couple of years, but our metal construction and lifetime warranty mean you won’t be on that cycle. We do recommend occasional cleaning to prevent mineral buildup and keep your spray pattern strong.

Do I need a plumber to replace a shower head?

Nope — not in most cases. Swapping out a shower head is one of the easiest bathroom upgrades you can make. All you need is a wrench (sometimes just hand-tightening is enough), a little plumber’s tape, and a few minutes. Every HammerHead® shower head comes with straightforward instructions, and most customers tell us it takes less than 10 minutes to go from box to shower.

Choosing Between Different Types of Shower Heads

With so many options for shower head types, it can be hard to know which is right for you and your bathroom. If you’re feeling stuck, it’s important to focus on a few key factors when comparing models.

Shower Head Function

What do you want or need your shower head to do? Are you after a luxurious experience? Then a rain shower head might be right for you. Do you need to clean kids or pets? Then a hand held shower head is likely your best bet.

Shower Head Style

While functionality is key, style is pretty important too. What do you want your shower head to look like? Some types of shower heads may only be available in a traditional chrome. Others may come in finishes like gold, matte black or antique brass.

Shower Head Material

What a shower head is made of – and the company that makes it – should also be considered when trying to choose between different types of shower heads. Here at HammerHead® Showers, we recommend solid-metal shower heads because of their long-lasting quality and durability.

Shower Head Compatibility

If you’re doing the work of updating a shower head yourself, then you’ll want to make sure you’re armed with the information you need to get the job done. For example, are shower heads universal? Thankfully, yes. In the U.S. virtually every shower head has the same connection threading size, at ½” NPT.

Be sure to read the installation instructions for the shower head you choose, too, and confirm whether you’ll be able to do the upgrade yourself or if you’ll need the help of a plumber.

Upgrade Your Shower Today

Now that you're armed with some solid information on the different types of shower heads, it's time to decide which one is best for you.

If you have any questions, please email us at contact@theshowerheadstore.com or contact our customer service team at (854) 888-9231. 

We're here to help you with any questions you have about one of the easiest and most impactful upgrades in your house: your shower head!