The thing about kitchen faucets is, you never really appreciate them until you’re elbow-deep in a sink full of caked-on lasagna and the damn thing gives out. I’ve seen it happen more times than I care to remember. Now, the Moen Align, with its sleek lines and promised “3x reach” seemed promising. Could it stand up to the daily deluge of kitchen chaos? I decided to find out.

First impressions were, frankly, solid. The brushed nickel finish felt premium; not the flimsy, fingerprint-magnet variety you sometimes encounter. Installation, always a critical factor in my book, was surprisingly straightforward. The Duralock™ Quick Connect system lived up to its name, shaving precious minutes off the usual wrestling match with supply lines. However, be warned: make sure your existing water lines are in good shape before you start. You wouldn’t want a sudden leak ruining the whole experience, would you?

The real test, of course, is performance. That extended reach, the key selling point, is indeed noticeable. I’m talking significantly more coverage, perfect for filling oversized stockpots and cleaning those awkward corners of a double sink. And the Power Boost™ technology? It’s not just marketing fluff. The increased water pressure is palpable, making short work of stubborn food residue. It’s not the only faucet on the market offering a high-pressure mode, but it’s certainly among the best. I will say, some older homes might find the water pressure a tad intense at first – you’re not used to this kind of power!

Compared to a similar, older Moen model I tested a few years back, the Align feels vastly improved. The handle action is smoother, the spray patterns are more refined, and the overall design is more contemporary. Now, I will admit: the spray head, while effective, might feel a little plasticky to some. A fully metal head would be the ultimate luxury, but, realistically, this is a minor quibble. You can live with it.

So, who’s the Align for? Well, busy home cooks, the kind that love to entertain, or anyone who just wants a better sink experience – this is your workhorse. Go ahead and upgrade your kitchen. You won’t regret it. The Moen Align is a win.