Alternatives to Grohe/Hans showers?

ThisIsWeird

Hi.
Looking for a shower mixer for a cubicle. Dual type - rain head and handset. Not fussed whether concealed or surface-mount, but looking for the best controls, for both aesths and ergs.
Ie, I don't like 'bar' type, not just for their 'basic' aesthetics, but particularly for the turnie knobs at each end layout.
Anyone know of good alternatives - happy to entertain the two big names above, as long as they offer something tangible other than their name.
I'm guessing that a different type of control to 'bar' will likely mean a concealed mounting, and that's fine.
Must have a flow control - be able to adjust flow, and not just on/off. But really looking for a good design - obvious operation, ergonomics, a bit of style. 
Anything impressed anyone?
Thanks.

Emmia

We have a Crosswater shower, flat panel with two knobs for the rainhead and handheld.

FlaatusGoat

Type your commentHi there,

When it comes to selecting a shower mixer for your cubicle with dual functionality (rain head and handset), there are several excellent alternatives to the traditional 'bar' type that offer both aesthetic appeal and ergonomic functionality. Here are some top recommendations excluding Hansgrohe and Grohe:

### Recommendations:

1. **Aqualisa Midas MD110S**:
   - **Type**: Surface-mount.
   - **Features**: This mixer shower offers a modern design with easy-to-use controls. It includes a flow control feature and is designed to provide a powerful shower experience. The ergonomic design ensures comfortable operation².

2. **Triton Dual Mixer Showers**:
   - **Type**: Surface-mount.
   - **Features**: Triton offers a range of dual mixer showers with push-button controls and diverters. These models blend style and performance, allowing you to easily switch between the rain head and handset or use both simultaneously. The flow control feature ensures you can adjust the water volume to your preference³.

3. **Mira Atom EV**:
   - **Type**: Surface-mount.
   - **Features**: Known for its minimalist design, this model offers precise control over water temperature and flow. The ergonomic handles are designed for ease of use, and the installation provides a clean, modern look².

### Key Considerations:
- **Thermostatic Control**: Ensures a consistent water temperature, preventing sudden changes that can lead to scalding.
- **Flow Control**: Look for models that allow you to adjust the water flow, not just turn it on and off.
- **Ergonomics**: Choose designs with intuitive controls that are easy to operate, even with wet hands.
- **Aesthetics**: Opt for sleek, modern designs that complement your bathroom decor.

These options should provide you with a good balance of style, functionality, and safety. If you have any further questions or need more detailed advice, feel free to ask!

Best regards,
Derrick

ThisIsWeird

Fab! I'll check these out.
Also seen the Mira digital models. 
Seems there's a fair selection - cheers.

Rodders53

Not an alternative to those brands but if you don't want the exposed 'bar end' controls:  we've just had this Grohe unit https://www.screwfix.com/p/grohe-euphoria-smartcontrol-260-mono-hp-rear-fed-exposed-chrome-thermostatic-shower-system/754xt installed in our ensuite.
Surface mount although the hot and cold water supply pipes are hidden in the wall.

Really excellent. 
Easy to use controls with excellent temperature consistency and a wide choice of spray patterns.  (Almost half the RRP from the Grohe website, at Screwfix and other retailers).
Large knob for temperature setting.  Two small knobs: push-button for on/off, and same knob adjusts the flow rate for each head really simply. 

Chose Grohe as have used their showers in many hotels we frequent and all seemed to be good for stable temperature control.

ThisIsWeird

Rodders53 said:

Not an alternative to those brands but if you don't want the exposed 'bar end' controls:  we've just had this Grohe unit https://www.screwfix.com/p/grohe-euphoria-smartcontrol-260-mono-hp-rear-fed-exposed-chrome-thermostatic-shower-system/754xt installed in our ensuite.
Surface mount although the hot and cold water supply pipes are hidden in the wall.

Really excellent. 
Easy to use controls with excellent temperature consistency and a wide choice of spray patterns.  (Almost half the RRP from the Grohe website, at Screwfix and other retailers).
Large knob for temperature setting.  Two small knobs: push-button for on/off, and same knob adjusts the flow rate for each head really simply. 

Chose Grohe as have used their showers in many hotels we frequent and all seemed to be good for stable temperature control.

Thanks. I'd missed that one.

So, each wee control has its own flow adjustment, and then the big one is temp? The wee knobs are knurled - nicely grippy even with soapy hands?

ThisIsWeird

I need to ask - what makes a Hans or Grohe multiple times the price of, say, a Triton? Is everything that much better - such as the handset holder?

I picked up a new Triton Leona for myself (the fancy shower of this thread ain't for me... ) on eBay for around £70, roughly a third-to-half the new price. I didn't know what to expect, but it's as solid and heavy as a solid and heavy thing, smooth, heavily-chromed, and no obvious cheapness. A Grohe equiv would be at least twice, more like three times the price. Why?

Emmia

ThisIsWeird said:

Rodders53 said:

Not an alternative to those brands but if you don't want the exposed 'bar end' controls:  we've just had this Grohe unit https://www.screwfix.com/p/grohe-euphoria-smartcontrol-260-mono-hp-rear-fed-exposed-chrome-thermostatic-shower-system/754xt installed in our ensuite.
Surface mount although the hot and cold water supply pipes are hidden in the wall.

Really excellent. 
Easy to use controls with excellent temperature consistency and a wide choice of spray patterns.  (Almost half the RRP from the Grohe website, at Screwfix and other retailers).
Large knob for temperature setting.  Two small knobs: push-button for on/off, and same knob adjusts the flow rate for each head really simply. 

Chose Grohe as have used their showers in many hotels we frequent and all seemed to be good for stable temperature control.

Thanks. I'd missed that one.

So, each wee control has its own flow adjustment, and then the big one is temp? The wee knobs are knurled - nicely grippy even with soapy hands?

As well as our Crosswater we have a similar Hansgrohe in the bathroom. The Crosswater and the HG doesn't have knurled /grippy knobs, but there is a stick bit sticking out of the main knob that you can use to help turn it - but I've never had an issue personally with the turning.