Cambridge Vs. Princeton American Standard Tub: Which Is Better?
The perfect bath can soak away your stress and troubles, and they are great for soothing sore muscles. At the end of a long day, nothing is more luxurious than relaxing in a deep bathtub.
The two most popular bathtub options are the American Standard Cambridge and the American Standard Princeton tubs. They are similar in how they’re made and how they function. What’s the difference between the two?
While both tubs belong to the American Standard DeepSoak line, the Cambridge bathtub is wider and deeper than the Princeton. Cambridge bathtubs are more expensive and more luxurious. As for design, the Princeton has a wider ledge for keeping your shower toiletries, and there are more bathtub options.
Keep reading for our complete guide on the similarities and differences between the American Standard Cambridge and Princeton bathtub models. By the end, you will know which choice is right for your dream bathroom.
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How the Cambridge and Princeton Bathtubs Are Similar
First, let’s break down the similarities. These two bathtub types have more in common than they have differences.
Both the Cambridge and Princeton collections feature multiple bathtubs, so we are going to compare and contrast the standard model from both. However, at the end of this guide, we will go over the specific bathtubs in more detail.
Material
Both collections use Americast, which is American Standard’s trademarked bathtub material. An alternative to cast iron, Americast is a light material, which means the tubs are easier to install.
Even though they are lighter, these tubs are not less durable. In fact, Americast is more durable than cast iron.
Americast also retains heat better than cast iron, so you don’t have to worry about your bathwater going cold. All American Standards bathtubs have a glossy porcelain finish.
The surface material is another American Standard trademark called StanSafe. It is a slip-resistant textured surface that is easier to get in and out of without falling. It’s made with hard quartz and porcelain.
Homeowners love the StanSafe surface because it’s also easier to clean than typical bathtubs. Plus, since the surface is so safe, you don’t need to use a mat at the bottom of the tub.
Bathtub Features
Both options have the same additional features, including a flange of tile on all three wall sides. Another shared feature that many homeowners love is the fact that the bathtubs are quieter than other brands.
Installation
As we mentioned before, Americast is a lighter material. Both Cambridge and Princeton bathtubs are easier to install than cast iron alternatives.
The tubs are also pre-finished, which makes installation faster and simpler. Some Princeton models are easier to install thanks to their above-floor rough installation design, which we’ll discuss in another section. Find out how much it costs to install a bathtub.
Maintenance
All American Standard bathtubs are easy to clean, and thanks to the StanSafe surface, you don’t have to clean them as often as other bathtubs. However, even though you can wait longer between cleanings, you should still routinely clean your tub to make it last.
If either Cambridge or Princeton tubs get damaged, you can purchase a repair kit from American Standard. The kit comes with a filler you can use on chips and cracks. It dries to match the glossy porcelain tub finish.
Warranties
All American Standards bathtubs are high-quality products that last for decades. However, for reassurance, both tub collections come with lifetime warranties.
How the Cambridge and Princeton Bathtubs Are Different
Now that we’ve examined all of the similarities, let’s talk about how the Cambridge and Princeton bathtubs are different. Then, we will discuss the different bathtub options from each collection.
By the end of this guide, you will be able to decide which collection is the right for your home.
Bathtub Size
The main difference between the Cambridge and Princeton bathtubs is the size. Each tub is five feet long, but the Cambridge tubs are wider and deeper.
The standard Princeton tub is 30 inches wide and 14 inches deep. The Cambridge tub, on the other hand, is 32 inches wide and 17 inches deep.
On paper, that may not look like a drastic difference. However, when you are in the tub, the extra three inches in depth makes a big difference. Plus, if you are looking for the roomiest option, you will love the extra width that the Cambridge tub offers.
Even though the Cambridge tubs are wider and deeper, they are both parts of American Standard’s DeepSoak trademarked line. This trademark increases the water capacity by two inches compared to standard-sized tubs.
Lastly, both collections are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Bathtub Design
Both collections have distinct designs that make them different; however, they also have some design elements in common.
For instance, all Cambridge and Princeton tubs come in the following color options:
- Arctic White
- Linen
- Bone
- White
They also all include superior lumbar support thanks to a beveled headrest. If your previous bathtub strained your neck, you won’t experience that with either American Standard bathtub collections.
As for the differences, the Princeton bathtubs include a larger luxury ledge for storing your bath and shower toiletries.
The Princeton collection also has some tubs that are designed with above-floor rough installation, which means there is extra space under the tub for piping. This makes installation easier because you don’t have to relocate your drain. There are 4 alternatives to caulking around a bathtub that are worth exploring.
Price Comparison
The final major difference between the two collections is the starting price point. Princeton bathtubs are a more economical option. They start at around $400 and go up to $1100.
Cambridge bathtubs start at almost $900 and go up to $3000. In the end, when you choose a Cambridge tub, you are paying for the extra depth and width.
A Closer Look At The Cambridge Collection
Now that we have compared the two collections, let’s take a closer look at the actual bathtub options. The Cambridge collection is smaller and only features two tubs.
The Cambridge Integral Apron Tub
This is the standard tub that we have been referring to throughout this guide. Thanks to its size, it is the most luxurious standard tub that American Standard offers. The apron front makes it ideal for comfort and relaxation.
When you buy this tub, you need to buy the universal brass drain or deep soak drain separately.
Cambridge Americast Whirlpool
This bathtub is American Standard’s most high-end tub, which is reflected in the price and experience. Turn your bath into a spa with six adjustable massaging jets.
The jets even come with volume controls so you can enjoy the silence. Even though this is a fancier bathtub, it is still lightweight and easy to install.
A Closer Look At the Princeton Collection
The Princeton collection features a wider range of bathtubs. They are more standard models than the Cambridge bathtubs, but they still provide a luxurious experience. Let’s look at three of the top models.
Princeton Americast Above-Floor Rough In Bathtub
We already mentioned that this bathtub is the easiest to install due to its above-floor design. Another feature of this tub is that it comes with two drain options. You can choose whether you want the drain on the right or left side.
Princeton Luxury Ledge Bathtub
This bathtub comes with all of the standard Princeton features, and it also includes a four-inch ledge. Homeowners like this luxury option because it makes it easy to reach your toiletries.
Princeton Luxury Ledge Americast Apron-Front Bathtub With Built-In Overflow
This Princeton tub has all of the bells and whistles. The apron-front provides ultimate comfort, and the ledge adds ease. Additionally, this bathtub includes a built-in overflow drain. Unlike Cambridge bathtubs, you won’t have to buy a drain separately for this bathtub.
Note that a couple of other Princeton models, like the above-floor rough-in design, also come with a built-in overflow drain.
Related Questions
Do the Cambridge and Princeton collections only include bathtubs?
Yes and no. The Cambridge collection only features bathtubs, which we highlighted in this guide. The Princeton collection also features trim kits, which include faucets and showerheads.
How do I clean Americast bathtubs?
American Standard recommends using hot soapy water to clean your Americast tub. They suggest using dish soap, such as Dawn or Palmolive, and a soft sponge. Do not use abrasive cleaning products or scrubbers on your bathtub.
How do I repair my Americast tub if it gets chipped?
You can order a repair kit from American Standard. It comes with a filler agent that matches the color of your tub. When it dries, it will have a glossy finish to match the porcelain surface.
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Which Collection is Better?
Both the Cambridge and Princeton bathtubs have a lot to offer, and they are very similar. However, Cambridge tubs offer a more luxurious experience thanks to their size.
On the other hand, Princeton tubs are more cost-effective and still include several luxurious features. In the end, it comes down to your needs, desires, and budget.
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