Sink thickness in stainless steel is measured using gauge numbers; lower numbers indicate thicker steel. For example, an 18-gauge sink is thicker and generally more durable than a 22-gauge sink.
A thicker gauge material offers increased resistance to dents, noise, and flexing under the weight of dishes or water. This contributes to a longer lifespan and a more satisfying user experience. Historically, thicker gauges were favored in commercial settings due to the higher demands of those environments, but their benefits are now widely appreciated in residential kitchens as well.