If you want to set hot and cold water with two separate handles, check the control layout carefully: a shower with separate temperature and volume controls is not the same as one with separate hot and cold handles. Of these five picks, the Aqua Vista is the only complete two-handle tub-and-shower set. The Delta kits separate temperature and flow adjustments, while the Hibbent and Kohler products are showerhead upgrades rather than hot-and-cold controls.
Below, you’ll find the best fit for a traditional two-handle setup, plus alternatives for shoppers who want more control over shower temperature, water flow, or spray options.
| Product | Control type | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Delta Ara 17 Series Diverter Trim Kit | Separate temperature and volume controls | A multi-outlet shower with a sleek integrated diverter |
| Delta Lahara 17 Series Shower Trim Kit | Separate temperature and volume controls | A straightforward Delta trim upgrade |
| Aqua Vista Two-Handle Tub and Shower Set | Separate hot and cold handles | A traditional two-handle replacement |
| Hibbent Rainfall Shower Head and Handheld | Shower spray selection; no hot-and-cold valve controls | Adding spray choices and a handheld shower |
| KOHLER Awaken 2-in-1 Shower Combo | Shower spray selection; no hot-and-cold valve controls | A coordinated showerhead and handshower |
Table of Contents
Our Picks: Best Shower With Separate Hot And Cold Controls reviews
Delta Ara 17 Series: Integrated Diverter for a Multi-Outlet Shower
The Delta Ara is a trim kit for a shower valve, not a complete standalone faucet set. Its top handle adjusts temperature and water volume separately, while the integrated lower handle controls a six-setting diverter. The diverter offers three individual positions and three shared positions, so it can direct water among compatible shower outlets.
The included pressure-balanced cartridge is designed to help keep the shower temperature steady when water pressure changes elsewhere in the home. That is different from having one handle for hot water and another for cold: the Ara offers temperature and flow adjustment through a dual-function handle.
Its chrome finish and integrated layout suit a modern remodel, especially if you want to control more than one shower outlet. Plan the plumbing before ordering: the trim is sold separately from the recommended R22000 rough-in valve. Owners have noted that the temperature knob can feel less substantial than the rest of the trim, so consider that detail if handle feel is a priority.
Pros:
- Adjusts temperature and water volume separately
- Six diverter settings include individual and shared outlet positions
- Pressure-balanced cartridge helps limit sudden temperature changes
- Corrosion-resistant chrome finish with a lifetime limited warranty
Cons:
- Requires a separately purchased rough-in valve
- Does not provide separate hot and cold handles
Verdict: Choose the Ara if you want an integrated diverter and separate temperature and flow adjustment; choose another option if two distinct hot and cold handles are essential.
Delta Lahara 17 Series: Simple Independent Temperature and Flow Adjustment
The Lahara is a wall-mounted Delta shower trim kit with a dual-function handle. It lets you set the temperature separately from the water volume, which can be handy if you prefer to leave the temperature where you like it and adjust the flow when turning the shower on or off.
A pressure-balanced cartridge is included to help reduce sudden temperature shifts when pressure changes in the hot or cold supply. The stainless finish gives the trim a restrained look that can work with a range of bathroom styles. The kit is not a complete valve assembly, however; Delta’s MultiChoice rough-in valve must be purchased separately.
This is a simpler alternative to the Ara if you do not need its integrated six-setting diverter. It still does not have dedicated hot and cold handles. Some owners also find the temperature-control limiter less obvious to set during installation, so follow the instructions and check the finished-wall opening before assembling the trim.
Pros:
- Temperature and water volume are adjusted independently
- Pressure-balanced cartridge is included
- Stainless finish suits many bathroom styles
- Backed by Delta’s lifetime limited warranty
Cons:
- Rough-in valve is sold separately
- Not a two-handle hot-and-cold control
Verdict: The Lahara is a good fit for a Delta-compatible shower when you want separate temperature and flow adjustment without the Ara’s integrated multi-outlet diverter.
Aqua Vista Two-Handle Set: The Direct Match for Separate Hot and Cold
For shoppers who mean separate hot and cold controls literally, the Aqua Vista is the closest match in this group. This complete tub-and-shower kit has two handles and includes a showerhead, tub spout, valve trim, and related components. Its traditional operation lets you adjust hot and cold water through separate handles rather than using one dual-function control.
The set has a chrome finish, a brass valve body, and interchangeable acrylic handles for a more traditional clear-handle look or a standard handle configuration. That can be useful if you are replacing an older two-handle arrangement and want a familiar style. The product is described for common residential tub-and-shower plumbing setups, but compatibility still depends on your existing plumbing.
Compared with the Delta trim kits, this is the more direct choice for separate hot and cold handles and it includes more of the visible tub-and-shower components. The tradeoff is less refined temperature control than a modern pressure-balanced design may offer. Professional installation is recommended, and you should confirm the valve and plumbing fit before starting a replacement.
Pros:
- Two separate handles for hot and cold water
- Includes a showerhead, tub spout, and valve trim
- Brass valve body
- Includes optional acrylic handles
Cons:
- Compatibility with existing plumbing should be checked carefully
- Professional installation is recommended
Verdict: Pick the Aqua Vista if separate hot and cold handles are your main requirement and you need a tub-and-shower set, provided its plumbing setup suits your bathroom.
Hibbent Rainfall and Handheld Shower: Flexible Spray Options
The Hibbent is a showerhead and handheld upgrade, not a hot-and-cold valve or faucet set. Its rainfall head and handheld sprayer offer multiple spray choices, with a diverter to select the handheld, rainfall head, or both. A pause setting is also listed, and the handheld has several spray modes for tasks such as rinsing the shower or bathing a pet.
The included extension arm and adjustable handheld holder add flexibility to the setup. Owners often appreciate being able to use the two shower outlets together and adjust the handheld angle. As with any showerhead, the water pressure you experience depends on your home’s supply; the product cannot increase the pressure delivered by your plumbing.
This makes the most sense if your existing hot-and-cold valve already works and you want more spray choices or a handheld. It will not add separate temperature controls, replace a mixing valve, or turn a single-handle shower into a two-handle one.
Pros:
- Rainfall head and handheld can be used in different combinations
- Handheld offers multiple spray settings
- Adjustable holder helps direct the handheld spray
- Useful for rinsing the shower and bathing pets
Cons:
- Does not include hot-and-cold control handles or a mixing valve
- Water pressure depends on the home’s plumbing supply
Verdict: Consider the Hibbent as a showerhead upgrade only; it is not the right purchase if you need to replace or add separate hot and cold controls.
KOHLER Awaken 2-in-1: A Coordinated Showerhead and Handshower
The KOHLER Awaken combines a showerhead and handshower in a wall-mounted set. Both have three spray experiences: wide coverage, intense drenching, and targeted spray. The package includes a 60-inch metal hose, and the listed maximum flow rate is 2.5 gallons per minute at the stated test pressure.
The brushed nickel finish can pair with other bathroom fixtures in a similar finish. Owners appreciate the option to use either shower outlet or both, while the handshower can make rinsing and cleaning more convenient. This product changes how water is delivered at the showerhead; it does not control the hot and cold supply or replace the shower valve.
Compared with the Hibbent, the Awaken has fewer listed spray settings but offers a more focused combination of showerhead and handshower functions. It is a better fit for someone who wants a familiar, coordinated shower combo than for someone shopping specifically for two-handle temperature controls.
Pros:
- Includes both a showerhead and handshower
- Three spray experiences on each shower outlet
- Includes a 60-inch metal hose
- Maximum flow rate is specified in the product details
Cons:
- Does not include hot-and-cold controls or a shower valve
- Offers fewer listed spray modes than the Hibbent set
Verdict: Choose the Awaken if you want a brand-name showerhead and handshower combination, but look to a valve or faucet set for separate hot and cold controls.
How to Choose a Shower With Separate Hot and Cold Controls
Know Which Kind of Control You Want
“Separate controls” can mean two different things. A traditional two-handle faucet has one handle for hot water and one for cold. A dual-function shower handle usually adjusts temperature and water volume separately, but still mixes hot and cold through the valve. If you specifically want distinct hot and cold handles, look for a two-handle set such as the Aqua Vista rather than a Delta dual-function trim kit.
Check Whether You Need a Complete Set or Trim Only
A trim kit covers the visible controls and may include a cartridge, but it often does not include the rough-in valve inside the wall. The Delta Ara and Lahara kits require compatible rough-in valves, sold separately. By contrast, the Aqua Vista is described as a tub-and-shower kit with a valve body and visible fixtures. Confirm exactly what is included before you buy, especially if you are replacing an existing valve.
Match the Valve to Your Existing Plumbing
Valve compatibility affects whether a new control can connect to the plumbing behind your wall. Check the product’s recommended rough-in model and compare it with the valve already installed. If the valve must be replaced, wall access, pipe connections, and the finished-wall opening can affect the work. A plumber can help confirm compatibility before you order.
Consider Temperature Stability
Pressure changes in a home can affect shower temperature. The Delta trim kits include pressure-balanced cartridges designed to help limit sudden temperature changes. A traditional two-handle faucet gives you direct hot- and cold-water controls, but the supplied product information does not describe it as having a pressure-balancing feature. Think about household needs and consult a plumbing professional if temperature stability is a concern.
Decide Whether You Need a Diverter
A diverter routes water between outlets, such as a showerhead, handheld shower, or tub spout. The Ara’s integrated diverter offers several outlet combinations, while the Lahara is a simpler control trim. The Hibbent and KOHLER products include shower outlet choices, but neither replaces the hot-and-cold mixing valve.
Choose a Finish and Handle Style That Fits
Chrome, stainless, and brushed nickel can look different beside other bathroom fixtures, so compare finishes with what you already have. Also consider how the controls feel and whether you prefer a traditional two-handle design or a single dual-function handle. The Aqua Vista includes optional acrylic handles, while the Delta options use a more contemporary trim layout.
Plan for Installation and Maintenance
Replacing trim may be simpler than changing a valve inside the wall, but the job depends on your current plumbing and the product’s compatibility. Check installation instructions and package contents before beginning. For showerheads, consider access to the controls, hose reach, and how easily you can clean the spray surfaces. Hire a professional if you are unsure about the valve or pipe connections.
FAQs
Which product here has separate hot and cold handles?
The Aqua Vista two-handle tub-and-shower set is the only product in this selection described with separate hot and cold handles. The Delta Ara and Lahara separate temperature adjustment from water-volume adjustment, which is a different control style.
Are the Delta Ara and Lahara complete shower valve sets?
No. Both are trim kits, and their compatible rough-in valves must be purchased separately. The Ara recommends the R22000 rough-in valve, while the Lahara recommends a Delta MultiChoice Universal Shower Valve.
Does a dual-function handle mean separate hot and cold handles?
No. A dual-function handle lets you adjust temperature and water volume separately, but it is not the same as having one handle for hot water and another for cold water.
Do the Hibbent and KOHLER products control water temperature?
No. They are showerhead or handshower products that offer spray choices. You still need a compatible shower valve to control and mix hot and cold water.
Can I replace my current shower trim without changing the valve?
Possibly, if your existing valve is compatible with the new trim. Check the required rough-in model and installation instructions before buying. If you cannot identify your valve, ask a plumber to confirm the fit.
Which option is best for a multi-outlet shower?
The Delta Ara is the most directly suited to a multi-outlet setup among these choices because its integrated diverter has individual and shared outlet positions. It requires the compatible rough-in valve and does not provide separate hot and cold handles.
Final Recommendation
If you want the most direct match for separate hot and cold handles, start with the Aqua Vista two-handle set and confirm that it fits your plumbing. If you mean independent temperature and water-flow adjustment instead, the Delta Lahara is a simpler trim option, while the Delta Ara adds an integrated diverter for multiple outlets. The Hibbent and KOHLER are useful showerhead upgrades, but neither replaces a hot-and-cold control valve.
