granite tiles and granite slabs come from the exact same rock
First of all, granite tiles and granite slabs come from the exact same rock; granite. That seems pretty obvious but there are some people out there who do not realize it. The granite rocks are mined all over the world and sent out to processing facilities where it is shaped and polished. If the granite is going to be tiles, then it is cut into small tiles. If it is going to be used in slabs, then the granite will be cut into large slabs, often several feet in length and width.
One of the biggest concerns with anyone who is getting a countertop is the cost. Some want to get a granite countertop but cannot afford the slabs. In this case, they will go for tiles because they cost much less than a granite slab. However, it is very important to remember that while the slabs cost more initially, the granite tile may cost more over the long run. The reason for this is that a granite slab is installed in one piece, already cut, on the countertop. Typically it doesn't take very long to do this. However, with granite tiles, it will take longer for the installer to put the tiles on the counter and ensure they are straight. So, in the end the price is nearly the same. Sometimes you may even need to get the granite tiles cut for corners and edges and that will cost you even more money because of how hard it is to cut granite. You can't just use any saw on it, often it needs to be a diamond saw to rip through granite because diamonds are the only thing on Earth stronger than granite.