Porcelain vs ceramic tile: which is better
Porcelain is harder and nearly waterproof, ceramic is cheaper and easier to cut. The facts to choose by.
Porcelain tile45 $/m²
Ceramic tile35 $/m²
Key differences
- Ceramic tile is roughly 22% cheaper (35 $/m² vs 45 $/m²).
- Porcelain tile handles moisture better: 0.5% water absorption vs 10%.
- Porcelain tile is stronger in compression (45 MPa vs 30 MPa).
Specifications side by side
| Property | Porcelain tile | Ceramic tile |
|---|---|---|
| Average price (United States) | 45 $/m² | 35 $/m² |
| Thermal conductivity | 1.0 W/(m·K) | 0.9 W/(m·K) |
| Density | 2400 kg/m³ | 2000 kg/m³ |
| Water absorption | 0.5 % | 10 % |
| Compressive strength | 45 MPa | 30 MPa |
| Frost resistance | 100 cycles | — |
| Combustibility | Non-combustible | Non-combustible |
Typical reference values (SP 50.13330 / GOST); the actual figures depend on the manufacturer and grade.
Where each one fits
- Porcelain tile
- Floors in wet and high-traffic rooms, terraces, wall cladding.
- Ceramic tile
- Bathroom and kitchen walls and floors, splashbacks.