Porcelain vs Ceramic Tiles – What’s The Difference?

There’s often a fair bit of confusion surrounding the differences between porcelain and ceramic tiles. It can all become a bit perplexing. They are indeed very similar but there are some subtle – and important – differences that set them apart.

At A Glance – Porcelain vs Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles:

Construction:
Red, brown or white clay. Softer, less dense.

Pros:
Easier to cut, cheaper.

Cons:
Absorbs more water (prone to cracking in cold weather), more prone to stains, less stain resistant, less hard-wearing.

Best used for:
Walls, areas with little moisture, areas with light footfall or abrasion.

Cost:
Cheaper

Colour:
Colour only on glaze, different underneath.

Ease of use:
Easier to cut.

Suitable for exterior use:
No

Porcelain tiles

Construction:
White clay, sand, feldspar. Harder, more dense.

Pros:
Absorbs less water, stain resistant, more hard-wearing.

Cons:
More expensive, trickier to cut and shape, more brittle.

Best used for:
Areas with higher moisture levels, areas with higher footfall or abrasion.

Cost
More expensive

Colour:
Runs through whole tile, can have a glaze on top.

Ease of use:
May require specialist expertise to cut.

Suitable for exterior use:
Yes