‘Porcelain or ceramic’ is one of the most common questions during the tile selection process. In this article we explore the difference between porcelain and ceramic tiles, and how to make the right choice for your new build or renovation. Both have a range of benefits, and both are available in a wide range of beautiful finishes, styles and colours.
There’s no right or wrong option - neither type of tile is inherently better - but there are some places where porcelain is the better choice, and others where ceramic tiles are ideal. The right tile choice comes down to the space.
Both porcelain and ceramic tiles are available in a wide range of colours and finishes.
First things first: What’s the difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles?
Both ceramic and porcelain tiles are made from clay, but the manufacturing process is different, which gives the tiles distinct characteristics.
Ceramic tiles are fired at a relatively low temperature, making them light, easy to shape, and simple to install. Porcelain tiles are fired at a much higher temperature, creating a denser, more durable tile. The porcelain firing process also creates a more water-resistant tile.
When are porcelain tiles the better choice?
Porcelain tiles are perfect for spaces where durability and water resistance are important.
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Bathrooms and wet areas
Porcelain’s moisture resistance makes it an excellent choice for bathroom floors and shower tiles. If you’re choosing porcelain tiles for your bathroom floors, make sure to also check the tile’s slip resistance and surface finish. -
High-traffic areas
Porcelain is durable enough to stand up to heavy use, making it a great flooring choice for kitchens, entrances, hallways and living spaces. -
Large-format tiles
The strength of porcelain allows for substantial tile sizes. Large-format tiles create a clean, contemporary look with fewer grout lines, and this aesthetic is becoming popular across New Zealand homes. If you’re looking for large-format wall or floor tiles, or a single high-impact slab, porcelain is likely to be the right choice.
Large-format porcelain tiles are also a popular choice to mimic natural wood or stone, as seen in the Porcelanosa Xtone Alpinus White Nature benchtop shown here.
When are ceramic tiles the better choice?
Ceramic tiles offer a myriad of style and design choices, and are perfect for applications where aesthetics are important, but durability and moisture resistance aren’t key considerations.
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Wall tiles
Ceramic is a popular choice for walls, where the tile isn't subjected to the same impact as a floor. This is why ceramic tiles are a common choice for kitchen splashbacks and feature walls. -
Feature tiles
Smaller feature sections of ceramic tiles work well alongside large-format porcelain floor or wall tiles, adding depth and contrast to the space. -
Projects with budget constraints
Ceramic tiles are often more affordable than porcelain, so they’re worth considering if you’re working to a tight budget.
In this Christchurch bathroom, ceramic Equipe Massimo Almond feature tiles pair beautifully with large-format porcelain wall and floor tiles.
The bottom line
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are both versatile, stylish and durable materials, and both have a place in modern interiors. Porcelain is favoured when durability and water resistance are priorities, while ceramic can be a practical and cost-effective choice for walls and lower-demand applications.
The question isn’t “Which tile is better?” It’s “Which tile is right for this space?”
Ceramic splashback tiles complement a large-format porcelain benchtop. Both tiles were chosen for functionality as well as aesthetic appeal.
If you’d like expert advice on choosing the right tiles for your home, visit our Christchurch showroom. Our experienced team can answer any questions you have, and guide you through the selection process.
Frequently asked questions
Is porcelain more durable than ceramic?
Generally, yes. Porcelain tiles are fired at a higher temperature than ceramic tiles, making them denser, harder, and less porous. This increases the tile’s durability and water resistance.
Is porcelain more expensive than ceramic?
Yes, porcelain tiles usually cost more than ceramic tiles. However, upfront cost isn’t the only consideration when choosing between porcelain and ceramic. If the tile isn’t appropriate for the space, it won’t perform well over time, and could end up costing more in the long run.
Which is easier to install: porcelain or ceramic?
Ceramic tiles are softer and easier to cut than porcelain, making them easier to install. Porcelain’s increased density means cutting and drilling are trickier - but this density also makes porcelain suitable for large-format applications, where ceramic tiles aren’t a practical option. Both tiles can be beautifully installed by experienced professionals.
How do I know which tile to choose?
Generally speaking, if you need water resistance, high durability, or large-format tiles, porcelain will be the best choice. Consider ceramic tiles if you need versatility, a wide range of decorative styles, or a budget-friendly option.
Does Nextdore sell both porcelain and ceramic tiles?
Yes - we have an excellent range of both ceramic and porcelain tiles, available to browse online or experience in person in our Christchurch showroom. We can also help you to choose a tile that will suit your space and complement the rest of your interior scheme.