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Porcelain vs Ceramic Tiles: What’s the Real Difference?
Porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles might come from the same family, but they don’t always play the same role. Whether you’re tiling a splashback, bathroom, or full home reno, choosing between porcelain and ceramic can have a big impact on budget, style, and how long things last.
At Cheapestiles, we keep both in stock at everyday low prices. Understanding the key differences will help you pick the best fit for your space (and your wallet).
So… What’s the Actual Difference?
Both porcelain and ceramic are made from clay and fired at high heat.
Porcelain goes through the process at a much higher temperature. That makes it denser, less porous, and more durable. Ceramic tiles are generally lighter, easier to cut, and often come in more decorative glazes and patterns.
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
- Porcelain tiles are tough, non-porous, ideal for bathrooms, floors and outdoor areas
- Ceramic tiles are easier to install, have more design options, and are great for indoor walls and low-traffic zones
Where Each One Works Best
You don’t need to pick a winner. Just match the right tile to the right room.
- Porcelain tiles for bathrooms: Thanks to their water resistance, porcelain is perfect for wet areas like showers, laundry floors and powder rooms.
- Ceramic tiles for kitchen walls: They’re easy to install, wipe clean, and add colour or pattern without the price tag.Porcelain floor tiles – Built to handle foot traffic in busy homes, especially in hallways, living areas or commercial spaces
- Ceramic for splashbacks or feature walls: If you’re after a decorative tile that won’t be walked on, ceramic gives you more styling range.
Pros and Cons of Porcelain vs Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic is easier to cut and shape and is more budget-friendly. But it’s slightly more porous and better for indoor use. Porcelain is stronger and denser, making it ideal for bathrooms, outdoor areas, and anywhere you want extra durability. It’s harder to cut and usually costs more upfront.
Whatever your preference, both tile types are built to last. You’re not making a bad choice, just a better one for your project.
Why Choose Cheapestiles?
Whether you’re team ceramic or team porcelain, we’ve got the range to suit. Our warehouse is packed with styles, sizes and finishes, ready to ship Australia-wide.
And if you’re still unsure, our team’s happy to help you weigh it up. Check out our full range of ceramic and porcelain tiles online or visit us in-store for advice you can count on.
Call 02 9790 4273 or email info@cheapestiles.com.au
Still not sure how many tiles you need?
Use our free tile calculator to get an instant estimate in square metres and then add a 10% buffer for offcuts, layout changes or sneaky mistakes. Got an oddly shaped room or complex layout? Give us a call. We’re happy to walk you through it. Call 02 9790 4273 or email info@cheapestiles.com.au and let’s get your tile project squared away.