These days there are a huge variety of pre-processed boards available as wood is getting scarce and costlier. The most frequently used are plywood and particle board. In this article, we will dive into the comparison of particle board vs plywood to understand their differences in durability, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for various projects so you can make the best choice for your needs.

What is a Particle Board?

Particle board, also known as chipboard, is made from wood particles and a binder that is compressed under high pressure and heat. It is a cost-effective and lightweight material that is commonly used for making shelves, cabinets, and other furniture pieces. However, it is less durable and stable than plywood and may not hold up well under heavy use or exposure to moisture.

25 DIY Plywood Projects out of One Sheet

Plywood, in contrast, consists of layers of wood veneers bonded together. It is robust and versatile, used in various furniture items, from sofas to wardrobes. Both particle board and plywood are forms of engineered wood.

Differences Between Particle Board And Plywood

Here are the basic differences between particle board vs plywood:

Aspect	Particle Board	Plywood
Composition	An engineered wood product crafted from wood particles, flakes, or chips.	Manufactured wood product made from layers of thin wood veneer
Strength	Typically not as strong as plywood	Stronger because of the cross-grain construction
Density	Lower density, resulting in a lighter weight	Higher density, making it heavier in comparison
Surface Finish	Smooth and uniform surface, ideal for applying veneers and laminates	Varies; can be smoother than particle board or may display visible wood grain
Edges	Prone to chipping and often requires edge banding	Generally has cleaner and more finished edges
Moisture Resistance	Prone to swelling and damage when exposed to moisture	Marine-grade plywood exhibits enhanced resistance to moisture, particularly in marine environments
Cost	Usually more budget-friendly	Typically pricier, although it fluctuates depending on the wood species and quality level.
Application	Frequently employed in furniture making, cabinetry, and shelving.	Versatile; employed in furniture, cabinets, construction, and various other applications.
Weight	Less weight, facilitating handling and transportation.	More weighty, imparting a sense of solidity
Environmental Impact	Could contain formaldehyde or other adhesives	The eco-friendliness can vary depending on the type of glue utilized.
Strength Consistency	The strength is less uniform due to differences in particle arrangement.	Consistently robust because of its cross-grain construction.

Pros and Cons of Particle Board vs Plywood

Particle board vs Plywood are both versatile and cost-effective building materials that are used in a variety of applications. They offer many advantages, however they also have some advantages. Let’s see their pros and cons in this table below:

Plywood

Particle board

Pros

Plywood is relatively stronger than other wood-based sheet products, like MDF
It has endless usage, both indoors and outdoors
Different densities of plywood can be used for different purposes, making it a versatile material
Plywood is a great material for intricate wood work that can also hold screws well

It has a smoother surface than that of plywood
It’s made using scraps of lumber products, making it an eco-friendly material
Can be comparatively lightweight and easy to move around
It’s relatively more cost-effective compared to plywood

Cons

It can be a little expensive compared to other wood-based sheets
The edges of plywood can look unfinished and need to be layered with either laminate or veneer
Plywood can be a little difficult to cut and mould
You might need laminate sheets to finish commercial grade plywood

It’s not as strong or durable as plywood
Can be relatively soft or brittle, making it hard to drill screws into

It’s not moisture-resistant and can swell upon exposure

Not ideal for heavy-duty use

Weight

Plywood is constructed using at least three layers of wood arranged perpendicular to each other and bonded with a robust wood adhesive. While the outer layers of plywood typically feature higher-quality wood, the density remains consistent throughout the board’s cross-section. For instance, a medium-quality pine plywood board typically has an average density of 600 kilograms per cubic meter.

On the other hand, particleboard is a form of engineered lumber made from wood chips and particles that are compressed and bonded using urea formaldehyde. Among various types, medium-density fiberboard (MDF) is one of the most common. While MDF may not be structurally strong, it excels as a sheathing material in dry environments. Pine MDF, for example, has an average density of 700 kilograms per cubic meter, though it can be as dense as 1,000 kilograms per cubic meter.

Plywood sheets are also so much lighter than particleboards. They are easier to carry from area to area, or floor to floor. The weight also matters when you’re making a wall cabinet or some furniture with wheels. Being heavier, wall cabinets or wheeled furniture made purely of particleboards could collapse under its own weight.

*The weight also matters when you’re making a wall cabinet or some furniture with wheels.*

Cost Comparison: Particle Board vs Plywood

Cost Comparison:

Particle boards tend to be more economical, while plywood is known for its durability. On average, particle board costs around Rs. 35-60 per square foot, whereas plywood typically ranges from Rs. 50-150 per square foot.

The price of both particle board and plywood is influenced by several factors including the type of wood used, the manufacturing process, thickness, and brand. Higher-quality materials generally command a higher price compared to lower-quality alternatives.

Parameter	Particle Board	Plywood
Raw Material Cost	Lower	Higher
Manufacturing Cost	Lower	Higher
Quality	Lower	Higher
Thickness	Thinner: Lower, Thicker: Higher	Thinner: Lower, Thicker: Higher
Finish	The cost is influenced by the type and complexity of the finish.	The cost is influenced by the type and complexity of the finish.

Applications of Particle Board and Plywood

Now that you’re familiar with its potential, let’s explore the diverse applications of particle board and where it excels. Particle boards, known for their versatility, find utility in various home projects. It’s suitable for false ceilings, wall units, and panels, and serves as the structural core for modular furniture. Notably, it’s a favorite for DIY enthusiasts due to its widespread availability and cost-effectiveness. If you enjoy home improvement projects, particle board can be your preferred choice

Use particle board in your home — Use plywood to make durable cabinet

We’ve discussed plywood’s durability, but let’s explore its ideal home applications. Plywood finds utility in various areas including flooring, wardrobes, cabinets, doors, shutters, and walls. Additionally, it serves well in crafting headboards, footboards, wall panels, and as a framework for upholstered furniture. Enhancements such as bug, fire, mold, and water resistance treatments further elevate its utility.

> Explore further: MDF vs Plywood, OSB and Plywood, plywood ceiling