Differences Between Softwood and Hardwood Trees
When discussing solid wood flooring, it is not uncommon to hear the terms ‘hardwood’ and ‘softwood’. People just assume that hardwood is…well, ‘hard’ and softwood is respectively ‘soft’. No, it isn’t as simple as that. Those terms have nothing to do with tough the wood itself is. Yew, for example, is classified as softwood but it’s harder than many types of hardwood, including some types of oak.
What do those terms mean then? What is the difference between softwood and hardwood and how can this help us choose the right type of floor for us?
Hardwood vs Softwood – Key Differences at a Glance
All trees reproduce through seeds but not all seeds are alike. If a tree’s seeds are naturally covered with some kind of skin or shell, they are also referred to as ‘angiosperm’. Typical examples are cherry, oak, maple and walnut.
Should the seeds produced by the tree be completely uncovered it is classified as ‘gymnosperm’. Well-known representatives are pine, cedar and spruce.
There is more here. Angiosperm trees actually shed their leaves during the winter while gymnosperm species do not. This is the easiest way to distinguish them. All gymnosperm trees are evergreen. This means that their very structure is also different. Hardwood has pores that vary in size and shape. Those pores make the grain denser and more resistant to fire compared to softwood.
| Feature | Hardwood | Softwood |
|---|
| Source | Deciduous trees (lose leaves annually) | Coniferous trees (evergreens with needles) |
| Growth Rate | Slower-growing (takes decades to mature) | Faster-growing (matures in 10–20 years) |
| Density & Hardness | Generally denser and harder (but not always) | Lighter, softer, easier to work with |
| Common Uses | Flooring, furniture, high-end carpentry, decking | Structural framing, doors, windows, paper |
| Examples | Oak, Walnut, Maple, Beech, Cherry | Pine, Spruce, Cedar, Fir, Larch |
Quick Facts about Hardwood & Softwood
- Not all hardwoods are “hard” — Balsa wood is very soft but classified as a hardwood.
- Softwoods make up around 80% of global timber production due to their faster growth rate.
- Hardwoods typically feature tighter grain patterns, offering a more refined and decorative appearance.
- Softwoods are often more affordable and widely used in construction and everyday applications.
- Hardwood floors are prized for durability and longevity, while softwood is ideal for light-use areas and decorative projects.
Janka Hardness Test
The industrial standard for determining how hard a piece of wood is the Janka Hardness Test. The test itself is about measuring the force needed to embed a .444-inch steel ball to half its diameter into a certain type of wood to decide how suitable it is for flooring. According to this world standard, the softest wood in the world is considered to be the Cuipo tree, which, curiously enough, is hardwood. The obvious conclusion is that toughness has more to do with the individual wood species, rather than the classification it has been given. There is no denying, though, that hardwood is more resilient in general and with denser grain. Often, but not always.
Colour and Staining
Every wood specimen is unique, and they show various characteristics. This is also reflected in the wood’s colour. Many softwoods have a red or yellow tint while hardwoods range from white, brown and certain darker shades of red. This matters if you want to stain your floor and aim for a specific colour - the results will vary a lot depending on the species.
Pros and Cons
So, if we have to make a thorough comparison of which is better - softwood or hardwood, there is no real answer because each category has its merits. In the end, hardwood will be more durable and better suited to withstand damage, especially wood flooring, but this will be reflected in the price. Some people enjoy the look of softwood and prefer it over the alternative. Pine floors, for example, are cheap and popular, yet they will never match the durability of oak. It’s all about personal taste.
Hardwood is Tougher the majority of the time, with a darker colour, a lower amount of sap in it and somewhat higher fire resistance (as much as can this be said about the wood of any kind).
Softwood is cheaper, usually softer, with lighter colours, more sap in its structure and lighter in weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hardwood used for?
Hardwoods are commonly used for:
- Premium flooring (like oak or walnut)
- High-quality furniture
- Decking & external joinery
- Wooden tools & musical instruments
What is softwood used for?
Softwoods are widely used for:
- Construction framing
- Windows & doors
- Fencing & paneling
- Paper & pulp products
Which is stronger: hardwood or softwood?
Generally, hardwoods are denser and more durable, making them stronger. However, some softwoods like Douglas fir are quite strong and used in structural applications. Always consider specific species and use cases.
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