The primary differences between MDF and plywood lie in their composition, weight, screw-holding capability, and appearance.
MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) and plywood are both engineered wood products commonly used in construction, furniture making, and cabinetry. While they serve similar purposes, their distinct characteristics make them suitable for different applications.
Key Differences: MDF vs. Plywood
Understanding the composition helps explain the differences in performance.
Composition and Construction
- MDF: Made from fine wood fibers, typically recycled materials, that are mixed with resin and pressed under high temperature and pressure into dense, consistent panels. It has a smooth surface and edges.
- Plywood: Constructed from multiple thin layers (plies) of wood veneer that are peeled from logs. These plies are stacked with the grain of each layer perpendicular to the next and bonded together with adhesive under heat and pressure. This cross-grain structure provides strength and stability.
Weight
- Veneer core hardwood plywood is lighter in weight than MDF. This can be a significant factor when building structures or furniture that need to be moved or lifted.
Screw Holding Power
- Veneer core hardwood plywood... offers greater screw-holding power compared to MDF. Because MDF is made of fine fibers, screws can strip out more easily, especially along the edges, whereas the layered structure of plywood provides a more secure grip for fasteners.
Appearance and Finish
- MDF: Has a very smooth, consistent surface ideal for painting or applying laminates. The edges are also smooth and easy to profile, but they absorb paint differently than the surface, often requiring edge banding or extra preparation.
- Plywood: The surface appearance depends on the grade of the face veneer. The top layer of veneer can be made of different wood species, each of which has its own color, grain and characteristics. This allows plywood to be finished with stains or clear coats to showcase the natural wood grain, or it can be painted or laminated.
Other Notable Differences
| Feature | MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) | Plywood |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | Weaker than plywood, especially under load | Stronger, more stable, resists bending and warping well |
| Moisture Resistance | Very poor; swells and degrades easily when wet | Better than MDF, but still susceptible to water damage |
| Cost | Generally less expensive | Can range from inexpensive construction grade to costly hardwood veneers |
| Cutting | Cuts cleanly with minimal splintering; produces fine dust | Can splinter or chip, requires sharper blades; less fine dust |
| Applications | Painted furniture, cabinets (especially doors), molding, internal fixtures | Sheathing, subflooring, cabinetry (carcasses), furniture, structural components |
In summary, while both are useful wood panels, plywood's layered construction gives it advantages in strength, weight, and screw holding, along with the potential for decorative wood grain finishes. MDF's smooth, consistent surface makes it superior for applications requiring a flawless painted finish.
