Oak vs Maple

Both names cover many species. This page compares northern red oak with hard (sugar) maple, the two most common choices at US lumberyards. White oak and soft maple behave differently, and white oak is far more rot resistant than red oak, so check the exact species on the tag.

The two woods weigh almost the same and both are tough enough for floors and furniture. What separates them is surface: oak has a bold, open grain and a reddish-brown tone, while maple is smooth, creamy and quiet. That difference decides how each one stains, paints and looks in a finished room.

Oak vs Maple side by side

Last verified October 2026. Typical values; individual animals, products and local prices vary.

Which one fits you

Oak

• You plan to stain the piece and want an even, warm color without extra prep steps.
• You like a bold, visible grain pattern in cabinets, trim or furniture.
• You want the easiest wood to shape with hand and power tools.
• You are matching existing red oak flooring or millwork in the house.

Maple

• You want a pale, clean, modern look that is smooth to the eye and the touch.
• The surface will take heavy wear, such as a work bench, butcher block or busy floor.
• You like figured wood such as birdseye or curly maple and will pay for it.
• You will leave it natural or clear-coated and avoid the blotching risk of dark stain.

How this works

Each quiz question describes a decision you face, such as finish, wear or figure. Your answers point to the wood whose documented properties fit better, and the cue line under each question explains the trade-off behind that pointer so you can judge it yourself.

The numbers come from published wood property data for northern red oak and hard maple. Individual boards vary with growth, moisture and how the log was cut, and other species of oak and maple differ, so treat the result as a starting point and check a sample.

Where these numbers come from

The figures and defaults on this page are based on:

• The Wood Database: Northern Red Oak, Hardness, density, color, grain, finishing and durability of red oak. (checked October 2026)
• The Wood Database: Hard Maple, Hardness, density, grain, blotching and uses of hard maple. (checked October 2026)
• USDA Forest Products Laboratory: Wood Handbook, Biodeterioration of Wood, Decay resistance classes for red oak, maple, white oak and cedars. (checked October 2026)

Material guide. Properties are typical values for the named species and vary by board.