furniture
Beech vs Maple: Two Hard Light Woods Compared (2026)
Beech and maple are both hard light-colored woods for furniture and cabinetry. Beech is popular in European woodworking; maple dominates North America.
Beech
vs
vs
Maple
Key Takeaways
- Beech and maple are both hard light-colored woods for furniture and cabinetry.
- Beech is popular in European woodworking; maple dominates North America.
- Maple is better all-around for North American woodworkers.
- Beech excels in steam bending.
- Choose beech for steam-bent furniture and turned items.
| Property | Beech | Maple |
|---|---|---|
| Cost/Board Ft | $3-$6 | $4-$8 |
| Janka | 1,300 lbf | 1,450 lbf |
| Steam Bending | Excellent | Poor |
Beech
Pros
- Excellent for steam bending, Fine even texture, Often more affordable, Attractive ray fleck pattern
Cons
- High moisture movement and warping, Not as hard as maple, Less available in North America
Maple
Pros
- Harder and more stable, Clean modern appearance, Widely available, Less warping
Cons
- Poor steam bending, Hard to stain evenly, More expensive, Can look plain
Best Use Cases
Choose beech for steam-bent furniture and turned items. Choose maple for cutting boards cabinets and modern furniture.
Verdict
Maple is better all-around for North American woodworkers. Beech excels in steam bending.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both work but maple is preferred for less moisture movement and slightly more hardness.
Abundantly available in European forests with a long furniture-making tradition.
Yes, higher moisture movement than maple. Proper drying and finishing help.
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