Teak vs Mahogany wood grain comparison
furniture

Teak vs Mahogany: Two Premium Hardwoods Compared (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Wood Comparison Team
|Last updated June 1, 2026|Sources & methodology

Teak is renowned for natural oils and weather resistance; mahogany is celebrated for workability and rich color. Both are legendary premium hardwoods.

Teak wood grain texture

Teak

vs
Mahogany wood grain texture

Mahogany

Key Takeaways

  • Teak is renowned for natural oils and weather resistance; mahogany is celebrated for workability and rich color.
  • Both are legendary premium hardwoods.
  • Teak is king of outdoor wood.
  • Mahogany is king of indoor woodworking.
  • Each excels in its domain.
PropertyTeakMahogany
Cost/Board Ft$15-$35$6-$15
Natural OilsVery highLow
MoistureExceptionalGood

Teak

Pros

  • Exceptional weather resistance, Natural oils prevent rot, Ideal for marine and outdoor use, Beautiful silver patina

Cons

  • Very expensive, Oils can dull tools, Interferes with glue, Sustainability concerns

Mahogany

Pros

  • More affordable than teak, Extremely easy to work, Rich beautiful reddish color, Takes any finish

Cons

  • Less weather resistant, Requires finish outdoors, Genuine mahogany increasingly scarce, Softer

Best Use Cases

Choose teak for outdoor furniture boats and wet environments. Choose mahogany for indoor furniture and instruments.

Verdict

Teak is king of outdoor wood. Mahogany is king of indoor woodworking. Each excels in its domain.

Frequently Asked Questions

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