Compare woods
Put species head to head to decide between them.
Red AlderYellow Poplar
| Property | Red Alder Alnus rubra | Yellow Poplar Liriodendron tulipifera |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Hardwood | Hardwood |
| Cost | $ · Budget | $ · Budget |
| Hardness | 590 lbf | 540 lbf |
| Workability | Excellent | Excellent |
| Seasonal movement | Small | Small |
| Outdoor-friendly | No | No |
| Origin | Domestic (North America) | Domestic (North America) |
| Commonly built | Cabinets, Electric guitar bodies, Furniture, Trim | Painted bookshelves, Drawer boxes, Crown molding, Toy boxes, Mock-up prototypes |
| Overview | The Pacific Northwest's go-to affordable hardwood, soft, even, and easy to work. Takes stain well and often mimics cherry. A great beginner wood. | The budget hardwood of choice for paint-grade work. Soft, cheap, easy, just don't expect to show off the grain. |