Compare woods
Put species head to head to decide between them.
Sitka SpruceEngelmann Spruce
| Property | Sitka Spruce Picea sitchensis | Engelmann Spruce Picea engelmannii |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Softwood | Softwood |
| Cost | $$$ · Premium | $$ · Moderate |
| Hardness | 510 lbf | 390 lbf |
| Workability | Good | Good |
| Seasonal movement | Small | Small |
| Outdoor-friendly | No | No |
| Origin | Domestic (Pacific Northwest) | Domestic (Western US) |
| Commonly built | Guitar tops, Piano soundboards, Aircraft parts, Oars | Guitar tops, Instrument soundboards, Framing lumber |
| Overview | The premier strength-to-weight wood, light, stiff, and strong. The traditional choice for aircraft, ladders, and especially acoustic guitar and piano soundboards. | A lighter, softer cousin of Sitka spruce, also valued as a tonewood for its bright, responsive sound. Pale and even, with a slightly warmer look than Sitka. |