Compare woods
Put species head to head to decide between them.
Yellow PoplarSoft Maple
| Property | Yellow Poplar Liriodendron tulipifera | Soft Maple Acer rubrum (and others) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Hardwood | Hardwood |
| Cost | $ · Budget | $$ · Moderate |
| Hardness | 540 lbf | 950 lbf |
| Workability | Excellent | Good |
| Seasonal movement | Small | Medium |
| Outdoor-friendly | No | No |
| Origin | Domestic (North America) | Domestic (North America) |
| Commonly built | Painted bookshelves, Drawer boxes, Crown molding, Toy boxes, Mock-up prototypes | Painted cabinets, Kitchen tables, Picture frames, Turned bowls, Children's furniture |
| Overview | The budget hardwood of choice for paint-grade work. Soft, cheap, easy, just don't expect to show off the grain. | Hard maple's more affordable, easier-working relative. Still plenty strong for most furniture, at a friendlier price. |