The choice between porcelain stoneware and ceramic tiles affects far more than the visual style of a room. It directly influences durability, maintenance, long-term costs and overall performance. Bathrooms, kitchens, living areas and terraces all have different requirements — and choosing the wrong material can become expensive over time.
Over the last years, demand for high-quality tile coverings has increased noticeably. Customers want durable, modern solutions that combine aesthetics with long-lasting functionality. Porcelain stoneware has become the leading material in many applications, while ceramic tiles still have their justified place — especially for walls and decorative areas.
What is Porcelain Stoneware?
Porcelain stoneware is an extremely dense, very hard and almost water-impermeable material.
Key Properties
- Water absorption < 0.5%
- Frost- and weather-resistant
- Extremely high pressure and abrasion resistance
- Ideal for floors, terraces, wet zones, kitchens and commercial spaces
- Available in large formats, stone-look, wood-look and many modern designs
→ View examples:
Large-Format Porcelain Tiles at Vitale Tiles
Large-Format Porcelain Tiles at Vitale Tiles
Why porcelain stoneware is so popular
- Nearly indestructible
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Perfect for underfloor heating
- Colour-stable and UV-resistant
- Realistic surface designs thanks to modern digital printing technology
Porcelain stoneware is the premium material for modern flooring.
At Vitale Tiles, almost all products are porcelain stoneware, because we value long-lasting quality — and customers appreciate materials that stay beautiful for many years and show virtually no change over time.
At Vitale Tiles, almost all products are porcelain stoneware, because we value long-lasting quality — and customers appreciate materials that stay beautiful for many years and show virtually no change over time.
What are Ceramic Tiles?
Ceramic tiles have a slightly higher water absorption and lower density compared to porcelain stoneware.
They are ideal as wall coverings and for indoor areas with moderate stress.
They are ideal as wall coverings and for indoor areas with moderate stress.
Key Properties of Ceramic Tiles
- Excellent for wall applications
- Lighter and more budget-friendly
- Ideal for bathroom walls, kitchen splashbacks, decorative surfaces
- Available in countless colours, formats and styles
→ View examples:
Ceramic Wall Tiles at Vitale Tiles
Ceramic Wall Tiles at Vitale Tiles
(Note: Not all tiles in this category are ceramic. Some may also be porcelain stoneware.)
Differences Between Porcelain Stoneware & Ceramic
Where does each material make sense?
Bathroom
- Floor → Porcelain stoneware
- Walls → Ceramic or porcelain stoneware
Kitchen
- Floor → Porcelain stoneware
- Walls / backsplash → Ceramic or porcelain stoneware
Living area
- Floors → Porcelain stoneware (durable, aesthetic variety)
- Walls → Ceramic or porcelain stoneware
Outdoor
- Always porcelain stoneware
- Particularly 2-cm terrace slabs
Design & Aesthetics – Wide Variety in Both Materials
Today, both materials offer an impressive design range:
- Wood-look
- Concrete-look
- Stone-look
- Marble-look
- Modern, glossy, matt or structured surfaces
- Decorative tiles
- Mosaics
Porcelain stoneware stands out due to:
- Highly realistic stone and wood textures
- Large formats such as 60×120, 120×120 or 120×278
- Minimal-joint installations for modern interior design
How Does Slip Resistance Impact Your Choice?
Slip resistance is essential, especially in bathrooms and outdoor areas.
Common R-ratings:
- R9 – dry indoor areas
- R10 – bathroom, kitchen
- R11 – outdoor areas, showers
- R12 – commercial environments
Porcelain stoneware is often available in a wide range of slip-resistant surface finishes.
Common Mistakes When Choosing Tiles
1. Using the wrong material outdoors
Ceramic tiles are unsuitable outdoors → always choose porcelain stoneware.
2. Choosing formats that are too small for large rooms
Large formats create a modern and spacious look.
3. Ignoring slip resistance
Especially in the bathroom, this can lead to dangerous situations.
4. Using cheap wall tiles on the floor
Ceramic tiles are not made for floor loads unless specified.
Conclusion – Which Material Should You Choose?
If you want a robust, durable and low-maintenance solution, porcelain stoneware is the clear choice.
For decorative wall applications, ceramic tiles remain an excellent option.
For decorative wall applications, ceramic tiles remain an excellent option.