OnFlooring | Floor Decor Made Easy

Laminate and Vinyl Plank flooring (including SPC, WPC, and MLC) are two cost-effective alternatives to hardwood that offer realistic wood-like appearances. Both options are durable, scratch-resistant, and easy to maintain—making them excellent choices for families with pets and busy households. Additionally, both feature a floating, click-together installation, making them DIY-friendly and more affordable than professionally installed floors.

So, which one is right for you? Let’s break down the key differences.

Installation

Our Verdict: Both are DIY-friendly, but Vinyl Plank has a slight edge.

Both Laminate and Vinyl Plank are among the easiest flooring types to install. Their interlocking planks require no glue or nails, and they rest directly on the subfloor.

• Vinyl Plank: Most products come with a pre-attached underlayment, simplifying installation. Cutting is easy—just score with a utility knife and snap or use a saw.
• Laminate: Typically requires a separate underlayment. Cutting laminate planks requires a saw, which must be used outside the installation area to control dust.

Winner: Vinyl Plank for its simpler cutting method and pre-attached underlayment.

Construction & Eco-Friendliness

Our Verdict: Laminate is more eco-friendly due to its simpler composition.

• Laminate Flooring: 8mm-12mm thick with a High-Density Fiberboard (HDF) core, primarily made from wood-based materials.
• Vinyl Plank Flooring: 4mm-8mm thick, consisting of multiple layers, including PVC, which contributes to its waterproof properties but makes it less eco-friendly.

Winner: Laminate, for having fewer synthetic ingredients and a wood-based core.

Water Resistance

Our Verdict: Both are excellent, but Vinyl Plank is naturally waterproof.

• Vinyl Plank: 100% waterproof, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and commercial spaces.
• Laminate: Many modern high-end laminates are water-resistant, but since they have a wood-based core, extra installation steps (such as perimeter sealing with silicone) are required to prevent water damage.

Winner: Vinyl Plank, for effortless waterproofing.

Realistic Designs & Aesthetics

Our Verdict: Top-tier laminate floors look more like real hardwood than Vinyl Plank.

Both flooring types offer stunning, realistic visuals thanks to advanced printing technologies.

• Entry-Level: Basic textures, more repetitive patterns.
• High-End: More complex textures, fewer repeating patterns.

However, top-tier, made-in-USA laminate floors are almost indistinguishable from real hardwood, giving them an edge in realism.

Winner: Laminate, for superior wood-like authenticity.

Stain & Fire Resistance

Our Verdict: Laminate is virtually stain-proof and fire-resistant.

• Laminate: Has a non-porous surface, making it resistant to stains and most permanent inks. It also withstands exposure to embers from fireplaces.
• Vinyl Plank: Can stain from certain inks and may melt if exposed to embers.

Winner: Laminate, for better resistance to stains and flames.

Price

Our Verdict: Both are cost-effective, but additional underlayment costs can make a difference.

• Laminate: Often requires a separate underlayment, adding $0.30–$0.80 per sq. ft.
• Vinyl Plank: Typically includes pre-attached underlayment, eliminating extra costs.

Winner: Tie—costs vary based on the specific product.

Sound

Our Verdict: Vinyl Plank is slightly quieter.

• Laminate: Can produce a “knocking” sound when walked on, especially with hard-soled shoes. A high-quality underlayment can reduce this.
• Vinyl Plank: Naturally absorbs more sound due to its softer composition.

Winner: Vinyl Plank, for better sound absorption.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Both Laminate and Vinyl Plank flooring offer outstanding durability, realistic designs, and cost savings compared to hardwood flooring. However, your choice depends on your priorities:

• Choose Vinyl Plank if you need a fully waterproof floor, easy installation, and a quieter surface.
• Choose Laminate Flooring if you want the most realistic hardwood look, superior stain and fire resistance, and a more eco-friendly option.

Still unsure? Browse our collection to explore the best options for your space!