Vinyl Plank vs Laminate
Both look like timber and are priced similarly — but they behave very differently when moisture is involved. Here's how to choose.
The short answer
Choose vinyl plank if…
Any part of your project involves bathrooms, kitchens, laundries, or areas with potential moisture. Vinyl plank is also the better choice for open-plan living areas and families with pets.
Choose laminate if…
The installation is in a completely dry area (bedrooms, study, lounge without spill risk) and you want a product that feels firmer underfoot and has slightly better scratch resistance at the top end.
Side-by-side comparison
| Factor | Vinyl Plank | Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproof | 100% waterproof | Water-resistant only |
| Wet areas | Safe in bathrooms, kitchens | Not recommended |
| Lifespan | 20–30 years | 15–25 years |
| Dent resistance | Good — flexible core | Can chip or dent |
| Scratch resistance | Good wear layer (0.5mm+) | Excellent (AC4+ rated) |
| Underfloor heating | Compatible (check temp limits) | Compatible (check spec) |
| Timber-like feel | Slightly plastic feel at budget end | More rigid, closer to timber |
| Maintenance | Sweep + mop freely | Avoid wet mopping |
| Entry-level cost | ~$40/sqm installed | ~$35/sqm installed |
| Suitable for slab | Yes — floating or glue | Yes — floating |
Common questions
What is the main difference between vinyl plank and laminate?+
The core difference is water resistance. Vinyl plank is 100% waterproof through the full plank — safe for bathrooms, kitchens, and laundries. Laminate has an HDF core that swells with prolonged moisture exposure, making it unsuitable for wet areas. Both look like timber but use different construction methods.
Is vinyl plank or laminate more durable?+
Vinyl plank is generally more durable in real-world conditions — it's waterproof, dent-resistant, and handles high-traffic areas well. Quality laminate (AC4+) is hard-wearing but vulnerable to moisture damage. For households with pets, kids, or wet areas, vinyl plank is the more durable choice.
Which is cheaper — vinyl plank or laminate?+
Entry-level laminate can be slightly cheaper than vinyl plank, starting around $35/sqm installed. Mid-range products are similar in price. However, laminate's shorter lifespan (15–25 years vs 20–30 for vinyl plank) and inability to be sanded means the lifetime cost of vinyl plank is often lower.
Can laminate be installed in a bathroom?+
We don't recommend standard laminate in bathrooms or laundries. The HDF core absorbs moisture and swells, voiding warranties. Some waterproof laminate products exist but they're more expensive and less proven than vinyl plank. For wet areas, vinyl plank is the clear choice.
Which looks more like real timber — vinyl plank or laminate?+
Both have improved significantly. High-end laminate tends to have a more authentic wood texture due to embossed-in-register (EIR) surfaces. Premium vinyl plank products have also closed this gap. At mid-price points, the visual difference is minimal for most buyers.
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