Walk into any flooring store and you'll see two products that look almost identical: laminate and luxury vinyl plank (LVP). Both mimic the look of real hardwood. Both are more affordable than the real thing. So what's the difference, and which one should you choose?

What's Actually Inside

Laminate

Laminate flooring is made of compressed wood fibers (HDF core) topped with a high-resolution photo layer and a protective wear layer. Think of it as a high-tech sandwich — wood on the inside, image on top, clear armor on the surface.

LVP (Luxury Vinyl Plank)

LVP is made entirely of synthetic materials — a rigid or flexible vinyl core with a printed vinyl layer and urethane wear layer. No wood content at all.

Water: The Big Difference

This is where it matters most. LVP is 100% waterproof. You can install it in bathrooms, kitchens, basements — anywhere moisture is a concern.

Traditional laminate? Not waterproof. The wood-fiber core swells when exposed to water, causing warping and bubbling. However, newer products like the Timeless Designs HydroWave line feature waterproof cores that solve this problem — giving you the scratch resistance of laminate with water protection built in.

Durability & Scratch Resistance

Laminate typically has a harder surface than LVP, making it more scratch-resistant. If you have large dogs or heavy furniture, laminate's AC-rated surface holds up better against surface scratches. LVP can dent from heavy point loads (like furniture legs) because vinyl is softer than HDF.

Comfort & Sound

LVP with attached pad tends to feel warmer and quieter underfoot. Laminate can sound hollow or "clicky" without quality underlayment. Both are miles ahead of tile or stone for comfort.

Installation

Both use click-lock systems and are DIY-friendly. LVP is slightly easier to cut (score and snap vs. saw for laminate). Both float over most subfloors.

Price

Very similar. Both typically range from $2–$5 per square foot for quality products. At factory-direct pricing through us, you're getting premium products at well below typical retail.

Our Recommendation

Choose LVP if: You're installing in wet areas, want the warmest feel underfoot, or prioritize waterproofing above all else.

Choose laminate if: You want maximum scratch resistance, have large pets, or prefer the slightly more natural "wood feel" of an HDF core.

Best of both worlds: Look at our waterproof laminate options that combine laminate's durability with water protection.

Browse our full collection to compare options side by side.

Laminate vs. LVP: Which Is Actually Better for Your Home?