Metal picture frames… or… wood picture frames? So many choices! What’s the difference?
When choosing a picture frame, the material matters just as much as the design. A frame should complement your artwork while providing the structure and support it needs. In this guide, we’re comparing wood vs metal picture frames — two of the most popular and versatile framing materials — to help you decide which is right for your space and style.
Wood Picture Frames
There are three different types of wood that are primarily used for framing, and the distinction is important.
- 🪵 Solid/Natural wood
- 🪵 Medium-density fiberboard (MDF)
- 🪵 Finger-jointed poplar
The first, solid/natural wood, is, as it sounds, ordinary lumber that wasn’t modified upon being cut down.
The second two, MDF and finger-jointed poplar, are engineered. They are still wood, but they aren’t a log straight from the lumber pile; they have been taken from bits and pieces of wood and rejoined to form something new. While this “re-engineering” might sound less desirable, it offers lots of advantages.
Solid or Natural Wood
While arguably one of the more aesthetically pleasing materials, natural wood is usually the most expensive option. It’s traditionally stained and has a more natural-looking grain that will vary from frame to frame, adding a certain level of uniqueness.
Some people prefer this despite the higher cost, limited availability, and increased fragility.
Natural wood can contract and warp in high heat/humidity and is also more susceptible to pest infestation than its engineered counterparts, making it a more “high maintenance” material.
Since the natural grain patterns are not covered, you can expect variations.
There is also an environmental argument to be made against solid/natural wood: it’s difficult to recycle wood and keep it original to its straight-from-the-lumberyard form. Because of this, to sustain a business where solid wood frames are sold, it would have to be at the expense of excessive amounts of trees.
Be sure to read about our sustainability promise.
Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF)
MDF is a recycled wood material, made of what is essentially sawdust, compressed with some type of binder, and wrapped for a uniform finish.
While many people perceive MDF to be a cheaper, less desirable knockoff of the real thing, it has some very compelling benefits, as it is more stable & consistent and requires less maintenance (which is helpful for most casual framers.)
Shop our Composite MDF Picture Frames in Wilton
Common wood elements in your home or office (cabinets, flooring, furniture, etc.) are likely made from MDF due to their durability and consistency. It’s also typically the most cost-effective material, usually available in higher quantities for easy availability.
MDF, in addition, is less likely to bow and warp in high-humidity environments, although temperature changes can affect nearly any material.
Finger-Jointed Poplar
Finger-jointed poplar is a type of recycled wood characterized by how it’s bonded together.
“Finger-jointing” is a process that bonds different types of wood by cutting complementary sets of rectangular joints in two pieces of wood, and then linking them together.
This process is done to scrap lumber, attempting to give it a purpose beyond sitting on the floor. It has been used for making many products (boxes, doors) across many industries (automotive, home improvement).
Finger-jointed wood implies that the material has been recycled, which has more sustainable environmental implications, and poplar, in particular, is a type of fast-growing tree found in northern temperate regions. This means it’s rather plentiful, which makes for an inexpensive final product.
Finger-jointed poplar is a good middle ground between solid wood and MDF. While still a recycled wood material similar to MDF, rather than being made from sawdust, it is created with the joined solid wood pieces that are then covered with a high-quality laminate that allows for consistent coloring.
It’s closer to solid wood than MDF but also is a more ecological choice since it is made from recycled material.
Here at Frame It Easy we have several wood picture frames available. We offer a quality composite wood option, a natural wood, as well as a finger-jointed poplar.
Metal Picture Frames
Metal is another common building material used for picture frames, and there are several different types, some more expensive than others, that vary in aesthetic.
Silver
In rare cases, metal frames can be made of silver or bronze. These are costly choices, however, and aren’t advisable for the casual framer.
A silver frame, even one as small as 5″ X 7″, can have a starting cost of over one hundred dollars.
This is likely, among other reasons, due to its scarcity; silver constitutes .05 parts per million in the Earth’s crust.
Bronze
Bronze is an alloy made of copper and another metal. More often than not, this other metal is tin.
An issue with bronze is its necessity to oxidize, creating a green outer layer. Think of the Statue of Liberty; which used to be bronze-colored, but years of oxidation lead to “bronze disease,” which is the layman’s term for the metal turning green.
Because of this, Bronze is also not great for casual framers and would require just as much maintenance as a solid wood frame would.
Aluminum
In most cases, metal picture frames are made of aluminum. This material has many uses, ranging from beer kegs to airplane parts. In contrast to Bronze, aluminum is resistant to corrosion, which means that minimal maintenance would be required.
Since aluminum is the most abundant material in the Earth’s crust, it’s more affordable. It is also lightweight, which means that even a large picture frame measuring 42” X 62” would likely only weigh two or three pounds when made from aluminum.
The occasional dusting would be needed, of course, but nothing would happen to greatly change its color, especially if it’s anodized or powder-coated— two processes that are meant to make aluminum more decorative.
Most aluminum frames are anodized, which is a process that makes the surface of aluminum more attractive and durable, making for a better display with far less maintenance. This process makes satellites more resistant to the vacuum of space, and it was used in the Sears Tower in Chicago. It also has no noticeable environmental consequences.
If the aluminum frame hasn’t been anodized, however, it was likely powder-coated, which is a finish that is tougher than conventional paint, meaning it will last longer. It also extends the life of the metal itself.
Here at Frame It Easy, we offer a variety of metal picture frames that vary in color, thickness, and style. All are made out of aluminum through a process called “extrusion.”
First, an aluminum billet (basically an aluminum log) is heated to almost a thousand degrees and forced (using 750 tons of pressure!) through a die. The newly extruded aluminum is then placed on a “stretcher” where all imperfections are removed.
Finally, the aluminum is either anodized or powder coated, converting the surface of the material into a decorative, durable, corrosion-resistant finish, meaning these frame rails are extremely rigid and high-quality.
When Metal Meets Wood
How about a little of both? Perhaps our most unique metal frame is the Milford. Metal and wood unite in this contemporary & cutting-edge frame. Get this…it’s made of metal, but looks like wood. Say what! It has an ultra-thin wood veneer face of just 3/16″. Perfect for those who want the look of a minimalist wood picture frame without sacrificing strength, size, or versatility.
Shop Our Slim Picture Frame
A Quick Note On Plastic Picture Frames
Plastics such as polystyrene are sometimes used in frames that you can buy at big-name retailers. The materials in these, however, are generally less aesthetically pleasing and functional in favor of a lower price, which isnt always the right way to go. They would be good for a frame that you would only need temporarily, or for something of a standard size.
Final Thoughts
When choosing between metal vs wood picture frames, consider durability, maintenance, cost, and style. Metal frames are lightweight, moisture-resistant, and low-maintenance, ideal for modern spaces and gallery walls. Wood frames offer warmth and traditional character but may require more upkeep depending on the environment.
The right frame ultimately depends on your artwork, where it will hang, and your personal aesthetic. Understanding the structural and visual differences makes it easier to select a frame that both protects your piece and enhances its impact.
So where do I start?
Start by considering what you’re framing and where you plan on hanging it. Your style is yours, so stay true to it and have some fun in the process. Check out all of our frame styles to get an idea of what we offer.
What’s the difference between wood and metal picture frames?
Wood frames offer warmth, texture, and classic appeal, while metal frames are generally lighter, more moisture-resistant, and have a cleaner, modern look. Each material has different strengths in terms of durability, style, and maintenance.
Are metal frames more durable than wood frames?
In many cases, yes. Metal frames — especially aluminum — are less prone to warping, splitting, or moisture damage than wood. However, quality wood frames can also be long-lasting if cared for properly and kept in stable environments.
Which frame material is better for large artwork?
Both can work, but metal frames are often easier to hang for large pieces because they are lighter and stronger. Wood frames can support large sizes too, especially when built with sturdy profiles, but they tend to be heavier.
Do metal or wood frames cost more?
The cost depends on the type of material and finish. Solid hardwoods and specialty metal finishes can both be premium options. Often, entry-level metal frames are more affordable, but high-end wood frames can be more expensive depending.
Which material is easier to maintain?
Metal frames are typically lower maintenance because they resist humidity and environmental changes. Wood may need occasional dusting and, in some climates, extra care to prevent warping or cracking.
Can I mix wood and metal frames in the same gallery wall?
Yes! Mixing materials can create visual interest and depth. Just keep a consistent theme, such as similar colors, mat styles, or frame widths, to keep the overall look cohesive. If you want!
Are metal frames environmentally friendly?
Many metal frames, especially aluminum, are recyclable and require less resource-intensive processing than some wood frames. Sustainable wood options are also available when sourced responsibly.
Which frame material works best for photos?
Both wood and metal work well for photos. Metal frames tend to offer a sleek, modern look, while wood can create a warmer, more traditional feel. The choice comes down to personal style and the decor of the space.
Is one material better for preservation framing?
For long-term preservation, the materials that touch the art matter most, such as archival mats and acid-free backing. Both wood and metal frames can be used in preservation framing when paired with archival-quality materials.
