Comparisons · Aluminium and other materials
Aluminium vs copper: which is better?
Weight, strength, stiffness, corrosion and recycling of aluminium and copper, side by side.
In a nutshell
- Aluminium weighs 70% less than copper: 2.70 against 8.96 g/cm³.
- Aluminium is stronger: 240 against 220 MPa tensile strength.
- Copper is 1.7 times stiffer (modulus of 117 against 69 GPa): an aluminium profile needs more section to deflect the same amount.
- Both resist corrosion well: copper forms a patina and aluminium a protective oxide layer.
| Property | Aluminium 6063-T6 | Copper |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 2.70 g/cm³ | 8.96 g/cm³ |
| Tensile strength | 240 MPa | 220 MPa |
| Modulus of elasticity (stiffness) | 69 GPa | 117 GPa |
| Thermal conductivity | 200 W/m·K | 390 W/m·K |
| Thermal expansion | 23.4 µm/m·°C | 17.0 µm/m·°C |
| Melting point | 615–655 °C | 1,085 °C |
| Corrosion | Very good: it forms a protective oxide layer; with anodising or paint, excellent. | Very good: it forms a patina. |
| Machinability | Good | Fair to good |
| Recycling | It can be recycled endlessly using about 5% of the energy needed to produce it. | It can be recycled without losing its properties. |
Typical values at room temperature: Aluminium 6063-T6 and Copper. Stiffness compares the modulus of elasticity.
- When aluminium is the better choiceWhen weight, corrosion or finish matter: light structures, windows and doors, transport, visible parts and anything that moves or is assembled by hand.
- When copper is the better choiceWhen you need the highest strength or stiffness in a small section, or the highest conductivity.
Still not sure which to use?
Tell us what you are going to make and we will recommend the right alloy, temper and finish.
The message is put together with what you are looking at, with no obligation.
Frequently asked questions
How much does aluminium weigh compared with copper?
Aluminium weighs 70% less than copper: 2.70 against 8.96 g/cm³.
Which is stronger, aluminium or copper?
Aluminium is stronger: 240 against 220 MPa tensile strength. Copper is 1.7 times stiffer (modulus of 117 against 69 GPa): an aluminium profile needs more section to deflect the same amount.