Maple is harder, more durable, and better at resisting deep knife marks, making it a workhorse, while Cherry is softer, gentler on knife edges, develops a beautiful reddish color with age, and offers excellent aesthetics, but shows marks more easily.

Choose Maple for maximum durability and longevity, and Cherry for knife edge preservation and classic kitchen style that matures beautifully.

Both are closed-grain hardwoods with good moisture/bacteria resistance.