Tungsten and titanium are the two most popular alternative metals for men’s wedding rings. Both are more durable and more affordable than gold or platinum, but they are very different materials. This guide compares them across every factor that matters so you can make the right choice.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Tungsten Carbide | Titanium |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9.5 | 6.0 |
| Scratch resistance | Virtually scratch-proof | Scratches over time |
| Weight | Heavy (similar to gold) | Very light |
| Price range | $32 – $80 | $50 – $200 |
| Color options | Silver, black, gold, rose gold, blue | Silver, black |
| Resizable | No | No |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes | Yes |
| Can it break? | Can shatter under extreme impact | Bends but does not break |
| Maintenance | None | Occasional polishing |
Scratch Resistance and Durability
This is the single biggest difference between the two metals. Tungsten carbide scores 9.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it nearly as hard as diamond (10). Titanium scores 6.0, which means it will scratch from contact with harder materials like hardened steel, glass, or concrete. In practical terms, a tungsten ring will look exactly the same after 10 years of daily wear, while a titanium ring will accumulate visible scratches.
Both metals are durable, but in different ways. Tungsten is extremely hard and scratch-proof, but brittle under extreme force – if you drop a tungsten ring onto a hard tile floor from height, it can crack (though this is extremely rare in normal wear). Titanium is softer and scratches more easily, but it is flexible and bends rather than breaking. For 99% of daily situations, both metals are equally durable.
Weight, Price, and Style Options
Tungsten is one of the densest metals used in jewelry. An 8mm tungsten ring has a satisfying, substantial weight that most men describe as “premium” or “solid” – similar to gold. Titanium is one of the lightest metals, and an 8mm titanium ring barely feels like it is there. Some men love this because they are not used to wearing jewelry. Others find it feels cheap. Most men who compare them side by side prefer the weight of tungsten, but comfort is personal.
Tungsten wedding bands typically range from $32 to $80. Titanium ranges from $50 to $200. Both are far cheaper than gold ($300+) or platinum ($500+), but tungsten gives you more ring for less money. This matters even more for matching couples’ sets where you are buying two rings.
Tungsten is available in a wider range of colors (silver, black, gold, rose gold, blue, gunmetal) and supports inlays like wood, carbon fiber, opal, and abalone better than titanium because its rigid structure holds inlay materials securely. Titanium is primarily available in natural silver or black with fewer design options.
Safety and Emergency Removal
Both tungsten and titanium rings can be safely removed in a medical emergency. Tungsten can be cracked and removed using vice-grip pliers – the ring shatters into pieces and falls away from the finger in seconds. Titanium must be cut off using a high-speed diamond disc, which takes longer but is still routine. Neither metal poses a safety risk, and the myth that tungsten rings are dangerous in emergencies is false.
Both metals are available in comfort-fit designs with a rounded interior that slides on easily and sits comfortably all day. If comfort is a priority, look for “comfort fit” in the product description regardless of which metal you choose.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose tungsten if you want maximum scratch resistance, a heavier and more premium feel, more color and style options, and the lowest price. Choose titanium if you want the lightest possible ring or prefer a ring that bends rather than shatters under extreme force.
For most men, tungsten is the better overall choice. It offers superior scratch resistance, more design options, a more premium feel, and a lower price. The only real advantage of titanium is its lighter weight.
Our most popular tungsten wedding bands:
- Black Hammered Tungsten Ring
- Black Brushed Koa Wood Inlay
- Rose Gold Brushed Beveled
- Gold Plated Tungsten Ring
- Artichoke Wood Tungsten Ring
Related reading: Tungsten Rings vs Titanium Rings | Are Tungsten Rings Scratch Proof? | Can Tungsten Rings Be Cut Off in an Emergency? | Is Tungsten Heavier Than Gold?