Which one fits you better?
Start with how you will actually use it, then confirm specification, installation and total cost.
AC4
You need durable residential flooring or moderate commercial use without paying for unnecessary wear resistance.
AC5
You expect heavier traffic or the product specification genuinely benefits from the higher wear class.
Comparison at a glance
| Aspect | What you should know | How to decide |
|---|---|---|
| Wear class | Strong option for demanding residential use. | Designed for heavier wear classes. |
| Price | Often lower for otherwise similar products. | Can carry a premium. |
| Home use | Usually enough for many homes. | Useful when traffic is unusually high. |
| What it does not tell you | Does not define water resistance or installation quality. | Higher AC does not automatically mean a better floor in every respect. |
What matters before you decide
Choose the whole product, not just the AC badge. A well-made AC4 with the right moisture performance and locking system can be a better fit than an AC5 chosen only for the label.
Do not compare a single number
Keep the target result, usage period and assumptions consistent. Total cost can include material, installation, accessories, energy, maintenance and the cost of correcting a wrong choice.
Compare it with your own numbers
Use BricoDato tools to turn the choice into quantities, kWh or a real project plan.
Decision checklist
Define the real use. Frequency, room, size, hours or intensity depending on the product.
Compare the complete system. Product, installation, accessories, energy and maintenance where relevant.
Read the technical data. Do not replace specifications with marketing labels or one headline number.
Consider the cost of a mistake. If a poor choice means redoing the job, the apparent saving disappears quickly.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better: AC4 or AC5?
There is no universal winner. You need durable residential flooring or moderate commercial use without paying for unnecessary wear resistance. By contrast, You expect heavier traffic or the product specification genuinely benefits from the higher wear class.
Should I decide only by purchase price?
No. Compare the complete installed system, running or maintenance costs where relevant, expected life and the cost of correcting a poor choice.
What should I check before buying?
AC rating is only one property. Water resistance, locking system, board thickness, core quality and warranty also matter.