Porcelain is a denser, harder type of ceramic that is made from finer clays fired at much higher temperatures. This process results in a material with lower water absorption and significantly greater durability. On the other hand, ceramic tiles tend to be less dense and more porous, as they use less refined clay and are fired at lower temperatures. This makes ceramic tiles a more affordable option, although they are generally less suited for high-traffic or outdoor areas when compared to porcelain. The key difference between the two lies in their manufacturing process and resulting density, which directly affects their water resistance, overall strength, and ideal applications.