What’s the Difference Between Artificial Grass and Turf?
Artificial Grass vs. Turf: What’s the Real Difference?
If you’ve been researching synthetic lawn options, you’ve probably come across the terms “artificial grass” and “turf.” Sometimes they’re used interchangeably—but they’re not exactly the same thing.
At RM Artificial Grass Phoenix, we get this question all the time: What’s the difference between artificial grass and turf, and which one do I need? Here’s a simple breakdown to help you choose the right surface for your space.
1. It’s All Synthetic—But the Purpose Matters
Both artificial grass and turf are made from synthetic materials, typically polyethylene, polypropylene, or nylon. The key difference lies in what they’re designed for.
- Artificial Grass is made to look and feel like natural grass. It’s soft, realistic, and built for everyday use in landscapes, homes, pet areas, and playgrounds.
- Artificial Turf is designed for function over form—think sports fields, gyms, and high-impact zones. It’s built to be durable, low-friction, and withstand heavy wear.
So, all artificial turf is artificial grass—but not all artificial grass is sports-grade turf.
2. Texture & Appearance
Artificial Grass:
- Soft to the touch
- Realistic color blends (greens with brown thatch)
- Mimics the movement and variation of real lawn
- Great for yards, pool areas, patios, and curb appeal
Turf:
- Shorter, tighter, and more rugged fibers
- Typically one-tone green or uniform appearance
- Prioritizes performance and drainage over realism
- Great for sports, training, or high-traffic commercial use
3. Backing and Durability
Artificial turf tends to have a stronger, more rigid backing that can handle cleats, sled pushes, or impact sports. Artificial grass used for landscaping usually focuses more on drainage and comfort, especially for pets or kids.
At RM Artificial Grass Phoenix, we match the backing and infill system to your use case—whether it’s Sunday lounging or weekday soccer drills.
4. Infill Types and Installation Differences
Turf used for sports and gyms may include rubber pellets or custom shock pads for bounce and grip. Landscaping grass, on the other hand, often uses silica sand, antimicrobial infill, or T-Cool infill to support the blades, reduce heat, and neutralize odors.
Install methods vary too:
- Turf fields often require additional base compaction and shock-absorbing layers.
- Grass installs focus more on soft transitions, perimeter edging, and natural contouring.
5. So… Which One Do You Need?
Ask yourself:
- Do I want something soft, realistic, and green year-round for relaxing, pets, or curb appeal? → Artificial Grass
- Do I need a hard-wearing surface for play, training, or sports? → Artificial Turf
Of course, the lines can blur—especially for pet turf, play areas, or multipurpose spaces. That’s where our RM Artificial Grass Phoenix team comes in to help you choose the best system for your lifestyle and location.
Final Thoughts: Different Tools for Different Jobs
The right product depends on how you want to use your space. Whether you’re going for looks, performance, or a little bit of both, there’s a perfect turf solution out there—and we’ll help you find it.
Still Unsure Which Option Fits Your Needs?
If you’re deciding between artificial grass and turf, we’re here to help. At RM Artificial Grass Phoenix, we’ll guide you through your options and recommend the best solution based on your space and goals.
📞 Contact us today to speak with a turf expert or request a free quote. Let’s bring your vision to life—without the guesswork.
Discover the history of artificial turf, from the early days of AstroTurf to today’s high-tech lawns. Read our next blog to learn more!