Drywall Types Comparison: Find the Perfect Option for Your Project

Drywall, also known as gypsum board or plasterboard, is a cornerstone of modern construction, offering versatility, affordability, and ease of installation. But not all drywall is created equal. With various types tailored to specific needs—moisture resistance, fire safety, soundproofing, and more—choosing the right one can make or break your project. In this comprehensive drywall types comparison, we’ll break down the most popular options, their uses, pros, cons, and key features to help you decide. Let’s dive in and explore the best drywall for your next build or renovation!

What Is Drywall, and Why Does Type Matter?

Drywall is made from gypsum plaster pressed between thick sheets of paper, creating a lightweight yet sturdy building material. Different additives and treatments enhance its properties, making certain types ideal for bathrooms, garages, or high-traffic areas. Selecting the right drywall ensures durability, safety, and cost-efficiency—whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor.

Below, we compare the top drywall types dominating the market in 2025, optimized for performance and tailored to real-world applications.

1. Standard Drywall (Regular White Board)

Overview: The go-to choice for most interior walls and ceilings, standard drywall is affordable and widely available.
Best For: Living rooms, bedrooms, and other dry, low-risk areas.
Thickness Options: 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″ (most common), and 5/8″.

Pros:
- Cost-effective—perfect for budget-conscious projects.
- Easy to cut, install, and finish with paint or wallpaper.
- Lightweight for quick handling.

Cons:
- No resistance to moisture or fire—unsuitable for bathrooms or kitchens.
- Limited soundproofing capabilities.
Cost: $0.30–$0.60 per square foot.

Why Choose It? Standard drywall is the backbone of residential construction, offering a blank canvas for creative finishes without breaking the bank.

2. Moisture-Resistant Drywall (Green Board)

Overview: Treated with water-repellent paper and additives, green board resists humidity and mold growth.
Best For: Bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements with moderate moisture.
Thickness Options: Typically 1/2″ or 5/8″.

Pros:
- Mold-resistant—ideal for damp environments.
- Affordable upgrade over standard drywall.
- Easy to identify with its green facing.

Cons:
- Not fully waterproof—avoid in areas with direct water exposure (e.g., showers).
- Slightly pricier than regular drywall.
Cost: $0.50–$0.80 per square foot.

Why Choose It? Green board strikes a balance between cost and performance, making it a smart pick for humid zones without needing premium options.

3. Type X Drywall (Fire-Resistant)

Overview: Enhanced with glass fibers, Type X drywall slows fire spread, meeting strict building codes.
Best For: Garages, multi-family homes, and commercial spaces requiring fire safety.
Thickness Options: 5/8″ is standard for fire ratings.
Pros:
- Provides 1-hour fire resistance (5/8″ thickness).
- Durable and impact-resistant.
- Meets safety regulations for attached structures.
Cons:
- Heavier and harder to cut than standard drywall.
- Higher cost due to specialized materials.
Cost: $0.60–$1.00 per square foot.

Why Choose It? If safety is paramount, Type X drywall offers peace of mind with proven fire-retardant properties—essential for high-risk areas.

4. Soundproof Drywall (QuietRock or Similar)

Overview: Engineered with viscoelastic polymers or extra layers, soundproof drywall minimizes noise transmission.
Best For: Home theaters, music studios, or shared walls in apartments.
Thickness Options: 1/2″ to 5/8″, depending on brand.
Pros:
- Superior sound dampening—reduces noise by up to 50%.
- No need for additional soundproofing materials.
- Easy to install like standard drywall.
Cons:
- Expensive—often double the price of regular drywall.
- Limited availability in some regions.
Cost: $2.00–$4.00 per square foot.

Why Choose It? For audiophiles or anyone craving silence, soundproof drywall transforms noisy spaces into tranquil retreats.

5. Mold-Resistant Drywall (Purple Board)

Overview: An advanced version of green board, purple board boasts superior mold and moisture resistance with antimicrobial coatings.
Best For: High-humidity areas like showers, basements, or coastal homes.
Thickness Options: 1/2″ or 5/8″.
Pros:
- Top-tier mold protection—exceeds green board performance.
- Durable and long-lasting in wet climates.
- Often includes sag resistance for ceilings.

Cons:
- Premium pricing reflects its advanced features.
- Overkill for dry, low-risk zones.
Cost: $0.80–$1.20 per square foot.

Why Choose It? Purple board is the ultimate shield against moisture and mold, perfect for demanding environments where quality can’t be compromised.

6. Eco-Friendly Drywall (Sustainable Options)

Overview: Made from recycled materials or low-emission processes, eco-friendly drywall caters to green building trends.
Best For: LEED-certified projects or environmentally conscious homeowners.
Thickness Options: Varies by manufacturer (1/2″ common).

Pros:
- Reduces environmental impact—often 80–90% recycled content.
- Comparable performance to standard drywall.
- Appeals to sustainability-focused buyers.

Cons:
- Slightly higher cost than regular drywall.
- Limited availability depending on supplier.
Cost: $0.50–$0.90 per square foot.

Why Choose It? Build green without sacrificing quality—eco-friendly drywall aligns with the growing demand for sustainable construction.

Drywall Types Comparison Chart

Type	Best Use	Moisture Resistance	Fire Resistance	Soundproofing	Cost (per sq ft)
Standard	Dry interiors	None	None	Low	$0.30–$0.60
Moisture-Resistant	Bathrooms, basements	Moderate	None	Low	$0.50–$0.80
Type X	Garages, commercial	None	High (1-hour)	Moderate	$0.60–$1.00
Soundproof	Studios, shared walls	None	Moderate	High	$2.00–$4.00
Mold-Resistant	Wet areas, coastal homes	High	None	Low	$0.80–$1.20
Eco-Friendly	Green projects	None	None	Low	$0.50–$0.90

How to Choose the Right Drywall for Your Needs

Assess Your Environment: High humidity? Opt for mold- or moisture-resistant boards. Noise concerns? Go soundproof.
Check Building Codes: Fire-rated drywall (Type X) may be required for garages or multi-unit buildings.
Budget Wisely: Standard drywall works for most dry areas, but investing in specialty types pays off in high-risk zones.
Consider Installation: Thicker boards (5/8″) offer durability but require stronger framing and more effort to hang.

Final Thoughts: Which Drywall Wins in 2025?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—each drywall type shines in its niche. For general use, standard drywall keeps costs low. For wet areas, purple board leads the pack with unbeatable mold resistance. Need safety? Type X is your fireproof champion. And for peace and quiet, soundproof drywall reigns supreme.

Ready to start your project? Use this drywall types comparison to match your needs, budget, and local conditions. Contact your supplier today and build smarter with the perfect drywall choice!