Casket Vs Coffin - Difference Between Casket And Coffin

What Is Difference Between Casket And Coffin?

When you are planning a funeral, you might wonder about the difference between caskets and coffins. Both of them are types of burial containers used to hold the remains of the deceased. Contrary to what you might think, these are two distinct items but the differences between them are primarily aesthetic. the distinctive visual difference between Caskets Vs Coffins is that Caskets have four sides and coffins have six sides. 

Key Differences Between Caskets and Coffins

Casket vs Coffin- What's the Difference?

• Caskets

A casket is a rectangular shaped box, usually made of metal, that can be used for holding the body of the deceased at a funeral. They are built with a split lid, making them the ideal choice for funerals that include a viewing. Caskets also tend to have more detail on their exteriors as well as a better interior lining and trimmings.

• Coffins 

A coffin tends to be wider than a casket, but the shape of a coffin tapers towards the bottom. Coffins are usually hexagonal or sometimes octagonal, with a greater width around the top to accommodate the upper body of the deceased. Coffins were designed to taper towards the bottom to save money by reducing the amount of material required. This is why coffins tend to be lower priced than caskets. But nowadays there are many affordable casket options too and the price difference can sometimes be minimal.

Coffins are usually made out of plywood or fibreboard, with plastic handles. In cases of direct cremation, especially when there is no ceremony, Eco-Friendly coffins are the most popular choice. They are not only affordable but also environmentally friendly. If you are planning a cremation, then a coffin might be the right choice for you. 

Which One Should You Choose?

• Choose a Casket If: You prefer a polished, modern look with premium finishes.

• Choose a Coffin If: You want a more traditional or budget-friendly option.

Price Comparison: Casket vs. Coffin Price

The cost varies based on material and craftsmanship. Here’s an estimate:

• Caskets: $1,000 – $5,000 (high-end options can exceed $10,000)

• Coffins: $600 – $3,000 (custom models may cost more)

Factors Affecting Price

• Material – Solid wood and metal caskets cost more than veneer or fiberboard coffins.

• Customization – Engraving, velvet interiors, and swing-bar handles increase cost.

• Funeral Home Markup – Buying directly from online retailers like Titan Casket can save you money.

Cultural Significance & Traditions

• In the U.S., caskets are more commonly used, especially for open-casket funerals.

• In the UK & Europe, coffins are the standard choice due to tradition and cost-effectiveness.

• Green burials often use biodegradable coffins or eco-friendly caskets.

Expert Insights & Recommendations

"Coffins differ from caskets in their appearance: they typically have six sides, and the top is wider than the bottom. Caskets usually have four sides, and they often come with rails to support them during transportation." – Whitney and Murphy Funeral Home

Should You Buy a Casket or Coffin Online?

Yes! Buying directly from trusted retailers like Titan Casket can be significantly more affordable than purchasing from a funeral home. Online stores offer:

• Lower prices by avoiding funeral home markups
• A wide variety of materials and customization options
• Nationwide delivery within a few days

Where Can I Buy A Coffin Or A Casket?

There are coffins and caskets for sale at most funeral homes. However, customers wonder the casket cost before while browsing for the perfect casket but they have the opportunity to save a considerable amount of money, and have greater confidence in the quality of their purchase, by exercising their right to provide their own casket. Titan Casket sells online directly to customers and can deliver to the funeral home of your choice, for a fraction of what you would pay at the funeral home. With Titan Casket you can also be confident in the knowledge that your coffin or casket is carefully crafted with the best materials by skilled artisans. Explore Now to make your decision clear!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Are Coffins and Caskets the Same?

Answer: Coffins and caskets are similar but not identical. Coffins typically have six sides with wider dimensions at the shoulder and narrower at the feet, while caskets are rectangular and often have a split lid for viewing. Both serve the same purpose of holding a deceased person for burial or cremation.

Q2: Why are caskets more expensive than coffins?

Answer: Caskets use premium materials and intricate designs, while coffins are simpler.

Q3: What's More Expensive: Coffin or Casket?

Answer: Generally, caskets tend to be more expensive than coffins due to their typically more elaborate designs and construction.