Porcelain and ceramic dinnerware are very similar, but they‘re manufactured differently and, therefore, have different compositions. Porcelain is a type of ceramic, but it is generally considered to be more high-end than ceramic thanks to its visual polish and durability. To achieve these qualities, porcelain is made from a fine clay known kaolin which is fired at a higher temperature than ceramic, resulting in a stronger, more translucent material.
Unlike porcelain, ceramic dinnerware isn’t made from a specific type of clay. It is made from a variety of different types of clay and fired at a lower temperature. As a result, ceramic tends to be thicker and less translucent than porcelain—traits that make it a better fit for everyday use. While both porcelain and ceramic dinnerware are versatile and can be sourced in a wide range of designs, porcelain is generally considered more of a luxury item than ceramic and in line, is often more expensive than ceramic.