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📑 Contents
Paraffin wax vs Gel wax: comparison chart
| — | 🕯️ Paraffin wax | 💎 Gel wax |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Mineral (petroleum) | Mineral (petroleum) |
| Melt point | 52–64 °C (126–147 °F) | 80–95 °C (176–203 °F) |
| Pour temperature | 65–85 °C (149–185 °F) | 75–90 °C (167–194 °F) |
| Max fragrance load | 10 % | 5 % |
| Hot throw | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Burn time | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Ease of use | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Price | € | €€ |
| Vegan | Yes | Yes |
| Best for | container candles, pillar candles, votive candles, tealights, floating candles and taper candles | container candles |
Typical values: each manufacturer publishes its own on the wax’s spec sheet.
Verdict
- Paraffin wax has a stronger scent throw than Gel wax.
- Gel wax burns longer than Paraffin wax.
- Paraffin wax is easier to work with than Gel wax.
- Paraffin wax is more affordable than Gel wax.
Paraffin wax
Paraffin wax is the most versatile and affordable candle wax: it takes bold colors, releases easily from molds and delivers the strongest scent throw.
- Strongest scent throw
- Inexpensive and easy to find
- Vivid colors and a glossy finish
- Releases easily from molds
Gel wax
Gel wax lets you make crystal-clear candles with decorative embeds inside, but it demands more care than any traditional wax.
- Stunning transparency
- Very long burn time
- Can suspend decorative embeds
- Vivid color with very little dye
Best paraffin wax in stock
Gulf Wax Household Paraffin Wax 1 Pound Bars (3 Packs)
Fully Refined Paraffin Candle Wax Slab, 10 lb Bulk Wax for Candle Making
See more paraffin wax on Amazon →
Best gel wax in stock
TooGet Transparent Jelly Wax DIY Candle Making Gel Wax Handmade Material Crystal Gel Candle for Candle Making…
CoolCrafts 2 Pounds Transparent Gel Wax for Candle Making Clear Jelly Candle Wax for Decorative Projects
CoolCrafts 5 Pounds Transparent Gel Wax for Candle Making Clear Jelly Candle Wax for Decorative Projects
Other comparisons
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Paraffin wax or Gel wax?
It depends on the type of candle: Paraffin wax stands out for pillar candles, votive candles, tealights, floating candles and taper candles and Gel wax for container candles. Check the chart to compare temperatures, scent throw and burn time.
Can you mix paraffin wax and gel wax?
Many commercial waxes are already blends. If you blend your own, run small tests, write down the ratios and repeat the burn test: blending changes the wick size and the fragrance load the wax can hold.
Do paraffin wax and gel wax need the same wick?
Not always. Each wax has a different viscosity, so the wick size usually changes. Use the wick calculator as a starting point.