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Paraffin wax vs Wax melt wax: comparison chart
| — | 🕯️ Paraffin wax | 🧊 Wax melt wax |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Mineral (petroleum) | Blend |
| Melt point | 52–64 °C (126–147 °F) | 50–60 °C (122–140 °F) |
| Pour temperature | 65–85 °C (149–185 °F) | 60–70 °C (140–158 °F) |
| Max fragrance load | 10 % | 12 % |
| 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 | wax melts |
Typical values: each manufacturer publishes its own on the wax’s spec sheet.
Verdict
- Paraffin wax is more affordable than Wax melt 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
Wax melt wax
Wax melt wax is made for wickless melts and tarts: firm enough to pop cleanly out of clamshells and able to carry a lot of fragrance oil.
- Very beginner-friendly
- Handles high fragrance loads
- Releases easily from molds
- No wick sizing needed
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 wax melt wax in stock
American Soy Organics Freedom Soy Melt Wax for DIY Candle Making, 5 lbs
Wax Melts Molds Silicone,Square Candle Mold Silicone Molds for Wax Melts
Wax Melt Molds - 100 Pack Clear Plastic Clamshells for Wickless Candles
See more wax melt wax on Amazon →
Other comparisons
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Paraffin wax or Wax melt wax?
It depends on the type of candle: Paraffin wax stands out for container candles, pillar candles, votive candles, tealights, floating candles and taper candles and Wax melt wax for wax melts. Check the chart to compare temperatures, scent throw and burn time.
Can you mix paraffin wax and wax melt 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 wax melt 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.