Short answer: Strength varies enormously by metal and alloy. Carbon and alloy steels lead on absolute tensile strength, titanium offers the best strength-to-weight, aluminum and copper are far lighter and weaker, and hardened tool steels top the chart. Use this comparison to match material to load and weight budget.
At a Glance
What ‘Strength’ Means Here
We compare tensile strength – the stress a metal withstands before breaking. Values vary widely with alloy and temper, so the chart shows typical ranges, not single numbers. Higher strength lets you use thinner, lighter sections for the same load.
Strength by Metal Family
The chart shows the spread. Carbon/alloy steel reaches 400-2000 MPa, titanium 900-1200 MPa at half the density, stainless 500-1400 MPa, while aluminum (200-600 MPa) and copper (200-450 MPa) are much lighter and weaker. See our hardness guide for the wear side of the story.
Strength-to-Weight
If weight matters, divide strength by density. Titanium and high-strength aluminum alloys win on strength-to-weight; steel wins on absolute strength per cost. Aerospace and transport favor titanium and 7xxx aluminum; structures favor steel.
Choosing a Strength Level
Match strength to the load with margin, then optimize weight and cost. Tell HXSCO the load, weight, and environment and we will suggest grade, alloy, and temper.
Frequently Asked Questions
On absolute tensile strength, hardened alloy and tool steels lead (up to ~2000 MPa); titanium is strongest by weight.
High-strength steels exceed titanium in absolute strength, but titanium offers similar strength at about half the density.
Yes – typical aluminum alloys are 200-600 MPa vs 400-2000 MPa for steel, but aluminum is far lighter.
Strength divided by density; titanium and 7xxx aluminum score best, making them aerospace and transport favorites.
Give the required tensile/yield strength or service load and weight target; HXSCO matches grade and temper.
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Send us the grade, form, dimensions, quantity, and any certification or test requirements. HXSCO replies with a competitive quote, lead time, and mill-test options.
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