Laminate and hardwood both give a wood look, but they're very different products. The right choice depends on budget, moisture, and how long you want it to last.
Cost and installation
Laminate is much cheaper and DIY-friendly — it clicks together and floats over the subfloor. Hardwood costs more in materials and labour and usually needs professional installation. For a budget or rental, laminate stretches further.
Durability and moisture
Laminate resists scratches and dents well on its wear layer, but moisture is its weakness — water can swell the core, and damaged planks can't be refinished, only replaced. Solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished several times over decades, but scratches and dents show and it dislikes moisture too.
Resale and feel
Real hardwood adds more resale value and has a warmth and feel laminate can't fully match. Laminate has improved a lot and looks convincing, but buyers and appraisers still favour genuine hardwood. In wet areas, consider waterproof vinyl plank over both.