What’s the Difference Between a Casket and a Coffin?

By Joe.

While the words casket and coffin are often used interchangeably, they refer to two different styles of burial containers. Understanding the distinction between a casket and a coffin can help families make informed choices when planning a funeral or purchasing a burial product online.

This guide explains the key differences, regional preferences, and when to use each term—optimized for search engine visibility.

Casket vs. Coffin: What’s the Difference? | Funeral Planning Guide

Learn the difference between a casket and a coffin. Discover how shape, design, and regional preferences impact your funeral planning and casket purchase.

⚰️ Casket vs. Coffin: The Main Difference

Feature	Casket	Coffin
Shape	Rectangular with four sides	Tapered hexagonal or octagonal
Design	Hinged lid, often split into two panels	One-piece lid that lifts completely off
Interior	Padded, lined, luxurious finish	Simple or minimal interior lining
Material	Wood, metal, or fiberglass	Usually wood or biodegradable materials
Region	Common in the United States & Canada	Common in the United Kingdom & Europe
Price Range	Typically higher	Often more affordable or natural

📐 Shape & Design

Caskets are rectangular, with four equal sides, and are designed with aesthetics in mind. Most feature a split lid (half-couch) for open-casket viewings.
Coffins are narrow at the head and foot and wider at the shoulders, following the shape of the human body. They usually have a removable full lid and a more traditional appearance.

💡 Funeral homes in the U.S. often default to caskets unless otherwise requested.

🌎 Regional Preferences

In the United States and Canada, “casket” is the more commonly used term.
In the United Kingdom, Australia, and much of Europe, “coffin” is preferred.
Online retailers in the U.S. tend to list products under “caskets”, even if the design is more coffin-like.

💰 Cost Comparison

Type	Average Price (Online)
Casket	$900 – $10,000+ (depending on material & style)
Coffin	$600 – $3,500 (often lower for simple or eco-friendly styles)

💡 Coffins are often chosen for budget funerals or natural burials, while caskets are preferred for traditional services.

🌿 Green Burials: Coffin vs. Casket

Coffins made of pine, wicker, seagrass, or cardboard are common in green or natural burials.
Caskets are usually heavier and may contain metal parts, making them less ideal for eco-friendly funerals—unless specially made for cremation or biodegradability.

🧾 When to Choose a Casket or a Coffin

Choose a Casket If:	Choose a Coffin If:
✅ You want a traditional funeral look	✅ You prefer a simple, natural burial
✅ You’re planning an open-casket service	✅ You want to honor European traditions
✅ You prefer a luxurious, padded interior	✅ You’re on a tight budget
✅ The funeral is in the U.S. or Canada	✅ You’re having a green burial

🔍 Final Thoughts: Casket vs. Coffin

While both serve the same purpose, the difference between a casket and a coffin comes down to:

Shape and style
Cultural preference
Cost and environmental impact

When purchasing online, it’s important to know the exact style you’re getting, whether you search for a “casket” in the U.S. or a “coffin” elsewhere.

Need help choosing between a coffin and a casket or finding the best online prices? If you need help with a Casket or Coffin please call 800 618 4642.

Your Cart