Walk into any tile store and you’ll know the feeling. The walls are covered edge to edge with shiny samples, each one shouting for attention. Some tiles are huge—almost like slabs pulled straight from stone yards. You stop and wonder, would something that big even work in my kitchen? Then, a few steps later, you notice the opposite: small, brick-shaped tiles stacked in neat rows. They look familiar, like something you’ve seen in older cafés or subway stations. Without anyone telling you their names, your mind is already comparing the two. The oversized option is what we call large format tiles, and the smaller ones go by a name you probably know—subway tiles.
This choice isn’t just about what looks nice today. It’s about maintenance, cost, and even how your room will feel once everything is installed. That’s why the debate of large format vs subway tile is one every homeowner eventually faces.
What Are Large Format Tiles?
Large format tiles are, simply put, big tiles. Anything over 12x12 inches qualifies, but the most popular ones are massive—think 24x48 or even larger slabs.
Why people love them
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Fewer grout lines mean a smooth, clean surface.
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They can make a small bathroom feel bigger.
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They line up well with modern tile design trends USA favors right now.
But here’s the flip side
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Cutting them isn’t easy without professional tools.
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They’re heavy, which makes installation trickier.
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When you compare large format vs subway tile cost, large tiles usually come out more expensive.
If you want a continuous, flowing look, large format tiles are unmatched. But you’ll need pros to install them right.
What Are Subway Tiles?
Now let’s talk about the smaller option—subway tiles. These usually come in the classic 3x6 inch size and are most often laid out like bricks.
Why they remain popular
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Affordable and widely available.
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Simple to cut and easy to handle.
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Still the best tile for kitchen backsplash, thanks to their scale.
What to keep in mind
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You’ll end up with more grout lines, which means more cleaning.
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On their own, they can look too plain unless you play with colors or patterns.
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Some wonder if subway tiles are “too traditional,” but they keep evolving with new finishes.
When it comes to subway tile vs large tile installation, subway tiles win. They’re just easier for installers—and sometimes even DIYers.
Key Differences: Large Format vs Subway Tile
The contrast between these two tiles is pretty straightforward.
Appearance: Large format tiles give a bold, seamless look. Subway tiles bring texture and a sense of rhythm.
Cost: Large format vs subway tile cost tilts in favor of subway, which is usually the cheaper option.
Use Cases: Subway tiles thrive in backsplashes and accents. Large tiles excel on floors and expansive walls.
Trends: Large tiles ride the wave of modern minimalism, while subway tiles never really go out of style.
So the decision isn’t about which is “better.” It’s about which suits your needs.
Installation & Maintenance Considerations
Here’s where many homeowners make their final call—installation.
Subway tiles are easygoing. They’re light, small, and can even cover walls with slight imperfections. But more grout means more upkeep.
Large format tiles demand skill. If your floor isn’t perfectly level, you’ll run into problems. But once they’re down, cleaning is a breeze because grout is minimal.
So, if you’re comparing subway tile vs large tile installation, subway wins on ease. Large format wins on low maintenance later.
Which Works Best in Kitchens?
Let’s be honest—kitchens aren’t just about looking nice. They’re busy, they get messy, and they’re usually the first place people walk into when they come home hungry. Tiles in here need to do their job, not just sit pretty.
Take the backsplash. Subway tiles have been the favorite for years, and there’s a reason. They don’t break the budget, and you can lay them out in so many ways. I’ve seen people go with the classic brick look, but also herringbone, and even a simple stacked layout. That flexibility is why they’re still considered the best tile for kitchen backsplash.
Floors are another story. Large format tiles make more sense down there. Bigger tiles mean fewer grout lines, and if you’ve ever tried scrubbing grout after a spaghetti night, you know what a headache it is. One swipe with a mop and the floor looks fine again. They also handle heavy traffic—kids, pets, guests—without looking worn out.
So here’s the deal: if you want something safe, subway tiles will never let you down. If you want that smooth, modern wall or floor that looks almost like one piece, then large format tiles are the better choice—even behind the stove.
Which Works Best in Bathrooms?
Bathrooms bring a different challenge. Here, moisture and cleaning are the big factors.
Large format tiles shine in showers and on walls. They reduce grout lines, which means fewer spots for soap and grime to settle. They also make small bathrooms look more open.
Subway tiles still work beautifully on shower walls or as accents. They add character and can be combined with large tiles for contrast.
For a quick bathroom tile comparison: large format wins for easy cleaning, subway wins for classic detail.
Best Applications: Where Each Tile Style Works Best
Think of it like this:
Large Format Tiles
Best for: living room floors, shower walls, and big modern bathrooms.
Why: fewer grout lines, seamless look.
Subway Tiles
Best for: backsplashes, bathroom accents, and vintage-inspired spaces.
Why: affordable, easy to replace, endlessly customizable.
Mixing both isn’t a bad idea either. Subway tiles for detail, large format tiles for the backdrop.
Conclusion
So, large format vs subway tile—what’s right for you? If you want modern flow, fewer grout lines, and a sense of openness, large format tiles are the way to go. If you prefer affordability, character, and tried-and-true style, subway tiles won’t disappoint.
Both remain big players in tile design trends USA, and the truth is, you don’t always have to choose just one. The best tile is the one that fits your budget, your space, and the way you live.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is subway tile more affordable than large format tile?
A: Most of the time, yes. Subway tiles are cheaper to buy, and they don’t cost as much to install either. Large format tiles, on the other hand, need extra care during fitting, so the price usually goes up.
Q: Does a room appear larger when using large format tiles?
A: They frequently do. The walls or floors appear wider and smoother because there are fewer grout lines. Even a tiny kitchen or bathroom might seem larger because to its continuous surface.
Q: Are subway tiles outdated in 2025?
A: No, they’re still very much in use. Designers keep experimenting with colors, finishes, and patterns, so the style doesn’t feel old-fashioned. Subway tiles remain a safe, timeless choice.
Q: Which tile type is easier to install?
A: Subway tiles are easier. They’re smaller, lighter, and simple to cut. Large format tiles usually call for professional work, since they’re heavy and tricky to place evenly.
Q: What’s the best tile for small bathrooms?
A: Large format tiles work best. With fewer cuts and joints, the space looks bigger and cleaning becomes easier too.
