Choosing the right internal door isn’t just about style — it can make a big difference to how your home feels and sounds. Two common options people often compare are acoustic internal doors and solid core internal doors.
At first glance, they can seem similar. Both feel heavier and more substantial than hollow doors. But they’re designed for different purposes. In this guide, we explain the key differences so you can choose the right option for your space.
What Is a Solid Core Internal Door?
A solid core internal door is built with a dense internal structure, usually made from engineered timber or composite materials. This gives the door strength, stability, and a quality feel.
Solid core doors are a popular upgrade from hollow doors and are widely used throughout modern homes.
Benefits of Solid Core Internal Doors
-
Strong, durable construction
-
Better sound reduction than hollow doors
-
Solid feel when opening and closing
-
Suitable for most rooms in the home
-
Available in a wide range of styles and finishes
While solid core doors do reduce everyday noise, they are not specifically designed to block sound.
What Is an Acoustic Internal Door?
Acoustic internal doors are purpose-built to reduce sound transfer between rooms. They use specialist internal cores and seals to limit airborne noise, making them ideal for spaces where sound control matters.
You can explore our range here:
👉 Acoustic Internal Doors
Benefits of Acoustic Doors
-
Designed specifically for sound reduction
-
Helps block voices, TV noise, music, and background sounds
-
Ideal for home offices, bedrooms, flats, and apartments
-
Often tested and rated for acoustic performance
Acoustic doors focus on function first, without compromising on style.
Acoustic vs Solid Core — Key Differences
Here’s a simple comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Solid Core Doors | Acoustic Doors |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Reduction | Moderate | High |
| Purpose | General durability & quality | Noise control |
| Construction | Dense engineered core | Specialist acoustic core |
| Best For | Living rooms, kitchens, hallways | Bedrooms, offices, apartments |
| Cost | Lower | Higher (due to specialist build) |
Which Door Is Right for Your Home?
✔ Choose a Solid Core Door If:
-
You want a sturdy, long-lasting internal door
-
Noise reduction is helpful but not critical
-
The door is for general living spaces
-
You want a wide choice of styles and finishes
✔ Choose an Acoustic Door If:
-
You need to reduce noise between rooms
-
You work from home or need privacy
-
The door is for a bedroom, study, or flat
-
Sound transfer is a regular problem
Do Solid Core Doors Count as Soundproof?
This is a common question — and the short answer is no.
Solid core doors help reduce everyday noise compared to hollow doors, but they are not soundproof. Acoustic doors are specifically engineered to deal with sound transfer and perform much better where noise control is important.
What Else Affects Sound Reduction?
The door itself is important, but sound performance also depends on:
-
The door frame and installation
-
Gaps around the edges
-
The type of latch and seals used
-
Wall construction and layout
For the best results, acoustic doors should be properly fitted with compatible hardware.
Final Thoughts
Both solid core and acoustic internal doors have their place. Solid core doors offer strength, durability, and everyday sound reduction, while acoustic doors are the right choice when noise control is a priority.
If you’re deciding between the two, think about how the room is used, how much sound you need to block, and where the door sits in your home.
Explore our ranges to find the right fit:
-
👉 Solid Core Internal Doors
-
👉 Acoustic Internal Doors
Need Advice?
If you’re unsure which option suits your home, our team is always happy to help. We supply internal doors across Halifax, West Yorkshire, and the UK, with expert advice available whenever you need it.
