What’s the difference between foam board and future board?
Unthika RoekwibunsiComparison table: Foam Board & Future Board
| Foam Board | Future Board |
|---|---|
| PS foam + paper facing | Corrugated plastic sheet (PP) |
| Sharp image, smooth surface | Semi-matte, slight corrugation texture |
| Prone to chipping / dents · Not moisture resistant | Waterproof, weather resistant |
| Suitable for indoor use | Indoor / outdoor (temporary outdoor use) |
| UV print or sticker (smooth finish) | UV print or sticker (may show slight corrugation) |
| Cuts clean · Hard to fold/form | Easy to cut / fold / drill |
| Lightweight | Lightweight + better load resistance |
| Thickness: 3, 5, 10 mm | Thickness: 3, 5 mm |
| Difficult to recycle | Easier to recycle |
| Higher price | Better value |
Choose specs for value: Thickness & Printing method
Foam board 3–5 mm for wall mounting / tabletop indoor use | 10 mm for large pieces or hanging single panelsFuture board 3 mm for temporary/outdoor props | 5 mm if frequently used outdoorsUV print directly on board for sharp colours and scratch resistance | printed sticker is suitable when you need to change graphics laterFoam Board = showroom-quality smooth finish, suitable for indoor use.
Future Board = durable and cost-effective, suitable for outdoor and event use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is foam board waterproof?
Not recommended for prolonged exposure to water or humidity because of the paper facing — it may swell or warp.
How suitable is future board for outdoor use?
Suitable for temporary outdoor applications — better resistance to splashing rain and sun than foam board, but must be securely fixed.
I want a very smooth finish but need outdoor use — what should I do?
Use outdoor-grade printed sticker applied onto 5 mm future board, then add protective coating.
Which material is best for handheld photo props?
Future board 5 mm with holes/handles — lightweight and impact resistant.
