Pear wood and sandalwood are both highly valued for their unique properties and uses. When comparing the two, sandalwood generally surpasses pear wood in terms of quality and versatility. Sandalwood is renowned for its rich aroma, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making it a preferred choice for luxury products such as furniture, incense, and perfumes. Pear wood, while also having its merits, is often considered less luxurious and less durable compared to sandalwood.

Sandalwood is prized for its aromatic properties, which are attributed to its high concentration of essential oils. These oils not only contribute to the wood's distinctive scent but also have medicinal properties. Sandalwood oil is commonly used in aromatherapy and traditional medicine for its calming and soothing effects. Additionally, sandalwood is known for its exceptional durability, making it suitable for long-lasting furniture and other items that require resistance to wear and tear.

On the other hand, pear wood is lighter and softer than sandalwood, which makes it more prone to dents and scratches. While it does have a pleasant aroma, it is not as potent as sandalwood. Pear wood is often used for making cabinets, furniture, and musical instruments due to its workability and aesthetic qualities. However, it is not as highly valued as sandalwood in terms of luxury and durability.

Data from the Forest Products Laboratory at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) supports the preference for sandalwood over pear wood. According to a study published in the Journal of Wood Science, sandalwood has a higher modulus of elasticity and a lower modulus of rupture compared to pear wood. This indicates that sandalwood is more resistant to bending and breaking, making it a superior choice for applications that require structural integrity.

Furthermore, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has highlighted the conservation status of sandalwood, which is critically endangered due to overharvesting. This further underscores the rarity and value of sandalwood, as it is not only a luxurious material but also a sustainable resource when harvested responsibly.

In conclusion, sandalwood is generally considered better than pear wood due to its superior aromatic properties, durability, and aesthetic appeal. While pear wood has its uses, it lacks the luxury and longevity that sandalwood offers.