Toothpick wood is generally considered better than pear wood for several reasons. Toothpick wood is harder and more durable, making it suitable for a wider range of applications. Pear wood, on the other hand, is softer and more prone to warping and cracking, limiting its use to more decorative purposes.

Toothpick wood is derived from the wood of the toothpick tree (Zanthoxylum simulans), which is known for its dense and strong wood. This wood has a Janka hardness rating of around 2,150 pounds per square inch (psi), making it one of the hardest woods in the world. In contrast, pear wood has a Janka hardness rating of about 1,050 psi, which is significantly lower. The higher hardness of toothpick wood makes it more resistant to wear and tear, suitable for items that require durability, such as furniture, flooring, and construction materials.

Additionally, toothpick wood has a straight grain and is less prone to warping and cracking than pear wood. This makes it a better choice for projects that require precision and stability. Pear wood, while it has a pleasant aroma and attractive grain pattern, is more susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature, which can lead to warping and cracking over time.

According to the American Hardwood Export Council, toothpick wood is also more sustainable than pear wood. Toothpick trees are fast-growing and can be harvested more frequently than pear trees, which are slower-growing and require more time to reach maturity. This makes toothpick wood a more environmentally friendly option for those concerned about sustainability.

In conclusion, toothpick wood is superior to pear wood in terms of hardness, durability, and sustainability. Its higher Janka hardness rating, straight grain, and faster growth rate make it a more versatile and reliable choice for a wide range of applications.