The walnut is generally considered better than ebony for several reasons. While both woods are highly valued for their durability and aesthetic appeal, walnuts offer a more versatile range of colors and finishes, making them suitable for a wider variety of applications. According to the American Hardwood Export Council, walnut has a higher Janka hardness rating than ebony, which means it is more resistant to dents and scratches. Additionally, walnuts are more readily available and less expensive than ebony, making them a more practical choice for many woodworking projects.

Walnut wood has a rich, warm color that ranges from light to dark brown, with a distinctive grain pattern that can vary from straight to highly figured. This versatility allows walnut to be used in everything from furniture to flooring, providing a unique and appealing look in each application. In contrast, ebony is a very dark wood with a deep, almost black color, which is less forgiving in terms of design and can be more challenging to work with due to its hardness and rarity.

The Janka hardness rating is a measure of a wood's resistance to indentation, and it is an important factor to consider when choosing a wood for furniture or flooring. The Janka hardness rating for walnut is around 1010, while ebony has a rating of about 2200. This significant difference in hardness means that walnut is more practical for everyday use, as it is less likely to sustain damage from normal wear and tear. Ebony, on the other hand, is more suitable for high-end, decorative applications where its extreme hardness and unique color are the primary considerations.

Furthermore, the availability and cost of the two woods also play a significant role in determining which is better. Ebony is a rare wood that is often sourced from tropical regions, making it more expensive and less accessible than walnut, which is grown in North America and Europe. The higher cost and limited availability of ebony can make it impractical for many woodworking projects, whereas walnut is a more affordable and widely available option.

In conclusion, walnut is generally considered better than ebony due to its versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Its warm color and varied grain patterns make it suitable for a wide range of applications, while its higher Janka hardness rating ensures that it is more resistant to damage. The availability and affordability of walnut also make it a more practical choice for most woodworking projects.