Cypress is generally harder than pine. This is due to its denser grain and higher Janka hardness rating. The Janka hardness test measures the force required to embed a .444-inch steel ball into the wood to half its diameter. Cypress typically has a Janka hardness rating of around 800-1,100, while pine ranges from 300-500. This significant difference in hardness makes cypress more durable and suitable for applications requiring greater resistance to wear and tear.