Aluminum 6061 vs 7075 Compared
Strength, machinability, finishing, and cost guidance for the two most common CNC aluminum grades.
6061 is the general-purpose structural choice with excellent machinability and anodizing; 7075 is near-steel strength for aerospace parts but costs more and welds poorly.
1Mechanical properties
6061-T6: UTS 310 MPa, yield 276 MPa. 7075-T6: UTS 572 MPa, yield 503 MPa — roughly 1.8× stronger than 6061.
2Machining and finish
6061 machines easily with long tool life. 7075 can be gummy — use higher speed, lower feed. 6061 colors best in decorative anodize; 7075 suits hard anodize.
3Corrosion and environment
6061 resists general industrial corrosion. 7075 needs extra protection in marine environments due to zinc content.
4Cost and supply
6061 is widely stocked at 40–50% of 7075 price with shorter lead times. 7075 is common in aerospace supply chains.
Key points
- General structures → 6061-T6
- High strength lightweight → 7075-T6
- Welding required → prefer 6061
- Decorative anodize → 6061
- Aerospace load paths → 7075
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