Are MDF, plywood, or solid wood better for millwork?

No single material is universally better for millwork. MDF is often chosen for painted finishes due to its smooth surface, plywood for its strength and stability, and solid wood for visible details where grain and profile matter. The choice depends on application, finish system, and environmental conditions. Many projects combine all three, using each material where it performs best rather than relying on one throughout the entire scope.