Bevel vs. Chamfer: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
A bevel is an angled surface cut on the edge of a material, typically at a 45-degree angle. A chamfer is a transitional edge between two faces of an object, usually at 45 degrees but can vary.
Key Differences
A bevel is typically cut at a 45-degree angle to create a sloped edge, often for joining pieces. Chamfers, while often at 45 degrees, can vary in angle, primarily used to remove sharp edges for safety and ease of handling.
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Bevels are generally more noticeable, creating a distinct sloped surface on an edge. Chamfers, however, appear as a uniform truncation of a corner, forming a symmetrical sloped edge.
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Bevels are commonly used in carpentry for joining corners or in weld preparation. Chamfers are often applied in machining and carpentry to remove sharp edges for functional and aesthetic purposes.
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Creating a bevel can be more complex, as it requires maintaining a consistent angle over a surface. Chamfering is typically simpler, involving a straightforward edge cut.
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Bevels can be internal or external and can vary in terms of the angle and width. Chamfers are usually external and are defined by the angle and length of the cut.
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Comparison Chart
Types
Internal/External, varying angles
Usually external, defined by cut length
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Bevel and Chamfer Definitions
Bevel
Bevels create a sloped surface on materials.
The bevel on the glass added an elegant touch.
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Chamfer
Chamfers create a transitional edge between two faces.
A chamfer was added to ease the transition between surfaces.
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Bevel
Bevels can have various angles for different purposes.
Adjust the bevel angle for the specific cut.
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Chamfer
Chamfers often add aesthetic value to objects.
The chamfered edge gave the frame a refined look.
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Bevel
A bevel is an angled cut on material edges.
The carpenter created a bevel along the edge of the board.
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Chamfer
A chamfer smooths sharp edges of materials.
He chamfered the wooden table’s corners for safety.
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Bevel
In welding, a bevel prepares metal edges.
A precise bevel is crucial for a strong weld.
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Chamfer
Chamfers can be cut at various angles.
Choose a 30-degree angle for this chamfer.
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Bevel
The angle or inclination of a line or surface that meets another at any angle but 90°.
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Chamfer
In machining, chamfers remove burrs.
The machinist chamfered the edges to finish the part.
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Bevel
Two rules joined together as adjustable arms used to measure or draw angles of any size or to fix a surface at an angle. Also called bevel square.
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Bevel
To cut at an inclination that forms an angle other than a right angle
Beveled the edges of the table.
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Chamfer
A flat surface made by cutting off the edge or corner of a block of wood or other material.
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Bevel
An edge that is canted, one that is not a 90-degree angle; a chamfer.
To give a bevel to the edge of a table or a stone slab
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Bevel
An instrument consisting of two rules or arms, jointed together at one end, and opening to any angle, for adjusting the surfaces of work to the same or a given inclination; a bevel square.
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Chamfer
An obtuse-angled relief or cut at an edge added for a finished appearance and to break sharp edges.
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Bevel
(gambling) A die used for cheating, having some sides slightly rounded instead of flat.
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Chamfer
The surface formed by cutting away the arris, or angle, formed by two faces of a piece of timber, stone, etc.
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Chamfer
To cut a furrow in, as in a column; to groove; to channel; to flute.
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Bevel
Any angle other than a right angle; the angle which one surface makes with another when they are not at right angles; the slant or inclination of such surface; as, to give a bevel to the edge of a table or a stone slab; the bevel of a piece of timber.
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Bevel
An instrument consisting of two rules or arms, jointed together at one end, and opening to any angle, for adjusting the surfaces of work to the same or a given inclination; - called also a bevel square.
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Bevel
Hence: Morally distorted; not upright.
I may be straight, though they themselves be bevel.
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Bevel
To deviate or incline from an angle of 90°, as a surface; to slant.
Their houses are very ill built, the walls bevel.
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Bevel
A hand tool consisting of two rules that are hinged together so you can draw or measure angles of any size
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Bevel
Bevels are used to prepare joints in woodworking.
He beveled the edges for a seamless joint.
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Repeatedly Asked Queries
Are bevels only used on external edges?
No, bevels can be both external and internal.
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Do bevels have a functional purpose?
Yes, especially in joint preparation and welding.
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Is a bevel always at 45 degrees?
Typically, but bevel angles can vary depending on the application.
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Is chamfering easier than beveling?
Generally, yes, due to its less complex nature.
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Do chamfers help in assembly?
Yes, they can ease assembly by removing sharp edges.
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Can chamfers be used in metal finishing?
Absolutely, they are often used to finish and smooth metal parts.
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Is chamfering necessary in woodworking?
It's often used for both safety and aesthetics in woodworking.
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Can chamfers have different angles?
Yes, chamfer angles can vary significantly.
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Can chamfers be used for aesthetic purposes?
Yes, chamfers often add an aesthetic element to designs.
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Are bevels used in glasswork?
Yes, bevels are common in decorative glasswork.
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Do bevels require special tools?
Specific tools like bevel gauges and cutters are often used.
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Is a bevel gauge necessary for beveling?
It helps in maintaining consistent bevel angles.
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How does material type affect beveling?
Different materials may require different beveling techniques.
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Are chamfers visible in the final product?
Yes, they are typically visible and can be a design feature.
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Do chamfers affect material strength?
If done correctly, they don't significantly affect strength.
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Is chamfering common in 3D printing?
Yes, to remove sharp edges and improve handling.
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Are bevels important in metalwork?
Yes, especially in welding and metal joint preparation.
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Are beveled edges safer?
Yes, they can reduce the risk of cuts from sharp edges.
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Can chamfering be automated?
Yes, in industrial settings, it's often automated.
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.