It is easy to get confused when choosing between a garden hose thread and NPT. There was a moment I got confused too and spent quality time choosing the one I needed. Because, simply, I did not know what each of them was used for.
Now, I have enough knowledge to talk about the differences and similarities between the garden hose thread and NPT.
The main difference between garden hose thread and NPT is that they have different application areas. The first one is generally used in garden water systems. On the other hand, NPT is used mostly for plumbing to connect pipes and transfer either gas or water.
What Is a Garden Hose Thread?
Garden hose threads are standard hose threads. They come with thread lines located either inside or outside. The two main types of hose threads are MHT and FHT, short for Male hose thread and Female hose thread.
Garden hose threads are used in garden, yard, and landscape care.
What Is NPT?
NPT is an abbreviation for the National Pipe Thread Taper. This particular one is standard for pipe threads in the United States. Threads of NPT are tapered.
MPT is the male pipe thread and FPT is the female pipe thread. So, the main difference between those two is that male threads go on the pipe from outside. FPT has the threads located inside.
Male and female threads can be attached. Yet, the two of the same types can not be connected.
How Are Garden Hose Threads And NPT Different?
The fittings of garden hose threads and NPT are different. Hose thread fittings include hose bib, Silcock, bibcock, tees, and spigot. The fittings for NPT are coupling, tees, elbow, cap, and valve.
Size
Let me start with a comparison of those two connectors in terms of size. Garden hose thread vs NPT comes in different sizes. For example, hose threads most often are 3/4 inch in diameter. Yet, there may be different variations found in stores that have a diameter of 1/2 inches.
As for NPT, pipe thread size varies and can be 1/2, 1/4,3/4, or 1-inch. The pipe thread size that is needed depends on pipe size.
Materials
Hose threads and pipe threads can be made of various materials. Typically, they have brass-made fittings. Hose threads can be made with plastic materials too. However, they are less durable. Other material options include stainless steel and copper.
NPT connectors often are made of stainless steel. They can be zinc-plated, which protects against rust and corrosion. Other materials of NPT connectors include carbon steel, copper, and brass.
Price
Price of garden hose thread VS NPT varies greatly. It depends on the material and size. Yet, one that is made of high-quality material is more expensive. To present in numbers, the price of hose thread can be between $2 and $500.
As for NPT, the cost depends on materials and size in this case too. High-end NPTs can be more expensive than regular ones. Low-quality NPT can be as cheap as $1. Yet, high-quality ones can cost up to $600.
How Are Garden Hose Thread And NPT Similar?
Garden hose thread and NPT are connectors to the plumbing system. One hose may have both of those connectors. However, they typically are located at different ends.
Are they interchangeable? You may ask. No, for a matter of fact, they have different purposes and can not be used interchangeably.
Both tools are suitable for tees fitting. They both can be made from materials such as brass, copper, and stainless steel.
What Are The Advantages Of Garden Hose Thread?
Garden hose thread made out of plastic material can be very cheap. It lets hose fit tap or another type of external equipment easily and effectively.
What Are The Advantages Of NPT?
NPT connectors are used in plumbing systems. They offer tight connections and are one of the best options to prevent leakage. However, the advantage of NPT is that it can transfer liquids and gasses. Needed tools for installation include pliers, clampings, and wrenches.
When Should You Get Garden Hose Thread?
When two hoses have to be connected, the garden hose threat is a needed tool. Specific tools needed for the installation of those connectors include hose clamps, reducers, and wrenches.
When Should You Get NPT?
The first and major purpose of NPT is to connect the two pipes and merge them. However, they also have another use, which is sealing one end of the pipe.
Comparison Table
| Garden Hose Thread | NPT | |
| Price | $2-$500 | $1-$600 |
| Fittings | Spigot, faucet, tap, Silcock bibcock, tees, and hose bib | Elbows, couplings, tees, valves, caps, reducers |
| Materials | Brass, copper, stainless steel, Plastic | Brass, copper, Stainless steel, carbon steel |
| Usage | Transports water | Transports air and water |
| Standard TPI | 11.5 | 14 |
