The biggest difference between suede and Alcantara is their source. Suede is made from leather or the hide of different animals. Alcantara is made in a science lab using a variety of chemicals and other products to make it look and feel like suede.

To let you know the differences between the two fabrics here is a quick comparison chart.
Category | Suede | Alcantara |
Origin | a variety of animals found throughout the world | polyester & polyurethane |
Years of use | since the beginning of time | maybe the 1970s at best or even the 2000s |
Durable | not that strong | very durable |
Stain resistant | no, it can stain easily | very stain resistant |
Applications | found in cars interiors, clothing, shoes and a host of other applications | usually found in cars as a replacement for suede or leather |
Feel & texture | soft, natural and has a great appearance | can be soft but artificial in texture and feel |
Manufacture | made all around the world by many different companies | is a trademarked brand name like other modern synthetic fibers and made exclusively in Italy by a Japanese company |
Price | can be both inexpensive and costly | mostly costly as the price per yard ranges from $40 to $99 and up |

There really is no comparison. Alcantara is a synthetic fiber that is made from petroleum products, harsh chemicals and made to mimic suede. It may be more durable and flexible than suede can be but it is also more expensive by the yard than you would expect a synthetic material to be.
This material is perfect for those who do not want to have animal products in their vehicles. You will find this fabric more in luxury cars than any other model you can buy.
Suede, on the other hand, is soft, natural, and comes with a variety of applications as you can make handbags, coats, shoes, socks, and more out of this material as well as have it in your luxury or not so luxury car.
Unfortunately, suede does not last as long as Alcantara but it is still the better material of the two.
ALCANTARA Cases
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