Is synthetic oil better or semi-synthetic oil better?

[VonGia]

Synthetic oil and semi-synthetic oil are defined as follows: 1. Semi-synthetic oil: Semi-synthetic oil uses semi-synthetic base oil, which is a lubricant formulated from Group III base oils internationally. It is a product refined from mineral oil through hydro-cracking technology, with purity very close to that of full synthetic oil, making it an ideal transitional product from mineral oil to synthetic oil. 2. Synthetic oil: Synthetic oil is 100% made from PAO (polyalphaolefin) or high-quality oil artificially formulated. Its advantages include excellent stability, better lubrication effect under the same grade, and a longer service life. Due to the superior stability and fluidity of synthetic oils, they perform exceptionally well in both cold starts during winter and high-temperature resistance in summer. Additionally, with their extended service life, they provide the best possible protection for the engine.

[DelThomas]

As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, let me share my thoughts on choosing between synthetic and semi-synthetic engine oil. Synthetic oil is chemically engineered with superior performance—it flows quickly even in sub-zero winter temperatures, protecting the engine from cold-start wear, and resists oxidation under high summer heat, significantly extending engine life. However, it’s pricier, costing around 100 RMB more per bottle. Semi-synthetic oil, a blend of mineral and synthetic oils, offers great value for money and suits most daily city driving, keeping the engine smooth and quiet. Personally, I now use semi-synthetic more often since my driving is just for commuting, making top-tier performance unnecessary. Always check your car’s manual—some new models require synthetic oil exclusively. Driving habits matter too: synthetic oil holds up better for frequent long-distance or high-speed driving. But with regular changes every 5,000 to 7,500 km, semi-synthetic works just fine.

[SimonMarie]

As an ordinary office worker who mainly uses the car for commuting and grocery shopping, I mostly use semi-synthetic oil. Synthetic oil is indeed more premium—it saves some fuel, extends the oil change interval, and offers better engine protection. But semi-synthetic oil is more affordable, significantly cheaper per bottle, and its performance is sufficient—my engine doesn’t make strange noises often. I drive in the city with typically congested road conditions, and semi-synthetic oil handles temperature well, preventing overheating issues. I’ve also calculated the oil change frequency: semi-synthetic at 7,500 km intervals, which spreads the cost and saves me some extra pocket money each month. If you’re on a tight budget, semi-synthetic is definitely worth considering—don’t overspend just for appearances. Of course, if you frequently travel for work or drive an older car, synthetic oil is a safer bet. But overall, for everyday use, semi-synthetic is perfectly adequate.

[LylaLee]

From an environmental perspective regarding engine oil, I lean towards synthetic oil as it's more energy-efficient. Synthetic oil flows more efficiently, slightly reducing fuel consumption and extending the oil change interval to around 10,000 kilometers, thereby decreasing waste oil pollution. Semi-synthetic oil contains mineral components, whose extraction and production have a greater environmental impact, such as higher energy consumption and emissions. Synthetic oil maintains stable performance, resists thickening in cold temperatures, suits various climates, and generates less sludge buildup. With the current emphasis on green driving, synthetic oil, though pricier, benefits the planet in the long run. Additionally, newly developed recycling technologies make synthetic oil even more eco-friendly. Semi-synthetic is also a decent transitional choice, offering cost savings while partially reducing harm. Personally, for sustainability, I prioritize synthetic oil.

[ColinDella]

Having played with racing cars for several years, I'm extremely picky about engine oil. Synthetic oil definitely outperforms semi-synthetic, especially in high-revving engines. Synthetic oil can withstand extreme temperatures, such as oil temperatures soaring above 100 degrees Celsius during track racing without losing protection, resulting in less wear on engine components. Semi-synthetic oil is fine for normal driving, but it tends to overheat during aggressive handling, affecting power output. My modified sports cars all use full synthetic oil, and I feel the power response is quicker with fewer faults and better durability. Related points like viscosity selection—when properly adjusted with synthetic oil—enhance acceleration smoothness. Semi-synthetic is only suitable for daily commuter cars. Remember, high-performance cars must be paired with synthetic oil; don't skimp and cause issues. Oil change intervals can be extended, saving frequent maintenance time.