Abstract In the present work, the effect of coating toughness on the wear resistance of alumina-titania coatings was studied. Two parameters were modified: Al2O3-TiO2 ratio and particle size distribution. Coatings were obtained by atmospheric plasma spraying on a carbon steel disc. Coating toughness was measured by indentation tests, while wear resistance was determined by ball-on-disc measurements. The results show that coatings with higher toughness exhibit better wear resistance.