Walls and Ceilings - joint compound, regular or LITE?

can someone explain to me the differences between regular and lite joint compound? i know the lite costs a little more and dries faster. is it easier to work with? does it do a better job? is it easier to sand? remember, this is my first attempt at doing drywall.

thanks, pettyrules

In my opinion, also not being a professional finisher, the answers would be yes, yes and yes! I like the consistancy of the stuff- it just seems to me to go on creamier with less air bubbles. I also like the way it works when thinned with water slap texturing ceilings- it seems to shrink back a little bit as it dries, leaving a more rounded appearance and less sharp edges.

I've heard that some guys use the regular joint compound for taping, and perhaps the first fill coat, but then they like to use the light-weight when applying the other finish coats.

xsleeper,

thanks, you've confirmed my thoughts. i appreciate your help.

pettyrules

It also leaves you with a soft surface compared with regular joint compound.
I use regular topping as the final coat, its harder.