The primary series of cold rolled die steel is the high-hardness cold working type, mainly used for molds requiring high compressive strength and wear resistance, with hardness exceeding HRC60-62. For molds that require high impact resistance and toughness, the hardness is lower than HRC60-62, primarily using S-class and some A-class, as well as ordinary quenched and tempered steels, spring steels, hot working dies, or matrix steels. For large stamping dies, such as automotive exterior stamping parts, cast iron types are mainly used. Simple or dies with fewer life cycles use zinc-based alloys or high polymer composite materials.

The application of high-speed steel in cold work molds is experiencing rapid growth, primarily due to its high "compressive strength/hardness" ratio. The hardness can be selected between HRC 60-70.

Powdered die steel boasts excellent wear resistance and a moderate hardness of HRC60-62, with wide applications.

Carbon tool steel still has a certain range of applications on punches or soft material dies with a lifespan of 100,000 pieces.