Nanoindentation and SFM tip-induced wear (nanotribology) have shown clear differences in the mechanical properties of plasma-polymerised coatings when compared to conventional thermoplastics. Plasma polymers deposited in-plasma are much harder, stiffer and wear resistant than conventional polymers. Plasma polymers deposited downstream at low plasma power exhibit viscous behaviour. They are susceptible to nanowear and the resulting morphology of the worn region is completely different to what is observed on conventional polymers such as poly( ethylene terephthalate) and polystyrene.