Anatase and rutile (TiO2) coatings were separately prepared on a titanium (Ti) surface by different heat treatment, and then their corrosion resistance and biological properties were investigated and compared. The corrosion resistance was evaluated in simulated body fluid (SBF) by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and potentiodynamic polarization tests. The biological properties were investigated by SBF soaking test and in vitro cell culture experiments. The results showed that the rutile coating showed improved corrosion resistance over the anatase coating. Additionally, the rutile coating was more beneficial for apatite formation in SBF, cell spreading and proliferation. The improved corrosion resistance of rutile coating was attributed to the better crystallization state and fewer structural defects, and the improved biological properties were due to the enhanced surface roughness and hydrophilicity. Based on these results, it was concluded that the rutile coating obtained by heat treatment has favourable potential to be applied in clinic.