Acrylic vs Glass Furniture: Pros, Cons, and Design Tips

What’s the Difference Between Acrylic and Glass? 

When comparing acrylic vs glass, it's important to understand the key differences between these two materials before deciding which one suits your furniture needs best.

Acrylic, also known as Plexiglass or Lucite, is a transparent plastic celebrated for being lightweight, shatter-resistant, and versatile. It closely resembles glass in appearance but offers greater flexibility in design, making it a popular choice for modern interiors.

Glass is a rigid, brittle material made from silica. Commonly used in its tempered or laminated forms, it’s known for its high clarity, scratch resistance, and elegant finish—ideal for more traditional or upscale looks.

Acrylic vs Glass Furniture: A Detailed Comparison of Key Features 

Now that we’ve defined what acrylic and glass are, let’s dig deeper into how these two materials perform in real-world scenarios. From clarity and durability to safety and style, this section compares acrylic vs glass furniture across the features that matter most to homeowners, designers, and renters alike.

1. Visual Appeal and Transparency

• Acrylic:
  Acrylic is highly transparent, allowing up to 92% of light to pass through. It delivers a crystal-clear look that mimics glass but with a softer, more modern aesthetic. Some acrylic pieces even have a slight bluish or warm tint, which can subtly impact the ambiance of a room. Unlike glass, acrylic can be molded into curves and unique shapes, giving designers more creative freedom.
  
  
• Glass:
  Glass is renowned for its absolute clarity and pristine finish, especially when polished. It has a more classic and high-end appearance that suits both contemporary and traditional interior styles. High-quality tempered glass often appears more “pure” in color and reflects light beautifully, making rooms feel brighter and more refined.
  
  
• Verdict:
  If you're going for elegance and shine, glass wins. If your goal is a sleek, modern look with design flexibility, acrylic has the edge.

2. Durability and Impact Resistance

• Acrylic:
  One of the biggest selling points of acrylic furniture is its high impact resistance. Acrylic is about 10 times stronger than glass in terms of resisting impact, meaning it won't shatter or break when bumped or dropped. That makes it ideal for high-traffic areas, kids’ rooms, or anywhere you want peace of mind.
  
  
• Glass:
  Glass—particularly tempered glass—is much stronger than standard glass but still prone to breaking under heavy impact. While it doesn’t easily chip or crack during normal use, once compromised, it can shatter into dangerous shards. Some safety-enhanced versions (like laminated glass) are designed to hold together when broken, but they’re more expensive.
  
  
• Verdict:
  When it comes to the acrylic vs glass durability debate, acrylic is the clear winner for households needing child-safe, break-resistant options.

3. Scratch Resistance

• Acrylic:
  This is where acrylic falls short. While it's strong and flexible, acrylic scratches much more easily than glass. Even dragging a decorative bowl across an acrylic tabletop can leave visible marks. Over time, this can dull the piece's appearance unless it's regularly polished with scratch removers like NOVUS #2.
  
  
• Glass:
  Glass surfaces are naturally harder and more scratch-resistant. Tempered glass especially can handle daily use, writing, or even the occasional rough object without visible wear and tear. That said, glass is not entirely scratch-proof and can still be damaged by sharp objects or grit.
  
  
• Verdict:
  In terms of scratch resistance, glass has the upper hand—making it the better choice for desks, dining tables, or workspaces.

4. Weight and Maneuverability

• Acrylic:
  Acrylic is incredibly lightweight—about 50% lighter than glass of the same size and thickness. This makes it a smart pick for renters, apartment dwellers, or people who like to rearrange their furniture frequently. Lifting an acrylic console table or side chair is a one-person job.
  
  
• Glass:
  Glass is significantly heavier. A medium-sized glass coffee table may require two people to move safely. This added weight can be a pro in terms of sturdiness, but a con for flexibility and portability.
  
  
• Verdict:
  If you’re furnishing a space where flexibility matters—like a studio apartment or a multi-use room—acrylic is far more practical.

5. Safety in the Home

• Acrylic:
  Because it doesn't shatter and often has rounded edges, acrylic is considered one of the safest materials for furniture. It's especially ideal for homes with children or pets, where bumps and accidents are more likely.
  
  
• Glass:
  Tempered glass is designed to break into small, less dangerous chunks—but it still shatters under stress. Sharp corners can also pose risks in tight spaces or active households.
  
  
• Verdict:
  In the acrylic vs glass safety comparison, acrylic is the safer and more forgiving option overall.

6. Maintenance and Cleaning

• Acrylic:
  Cleaning acrylic requires care. Abrasive sponges or chemical cleaners like ammonia (Windex) can cloud or damage the surface. Use a microfiber cloth and a plastic-safe cleaner such as NOVUS #1 for best results. Regular dusting is also needed since acrylic builds up static that attracts particles.
  
  
• Glass:
  Glass is easier to clean with widely available products like Windex or vinegar-based solutions. It does show fingerprints and smudges more easily, though, especially under strong lighting.
  
  
• Verdict:
  Glass is more forgiving when it comes to cleaning, but acrylic can stay looking beautiful with the right care routine.

7. UV Resistance and Aging

• Acrylic:
  One drawback of acrylic is its tendency to yellow over time, especially when exposed to direct sunlight. However, UV-resistant or museum-grade acrylic is available and maintains its clarity for decades.
  
  
• Glass:
  Glass is naturally UV-resistant and will not yellow or degrade under sun exposure, making it ideal for bright rooms and near windows.
  
  
• Verdict:
  For long-term sun exposure, glass holds up better unless you invest in high-quality UV-resistant acrylic.

8. Cost and Budget Considerations

• Acrylic:
  Acrylic furniture is generally more affordable than glass, especially for larger or custom pieces. It also reduces shipping costs due to its lighter weight and lower risk of damage during transit.
  
  
• Glass:
  Glass is more expensive to manufacture, especially if tempered or beveled. Repairs or replacements can be costly if a piece is broken.
  
  
• Verdict:
  For budget-conscious buyers or renters, acrylic furniture offers a stylish alternative without the high price tag.

9. Design Flexibility and Customization

• Acrylic:
  Acrylic can be molded, bent, or tinted—offering countless design possibilities. From curved leg chairs to colored accents and floating shelves, it’s ideal for bold, creative decor choices.
  
  
• Glass:
  Glass typically comes in straight-edged, flat forms. While colored and frosted options exist, they’re less customizable and often more costly.
  
  
• Verdict:
  If you’re working with an interior designer or looking for unique shapes, acrylic opens more creative doors.
  
  

Summary Table: Acrylic vs Glass Furniture Performance

Tip: Use microfiber cloths and avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning. Learn how to safely clean acrylic furniture.

Acrylic vs Glass: Which Is Safer?

Safety is a critical factor in choosing furniture, especially in family homes.

Acrylic is a safer bet around children. It won’t shatter and typically has rounded edges.

Glass should be tempered (heat-treated) for safety, but even then, it can break into sharp pieces if dropped or hit.

If safety is your top priority, acrylic is the better choice.

Design Tips for Using Acrylic vs Glass Furniture

Acrylic Furniture Design Tips:

• Go light and airy: Use acrylic coffee tables or chairs to create the illusion of more space.
• Pair with texture: Acrylic pairs beautifully with wood, metal, or velvet to balance the clean look.
• Accent pieces: Try acrylic bar stools or wall shelves for a chic, modern twist.

Glass Furniture Design Tips:

• Keep it elegant: Use glass dining tables or console tables to elevate traditional or luxury interiors.
• Frame it right: Choose metal or wood-framed glass pieces for added support and contrast.
• Lighting matters: Position glass near natural light to maximize its reflective beauty.

Maintenance Tips: Acrylic vs Glass

Caring for both materials is easy with the right tools.

Acrylic:

1. Use a microfiber cloth and plastic cleaner (like NOVUS #1).
2. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners which can cloud the surface.
3. Polish light scratches with NOVUS #2.

Glass:

1. Use glass cleaner or a vinegar-water solution.
2. Wipe with lint-free cloth to avoid streaks.
3. Consider anti-fingerprint coatings for high-touch surfaces.

Cost Comparison: Acrylic vs Glass

• Acrylic: Typically more affordable, especially for custom designs or lightweight pieces.
• Glass: More expensive due to weight, fragility, and manufacturing. Custom sizes and tempered glass add to the cost.

Over time, acrylic may also save on shipping and maintenance.

Best Uses for Each Material

Choose Acrylic If You:

• Need lightweight, kid-friendly furniture
• Want to modernize a small or minimalist space
• Plan to move or rearrange furniture often

Choose Glass If You:

• Want a luxurious or classic style
• Need scratch-resistant surfaces
• Prioritize visual clarity and longevity

Acrylic vs Glass: Final Verdict

Both acrylic and glass furniture have their place in modern homes. Acrylic offers flexibility, safety, and affordability, while glass exudes timeless elegance and durability. Your choice will ultimately depend on your lifestyle, design goals, and budget.

For a minimalist furniture approach, acrylic pieces work beautifully in open, airy spaces—think clear acrylic coffee tables, ghost chairs, or floating shelves that keep the room uncluttered while still offering functionality. Glass, on the other hand, complements minimalist interiors with its sleek lines and reflective surfaces, such as slim-framed glass dining tables or side tables with metal accents.

Consider mixing the two in your home—glass for formal areas like dining rooms, acrylic for casual or multifunctional spaces—while keeping lines clean, colors neutral, and decor intentional to maintain a minimalist aesthetic.

FAQs: Acrylic vs Glass Furniture

Question	Answer
Is acrylic furniture more durable than glass?	Yes. Acrylic is more impact-resistant and won't shatter like glass, but it can scratch more easily.
Can I use Windex on acrylic?	No. Windex contains ammonia, which can damage acrylic. Use a plastic-safe cleaner instead.
Does acrylic yellow over time?	Low-quality acrylic may yellow with UV exposure. Choose UV-resistant acrylic for long-term clarity.
Which is heavier—acrylic or glass?	Glass is significantly heavier than acrylic, making it harder to move.
Is acrylic furniture more affordable?	Generally, yes. Acrylic furniture is often less expensive to manufacture and ship than glass.