Is Acrylic the Same as Plexiglass? Key Differences Explained
Are acrylic and Plexiglass the same? Learn the differences, similarities, and best uses for each in this detailed comparison guide.
Introduction
When shopping for clear plastic sheets, you’ve likely heard the terms acrylic and Plexiglass used interchangeably. But are they truly identical? While they share many properties, there are subtle differences that could impact your project. In this guide, we’ll break down:
✔ What acrylic and Plexiglass actually are
✔ Their key similarities and differences
✔ Which one is better for specific applications
What Is Acrylic?
Acrylic, scientifically known as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), is a lightweight, shatter-resistant plastic used as an alternative to glass. It offers:
✅ 92% light transparency (similar to glass)
✅ High impact resistance (10x stronger than glass)
✅ UV and weather resistance
✅ Easy to cut, drill, and shape
Common Uses:
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Signage & displays
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Protective barriers
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Aquariums & windows
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Furniture & lighting
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What Is Plexiglass?
Plexiglass is a brand name for acrylic, originally trademarked by Röhm (now Evonik Industries). Over time, "Plexiglass" became a generic term (like "Band-Aid" or "Kleenex") for acrylic sheets.
Key Features:
✔ Made from PMMA (same as acrylic)
✔ Often has stricter quality control
✔ May include proprietary UV/scratch-resistant coatings
Acrylic vs. Plexiglass: Are They the Same?
| Feature | Acrylic | Plexiglass |
|---|---|---|
| Material | PMMA plastic | Branded PMMA plastic |
| Clarity | High (92% light transmission) | Same as acrylic |
| Durability | Impact-resistant | Sometimes more refined |
| Cost | Generally cheaper | Slightly more expensive |
| Availability | Widely available | Brand-specific |
Key Similarities:
✔ Both are PMMA-based
✔ Same optical clarity & strength
✔ Can be used interchangeably for most projects
Minor Differences:
🔹 Branding – Plexiglass is a premium brand.
🔹 Quality Control – Plexiglass may have better consistency.
🔹 Price – Generic acrylic is usually more affordable.
Which One Should You Choose?
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For budget-friendly projects → Generic acrylic
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For high-end applications → Branded Plexiglass
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For outdoor/UV-heavy use → Check UV-stabilized options
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Textured Acrylic Sheet
What thickness is recommended for outdoor use?
Recommended ≥5mm (need to cooperate with UV treatment).
Is there an antibacterial model?
Silver ion antimicrobial coating can be added (need to be ordered in advance).
Clear Acrylic Sheet
How thick do I need for outdoor use?
Recommended ≥5mm (with UV coating), typhoon area needs more than 8mm + reinforced fixing.
Color Acrylic Sheet
Can you make special textures?
Woodgrain, stone patterns available (MOQ 100 sheets). Our products have been successfully used in LV, Chanel and other luxury brand store decorations.
Product-Related Questions
What’s the difference between cast and extruded acrylic?
Vibrant Colored Acrylic Sheets – Solid & Transparent Options | Custom Sizes
Colored Acrylic Sheet Product Overview Page Product Name [Vibrant Series] Professional Grade Colored Acrylic Sheets (Solid Color/Transparent Color) Product Description We offer a comprehensive range of colored acrylic sheets, including both solid-color and transparent-color acrylic panels. Manufactured using imported PMMA materials and eco-friendly color masterbatches, our products deliver pure, vibrant colors with ISO9001 and SGS certifications. Pantone color matching service available, supporting small-batch custom color development.
Optical-Grade Clear Acrylic Sheets – 92% Light Transmission | Cast & Extruded Options
We offer optical-grade clear acrylic sheets with up to 92% light transmission and the clarity of glass, but at half the weight and with greater impact resistance. The products are manufactured from pure new PMMA raw material, available in casting process (high precision) or extrusion process (cost-effective), with a thickness range of 1mm-30mm, and support for customized sizes and surface treatments.
Custom Acrylic Advertising Signs for Promotion & Display — Durable, Printed & Weatherproof
Looking for durable and professional signage for your business or institution? Our custom acrylic advertising signs are ideal for cultural walls, promotional panels, rooftop boards, and information displays. Made from high-quality cast acrylic, these signs feature vibrant UV printing, weather resistance, and smooth finishes—perfect for indoor and outdoor use. Whether for office buildings, retail spaces, schools, or public areas, we offer full customization on size, shape, and mounting options. OEM & ODM available. Fast production, global shipping.
Premium Acrylic Photo Frame Block for Weddings, Portraits & More
This product is perfect for all types of images such as wedding photos, family or single portraits, random images or natural or holiday photos, and makes a wonderful gift idea. Please ensure your image is in proportion for this size so you do not have to crop the image. The acrylic mounting block you are ordering comes ready to display and is cut from 2 cm clear Perspex with diamond-polished edges.
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Email: sales@chinaplas-material.com
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Foshan Chinaplas Material Co.,ltd
Foshan Chinaplas Material Company Limited
FOSHAN CHINAPLAS MATERIAL CO.,LTD
Foshan Chinaplas Material Co.,ltd
CHINAPLAS ACRYLIC
Whatsapp: +8613927780518