Glass Vs. Acrylic Display Cases: Whether you’ve spent years curating your dream record selection or recently started building up your Funko Pops, your unique collection means a lot to you. That’s why one of the most important investments you can make is your display case. While acrylic cases have become more popular over the years, there are still many who prefer glass for keeping their collections safe. If you’re finding yourself in the middle of this debate, we’d love to lay out some honest points to help you decide.
Price
Long story short, acrylic is going to be your cheapest option. It’s lighter which means it costs a lot less to ship. Plus, it’s easier to produce, making it the most budget-friendly solution.
Durability
Glass is more prone to cracks and shattering when treated carelessly. If you do want to create a glass display case, it’s crucial to make sure it’s in an area with less traffic. Tempered glass is one of the best options since it is far more durable than standard glass and is designed to shatter into pixels rather than shards. This can go a long way to saving your collection and your fingers! While acrylic might not break so easily, it does scratch easier and tends to really show the damage over time.
Protection
Obviously, you want to keep your items protected. This is one of the areas where glass is the clear winner! If your display is in a sunny spot, the acrylic case will transmit more sun which can mean some major fading for your objects. Standard glass provides way more protection against this effect. You can also choose to get a special UV-coating that will block out nearly all the rays. This is exactly why most museums opt for glass cases for their most significant pieces!
Looks
This is going to be your personal preference, of course, but both sides have their advantages. Acrylic is going to give you a clearer view of your items. At the same time, it has more of a sheen to the surface which can cause your collection to get obscured by the reflection of the room. Glass also has that gorgeous green tint around the edges, giving you the timeless look you often see in museums.
While both materials are great options for your display, it’s important to invest in a case you’ll love years later. This way, you can make sure the only concern you have is running out of room!
Did you know at St. Louis Glass Works, we can help you with your custom project? From low-key display cases to iconic arena Enterprise Center replicas, we’re here for all your interests. Give us a call today so we can get you a quote free of charge!