Are you planning to buy a new aquarium but can't decide between acrylic and glass? It's a common dilemma. While both materials have been used for decades to create stunning aquatic displays, they have very different properties. The right choice for you depends on several key factors, including your budget, the size of your tank, and how you plan to use it.
At Acrylic Aquarium Co., we've been manufacturing custom acrylic tanks for over 20 years. We understand the pros and cons of both materials and can help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison.
1. Durability and Strength
When it comes to durability, acrylic is the clear winner. It’s about 17 times stronger than glass and significantly more shatter-resistant. While a glass aquarium can shatter with a small impact, an acrylic tank will likely only crack or scuff, making it a safer option, especially for large tanks or in homes with children.
However, acrylic's biggest weakness is its softness. It's more susceptible to scratches from rocks, gravel, or even cleaning tools if you aren't careful. Glass, on the other hand, is much harder and scratch-resistant.
- Acrylic: Highly impact-resistant, but scratches easily.
- Glass: Shatter-prone, but scratch-resistant.
2. Weight and Clarity
A major advantage of acrylic is its weight. An acrylic tank can be up to 50% lighter than a glass tank of the same size. This makes transportation, lifting, and installation far easier. For a large custom build, this weight difference can be the deciding factor.
Acrylic also offers superior clarity. It has a higher light transmission rate and a refractive index closer to that of water, which results in a less distorted, more vibrant view of your aquatic life. Glass can give off a greenish tint, especially on thick panes.
- Acrylic: Lightweight and optically clearer.
- Glass: Heavier and can have a greenish tint.
3. Cost and Manufacturing
Glass is a relatively inexpensive material to produce, so a standard, mass-produced glass aquarium will almost always be cheaper than a comparable acrylic tank. However, for a custom-shaped or very large aquarium, the cost of manufacturing glass increases dramatically. The flexibility of acrylic allows it to be cut, bent, and molded into virtually any shape, often at a more reasonable cost for bespoke designs.
4. Maintenance and Longevity
Cleaning an acrylic aquarium requires more care due to its scratch susceptibility. You must use specific cleaning tools and soft cloths. If scratches do occur, however, they can often be buffed out and polished away. With glass, a deep scratch is permanent. Both materials can last for many years if properly cared for. However, some older acrylic tanks may yellow or become hazy over time if exposed to harsh UV light, while glass retains its clarity indefinitely.
- Acrylic: Scratches can be polished out; can yellow with age.
- Glass: Scratches are permanent; retains clarity.
The Verdict: Which is Right for You?
The choice between acrylic and glass comes down to your priorities.
Choose Acrylic if: You want a large, lightweight tank; you desire a custom or unusual shape; you prioritize safety; and you're willing to be extra careful with cleaning.
Choose Glass if: You're on a tight budget for a standard-sized tank; you're worried about scratches; and you prefer a traditional look.
Ready to explore a custom acrylic solution for your home or business?