PC and acrylic are two common transparent plastic sheets. Many buyers are confused about choosing them. This article makes a comprehensive comparison to help you make the right decision.
Impact resistance
PC: 250 times that of glass, almost unbreakable.
Acrylic: Brittle, easy to crack under impact.
Winner: PC
Light transmittance
PC: 82%–92%
Acrylic: Up to 93%, slightly higher.
Winner: Acrylic (slight)
Weather resistance & anti-aging
PC: UV-resistant, no yellowing for 10+ years.
Acrylic: Easy to yellow and crack outdoors.
Winner: PC
Temperature resistance
PC: -40°C to 120°C
Acrylic: Only up to 70°C, easy to soften.
Winner: PC
Scratch resistance
PC: Poor, easy to scratch (can be upgraded with hard coating).
Acrylic: Good surface hardness.
Winner: Acrylic
Processing performance
PC: Can be cold-bent, not easy to break.
Acrylic: Easy to crack during cutting and bending.
Winner: PC
Price
PC: Slightly higher
Acrylic: Lower
Winner: Acrylic
Application suggestions:
Choose PC sheet if:
- Used outdoors
- Need safety & impact resistance
- Used in greenhouses, canopies, carports
- In Southeast Asia, Middle East, and other harsh climates
Choose acrylic only if:
- Used indoors
- Need extremely high transparency
- Low budget and low safety requirements
In most construction and outdoor projects, PC sheet is more cost-effective and longer-lasting.
