Which Switchable Glass Product Is Best For Me? Smart Glass or Smart Film?

Many of our customers ask us questions like ‘How much does smart glass cost?’. In reality, the answer to this question really depends on the specific needs of your project. So, instead of asking, "How much is smart glass?" The better question is, "Which Smart Glass option is best for me?”

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In this article, we'll explore the differences between smart glass and smart film to help you decide which product suits your needs. At Smart Glass Country, we will help you find the right switchable glass product for your project so you can get exactly what you need without overspending. Whether you're looking for privacy solutions for your home, office, or retail space, our diverse range of switchable glass products can meet your needs.

The Difference Between Smart Glass and Smart Film

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Both switchable glass and switchable film work the same way, leveraging PDLC (polymer-dispersed liquid crystal) technology to provide privacy on demand. When powered on, smart glass and film become clear. When powered off, the film and glass become opaque.

The difference is that smart film is a window film that can be applied to any existing glass surfaces. Smart glass, on the other hand, contains the switchable PDLC film layer laminated between two panels of glass, giving rise to smart privacy glass. So deciding between the two depends largely on whether you already have glass installed.

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Smart Film for Retrofitting

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If you're looking for a more affordable and versatile option, self-adhesive smart film could be your answer. This product can easily be applied to existing glass surfaces, making it a great solution for retrofitting. It’s also our best-selling product due to its affordability and ease of installation. However, it’s important to note that Smart Film leaves the PDLC layer exposed to potential threats like moisture, physical damage, or chemicals. Therefore, if your environment is more subject to wear and tear, a more robust solution like laminated smart glass may be a better choice.

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It’s important to note that smart film is not always the more economical option. If you need to order glass and have it installed for a new build or replacement, you will have to purchase glass and hire a glazier anyways. To order smart film and install new glass you would need to hire a glazier and a window tinting specialist. In these scenarios it will ultimately be more cost-effective to order smart glass, which can be installed by any glazier just like regular glass.

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We offer three types of smart film; our standard smart film, premium smart film and ultra clear smart film. The difference between the three types is their clarity. Smart Glass Country offers the clearest smart film on the market. Order a smart film sample to see for yourself!

Standard Smart Glass

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Our standard smart glass consists of smart film sandwiched between two pieces of laminated and tempered safety glass. Switchable glass offers all of the same advantages of smart film, but it is more durable because the PDLC film is protected by the glass. For this reason we offer a longer warranty on our privacy glass product than our privacy film. Laminated smart glass is often used in hospitals, shower privacy walls, and high-traffic public areas. It’s one of our most popular solutions because it strikes a great balance between cost and performance.

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In addition to providing privacy on demand, smart glass outperforms regular glass in other ways. Due to its structure, smart glass is more durable and resistant to breakage than ordinary glass. It also has soundproofing properties that reduce noise. These benefits come at no additional cost, making smart glass a great investment. 

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In addition to our smart glass product, we offer many customizations and types of smart glass. Virtually any type of glass can be made switchable through our lamination process, bullet resistant glass, including X-ray glass, fire rated glass, pressure-rated glass, curved, low-E, low iron, and more. These special glass options are more expensive due to the custom glass used. Check out the video below to see our smart glass samples in action:

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Smart Insulated Glass Units (IGUs)

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For those looking for enhanced energy efficiency, smart insulated glass units may be the best choice. Smart IGUs combine all the benefits of traditional insulated glass units with the added privacy control of switchable glass technology.

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Conclusion: Smart Glass or Smart Film?

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Choosing between smart glass and smart film depends on your specific needs. If you’re looking for a robust, long-lasting solution for demanding environments, smart glass is the way to go. On the other hand, if you're after a more budget-friendly retrofit option, smart film provides a great retrofit option of the switchable technology. 

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At Smart Glass Country, we offer a wide range of products to suit any requirement, from simple privacy to advanced functionality like projection and touch screens. Reach out to our team to find the perfect solution for your project. 

Whether you need privacy for a home, office, or retail space, Smart Glass Country has the right switchable technology for you.

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