Electrochromic Glass vs. Electrochromic Film: What’s the Difference?

Electrochromic technology has gained significant attention in recent years as an energy-efficient way to control light and heat in buildings. Two of the most common applications of this technology are electrochromic glass and electrochromic film. While they may seem similar at first glance, they function differently and serve different purposes. Understanding the distinctions can help architects, business owners, and homeowners make informed decisions about which option best suits their needs.

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What Is Electrochromic Glass?

Electrochromic glass is a type of glass that gradually changes its tint when an electrical voltage is applied. The tinting process is slow, taking several minutes to transition from clear to dark. This glass is often used for its ability to reduce glare and heat gain, making it ideal for buildings in sunny climates where energy efficiency is a priority.

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Key Features of Electrochromic Glass:

• Gradual tinting transition (not instant)
• Designed primarily for solar control
• Reduces glare and heat but does not provide privacy
• Requires integration into new window units (cannot be retrofitted to existing glass)
• High initial cost with long-term energy savings

Common Uses of Electrochromic Glass:

• Office buildings: Helps regulate indoor temperatures and reduce reliance on HVAC systems.
• Airports and hotels: Improves occupant comfort by reducing glare in common areas.
• Luxury homes: Used in skylights and large windows for energy-efficient daylight control.
• Automotive industry: Applied in high-end vehicle windows to reduce glare and heat.

What Is Electrochromic Film?

Electrochromic film is a thin, flexible film that applies to existing glass surfaces to achieve a similar tinting effect. Like electrochromic glass, it darkens when an electrical charge is applied, though the transition time varies depending on the quality of the film.

Key Features of Electrochromic Film:

• Can be applied to existing glass (retrofit option)
• Generally more affordable than electrochromic glass
• Provides glare and heat reduction but does not provide full privacy
• Requires a power source and control system

Common Uses of Electrochromic Film:

• Commercial buildings: A cost-effective solution for upgrading existing windows to improve energy efficiency.
• Residential properties: Allows homeowners to add smart tinting features to existing glass.
• Retail stores: Reduces heat and glare while maintaining visibility for displays.‍
• Automotive sector: Used in sunroofs and side windows for enhanced driving comfort.

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Electrochromic Glass vs. Electrochromic Film: Which One to Choose?

When deciding between electrochromic glass and electrochromic film, consider the following factors:

What About Privacy?

One of the most common misconceptions about electrochromic technology is that it can provide privacy. Unlike PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) smart glass and film, which switch instantly between clear and frosted states, electrochromic glass and film only darken to reduce glare and heat. This means that even in their darkest state, they do not block visibility. If privacy is a concern, PDLC smart film or smart glass would be a better option.

Final Thoughts

Electrochromic glass and electrochromic film both offer smart tinting capabilities that enhance comfort and energy efficiency in homes, offices, and vehicles. However, they are not designed for privacy applications. If you're looking for a dynamic shading solution, either option can be a great choice depending on your budget and whether you're working with existing glass or new construction. For those who need both solar control and privacy, grey PDLC smart film would be the preferred solution. For those who want shading but want to maintain their view, dynamic glass solutions are a great choice!

Ready to order electrochromic glass or film for your project? Smart Glass Country— contact us today to learn more!