What is the Difference Between Acrylic and Glass Aquariums?

Date:2008-03-03 There are quite a few differences between acrylic and glass aquariums. Glass is a long-time favorite of many aquarists because it is traditional and therefore has a loyal following. Aquarists who favor glass believe acrylic is a poor choice because it scratches easier than glass. Although this is true, acrylic has many advantages over glass. For one, acrylic is 17x stronger than glass, softer and more flexible than glass, making it highly impact resistant. Secondly, acrylic weighs 50% less than glass, making it much more portable. Thirdly, acrylic insulates 20% better than glass, which reduces temperature fluctuations and saves on heating and chiller bills. If these benefits aren't enough, the seams of acrylic tanks are molecularly welded. The resin used to seal them chemically melts the two pieces of material into one solid piece for a clear polished seam that is virtually unable to leak. Another advantage of acrylic is that it has a transparency rating of 93%, which i ... more

There are quite a few differences between acrylic and glass aquariums. Glass is a long-time favorite of many aquarists because it is traditional and therefore has a loyal following. Aquarists who favor glass believe acrylic is a poor choice because it scratches easier than glass. Although this is true, acrylic has many advantages over glass. For one, acrylic is 17x stronger than glass, softer and more flexible than glass, making it highly impact resistant. Secondly, acrylic weighs 50% less than glass, making it much more portable. Thirdly, acrylic insulates 20% better than glass, which reduces temperature fluctuations and saves on heating and chiller bills. If these benefits aren't enough, the seams of acrylic tanks are molecularly welded. The resin used to seal them chemically melts the two pieces of material into one solid piece for a clear polished seam that is virtually unable to leak. Another advantage of acrylic is that it has a transparency rating of 93%, which is as clear as op ... more