Overview

Switchable™ glass and traditional curtains are both used to provide privacy and control light, but they operate in fundamentally different ways. Switchable™ glass uses laminated PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) technology to switch electronically between transparent and opaque states, while curtains use fabric to cover glazing and block or filter light. Understanding the differences helps determine which solution is most appropriate for a specific environment.

In simple terms, Switchable™ glass provides integrated electronic privacy within the glazing, while curtains provide fabric-based shading in front of the glass.

Core Difference

The primary distinction lies in how privacy is created.

Switchable™ glass integrates privacy within the glazing and changes state electronically.
Curtains use fabric positioned in front of glass to block visibility and control light.

This affects appearance, maintenance, durability, and long-term performance.

Privacy and Light Control

Switchable™ Glass

• Instant transition between clear and opaque
• Diffuses light evenly when opaque
• Maintains brightness within the space
• No physical obstruction

Curtains

• Fabric blocks or filters light
• Can reduce natural light significantly
• Privacy depends on curtain position
• Physical covering of glazing

Switchable™ glass provides integrated privacy, while curtains provide physical light blocking.

Appearance and Design

• Switchable™ Glass
• Clean, minimal architectural appearance
• No visible fabric or shading systems
• Maintains open, modern design
• Integrated within glazing

Curtains

• Visible fabric and fittings
• Influences interior design style
• Can create visual clutter depending on installation

Switchable™ glass is often chosen where a clean, uninterrupted appearance is preferred.

Maintenance and Hygiene

Switchable™ Glass

• Smooth glass surface
• No moving parts
• Easy to clean
• Minimal maintenance
• Suitable for hygienic environments

Curtains

• Fabric can collect dust and debris
• Requires regular cleaning or replacement
• May degrade over time

Switchable™ glass typically requires less maintenance and is easier to keep hygienic.

Durability and Lifespan

Switchable™ Glass

• Laminated construction protects functional layer
• Long operational lifespan
• No mechanical wear

Curtains

• Fabric may fade, tear, or degrade
• Replacement may be required periodically
• Performance affected by environmental conditions

Switchable™ glass is generally used where long-term durability is important.

Installation Differences

Switchable™ Glass

• Installed as part of glazing system
• Requires electrical integration
• Typically used in permanent installations

Curtains

• Installed independently of glazing
• No electrical integration required
• Suitable for retrofit applications

Choice often depends on design intent and installation context.

Cost Comparison

Curtains typically have a lower upfront cost than Switchable™ glass. However, long-term factors such as cleaning, replacement, and durability can influence overall value. Switchable™ glass is generally positioned as a premium glazing solution due to its integrated technology and performance.

Typical Use Cases

Switchable™ Glass

• Office partitions and meeting rooms
• Healthcare and clinical environments
• Architectural glazing systems
• High-spec commercial spaces
• Hygienic or controlled environments

Curtains

• Residential windows
• Decorative interior shading
• Budget-focused privacy solutions
• Traditional shading applications

Each solution serves different functional and design requirements.

Which Option Should Be Chosen?

The most suitable option depends on project priorities.

Switchable™ glass is generally preferred where:

• Integrated privacy within glazing is required
• Clean, minimal appearance is important
• Long-term durability is needed
• Hygiene and low maintenance are priorities

Curtains may be suitable where:

• Lower upfront cost is preferred
• Fabric shading is desired
• Decorative interior design is important

Selecting the correct solution depends on environment, application, and long-term performance needs.

Learn More

To understand how the technology operates, see How Switchable™ Glass Works.

For a complete overview of performance, benefits, and applications, see the Complete Guide to Switchable™ Glass.

For a clear definition, see What is Switchable™ Glass?

You can also explore further comparisons and technical guidance within the Your Questions Explained knowledge hub.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Switchable™ glass replace curtains completely?
In many applications, Switchable™ glass can replace curtains by providing integrated privacy within the glazing.

Is Switchable™ glass more hygienic than curtains?
Yes. It has a smooth glass surface and does not collect dust in the same way as fabric curtains.

Do curtains block more light than Switchable™ glass?
Curtains can block more light depending on fabric type, while Switchable™ glass diffuses light rather than fully blocking it.

Which lasts longer, Switchable™ glass or curtains?
Switchable™ glass typically has a longer operational lifespan due to its laminated construction and lack of fabric degradation.

Can Switchable™ glass and curtains be used together?
Yes. In some cases, curtains may be used alongside Switchable™ glass where additional shading or blackout control is required.