Overview

Switchable™ glass and frosted glass are both used to provide privacy within glazing, but they function in fundamentally different ways. Switchable™ glass uses laminated PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) technology to switch electronically between transparent and opaque states, while frosted glass provides permanent privacy through a textured or etched surface that scatters light. Understanding the differences helps determine which solution is most appropriate for a given application.

In simple terms, Switchable™ glass provides adjustable electronic privacy, while frosted glass provides permanent obscured privacy.

Core Difference

The primary difference lies in whether privacy is adjustable.

Switchable™ glass provides controllable privacy, changing instantly between clear and opaque states when power is applied.
Frosted glass provides permanent privacy and cannot switch between transparent and opaque.

This distinction affects flexibility, appearance, and functional use.

Privacy and Light Transmission

Switchable™ Glass

• Adjustable privacy on demand
• Switches instantly between clear and opaque
• Diffuses light evenly when opaque
• Maintains brightness within the space

Frosted Glass

• Permanent privacy
• Cannot switch to transparent
• Constant light diffusion
• Visibility permanently obscured

Switchable™ glass offers dynamic privacy, while frosted glass offers fixed privacy.

Appearance and Design

Switchable™ Glass

• Clear glass when powered
• Frosted appearance when unpowered
• Clean, modern architectural look
• Flexible visual control

Frosted Glass

• Permanently frosted surface
• Consistent appearance at all times
• No switching capability

Switchable™ glass is often chosen where flexibility and visual adaptability are important.

Functional Flexibility

Switchable™ Glass

• Privacy can be turned on or off
• Suitable for spaces requiring variable transparency
• Can integrate with automation systems

Frosted Glass

• Privacy is fixed and always present
• Suitable where permanent obscured glass is required
• No electronic control

Switchable™ glass provides adaptable functionality, while frosted glass provides constant privacy.

Maintenance and Durability

Switchable™ Glass

• Smooth glass surface
• No exposed functional layer
• Laminated construction protects PDLC layer
• Long operational lifespan

Frosted Glass

• Durable etched or treated surface
• May show marks more easily depending on finish
• No electronic components

Both are durable glazing solutions, but they serve different functional roles.

Installation Differences

Switchable™ Glass

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

Frosted Glass

• Installed as standard glass
• No electrical components required
• Simpler installation process

Choice depends on whether adjustable privacy is required.

Cost Comparison

Frosted glass generally has a lower upfront cost than Switchable™ glass. Switchable™ glass is positioned as a premium glazing solution due to its laminated PDLC technology and electrical integration. However, its ability to provide controllable privacy and visual flexibility may influence overall value depending on application.

Typical Use Cases

Switchable™ Glass

• Office meeting rooms and partitions
• Healthcare privacy glazing
• Architectural glazing systems
• Hospitality environments
• Spaces requiring adjustable privacy

Frosted Glass

• Bathrooms and permanent privacy glazing
• Decorative obscured glass
• Internal partitions with fixed privacy
• Standard architectural glazing

Each solution serves different design and functional needs.

Which Option Should Be Chosen?

The most suitable option depends on project requirements.

Switchable™ glass is generally preferred where:

• Adjustable privacy is required
• Transparency needs to change dynamically
• Modern, flexible glazing is desired
• Integration with control systems is beneficial

Frosted glass may be suitable where:

• Permanent privacy is required
• No switching functionality is needed
• Simpler, lower-cost glazing is preferred

Selecting the correct solution depends on application, flexibility needs, and design intent.

Learn More

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

For a complete overview of performance, applications, and specification, 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

Is Switchable™ glass the same as frosted glass?
No. Switchable™ glass can change between clear and opaque, while frosted glass provides permanent privacy.

Can frosted glass become clear?
No. Frosted glass is permanently obscured and does not switch to transparent.

Does Switchable™ glass provide the same privacy as frosted glass?
Yes. When unpowered, Switchable™ glass provides a similar light-diffusing privacy effect.

Which is more flexible, Switchable™ glass or frosted glass?
Switchable™ glass is more flexible because privacy can be turned on or off.

Is frosted glass cheaper than Switchable™ glass?
Yes. Frosted glass typically has a lower upfront cost due to its simpler construction.