Choosing Between Glass vs Acrylic Coffee Tables Made Simple

You want a coffee table that fits your life, right? If you love timeless elegance and scratch resistance, glass stands out. Acrylic wins for safety, impact resistance, and easy handling—perfect if you move things often or have kids and pets running around. Many homeowners pick glass for its sleek style and easy cleaning, while others choose acrylic for its lightweight feel and playful design. Think about your home, your daily routine, and what matters most to you. In this glass vs acrylic coffee table comparison, your ideal option depends on your space and lifestyle.

Glass vs Acrylic: Durability & Safety

Durability

When you compare glass vs acrylic coffee tables, durability stands out as a key difference. Glass, especially tempered glass, feels solid and strong. Tempered glass goes through a special heating and cooling process that makes it much tougher than regular glass. This safety glass can handle daily use and resists scratches better than most materials. If you want a table top material that keeps its smooth look for years, glass is a great pick.

Acrylic, on the other hand, is famous for its impact resistance. You can bump, drop, or knock an acrylic table, and it will not shatter. Acrylic is a shatter-resistant material, which is why you see it used in places like hockey rinks and pool barriers. It is lightweight, so moving your table around the room is easy. Acrylic tables are less likely to break, but they can scratch more easily than glass. Everyday items like keys or rough decorations may leave marks. You can buff out small scratches on acrylic, but you need to use soft cloths and gentle cleaners for tabletop protection.

Tip: Use coasters and felt pads under decorations to keep both glass and acrylic looking their best. Tabletop protection helps prevent scratches and keeps your table top material in top shape.

Here’s a quick look at how glass vs acrylic stack up for durability:

• Tempered glass resists scratches and stays clear, but it can still break under heavy impact or sudden temperature changes.

• Acrylic is much more impact-resistant and almost never shatters, but it is softer and scratches more easily.

• Both materials benefit from tabletop protection, like coasters and pads.

Safety

Safety matters a lot, especially if you have kids or pets at home. Glass coffee tables, even those made with tempered glass, can break if hit hard enough. When tempered glass breaks, it crumbles into small, blunt pieces instead of sharp shards. This makes it safer than regular glass, but it still poses some risk. Sharp edges and corners on glass tables can cause cuts or bumps, especially for young children. You can add corner guards or edge bumpers for extra tabletop protection.

Acrylic tables shine when it comes to safety. Acrylic is virtually shatterproof and highly impact-resistant. If your child or pet bumps into an acrylic table, you do not have to worry about dangerous glass pieces. Acrylic tables are lightweight, so they are less likely to cause injury if tipped over. Pediatricians often recommend removing glass tables from homes with young children, but acrylic offers a safer alternative.

• Glass tables with sharp corners can cause injuries. Rounded edges or edge protectors help reduce this risk.

• Tempered glass is stronger and safer than regular glass, but it can still shatter under heavy impact or thermal shock.

• Acrylic tables are shatter-resistant and much less likely to break, making them a safer choice for busy homes.

• For the best safety, choose tables with rounded edges and always supervise children around any table.

When you look at injury rates, glass tables—especially those without tempered glass—cause more injuries than acrylic tables. Acrylic’s shatter-resistant material means fewer accidents and less worry about broken pieces. If safety is your top concern, especially in a home with kids or pets, acrylic is the clear winner in the glass vs acrylic debate.

Weight & Handling

Glass

When you pick up a glass coffee table, you notice the weight right away. Glass table tops feel solid and sturdy, but they can be heavy. Most glass table tops use thick, tempered glass for strength. This makes the table safe but adds a lot of weight. If you look at a medium-sized glass table top, it usually weighs between 30 and 50 pounds. Large glass table tops can weigh over 75 pounds. Moving a glass table top takes effort, and you might need help to lift it safely.

Here’s a quick look at average weight ranges for glass table tops:

Glass table tops often sit at the higher end of these ranges because of the thick material and sturdy frames. If you like to rearrange your living room or move furniture often, a glass table top can be tricky. The heavy material also means you need to be careful when cleaning or shifting the table. You do not want to drop a glass table top or bump it into walls.

Tip: Always use two hands and ask for help when moving a glass table top. This keeps you and your table safe.

Acrylic

Acrylic table tops make life easy. You can lift an acrylic table top with one hand, even if it is large. Acrylic is much lighter than glass, thanks to its lower density and thinner material. Most acrylic table tops use about 15mm thickness, but they still support up to 110 pounds. This makes acrylic table tops strong and stable, but easy to move.

If you have kids or pets, you will love how easy it is to slide an acrylic table across the room. You can clean under the table or change your layout without any trouble. Acrylic table tops also make it easy to rearrange your space for parties or family gatherings. You do not need to worry about breaking the material or hurting yourself.

Acrylic table tops are perfect for anyone who wants a lightweight, easy-to-handle table. You get a modern look and practical benefits. The easy handling makes acrylic a favorite for busy homes.

Glass vs Acrylic Coffee Tables: Appearance

Style

When you look at glass vs acrylic coffee tables, style is one of the first things you notice. Glass coffee tables bring a timeless, elegant look to your living room. You can use them as a centerpiece and show off your favorite vases, art books, or even a chess set. Many people love how a glass table creates a light and airy feeling, especially in summer. The transparent surface helps your room feel bigger and more open. You can style a glass tabletop with trays, candles, or plants for a modern touch. Metallic accents like gold or brass add a bit of luxury. Glass tables fit right in with both minimalist and maximalist aesthetics, so you can keep things simple or go bold with your decor.

Acrylic coffee tables offer a different kind of style. Designers love acrylic for its modern, playful vibe. The transparency of acrylic lets your other furniture and decor stand out. You can find acrylic tables in many shapes and even colors, so you have more choices for your space. Clear acrylic tables blend into any room, making them perfect for small spaces. They are also easy to move, so you can change your style whenever you want. Acrylic tables work well in homes with kids because they are safer and more durable than glass.

Tip: Try layering books, candles, or small plants on your coffee table for a designer look that matches your style.

Clarity

Clarity is another big difference in the appearance of glass vs acrylic coffee tables. High-quality glass has great clarity and keeps its shine for years. It does not yellow or get cloudy over time. Glass usually has a light transmission rate between 80% and 90%, which means it lets in a lot of light and keeps your room bright.

Acrylic, especially clear acrylic or Lucite, can look even brighter at first. It has a light transmission rate of about 92%, so it lets in more light than glass. This makes your coffee table look extra clear and helps your room feel open. However, some lower-quality acrylics can yellow if they get too much sun. If you want your acrylic table to stay clear, look for UV-resistant options.

Here’s a quick table to compare clarity:

Both glass and transparent acrylic offer beautiful clarity and modern aesthetics. Your choice depends on which style and appearance fit your home best.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Glass

Keeping your glass table tops sparkling does not have to be hard. You can keep your glass table top looking clear and bright with a few simple steps. Here’s an easy routine you can follow:

1. Grab a microfiber cloth. This traps dust and keeps your glass table tops free from scratches and lint.

2. Mix up a gentle cleaner. Try vinegar and distilled water, or use a little dish soap with warm water. These work great for everyday cleaning.

3. For fingerprints or tough spots, a mix of rubbing alcohol, water, and dish soap wipes them away fast.

4. Spray your cleaner on the glass table top, then use a squeegee for big surfaces. This stops water spots and streaks.

5. If you see stubborn stains, gently use a baking soda paste or a razor blade at a 45-degree angle.

6. Always use coasters, placemats, and furniture pads for tabletop protection. These keep your glass table tops safe from scratches.

7. Tablecloths or runners made from soft cotton or linen add extra tabletop protection and style.

8. Wipe with a dryer sheet or use anti-static spray to cut down on dust.

9. Stick to a regular cleaning schedule. This makes each cleaning session quick and easy.

10. For small scratches, try a glass polish with cerium oxide to bring back the shine.

Tip: Never use paper towels on your glass table top. They can leave lint and cause tiny scratches.

Acrylic

Acrylic table tops make cleaning easy, but you need to use the right products. Start by dusting your acrylic table top with a dry microfiber cloth or a soft air blower. This keeps the surface scratch-free.

1. Mix warm water with a mild, pH-neutral dish soap. Dip your microfiber cloth in the solution.

2. Lightly mist the cloth (not the acrylic table top) and wipe in straight lines.

3. Rinse with clean water and dry right away with a fresh microfiber cloth. This stops streaks and water spots.

4. Never use ammonia-based cleaners, glass cleaners, alcohol, or acetone. These can cloud or damage your acrylic table tops.

5. For extra shine or to fix light scratches, use an acrylic-safe polish like Novus Plastic Polish. Buff gently for best results.

6. If you find sticky spots, a tiny bit of isopropyl alcohol on a microfiber cloth can help. Always follow up with soap and water.

Note: Keep your acrylic table tops away from rough sponges and paper towels. These can scratch the surface and make it look dull.

Acrylic table tops stay clear and easy to care for when you use gentle cleaners and soft cloths. With these steps, your table will always look its best.

Cost Comparison

Glass

When you shop for a glass coffee table, you notice the price can vary a lot. Most mid-range glass tables cost between $215 and $535. You can find budget options under $215, but designer or premium models can go much higher. The price depends on several things:

• The thickness and quality of the glass

• Whether the glass is tempered or artistic

• The materials used for the table base

• The complexity of the design and craftsmanship

• Shipping costs, since glass is heavy and fragile

If you want a table that lasts for years and keeps its shine, glass is a solid investment. Many people see glass tables as heirloom pieces because they resist scratches and stay stylish for decades. However, glass can break if you drop something heavy on it, which means you might face higher replacement costs over time.

Here’s a quick look at some real prices:

Acrylic

Acrylic coffee tables usually cost less than glass ones. Basic acrylic tables start around $110, making them a great choice if you want to save money. Acrylic is a less expensive material, and the tables are lighter, so shipping costs less too. You can move an acrylic table easily, which is perfect if you like to rearrange your space.

Acrylic tables are tough and resist breaking, so you probably won’t need to replace them often. Many families with kids or pets pick acrylic for its safety and value. However, acrylic can scratch or yellow over time, which may affect how you feel about its value in the long run.

Most people say acrylic tables give you better value for money if you care about price and safety. If you want a table that looks modern and is easy to move, acrylic is a smart pick.

Here’s a quick table to compare some cost factors:

If you want a long-lasting, classic piece, glass is worth the extra cost. If you need something affordable and safe, acrylic is the way to go.

Acrylic vs Glass: Lifestyle Fit

Families & Kids

If you have kids at home, you want a coffee table that keeps everyone safe. Acrylic tables stand out as the safer option for families. You do not have to worry about sharp corners or shattered pieces. Many acrylic tables come with rounded or beveled edges, so there are no sharp spots for little ones to bump into. The material is shatter-resistant, which means even if your child knocks over the table, it will not break into dangerous pieces like glass table tops might.

Here’s a quick look at why acrylic is a family-friendly choice:

You can also clean acrylic table tops quickly, which helps when sticky fingers leave marks. Glass table tops, especially those made from tempered glass, do offer some safety because they break into small, blunt pieces. Still, they can be heavy and have sharp edges unless you add protectors. If you want peace of mind and easy handling, acrylic wins in the acrylic vs glass debate for families.

Tip: Choose a round or oval acrylic coffee table for the safest play space.

Pets

Pets love to explore, jump, and sometimes even nap on your coffee table. If you have dogs or cats, you know accidents can happen. Acrylic tables are a favorite among pet owners because they do not shatter like glass. You get impact resistance and a table that stands up to bumps, scratches, and even the occasional leap from a curious cat.

Acrylic is also lighter than glass, so you can move it to clean up pet hair or spills. Many acrylic tables have rounded edges, which means fewer worries about injuries if your pet runs into the table. Glass table tops, even those made from tempered glass, can break if hit hard enough. Cleaning up broken glass is never fun, especially with pets around.

Pet owners often choose acrylic for its durability and safety. You get a clear, modern look without the risk of shattered glass. Acrylic tables also support plenty of weight, so you do not have to worry about your pet knocking things over.

• Acrylic tables are impact-resistant and shatterproof.

• Rounded edges keep pets safe from cuts or bumps.

• Easy to move and clean, perfect for busy pet homes.

• Glass table tops look elegant but can break and cause injuries.

Entertaining

Do you love having friends over for coffee or game night? Your coffee table needs to handle lots of action. Both acrylic and glass table tops offer great style and make your living room feel open and bright. When you compare acrylic vs glass for entertaining, think about how much wear and tear your table will see.

Durability and easy maintenance matter most when you host guests often. Acrylic tables resist breaking, so you do not have to worry if someone bumps into the table or drops a plate. You can wipe up spills quickly, and the table stays looking good. Glass table tops, especially those made from tempered glass, resist scratches and keep their shine. They look elegant and fit any decor, but you need to be careful with heavy items or sudden impacts.

Here are some things to consider for entertaining:

• Acrylic tables are lightweight and easy to move for parties.

• Glass table tops offer timeless style and are easy to clean.

• Both options support drinks, snacks, and decor.

• Acrylic is less likely to break during busy gatherings.

Note: If you want a table that matches your style and stands up to frequent use, both acrylic and glass can work. Just think about how much you move your furniture and how careful your guests are.

Budget

Budget plays a big role when you pick a coffee table. Acrylic tables usually cost less than glass table tops. You get more options in the lower price range, and you do not have to pay extra for shipping heavy materials. Acrylic is also more durable and shatter-resistant, so you save money on repairs or replacements.

Glass tables, especially those made from tempered glass, cost more. You pay for the classic look and scratch resistance. If you want a table that lasts for years and keeps its shine, glass is a good investment. Still, if you want to save money and get a safe, modern table, acrylic is the better option.

Here’s a quick list to help you decide:

• Acrylic tables are budget-friendly and offer many style options.

• Glass table tops cost more but give you classic aesthetics and easy cleaning.

• Acrylic is more durable for the price, while tempered glass offers long-term value.

• Budget-conscious buyers often choose acrylic for its mix of cost and durability.

Tip: If you want to refresh your space without spending a lot, acrylic tables give you the best value.

Pros & Cons Table

Choosing between a glass or acrylic coffee table can feel tricky. You want to see all the good and bad points before you decide. Here’s a simple table to help you compare both options side by side. This way, you can pick the table that fits your home and your life.

Tip: If you want a table that is easy to move and safe for kids, acrylic might be your best bet. If you love a timeless look and want something that lasts, glass could be the right choice.

You can use this table to match your needs with the right material. Maybe you want a table that looks fancy and stays shiny. Glass gives you that. Maybe you need something safe and light for a busy family room. Acrylic works well for that. Think about your space, your style, and how you use your table every day. The right choice will make your living room feel just right.

Choosing the right coffee table comes down to what matters most to you. Glass coffee tables bring timeless style and resist scratches, while acrylic coffee tables offer safety and easy handling. If you want a classic look, glass is a great option. For families or busy homes, acrylic might fit better. Think about your space, your needs, and how you use your coffee table. Either option can make your room shine.

FAQ

Can you use glass or acrylic coffee tables outdoors?

You can use both, but acrylic handles outdoor use better. Glass can crack with temperature changes. Acrylic resists weather and does not shatter. If you want a table for your patio, pick acrylic and look for UV-resistant options.

How do you remove scratches from acrylic coffee tables?

You can buff out light scratches with a soft cloth and acrylic polish. For deeper marks, use a plastic scratch remover kit. Always clean gently to avoid new scratches. Avoid rough sponges or paper towels.

Do acrylic coffee tables turn yellow over time?

Acrylic can yellow if exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. High-quality, UV-resistant acrylic stays clear much longer. If you want your table to look new, keep it out of harsh sunlight.

Which coffee table is easier to move?

Acrylic coffee tables are much lighter than glass. You can move them by yourself without much effort. Glass tables feel heavy and may need two people to lift safely.

Are glass coffee tables safe for homes with kids?

Glass tables, even with tempered glass, can break and have sharp edges. If you have young kids, acrylic tables offer better safety. You get peace of mind and fewer worries about accidents.