Smart Film vs Smart Glass
Smart Film vs Smart Glass
Compare both switchable privacy solutions and choose the right product for your project.
Smart Film vs Smart Glass
Both give you glass that switches from clear to private. The difference is whether you are upgrading glass you already have, or ordering new panels.
| Smart Film | Smart Glass | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A switchable film applied to the surface of existing glass | A laminated panel with the switchable layer sealed inside |
| Best for | Retrofits — offices, partitions, doors and windows already installed | New construction, glass replacement and specified projects |
| Installation | Applied on site to the existing pane | Manufactured to size, then installed as a panel |
| Typical price | ~$100 per sq ft | ~$135 per sq ft |
| Lead time | Short — around two weeks on a recent conference-room project | Longer, because panels are built to your dimensions |
| Edges | Film edge is visible on close inspection | Fully sealed inside the laminate |
| Wet areas | Suitable when specified for the location | Sealed construction suits showers and high-humidity rooms |
| Colors | White, grey or tinted | White, grey or tinted |
Original (PDLC) or Reverse (PNLC)
Both film and glass come in two behaviours. This is a separate choice from film vs glass.
Original — PDLC
- Power off — private
- Power on — clear
- If power fails, the glass turns private
- Best for residential and exterior, maximum privacy
Reverse — PNLC
- Power off — clear, 91% visible light, 2.4% haze
- Power on — private, 94% haze
- If power fails, the glass stays clear
- Best for office space — less haze, slightly less private
Shared by both
Low voltage at 48–55 VAC, under 0.5 watt per square foot, switching in under 45 milliseconds, over 98% UV blocking, and a rated life of over 15 years or 2 million switching cycles.
How to choose
Is the glass already in?
Yes → film. No, or you are replacing panes → glass.
What should happen in a power cut?
Private → Original (PDLC). Clear → Reverse (PNLC).
How clear must it look?
Office glass walls usually favour Reverse for its lower haze.
What is the timeline?
Tight deadline → film. Planned build → glass.
Product pages
- Smart Film Original (PDLC)
- Smart Film Reverse (PNLC)
- Smart Glass Original (PDLC)
- Smart Glass Reverse (PNLC)
- PriWatt IGU
- Smart Glass for NanaWall
- PriWatt Blinds
Still not sure which one?
Tell us about the space and we will recommend the right product.