Whether you're designing a new office, refreshing a conference room, or upgrading your classroom tools, choosing the right whiteboard matters more than you think. Two common choices are glass whiteboards and standard whiteboards, and each one brings its strengths to the table. Explore the pros and cons so you can decide which type of whiteboard truly fits your space.
What Is a Glass Whiteboard?
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Glass whiteboards are made from tempered glass and are usually mounted on a wall. They're sleek, modern, and highly durable. Most glass boards are non-porous, which means they resist stains and ghosting (when leftover marks remain even after erasing).
What Is a Standard Whiteboard?
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Standard whiteboards, often called melamine or painted steel boards, are made with a smooth surface that's typically white and mounted to a backing board. They're the classic whiteboards you've seen in classrooms, offices, and meeting rooms for years.
1. Appearance and Aesthetics
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Glass Whiteboards: Clean lines, modern feel, and often frameless. Available in custom sizes and even tinted or colored options to match the interior design.
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Standard Whiteboards: Functional but basic. They do the job but don’t stand out visually.
If aesthetics matter, say in a modern office or design-focused space, glass whiteboards win here.
2. Durability and Longevity
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Glass Whiteboards: Made from tempered glass that resists scratches, dents, and ghosting. These boards can last for many years with minimal maintenance.
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Standard whiteboards: Prone to staining over time, especially if not cleaned regularly. The surface may show wear and ghosting with heavy use.
Glass whiteboards are the long-term option if you want something that retains its appearance over time.
3. Ease of Cleaning
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Glass Whiteboards: Super easy to clean. Ink wipes off without leaving residue, even after long periods.
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Standard Whiteboards: Require frequent cleaning. Old marks can stain or leave smudges, especially with cheaper boards.
Glass whiteboards are lower maintenance and stay cleaner with less effort.
4. Cost and Budget
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Glass Whiteboards: Higher upfront cost due to materials and installation. Viewed as an investment.
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Standard Whiteboards: Budget-friendly. Ideal for schools or offices needing multiple boards.
Standard whiteboards are more accessible price-wise, especially if you're purchasing in bulk.
5. Installation and Placement
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Glass Whiteboards: Heavier and often require professional installation. Wall-mounting hardware needs to be sturdy.
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Standard Whiteboards: Lightweight and easy to mount or move. It can be installed quickly with basic tools.
For flexibility and ease, standard whiteboards are simpler to work with.
6. Writing and Visibility
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Glass Whiteboards: Require high-contrast markers for visibility. Writing glides smoothly, but reflections may cause glare in brightly lit rooms.
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Standard Whiteboards: Great for basic visibility and everyday writing. Less glare, especially in classroom settings.
Standard whiteboards are more practical in settings with lots of light and frequent use.
7. Customization and Branding
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Both options can be customized. Custom glass whiteboards can include logos, frosted designs, or color-matching. Custom standard whiteboards may include printed grids, calendars, or schedules.
Customization is available for both, depending on what you’re looking for.
Final Thoughts
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Both glass whiteboards and standard whiteboards have their place. Your choice comes down to your environment, priorities, and budget. For high-end offices or design-driven spaces, glass whiteboards are often worth the investment. For schools, training rooms, and everyday functionality, standard whiteboards offer unbeatable value.
Strengthen your brand identity by purchasing a custom whiteboard. If you are looking for custom whiteboards, chalkboards, or bulletin boards, contact New York Blackboard today. We have been selling handcrafted blackboards since 1944 and are located in New Jersey.