Self-Adhesive vs Non-Adhesive vs Laminated Smart Glass: Which Should You Choose?
The three product forms serve three different situations. Here is the decision framework our engineers use when quoting projects.
The short answer
Existing glass you want to upgrade: self-adhesive film. You manufacture glass: non-adhesive film rolls. New doors, windows or partitions: laminated smart glass.
Self-adhesive PDLC film - the retrofit champion
Peels and sticks onto any smooth existing glass with a dry peel-and-stick method. No glass replacement, no frames touched, installed in a day. Choose it for renovations, rented premises and quick upgrades. 0.4 mm thick, four grades from Clear (85%) to Ultra Clear (92%), max width 1.8 m.
Non-adhesive PDLC film - for lamination lines
Raw film without adhesive, supplied in rolls up to 2 m wide and 50 m long. Glass processors laminate it between glass layers with EVA or PVB interlayer to make their own smart glass. Choose it only if you run a lamination line - it is a B2B input, not a retrofit product.
Laminated switchable glass - the turnkey panel
PDLC core factory-laminated between two tempered panes (5-10 mm). Arrives wired and ready for any glazier. Best for new builds, doors and facades; adds safety (holds fragments on impact) and 20%+ better sound insulation than ordinary glass.
Cost comparison
Per square meter, self-adhesive film is the most economical, laminated glass costs more (two glass layers plus processing), and raw film has the lowest unit price but requires lamination capability. PNLC commands a premium (~10x PDLC) and is specified only where clear-by-default behavior is required - see the PNLC page.
Still unsure?
Send us photos and dimensions - the quote includes a product recommendation with reasons, free of charge.
See the film switch
An SGV install switching between transparent and frosted - the film this article talks about.
- Under 0.1 s switching - clear to frosted the instant power changes
- ~5 W per m² - less power than a light bulb, only while clear
- Factory-cut to size - busbar finished and tested, ready to wire
Talk to an engineer
Send your dimensions and application - itemized quote within 24 hours.
