Having been in the bath industry for over 20 years, one of the questions I am most often asked by clients is SOLID SURFACE bathtubs or ACRYLIC bathtubs, which is better? The answer I usually give is that it depends. It’s usually not objective to give an answer without considering the type of customer, their background, their needs, or even their budget. So in this post, I will take you to analyze and compare solid surface bathtubs and acrylic bathtubs, you just need to choose the most suitable one according to your needs and your own situation!
Now, I will analyze solid surface bathtubs and acrylic bathtubs from the perspectives of durability, aesthetics, maintenance, overall performance, of course and the cost.
Solid Surface Bathtub
First, we need to understand what the solid surface material is. Solid surface material is made from a mixture of acrylic resin, polyester resin, and natural minerals. This combination produces a non-porous, seamless material that can be molded into a variety of shapes and sizes.
Pros:
- Durability: solid surfaces are highly resistant to impact, stains, and scratches. If minor damage occurs during use, it can usually be repaired as new with simple sanding. So its maintenance cost is very low.
- Anti-yellowing: Because of the special nature of the solid surface material, usually the solid surface bathtub has a strong anti-yellowing ability, even if you choose the classic white color, but can also withstand a long test and clean as new.
- Aesthetics: Solid surface bathtubs have a high-end, luxurious look. Available in a variety of colors and finishes, including matte and glossy, they can match any type of bathroom design.
- Easy maintenance: The non-porous nature of solid surface prevents the growth of bacteria and mold, and they are easy to clean with mild soap and water. This not only maintains the physical and mental health of the user, but also eliminates the need for frequent cleaning.
- Customization Flexibility: Solid surface bathtubs can be customized in shape, size and color, providing flexibility for unique bathroom designs.
- Thermal insulation: Solid surface bathtubs retain heat well, ensuring a warm and comfortable bathing experience for a long time.
Cons:
- Weight: Solid surface bathtubs are heavier than acrylic and may require additional floor support and professional installation.
- Cost: Solid surface bathtubs are usually more expensive than acrylic bathtubs, but they can be cost-effective because of their low maintenance costs and long service life due to their structural stability.
Acrylic bathtubs:
Acrylic is made from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), a plastic known for its transparency and strength.
Pros:
- Lightweight: acrylic is lighter than solid surface and other materials such as glass or stone, making it easier to handle and install. This also makes it more suitable for buyers who want to install it in a second-floor bathroom.
- Cost-effective: acrylic bathtubs are usually cheaper than solid surface bathtubs, making them an affordable option. If it is for a family that is not quite on a budget, then an acrylic bathtub may be a better choice.
- Variety: There are a variety of shapes and sizes to choose from, but the range of colors may be limited compared to solid surface bathtubs. This may not be a good choice for buyers who are looking for creativity or an artistic touch.
Cons:
- Low durability: acrylic bathtubs are prone to scratches and may require more maintenance to keep them looking new. They are also less resistant to heavy impact. So the value of money is often not as good as solid surface bathtubs.
- Aesthetics: While acrylic bathtubs look good overall, they usually don’t have the same luxurious feel as solid surface bathtubs. If it’s a star-rated hotel or a high-class apartment requirement, then I might suggest you consider a solid surface bathtub that fits the overall design better.
- Maintenance: Over time, acrylic bathtubs can fade and show signs of wear and tear, especially if you use abrasive cleaners. So it usually requires you to spend more effort on maintenance.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Feature | Solid Surface Tub | Acrylic Tub |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Stone resin blend | Vacuum-formed acrylic sheet |
| Durability | Highly durable and scratch-resistant | More prone to scratches/cracks |
| Weight | Heavier (more stable) | Lightweight |
| Heat Retention | Excellent | Moderate |
| Finish Look | Matte / Stone-like | Glossy / Plastic-like |
| Customization | High | Medium |
| Price Range | $800-&2000 | $200-&500 |
I believe that after you read the above overall analysis of solid surface bathtubs and acrylic bathtubs, you have a general knowledge of their advantages and disadvantages. If this still can’t help you to judge what type of bathtub is more suitable for you, don’t worry, please continue to read on. Next, I will make targeted recommendations for different types of customers by analyzing their points of need.
Expert Opinion: How to Choose Each Tub
For home customers
Point of Consideration:
- Appearance: modernity and aesthetics.
- Comfort: Is it comfortable to the touch.
- Maintenance: whether it is easy to clean and maintain.
- Durability: whether it is long lasting.
- Price: whether it is within the budget.
Recommended:
- Solid Surface Bathtub: better suited for homes that are looking for high quality and aesthetics, if you are looking for a high-end look that is durable and easy to maintain, then I would recommend the solid surface bathtub.
- Acrylic Bathtub: For families on a budget. If you’re looking for a more affordable bathtub that looks good and doesn’t require as much quality, then an acrylic bathtub would be a good choice.
For designers
Point of Consideration:
- Design flexibility: ability to provide customized designs.
- Appearance: whether it can meet high-end design requirements.
- Material: whether the texture and touch meet the design requirements.
- Installation: whether it is easy to install.
Recommended:
- Solid Surface Bathtub: More suitable for high-end project design, if the requirement of material texture is high-end and can be customized, then this will be a good choice.
- Acrylic Bathtub: more suitable for designers who need to finish the project quickly, if the requirement is overall lightweight, easy to install, and the client’s budget is low, then you can consider Acrylic Bathtub.
For wholesalers OR retailers
Point of Consideration:
- Cost: purchasing costs and transportation costs.
- Demand: market demand and customer preferences.
- Inventory: easy to store and manage.
- Quality: availability of good after-sales service and quality assurance.
Recommended:
- Solid Surface Bathtub: Suitable for high-end market demand, conducive to enhancing the overall image, larger profit margin.
- Acrylic Bathtub: Lower price, suitable for mass market, easy to store and transport.
For builders
Point of Consideration:
- Cost: total project cost control.
- Installation: ease and speed of installation.
- Quality: durability and maintenance costs.
- Appearance: overall project aesthetics and consistency.
Recommended:
- Solid Surface Bathtub: more durable, suitable for high-end residential or hospitality projects, low maintenance costs and fewer after-sale issues.
- Acrylic Bathtub: easy to install, lower cost, good for bulk purchases.
Common Myths About Solid Surface vs Acrylic
Even though solid surface and acrylic tubs are both popular in modern bathrooms, there are still a lot of misunderstandings about them. Let’s bust some of the most common myths:
❌ Myth 1: Acrylic bathtubs are always the cheaper option
✅ Truth: While acrylic tubs are generally more affordable, high-end acrylic models with reinforced fiberglass or premium finishes can cost nearly as much as entry-level solid surface tubs. Always compare based on quality, not just material.
❌ Myth 2: Solid surface tubs stain and discolor easily
✅ Truth: Solid surface material is non-porous, meaning it resists stains from soaps, oils, and pigments. Even if surface discoloration happens over time, it can be lightly sanded or polished back to new — something acrylic tubs can’t offer as easily.
❌ Myth 3: Acrylic tubs are too fragile for long-term use
✅ Truth: Modern acrylic tubs are reinforced with fiberglass or resin, making them quite durable when installed properly. However, they are more prone to surface scratches and warping under high heat compared to solid surface.
❌ Myth 4: Solid surface is heavy and hard to install
✅ Truth: Yes, solid surface tubs are heavier — but that extra weight provides better stability, a luxurious feel, and improved heat retention. For most hotel or villa projects, professional installation is standard, so the weight becomes less of an issue.
❌ Myth 5: Both materials look and feel the same
✅ Truth: Acrylic tubs often have a glossy, plastic-like finish, while solid surface offers a matte or stone-like texture with a more refined, high-end look. The difference in touch and visual depth is instantly noticeable to designers and end users.
✅ Pro Tip: When evaluating bathtub materials, don’t just consider price. Think long-term: maintenance, design appeal, user experience, and total lifecycle cost.
FAQ
Q1: Which bathtub is more durable, solid surface or acrylic?
A: Solid surface is more durable due to its composite material and thickness.
Q2: Is a solid surface tub worth the extra cost?
A: Yes, especially for luxury settings. It’s more heat-retentive, stylish, and long-lasting.
Q3: Are solid surface bathtubs hard to maintain?
A: Not at all! They’re non-porous, stain-resistant, and can be repolished if scratched.
Our Recommendation for Projects
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Explore our best-selling models:
📞 Need professional advice? Contact our expert team for design support and bulk pricing.
Conclusion
Both solid surface and acrylic freestanding tubs have their strengths. If you’re looking for durability, elegance, and a long-term investment, solid surface is the clear winner. If you need a fast, flexible, and budget-friendly option, acrylic will serve you well.
Make the choice based on your project goals — and feel free to consult us for custom options.
