Perspex, Plastic or Acrylic? UK Display Case Guide

Whether you’re preserving a prized LEGO set, a signed football shirt, or a retail showcase item, one question remains: what’s the best material for your display case?

Let’s break it down.

1. Introduction

You’ve got the collectibles—but what about the perfect case?

With so many clear plastic options available across the UK, choosing between an acrylic display case, a perspex display box, or general plastic display cases isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about protection, clarity, and long-term durability.

Not all clear plastics are created equal. The wrong choice could yellow, scratch, or distort your collection. This guide is here to help collectors, retailers, and display pros choose the right case material—backed by practical comparisons and trusted UK suppliers.

2. Understanding the Terminology

plastic display cases

Let’s demystify the materials used in the best plastic display cases on the UK market:

  • Acrylic: A widely used material known for its clarity, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Most acrylic display cases are made from PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate).

  • Perspex: A branded type of cast acrylic manufactured to a premium standard. A Perspex display box is a cut above in clarity and finish—favoured by museums and luxury retailers.

  • Other Plastics: Such as polycarbonate—strong, but typically not as clear as acrylic or Perspex. Used less for display purposes and more for safety or industrial applications.

🔍 Analogy: All Perspex is acrylic, but not all acrylic is Perspex—just as all tissues aren't Kleenex.

3. Key Differences: Perspex vs Acrylic vs Other Plastics

Feature Acrylic Display Case Perspex Display Box Other Plastic Display Cases
Material Type PMMA Cast PMMA (branded) Polycarbonate or plastic blends
Clarity Excellent Optical-grade Often acceptable but may yellow over time
UV Resistance Good Long-term, consistent Usually lower
Customisation Moderate Extensive finishes, colours Limited, functional
Price Affordable Premium Varies
Best For General collections, hobbyists Flagship displays, exhibitions Industrial or security uses

4. Benefits of Acrylic & Perspex Display Cases

perspex display box

Why do so many collectors and retailers across the UK choose acrylic display cases and Perspex display boxes over traditional glass or generic plastics?

  • Crystal-Clear Visibility: Whether you're housing rare figurines or high-end memorabilia, these materials ensure a clean, distortion-free view.

  • Shatter-Resistant & Safer Than Glass: Especially useful in high-traffic areas or households with children.

  • Lightweight & Practical: Ideal for wall-mounted setups or rotating seasonal displays.

  • UV Protection: A must-have for long-term preservation of colour, ink, and paintwork.

  • Custom Finishes: Especially in a Perspex display box, which can come frosted, mirrored, or even fluorescent.

  • Easy Maintenance: Compared to traditional glass or lower-quality plastic display cases, cleaning is simple and less prone to streaks or smudges.

5. When to Choose Each Material

✅ Acrylic Display Case

Perfect for general-purpose use—affordable and stylish. Whether you’re displaying Funko Pop figures, sports medals, or LEGO builds, a high-quality acrylic display case offers value without compromise.

✅ Perspex Display Box

Invest in a Perspex display box when flawless clarity, longevity, and a polished finish matter most—ideal for art galleries, luxury boutiques, or showcase exhibitions.

⚠️ Plastic Display Cases (Other Types)

Opt for these only when toughness matters more than clarity—such as industrial or outdoor settings. Most plastic display cases of this kind are not recommended for collectibles or fine displays.

6. UK Retailers and Trusted Brands

Looking for a reliable acrylic display case, Perspex display box, or durable plastic display cases in the UK? Here's where to start:

🥇 BrickZoneHub.co.uk – Best for Collectible Displays & LEGO Fans

BrickZoneHub is a UK-based specialist in premium acrylic display cases and plastic display cases tailored for niche collectors—especially LEGO enthusiasts, minifigure hobbyists, and pop culture collectors.

Unlike generic options, BrickZoneHub’s designs are built with both style and function in mind, offering:

  • Stackable modular display systems

  • Custom-sized Perspex-style acrylic display cases

  • Dust-proofing and UV-protected options

  • Wall-mounted or freestanding plastic display cases

  • Themed display units for specific LEGO sets and pop collectibles

All BrickZoneHub products use high-clarity acrylic—on par with Perspex in terms of optical quality—ensuring collectibles are shown off without distortion or risk of yellowing. Their display boxes are also lightweight, easy to assemble, and designed for modern UK homes and collectors' rooms.

Whether you’re displaying a full LEGO Star Wars wave or creating a tiered minifig wall, BrickZoneHub.co.uk offers some of the most thoughtfully designed cases on the market—backed by fast delivery and excellent customer service.

🔗 Visit BrickZoneHub.co.uk for bespoke and ready-made solutions.

Other Trusted UK Brands & Retailers

Luminati
High-end Perspex display boxes with custom finishes and LED lighting. Best for galleries and exhibitions.

BOXXCO
Durable, shatter-resistant acrylic display cases designed for models and sports memorabilia. Mid-range pricing and fast delivery.

AcrylicDisplayCases.co.uk (Lasacryl)
Excellent range of UV-blocking acrylic display cases with optional wood bases. Custom sizing available.

Displays UK
Museum-quality Perspex display boxes, including wall-mounted and floor-standing options. Custom projects welcome.

Displaysense
Retail-friendly acrylic display case options with lockable fronts and optional lighting. Popular with small businesses.

Sheet Plastics / The Plastic Shop
Best for DIYers and designers looking for raw Perspex sheets or cut-to-size plastic display case panels.

Exhibition Plinths & eBay UK
Explore one-of-a-kind or second-hand options, including unique Perspex boxes and larger plastic cabinets for exhibits or home use.

7. Expert Tips for Display Case Buyers

  • ✅ Always choose cast acrylic or genuine Perspex for display quality—especially in public or professional settings.

  • ✅ Look for UV resistance, particularly if your display sits in natural light.

  • ✅ Go for scratch-resistant surfaces, especially for plastic display cases in retail environments.

  • ✅ Confirm brand authenticity if buying a Perspex product—UK/EU-made Perspex® is clearly branded.

  • ✅ Assess features like lighting, dustproofing, and locking based on where and how you’ll use your acrylic display case or Perspex display box.

8. Summary: Which Should You Choose?

  • Acrylic Display Case – Versatile, budget-friendly, ideal for most home and hobby setups.

  • Perspex Display Box – The premium pick for visual impact, clarity, and longevity.

  • Plastic Display Cases (Other) – Suitable when toughness trumps display quality.

The right material depends on your collection’s value, intended location, and visual goals. Whether you're browsing a sleek acrylic display case, investing in a crystal-clear Perspex display box, or building your own with modular plastic display cases, choose what shows your items at their best.

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