Acrylic Prints Vs Canvas Prints

Most people recognize acrylic and canvas prints as the mediums commonly used for favorite photographs, artworks, or designs. Both glamourize an ambiance and provide the room with some character; however, they differ in terms of style, permanence, price, and presentation.

For a contemporary home, an office, or even an art gallery, realizing the primary distinctions definitely helps in picking the right one.

We'll dissect the world of acrylic vs canvas print in this article so that you can decide side-by-side with their features.

What is an Acrylic Print?

An acrylic print is a state-of-the-art printing process in which a high-resolution image is printed on photo paper and either placed between two sheets of acrylic or directly mounted to the face of an acrylic panel. The glossy acrylic layer makes colors appear vibrant and gives a subtle 3D effect that makes the image almost pop.

With UV printing, it’s possible to print directly on acrylic, producing crisp, full-color designs without needing paper as a base.

Acrylic prints are favored artworks for contemporary interiors, commercial photographic displays, and corporate environments craving glitzy, razor-sharp visions.

Image: Mel Menzel

Pros and Cons of Acrylic Prints

Acrylic prints stand out for their vivid colours and deep saturation, making photos appear almost lifelike. Their sleek, glossy surface gives a contemporary, gallery-style look that works beautifully in modern interiors.

They're also built to last: acrylic is resistant to moisture, UV rays, and scratches, so your images stay protected even with long-term display. On top of that, maintenance is simple-the smooth surface makes it easy to dust or wipe clean.

However, there are a few trade-offs to consider.

Acrylic prints are usually more expensive than canvas or paper options because of the premium materials and printing process. The glossy finish can create glare under bright lighting, which may be distracting in certain settings.

And finally, acrylic tends to be heavier, meaning it requires more secure mounting compared to lighter alternatives like canvas.

Find out more about how to print on Acrylic at home.

What is a Canvas Print?

To create a canvas print, one must first print an image onto cotton or polyester canvas fabric, after which the canvas is stretched and wrapped around a wooden frame. The end product would look like some beautiful paintings, actually giving photos a textured, artistic feel.

Canvas prints are usually used in homes, art studios, and casual offices because they offer a timeless, warm, and inviting ambiance.

If you want to print on canvas at home, this step-by-step guide will help you succeed more easily.

Image: Skye

Pros and Cons of Canvas Prints

Canvas prints are loved for their classic, artistic look. The textured surface resembles a traditional painting, adding warmth and character to any room. They're also lightweight, which makes them easy to hang without heavy-duty mounts. Another plus is their non-reflective finish: canvas absorbs light, so you can display it even in bright spaces without worrying about glare. On top of that, canvas prints are generally more affordable than acrylic, making them a popular choice for casual or large wall decor.

On the downside, canvas prints don't quite achieve the vibrant colour intensity that acrylic offers. They also require more care and maintenance, since the fabric is prone to dust, fading, and moisture damage. And while charming and timeless, the overall look of canvas is less sleek and modern compared to the glossy finish of acrylic.

Side-by-Side Comparison: Acrylic vs Canvas Prints

Having analyzed each type based on its style and appearance, let's compare the two main factors of acrylic and canvas prints. Are environment, durability, costs, and style some of those factors?

Here's a comparison table side-by-side:

Factor	Acrylic Prints	Canvas Prints
Appearance & Style	Sleek, glossy, and vibrant. Perfect for modern, minimalistic, or upscale interiors. Creates a luxury gallery feel with bold colour enhancement.	Warm, textured, and artistic. Ideal for cozy, rustic, or traditional spaces. Feels handcrafted and timeless.
Durability & Maintenance	Highly durable - resistant to moisture, sunlight, and dust. Easy to clean with a simple wipe. Colours remain vivid for years.	Lightweight and easy to hang but more prone to fading, dust, and moisture damage. Requires careful handling to maintain longevity.
Cost	More expensive due to advanced printing technology and premium materials. Offers a sophisticated, high-end finish.	Generally more affordable, making it a practical choice for casual décor or large wall displays.

Final Thoughts on Acrylic vs Canvas Prints

If you think about acrylic print vs canvas print, the suitable option depends on your style, budget, and setting.

Choose acrylic prints if you want bold colors, a sleek finish, and long-lasting durability. Go for canvas prints if you consider sumptuous, textured, and wonderfully affable creations.

Actually, both treat photographs and art to a "lift," but they do it differently. Weighing pros and cons against the space you have allows you to pick the print type that best fits your vision.

FAQs

Do acrylic prints last longer than canvas prints?

Yes, acrylic prints tend to last longer owing to their water-resistant, fade-resistant, and scratch-resistant properties. Canvas prints, on the other hand, may also go on for several years if one takes extra care against dust, humidity, and exposure to UV light.

Are canvas prints cheaper than acrylic prints?

Most of the time, canvas prints are cheaper than acrylic prints, the latter tending to be on the high side of the price scale. However, due to the synthesis of materials and printing process, one would easily consider paying for the acrylic's luxurious and high-end finish.

Can acrylic and canvas prints be used outdoors?

Acrylic prints are best in the outdoors or in humid environments because they resist moisture and UV damage. In contrast, canvas prints should work well indoors, for direct sunlight, rain, or humidity would cause them to fade or warp.