Gorilla Glass 3 vs. Gorilla Glass 5: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Published on February 17, 2024
Gorilla Glass 3 offers enhanced scratch resistance, while Gorilla Glass 5 focuses on improved drop protection and higher resistance to damage.
Key Differences
Gorilla Glass 3, introduced by Corning, is known for its Native Damage Resistance (NDR) technology, enhancing scratch resistance and durability. Gorilla Glass 5, a later iteration, further improves upon this by focusing more on drop protection, ensuring screens survive drops from greater heights.
Gorilla Glass 3 is designed to be three times more scratch-resistant than its predecessor, it doesn’t prioritize impact resistance from high drops. Gorilla Glass 5, in contrast, is engineered to withstand drops from up to 1.6 meters (5 feet 3 inches) onto rough surfaces.
In terms of composition, Gorilla Glass 3 utilizes a unique glass composition that makes it less prone to deep scratches which can lead to screen breakage. Gorilla Glass 5, while maintaining scratch resistance, is formulated to offer better protection against the shattering of screens upon impact.
When considering the usage in smartphones, Gorilla Glass 3 is often found in mid-range devices prioritizing scratch resistance within a budget. Gorilla Glass 5, being more advanced, is typically used in higher-end smartphones that require robust drop protection.
In the context of clarity and touch sensitivity, both Gorilla Glass 3 and 5 maintain high standards. However, Gorilla Glass 5 may offer slightly better optical clarity and touch responsiveness due to its enhanced thinness and strength.
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Comparison Chart
Release Year
2013
2016
Scratch Resistance
High Native Damage Resistance
Good scratch resistance
Drop Protection
Moderate; focuses more on scratch resistance
Enhanced; survives drops from higher heights
Target Devices
Mid-range smartphones
High-end smartphones
Primary Feature
Enhanced scratch resistance
Balance of scratch resistance and drop protection
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Gorilla Glass 3 and Gorilla Glass 5 Definitions
Gorilla Glass 3
Gorilla Glass 3 is a scratch-resistant glass used in electronic displays.
My smartphone has Gorilla Glass 3, so it’s quite resistant to scratches.
Gorilla Glass 5
This glass is commonly used in premium smartphones for its robust protection.
The flagship models of major smartphone brands often feature Gorilla Glass 5 for its superior protection.
Gorilla Glass 3
Gorilla Glass 3 is known for maintaining clarity while being tough.
Despite years of use, my phone’s Gorilla Glass 3 screen still looks crystal clear.
Gorilla Glass 5
Gorilla Glass 5 maintains excellent optical clarity and touch sensitivity.
The touchscreen on my tablet is both responsive and durable, all thanks to Gorilla Glass 5.
Gorilla Glass 3
This glass is often used in mid-range smartphones and devices.
My budget-friendly smartwatch is durable thanks to its Gorilla Glass 3 screen.
Gorilla Glass 5
Gorilla Glass 5 is a high-strength glass designed for electronic displays.
My new phone's screen can survive drops from significant heights, thanks to Gorilla Glass 5.
Gorilla Glass 3
It is a chemically strengthened glass developed by Corning.
The Gorilla Glass 3 on my device is a testament to Corning's innovation in glass technology.
Gorilla Glass 5
Developed by Corning, it balances scratch resistance with improved drop protection.
Gorilla Glass 5 is why I don’t worry about dropping my high-end smartphone.
Gorilla Glass 3
It incorporates Native Damage Resistance technology.
The durability of my tablet's screen is due to its Gorilla Glass 3 with NDR technology.
Gorilla Glass 5
It focuses on improving drop protection from higher altitudes.
The Gorilla Glass 5 on my camera’s screen makes it less prone to damage from falls.
FAQs
How does Gorilla Glass 5 improve upon drop protection?
Gorilla Glass 5 is designed to survive drops from higher altitudes, up to 1.6 meters.
What is Gorilla Glass 3?
Gorilla Glass 3 is a scratch-resistant glass developed by Corning for electronic device screens.
Is Gorilla Glass 3 used in high-end devices?
It's more commonly found in mid-range devices, focusing on scratch resistance.
What distinguishes Gorilla Glass 5?
Gorilla Glass 5 is known for its enhanced drop protection and high strength.
Can Gorilla Glass 3 prevent screen shattering?
Gorilla Glass 3 primarily prevents scratches, though it offers some shatter resistance.
What is the Native Damage Resistance in Gorilla Glass 3?
It's a technology in Gorilla Glass 3 that enhances its scratch resistance.
Can Gorilla Glass 3 and 5 crack if dropped?
Yes, both can crack under certain conditions, though Gorilla Glass 5 is more resistant to drops.
How does Gorilla Glass 5 handle impacts compared to Gorilla Glass 3?
Gorilla Glass 5 handles impacts better, especially from greater heights.
Do Gorilla Glass 3 and 5 affect touch screen sensitivity?
No, they maintain excellent touch sensitivity.
Is Gorilla Glass 5 heavier than Gorilla Glass 3?
The weight difference is negligible and doesn't significantly impact device weight.
Are both glasses resistant to fingerprints?
Yes, both Gorilla Glass 3 and 5 have coatings that resist fingerprints.
Can Gorilla Glass 5 be used in wearable technology?
Yes, it's suitable for wearables, providing durability and clarity.
How is the optical clarity between the two glasses?
Both offer high optical clarity, with Gorilla Glass 5 possibly having a slight edge.
Can Gorilla Glass 5 resist deep scratches?
While it has good scratch resistance, its main feature is drop protection.
Can Gorilla Glass 3 and 5 be recycled?
Yes, both types of glass can be recycled.
Do Gorilla Glass 3 and 5 come in different thicknesses?
Yes, they are available in various thicknesses to suit different device designs.
Is there a significant price difference between the two?
Gorilla Glass 5 may be more expensive due to its advanced features.
Are these glasses resistant to all types of scratches?
They are highly resistant, but not completely immune to very deep or sharp scratches.
Are there any specific cleaning requirements for these glasses?
They can be cleaned with standard screen cleaners and microfiber cloths.
Are these glasses waterproof?
The glasses themselves are waterproof, but this doesn't make the device waterproof.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.