Differences Between 3M Ceramic IR & 3M Crystalline Window Tinting in Orlando, FL - Pro Tint of Orlando

What’s the Difference Between 3M Ceramic IR vs 3M Crystalline?

As an award-winning 3M Pro Shop Dealer with three locations across Central Florida, Pro Tint of Orlando’s experienced installers have tinted thousands of vehicles for our customers using 3M window films.

Two of the highest performance 3M window tint options we install are 3M Ceramic IR and 3M Crystalline. Both are made using advanced technology, however, choosing the right one depends on your specific needs and budget.

Let’s break down some key differences between our top two automotive films so you can make an informed decision before getting your car tinted in Orlando, Florida.

1. Underlying 3M Window Film Technology

To understand how these two window films are different, first we need to understand how they’re made:

3M Ceramic IR is constructed using nano-ceramic technology. It’s a multi-layer film engineered for excellent infrared heat rejection while maintaining high clarity and low reflectivity. There are no metals or dyes, so it won’t interfere with electronics or fade over time.

3M Crystalline, on the other hand, is a multi-layer optical film consisting of over 200 layers of 3M nanotechnology. Despite being thinner than a Post-it note, it’s incredibly effective at blocking heat. 3M Crystalline is designed to offer maximum heat rejection at lighter tint shades, beating out pretty much all ceramic window films with its industry-leading protection.

2. Infrared Heat Rejection

Both films perform exceptionally well in Florida’s hot, sunny climate, however 3M Crystalline is going to reject more infrared heat than 3M Ceramic IR because of its advanced construction. 3M Crystalline also rejects a greater amount of total solar energy than 3M Ceramic IR when comparing the two films at similar tint percentages.

  • 3M Ceramic IR: Excellent infrared heat rejection, blocking up to 95% of infrared rays and up to 66% of total solar energy (depending on shade). Choose a darker tint shade like 5% or 15% to reach the film’s full potential.
  • 3M Crystalline: Blocks up to 97% of infrared rays and up to 64% of total solar energy, even in very light shades like 70% or 90%.

Bottom line: If you’re looking for maximum heat rejection without significantly darkening your car’s windows, 3M Crystalline is the clear winner.

3. UV Protection & Visible Glare Reduction

Both 3M Ceramic IR and 3M Crystalline block up to 99.9% of harmful UV rays, helping protect your skin and vehicle’s interior from sun damage like cracking and fading. Ceramic window films are recommended by The Skin Care Foundation as a scientifically-proven method to help prevent skin cancer as part of a balanced skin care regimen.

3M Crystalline is the only automotive window film we carry that is polarized, much like a pair of designer sunglasses. As a result, it offers increased clarity and glare reduction, which can improve comfort in sunny conditions and reduce the negative impact of bright headlights while driving at night.

3M Ceramic IR, being available in darker tint shades, can block out more visible light than 3M Crystalline. It also offers excellent clarity and visibility in nighttime conditions, but lacks the polarization that sets 3M Crystalline apart.

Bottom line: Polarized window films like 3M Crystalline are going to offer best overall visibility if you’re looking to block glare without significantly darkening your windows.

4. Film Appearance & Available Tint Percentages

3M Ceramic IR comes in a range of traditional tinted shades, from dark to light, giving your vehicle a sleek, custom look while still providing excellent comfort and UV protection. At Pro Tint of Orlando, we carry 3M Ceramic IR in 5%, 15%, 30%, 50% and 70% VLT (visible light transmission) options.

3M Crystalline, by contrast, is designed for those who want a lighter appearance combined with high performance heat rejection. Many customers choose 3M Crystalline when they want the benefits of tinting without significantly changing the appearance of their windows. Pro Tint of Orlando offers this film in 20%, 40%, 50%, 70%, 80% and 90% VLT options.

Bottom line: Both 3M Ceramic IR and 3M Crystalline are available in a multitude of tint percentages. 3M Ceramic IR is available in darker shades than 3M Crystalline, and vice versa. Individual preferences will be the determining factor here.

5. Window Tinting Price & Warranty Options

3M Crystalline is our flagship product, so it comes at a higher price point compared to 3M Ceramic IR. Prepare to pay about 20% more to upgrade your vehicle’s tinting services from 3M Ceramic IR to 3M Crystalline. However, both films are backed by 3M’s nationwide limited warranty when installed by an authorized 3M Pro Shop Dealer like Pro Tint of Orlando.

Which 3M Film is Right for You?

  • Choose 3M Ceramic IR if you want great heat rejection, a sleek tinted look, and excellent value.
  • Choose 3M Crystalline if you prefer a lighter appearance with maximum heat rejection and cutting-edge polarized film technology.

Ready to get your car professionally tinted today? Visit one of Pro Tint of Orlando’s three award-winning Central Florida locations or give us a call at (407) 841-2123. Our team of 3M factory trained and certified installers will help you find the perfect solution based on your style, budget, and comfort needs.