Choosing the Right Whiteboard Surface: A Complete Guide for Offices
Last Updated on July 14, 2025
From being a blank canvas and reusable surface for brain-writing and presentations in classrooms, board rooms, and offices, whiteboards have now become an important tool in industrial applications. Several types serve various needs, including their durability and how easy they are to clean. In this blog, we will discuss various sorts of whiteboards, their benefits, and their areas of use.
Applications of Different Types of Whiteboards
There are different materials and finishes of whiteboards designed for special use. Whether you’re using it for presentations at your work, planning an industrial layout, or teaching students, knowing what’s out there will help you make the right choice for your needs. Let’s explore the different types of whiteboards available:
1. Melamine Whiteboards
The most affordable melamine whiteboards feature a resin-coated surface that’s great for occasional use. They’re affordable and light, but they can leave residue (leftover markings) when overused. These boards fare better in home offices or low-traffic areas.
- Material: Melamine-coated particleboard or MDF core.
- Advantage: Budget, lightweight, and excellent for light use.
- Best for: Office, home, or an occasional brainstorming session.
2. Porcelain Whiteboards
Porcelain white boards have excellent durability and write-erase qualities. Its water-resistant or nonabsorbent surface resists stains and ghosting, so it’s ideal for high-foot-traffic settings like conference rooms and classrooms. Many are available with a lifetime warranty, justifying their higher upfront price.
- Material: A steel or aluminium core with a ceramic coating.
- Advantages: Scratch-resistant, durable, and easy to clean.
- Best For: Corporate offices, classrooms, and heavy usage environments.
3. Glass Whiteboards
Bright and sleek, glass whiteboards are sure to elevate any space. Their ultra-smooth surface provides good erasability and also doubles up as a projection screen. Although these boards can be expensive, their high-quality, longevity, stain- and scratch-resistant, making them ideal for upgrading offices with creative environments and valuable investments.
- Material: Tempered glass with a polished surface.
- Advantages: Sleek design, highly durable, and stain-resistant.
- Best For: High-end offices, conference rooms, and modern workspaces.
4. Magnetic Whiteboards
Many whiteboards come with a feature to attach magnets, so they can also be used as bulletin boards. Usually magnetic surfaces are supported with steel behind the writing surface for adaptability in use while presenting or demo.
- Material: Typically made of steel or porcelain with a magnetic surface.
- Advantages: Allows for the use of magnets for added functionality.
- Best For: Warehouses, classrooms, or offices.
Comparison Table of Whiteboard Types :
| Characteristic | Melamine | Porcelain (Ceramic) | Glass | Magnetic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surface Material | Resin-coated melamine | Ceramic-coated steel/aluminum | Tempered glass | Steel or ceramic surface with magnetic layer |
| Durability | Low – wears with heavy use | High – lasts many years | Very high – doesn’t degrade | Depends on base surface (usually moderate-high) |
| Erase Quality | Moderate – can stain over time | Excellent – minimal ghosting | Excellent – no ghosting | Depends on surface; porcelain = high |
| Stain Resistance | Low | High | Very high | Moderate to high |
| Scratch Resistance | Low | High | Very high | Moderate to high |
| Cost | ₹ (Affordable) | ₹(Mid to High) | ₹ (High-end) | Varies – based on surface type |
| Weight | Light | Heavy | Heavy | Varies |
| Magnetic Support | No | Yes | Usually no (some premium ones do) | Yes – built-in magnetic layer |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Basic | Professional | Premium/Modern | Professional |
| Cleaning Needs | Frequent cleaning required | Low maintenance | Easy wipe – less frequent | Depends on surface type |
| Best Use Case | Low-use areas, home, occasional notes | Classrooms, offices, training rooms | Design studios, high-end conference rooms | Collaborative spaces, demo/presentation areas |
Features to Consider When Selecting a Whiteboard
- Usage Frequency: For frequent use, select durable materials like porcelain or glass.
- Surface Type: Melamine is budget-friendly but leaves the mark, whereas porcelain and glass are stain-resistant.
- Magnetic vs. Non-Magnetic: If you need to attach notes or papers, a magnetic surface is beneficial.
- Size: Small boards (2’x3’) for home offices, medium (4’x6’) for classrooms, and large (6’x8’ or more) for industrial applications.
- Budget: Melamine is the most affordable, while glass and porcelain offer premium durability.
Best Whiteboards for Different Uses
For Offices
- Best Pick: Glass Whiteboard: Elegant, durable, and stain-resistant.
- Alternative: Porcelain Whiteboard—long-lasting and easy to clean.
- Size: 48″ x 72″ provides enough space for brainwriting.
For Classrooms
- Best Pick: Porcelain Whiteboard—ideal for frequent use and durable.
- Alternative: Magnetic Whiteboard—versatile and functional.
- Size: 4′ x 8′ to 4′ x 12; ensure visibility for all students.
For Industrial Use
- Best Pick: Steel Whiteboard—tough, long-lasting, and supports magnets.
- Alternative: Porcelain Whiteboard—resists wear and tear.
- Size: 4′ x 6′ to 4′ x 8′, work well in industries
FAQs
1. What materials are used to make whiteboards?
Whiteboards can be made from melamine, porcelain, glass, and steel. Melamine is budget-friendly but less durable, while porcelain and glass are premium options resistant to stains and scratches.
2. What is the difference between a whiteboard and a dry erase board?
The terms “whiteboard” and “dry erase board” are often used interchangeably. However, dry erase boards specifically refer to those compatible with dry erase markers, whereas whiteboards may include various surfaces, including chalk-compatible ones.
3. What are the different types of whiteboards available online?
Online marketplaces offer melamine, porcelain, glass, magnetic, and steel whiteboards. Choosing depends on budget, durability needs, and intended use.
4. What is the ideal size of a whiteboard?
- Home offices: 2’x3’ to 3’x4’
- Classrooms: 4’x6’ or larger
- Conference rooms: 4’x8’
- Industrial use: 6’x8’ or more
5. Where can I buy whiteboards online?
You can find a wide range of whiteboards on Industry Buying, offering high-quality options for industrial use, offices, and classrooms. Various brands and sizes are available as per different needs.
