Arcoroc vs. Duralex: Finding the right glassware

Arcoroc vs. Duralex

Arcoroc and Duralex are French servingware brands known for tempered glassware and distinctive tabletop products. Arcoroc offers an extensive range of professional tableware, while Duralex features iconic French glass designs.

Arcoroc vs. Duralex: Comparison Snapshot

Category Arcoroc Duralex
Overview Servingware, cutlery, and fully tempered glassware Stylized glass drinkware, dishes, and bakeware
Typical Price Range $-$$$ $$-$$$
Strengths Numerous glassware shapes; enhanced brilliance Versatile designs; fade-resistant colored glass
Considerations Limited to clear glass; many designs are meant for specific drinks Fewer traditional glassware designs available
Best For Restaurants and bars with large beverage programs Cafes seeking distinctive, multi-use glassware

While Duralex features patterned tumblers and matching glass sets, Arcoroc offers a broader range of drinkware to complement different service styles and beverage menus.



About Arcoroc

Arcoroc is based in France and was launched by Arc International in 1958 with the first industrial production of fully tempered glassware. Arcoroc offers a broad lineup of cutlery, dinnerware, and traditional glassware, including beer glasses, cocktail glasses, and tumblers.

Key Strengths:

  • Kwarx® glassware offers enhanced clarity, durability, and brilliance
  • Collection of durable SAN plastic drinkware
  • Non-porous and nontoxic glass

About Duralex

Duralex was founded in 1945 in La Chapelle-Saint-Mesmin, France, and still produces glassware in its original factory. Recognized for its iconic Le Picardie® glasses, nicknamed "Original French Tumblers," the brand offers polished designs in multiple sizes alongside glass plates, bowls, and bakeware.

Key Strengths:

  • Tinted glass in seven colors available
  • Iconic French design
  • Non-porous and nontoxic glass

Key Differences Explained

Design and Function

Arcoroc features traditional foodservice glassware and numerous barware styles designed for professional environments. Common options include universal wine glasses, tumblers, mixing glasses, and pub glasses. Stackable glasses enable efficient storage, while thick bases and walls improve stability, and sheer rims provide an upscale feel. The brand also offers Outdoor Perfect glasses made of dishwasher-safe SAN plastic that maintains clarity and resists shattering.

Duralex offers a narrower range of designs primarily focused on stylized tumblers. These models offer distinctive multipurpose glassware and feature various colored options. The brand also produces fully tempered coffee and tea mugs that are safe for hot liquids. Glass bowls, dishes, and Ovenchef® bakeware feature precise construction and stack easily for efficient storage.

Construction and Durability

Arcoroc offers standard and tempered glassware, with tempered options that are up to 5 times more resistant to breakage than annealed glass. Kwarx glassware, found in certain series, provides greater clarity and safety than lead crystal glass. Arcoroc's glass is also non-porous and nontoxic, providing a safe and long-lasting option for reliable service in high-volume settings.

Duralex also has a unique tempering process that involves heating molten glass to nearly 1,300 degrees Fahrenheit, then quickly cooling it by exposing it to jets of cool air. The result is glass that is up to 2.5 times stronger than conventional glass. Colored options resist fading because the minerals are mixed into the molten glass and become part of the finished material. Ovenchef bakeware is oven and freezer safe, handling temperatures from -40 to 572 degrees Fahrenheit.

Care and Safety

Tempered glass provides extra resistance against drops and temperature shock, but it isn't impervious to damage. Glassware from both brands should be handled with care and shouldn't be exposed to sudden temperature changes. Tempered glassware typically handles temperature changes up to 266 degrees Fahrenheit.

Most glassware from both brands are dishwasher safe. When washing glasses in high-temp dishwashers, avoid filling them with cold liquid immediately after removal. Store stemmed glasses carefully, and transport them on a tray or by the bowl. Ensure tumblers or rocks glasses are labeled stackable before attempting to stack them.

Price and Value

Duralex glasses are valued for their beauty and durability in residential or professional settings and are typically priced higher than equivalent Arcoroc models. Arcoroc serves professional restaurants with reliable serveware and barware, including several specialized models with higher price points.

Which Brand Is Right for Your Operation?

Scenario Best Brand Why
High-Volume Beverage Program Arcoroc Versatile tempered glasses designed for professional settings
Small Cafe / Bistro Duralex Durable glass coffee and tea cups with signature French design
Busy Bar or Pub Arcoroc Traditional and modern cocktail and beer glasses
Private Entertaining Duralex Tinted glasses and unique patterns create attractive presentations
Outdoor Dining Arcoroc Plastic drinkware withstands heavy use and repeated drops

Shop Arcoroc at KaTom

KaTom offers a wide range of products from Arcoroc, including glassware for almost any occasion. Shop our collection to find the right glassware for your operation.