Introduction: Key Optical Components in Lighting
Light guide panel and light diffusion panels are two key materials in lighting technology, and although they are often found in the same application, they are actually different products with their own unique functions and properties.
What is Light guide panel?

The primary function of a light guide panel is to direct light from a light source (usually an LED light source) evenly across the entire surface of the plate. It scatters and distributes the light evenly through its internal microstructure or dot matrix design, avoiding over-concentration of light in a particular area. This characteristic makes light guide panels widely used in liquid crystal displays (LCD), LED flat panel lights and advertising light boxes. Light guides are usually made of highly transparent acrylic or polycarbonate materials to ensure great optical performance.
What is Light Diffusion Panels?

The main function of light diffuser panels is to make light evenly, reduce glare and reflection, and provide a soft and even lighting effect. Light diffusion panels accomplish this by adding diffusers to the material or by applying specific surface treatments. Unlike light guide panel, light diffusion panels do not change the direction of light propagation, but evenly scatter light through the properties of the material itself. Light diffusion panels are widely used in a variety of led lighting devices, such as LED lamps, advertising LED light boxes, showcases and LED displays.
Main Differences Between Light Guide Panel and Light Diffusion Panels
Although light guide panel and light diffuser panels can be used together in some applications, their core functions and design principles are different. Light guide panels are primarily used for the uniform guidance of light, while light diffusion panels are designed to disperse light evenly, enhancing the uniformity and visual comfort of lighting. Understanding the difference between the two is crucial when choosing materials. If there is a need to evenly distribute light from a light source across the board to avoid hot spots or dark areas, light guide panel are the best choice. Whereas, if there is a need to minimize glare and provide a soft, even lighting effect, light diffusion panels are a more appropriate choice.
In summary, light guide panel and light diffuser panels play different roles in lighting and display applications. Understanding their functions and characteristics will help you choose the most appropriate material for your specific application to achieve the best lighting effect and visual experience.