Yes, there is a difference between acrylic and plastics. They are both in the polymer family. Acrylic is a mixture of monomer and polymer.
clear plastic is one of the most popular materials used in manufacturing and design. However, there is a wide variety of these transparent polymers out there, and they can’t always be used interchangeably. Plastic, after all, is a generic term for a large family of synthetic or semi-synthetic materials.
Acrylic
Acrylic is kinds of thermoplastics that are petroleum based and created from the derivation of natural glass. It is also known as polyacrylate.
Polycarbonate
Poly-carbonates are easy to mold, work and clear thermoplastic that has incredible durability , and so is used for a great many purposes, such as in the construction industry and the creation of safety glasses. It’s more expensive than Plexiglas, but also stronger and can also be bent at room temperature. Poly-carbonate is available under brand names like Lexan and Makrolon.