One of the questions I get asked the most is, “Should I get a tempered glass backboard or acrylic?” That’s an important question and one I answer in Tempered-Glass Backboard or Acrylic backboard? That is the question. However, what I think is as important a question but one I rarely get asked is whether or not there is a frame in the backboard?
Most backboards have a backboard with either an I-Frame or H-Frame down the center of the backboard. Companies do this so there is a mounting point for the extension arms extending from the pole. The H-frame and the I-frame are the mounting points for both the extension arms as well as what the backboard is either hung on or on which it is mounted.
Personally, I prefer a ClearGlass backboard. A ClearGlass backboard has their extension arms mount directly to and on the outside of the backboard frame.
I prefer the ClearGlass for several reasons.
1. It is much more aesthetically pleasing to look at than a system with a frame.
2. Because it has a wider mounting point on the backboard, it has less movement when either a ball hits it or when people dunk.
My personal opinion is the following. For entry-level models it’s tough to find a system without a frame and, generally speaking, having a frame in the view is no big deal. However, if you’re spending top dollar on a system you should get the system that not only plays better but looks better. The options are out there so why not get one that, again, looks better and plays better?
