## Common ground
All options are types of cups used for coffee mills, differing only in material.
## Options at a glance
**3924.10 – Plastic**
- **Defining trait:** Made from synthetic polymer resin, lightweight and impact-resistant.
- **Typical examples:** Disposable coffee cup, reusable plastic brewer cup.
- **Best fit when:** Durability and low cost are priorities; not for high heat or long-term use.
**6911.10 – Porcelain or china**
- **Defining trait:** Fired clay with a smooth, glossy finish; traditionally used in fine tableware.
- **Typical examples:** Elegant coffee cup, vintage-style mill cup.
- **Best fit when:** Aesthetic appeal and heat retention are important; not for rough handling.
**6912.00 – Ceramic**
- **Defining trait:** Unglazed or glazed fired clay; more porous than porcelain but durable.
- **Typical examples:** Rustic coffee mug, artisanal mill cup.
- **Best fit when:** Natural look and moderate heat retention needed; less fragile than glass.
**7010.90 – Glass**
- **Defining trait:** Transparent, non-reactive, and heat-resistant; allows visual monitoring of contents.
- **Typical examples:** Clear coffee brewer cup, glass carafe for mills.
- **Best fit when:** Visibility of coffee grounds or liquid level is essential.
**7323.9X – Iron or steel**
- **Defining trait:** Metallic construction; highly durable and heat-conductive.
- **Typical examples:** Industrial coffee cup, heavy-duty mill container.
- **Best fit when:** Long-term use, high heat exposure, or industrial settings.
## Key differences
| Material | Heat Resistance | Transparency | Fragility | Weight |
|--------------|------------------|---------------|-----------|--------------|
| Plastic | Low | No | Medium | Light |
| Porcelain | High | No | High | Medium-heavy |
| Ceramic | Medium-High | No | Medium | Medium |
| Glass | Medium | Yes | High | Medium |
| Iron/Steel | Very High | No | Low | Heavy |
## How to choose
- Is the cup meant for visual monitoring of coffee? → 7010.90 (Glass)
- Does it need to withstand high heat and heavy use? → 7323.9X (Iron/Steel)
- Is appearance and elegance important? → 6911.10 (Porcelain)
- Is lightweight and low cost key? → 3924.10 (Plastic)
- Is a natural, durable look preferred? → 6912.00 (Ceramic)
## Overlaps & pitfalls
- Porcelain and ceramic are both fired clay; porcelain is denser and more vitrified. Some products may blur the line—choose based on finish and density.
- Glass and plastic can both be transparent, but glass resists heat better.
- Iron/steel and ceramic may both be used in industrial settings. If multiple traits apply, prioritize **main function**: e.g., if visibility matters, pick glass; if durability is key, pick steel