## Common ground
All options are butter dishes made from different materials.
## Options at a glance
**3924.10 – Plastic**
- **Defining trait:** Made from synthetic polymer material, typically lightweight and non-breakable.
- **Typical examples:** Household plastic butter crocks, modern kitchen storage containers.
- **Best fit when:** Durability and low cost are priorities; for casual or travel use.
**6911.10 – Porcelain or China**
- **Defining trait:** Made from fine, fired clay with a smooth, glossy finish; often decorative.
- **Typical examples:** Elegant dinnerware sets, vintage-style butter dishes.
- **Best fit when:** High-end table settings or formal dining use.
**6912.00 – Ceramic**
- **Defining trait:** Made from fired clay, less refined than porcelain; may have a matte or textured surface.
- **Typical examples:** Rustic kitchenware, handcrafted butter dishes.
- **Best fit when:** Artisanal, casual, or traditional style is desired.
**7013.10,7013.4X – Glass**
- **Defining trait:** Transparent or translucent; allows visibility of contents; non-reactive and easy to clean.
- **Typical examples:** Clear glass butter crocks, modern minimalist kitchenware.
- **Best fit when:** Visibility of butter and hygiene are key concerns.
**7323.9X – Iron or Steel**
- **Defining trait:** Made from metal; often heavy-duty and heat-resistant.
- **Typical examples:** Cast iron butter dishes, industrial-style kitchen accessories.
- **Best fit when:** Longevity, strength, or a rustic industrial look is preferred.
## Key differences
| Feature | Plastic | Porcelain | Ceramic | Glass | Iron/Steel |
|----------------|-------------|-------------|-------------|-------------|-------------|
| Material | Synthetic | Fine clay | Fired clay | Silica | Metal |
| Durability | Low | Medium | Medium | High | Very high |
| Transparency | Opaque | Opaque | Opaque | Transparent | Opaque |
| Aesthetic | Modern | Elegant | Rustic | Minimalist | Industrial |
## How to choose
- Is it made of plastic? → 3924.10
- Is it shiny, smooth, and fine-looking? → 6911.10
- Does it feel coarse or handmade? → 6912.00
- Can you see through it easily? → 7013.10,7013.4X
- Is it heavy and metallic? → 7323.9X
## Overlaps & pitfalls
- Glass and porcelain may both be glossy; use transparency as the key differentiator.
- Ceramic and porcelain are both clay-based—porcelain is finer and more translucent.
- Iron/steel dishes may be coated or painted, but if made of metal, use 7323.9X.
- If unsure, prioritize the material’s primary physical property (e.g., transparency, weight, texture)