Chalkboard vs Blackboard: Are They the Same Thing? South Africa Guide

Let's clear this up once and for all - chalkboard and blackboard refer to the same product. You might've heard both terms used interchangeably, and you're right to - they describe the same thing. But there are some useful distinctions in how the terms are used today, and if you're buying one for a South African school, office or café, knowing the difference matters.

Looking to buy a chalkboard or blackboard in South Africa? Browse our full range of chalkboards and blackboards — manufactured locally in Johannesburg since 1996, delivered nationwide.

Are chalkboards and blackboards the same thing?

Yes. Traditionally, "blackboard" referred to a teaching board with a dark surface - most often black or slate-grey - where you'd write with chalk. Over time, "chalkboard" became the more generic name, especially once green, blue and grey boards started appearing in classrooms and offices. The main thing they have in common: both are designed for use with chalk.

The shift from black to green

At some point, blackboards started going green - literally. Schools began installing green boards because they were easier on the eyes. White chalk showed up more clearly, and the contrast was easier to read from the back of the room. Green surfaces also reduced the notorious screech of chalk on slate.

Because of this shift, the term "chalkboard" began replacing "blackboard." People wanted a word that wasn't tied to a specific colour. So if you're talking about a surface you write on with chalk - regardless of colour - "chalkboard" is the more modern, catch-all term.

Material matters

Most old-school blackboards were made from slate or stone-based surfaces. These were heavy and prone to cracking, but they lasted a long time. Today's chalkboards are typically made from lightweight, durable materials like coated steel, MDF or hardboard. Many are also magnetic, so you can attach notes, printouts and documents directly to the surface alongside your chalk writing.

At BestBoard, we manufacture both magnetic chalkboards and non-magnetic chalkboards in a range of sizes and finishes - whether you're outfitting a classroom, office, coffee shop or creative space.

Which is better for South African schools?

South African government schools predominantly still refer to "blackboards" in official documentation and procurement lists. In practice, the boards installed are green chalk surfaces - which is technically a chalkboard by the modern definition. If you are procuring for a school and need to match terminology used in your budget approval or tender document, either term will refer to the same product.

For classrooms, the most common sizes are 1200mm x 2400mm and 1200mm x 3000mm - large enough for writing to be clearly visible from the back of the room. BestBoard manufactures large-format school boards in both sizes, with magnetic and non-magnetic surfaces available. For classrooms that need maximum writing space, our chalk hinge boards and chalk swing leaf boards expand the total writing surface without taking up extra wall space.

Magnetic or non-magnetic - which should you choose?

Whether you call it a chalkboard or a blackboard, the most important buying decision is whether you need a magnetic surface. Magnetic chalkboards have a steel backing that holds magnets, allowing teachers to attach printed worksheets, maps and teaching aids directly to the board surface alongside chalk writing - no blu-tack or tape required. Non-magnetic chalkboards are more affordable and suited to spaces where a pure chalk writing surface is all that's needed. Both are available in the same sizes and frame finishes.

The verdict

Use "chalkboard" when you want to be inclusive of all colours and modern materials. Go with "blackboard" if you're after that old-school feel. Either way, you're talking about the same basic thing: a reusable chalk writing surface — and BestBoard manufactures both.

Ready to buy a chalkboard in South Africa?

BestBoard has been manufacturing chalkboards locally in Johannesburg since 1996. We supply schools, offices, restaurants and homes across South Africa with durable, easy-to-clean boards built for daily use. Free delivery nationwide on orders over R950.

• Magnetic Chalkboards - hold notes and documents with magnets alongside your chalk writing
• Non-Magnetic Chalkboards - affordable option for classrooms and home use
• School Boards - large format boards for South African classrooms, bulk orders welcome
• View the full chalkboard range - all sizes, all styles, manufactured locally