Polyethylene vs AR500 Steel Armor Plates and Inserts. Which is better?

In short if you want the very low-cost option then steel is probably going to be your pick.  Want the best "Upgrades" or "Features" then you want PE, aka Polyethylene.

Steel AR500 Rating Inserts and Plates

• Thin (usually)
• Heavy (Always)
• Cheap
• Can easily cause shrapnel
• Can be NIJ certified

Polyethylene Plates and Inserts

• Often Thicker (Thinner if adding padding to steel)
• Lighter
• More expensive
• Absorbs the round better
• Doesn't require padding
• More modern
• Lifespan of 5 years or more