There are a few different types of materials that can be used for plates, and each has its own pros and cons. The most common materials are ceramic, glass, metal, and plastic.
Ceramic plates are generally safe to use, although they can break if dropped. They are also microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe. Glass plates are also safe to use, but like ceramic plates, they can break if dropped. Metal plates are usually made of stainless steel or aluminum and are safe to use. However, they can get scratched easily and may not be microwave-safe or dishwasher-safe. Plastic plates are the least expensive option and are safe to use; however, some plastics may contain harmful chemicals that can leach into food.