Accuracy, precision and detection limits of measurements of trace elements of potash, soda and lead reference glasses by wavelength-dispersive spectrometry (WDS) were compared with those by proton induced x-ray emission (PIXE). Accuracy and precision of measurements of major, minor and trace elements in lead glass standard by WDS were compared with those by energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS). The homogeneity of reference glasses and the effect of spot size of the electron beam on the accuracy and precision were studied. The effects of aluminum pinhole, Kapton foil and zinc foil absorbers on the detection of manganese, iron, arsenic, rubidium, strontium, zirconium and barium in lead glass by the PIXE were investigated.