Decal vs. Sticker: What’s Really the Difference?
When people first hear about decals and stickers, they may think those are the same things with different, more formal-sounding names. In reality, this isn’t the case. Although there are numerous similarities between decals and stickers, they are entirely different items, and the people on the internet are also confused.
When you search for, for example, the best examples of flag decals online, you may end up with results selling stickers. We are here to end the confusion and tell you all the differences.
What is a decal?
A decal is a graphic design product that can be printed on different materials, depending on your preferences. They are customizable, so you can choose your design and material and get unique elements.
Due to their resistance and durability, decals are primarily used for external applications, such as car exteriors. Moreover, you can use decals for wall decorations to personalize the space or boost your brand. Unlike the stickers above, these items can come in various sizes and shapes.
You can buy decals such as American flag decal from various online stores. But remember to buy it from a well-known website.
Image Source: Unsplash
What is a sticker?
Stickers are small decorative items you can glue to other elements and enhance their visual appeal. For example, you can use them to personalize your vehicle or your clothes. Stickers are printed on paper and contain glue on the back that you will use to place them on another item of choice.
Customization is crucial to these items – you can create unique designs that fit your preferences. Some business owners even use personalized stickers as gifts to their customers to make the whole purchase experience more special and personal.
Main differences
The definitions of stickers and decals are similar, and you may not be able to tell them apart. We have prepared some main differences to help you decide which product to choose. Here’s a list of these differences.
1. Materials
The primary and most noticeable difference between stickers and decals is the material. Stickers will always be printed on paper, and you cannot find stickers on a different material (since it will no longer be a sticker). So, if you see a paper item, it’s most likely to be a sticker.
Many people say that all decals are stickers, but not all stickers are decals, and we couldn’t agree more. Decals can also be printed on paper, but numerous other decal materials are found on the market. For instance, vinyl decals are the most popular option currently due to their durability.
2. Use cases
Another significant difference between stickers and decals is what you will use them for. Stickers are usually used for more minor personalizations. For example, you can decorate your notebooks and phone cases using a sticker. However, you cannot completely change the appearance of a desired element.
On the other hand, decals can completely transform the appearance of a desired element. For example, you can print larger decal designs and change the appeal of your car. Although you can print out smaller decals, these are mainly used for larger projects.
Image Source: Unsplash
3. Adhesive and removal
If you need an easy customization item you can remove without special tools, stickers are the way to go. These items use medium adhesive, meaning that it will be easy to remove them once you stick them. Moreover, stickers will leave no residue behind – you won’t even notice that something was there in the first place.
The decal journey is different. These elements use stronger glues, and you will need some practice removing decals without further issues. You may also need special tools to remove a decal in one piece.
4. Durability
Let’s be honest – stickers won’t last for a very long time. Most of those with external exposure will last only a few months at best, then start to peel off and lose their vibrant colors.
That’s why decals are the way to go if you need a more permanent solution that can stand the test of time. However, while their primary use is for exterior customization, they won’t last forever either.
Image Source: Unsplash
5. Cost
Stickers are one of the most cost-effective solutions; you only need a few bucks to get customized designs.
However, if you need it to last a long time, you may need to put aside more money for a decal design. Although these products are relatively inexpensive, stickers are cheaper than they are. The price difference is insignificant compared to the quality you will receive if you opt for decal designs.
Conclusion
Many people need clarification on stickers and decals, thinking the two are the same things. Although there’s truth behind this statement, it is not entirely the case. Stickers and decals have numerous differences, as presented in the text above.
If you decide which one to choose, you should consider what you need a “sticker” for. Decals are the way to go if you need a long-lasting, durable solution.
And finally, be sure to purchase from reliable vendors with a good track record and positive reviews. There are a few things worse than finding something you like and going for the purchase, only to realize that it was a shady website that is – generally – a scam. Go for trusted providers, and you will have no issues.
