When it comes to printing materials for your marketing strategy, you will have to make many decisions. Yet, by working with a team like us at CityPress, you can make the process easier. After reading our detailed comparison of matte lamination vs gloss lamination, you can check the type of protection layer off your list.
However, to pick one, you should get familiar with the pros and cons of both lamination types. Our helpful comparison will help you get there!
Matte Lamination vs Gloss Lamination Key Similarities
We will start by listing what matte and gloss lamination have in common. They are both excellent techniques we use to protect your printed materials. They are the perfect way to add durability to your prints and ensure they can withstand daily use.
We understand that your top priority as a business is quality. So, whichever one you choose, matte lamination vs gloss lamination, you can rest assured your target audience will get high-quality pieces.
Not only will the lamination increase the durability, but it will also improve the appearance of your printed materials. They both have different visual effects, but they enhance the colors of the ink.
Ultimately, both lamination options can have the same corner shapes and edging tapes. We can make your gloss or matte laminated prints with round or square corner shapes. Regarding the edging tapes, both can be done as sealed or unsealed.
Matte Lamination vs Gloss Lamination Key Differences
Which lamination is better glossy or matte? Deciding this will be totally up to you and your business needs. The choice depends on the desired look, feel, and the intended impression you want to make on your target audience.
If you choose to use our lamination and printing services, we can assist you in finding the best choice. Until then, here are the main matte lamination vs gloss lamination differences:
Appeal
The most obvious difference between gloss and matte lamination is their finish. Matte lamination has a non-reflective visual effect, while gloss laminations have a vibrant, shiny one.
In our printing industry experience, we may say that matte lamination is always used for formal and high-end prints. On the other hand, gloss is a popular choice for clients who want to achieve attention-grabbing colors for a visual impact and enhanced contrast.
Readability in different environments
Gloss-laminated printed materials may be difficult to read when exposed to direct light. However, it is important to note that this happens only at certain angles.
The main difference between the two types of lamination is that the gloss solutions reflect the light, while the matte absorbs it. Consequently, glossy lamination might not be the best fit if your target audience is located mainly outside and should read or look at the marketing materials in a bright light.
Level of protection
All of the above brings us to the common dilemma: which type of lamination is more resistant to fingerprints and smudges? Both options create a certain level of protection to the print.
However, if we compare the matte lamination vs gloss lamination side-by-side, we can conclude that gloss provides higher protection. Typically, matte laminated materials are more sensitive to fingerprints and scratches.
Matte lamination vs gloss lamination cost
If you are on a budget, you might wonder which is the more affordable alternative. You might think that gloss is more expensive because of its high-end look, but typically, it is quite the opposite. Since matte tends to be thicker than gloss and is sometimes considered more durable, it is generally more expensive.
Keep in mind that this is just a generalization. The cost difference between matte and gloss lamination may vary according to factors such as the material's quality, project requirements, and the print finishing solutions provider.
Having all the advantages and disadvantages of matte and gloss lamination, here is a side-by-side comparison so you can pick easily.
Choose matte if you | Choose glossy if you |
Need materials that will deflect glare | Want a shiny finish |
Opt for a sophisticated look | Need a strong visual impact |
Want packaging that is soft to the touch | Require packaging that is smooth and easy to clean |
Require materials that will gracefully age over time | Need more scratch-resistant and dirt-repellent lamination |
Want the cover to have a textured and textile feel | Prefer prints that are smooth to the touch |
If you are still wondering what you can use matte and gloss lamination for, here are some general suggestions:
Book prints and booklet covers
Bookmarks
Signage
Safety information
Membership cards
Business cards
Menus
Tags
Brochures
Training materials
Informational flyers
Outdoor marketing materials
Conclusion
Helping our clients understand the matte lamination vs gloss lamination similarities and differences is always our number one priority. That way, we can rest assured you know all the benefits of each lamination method and choose the one that fulfills your business needs.
If you want to collaborate with our experienced CityPress team, you can get in touch with us if you have questions. Alternatively, you can place an order online if you have everything figured out.