How Do Matte Vs Glossy Stickers Differ From Each Other?
First impressions are extremely important if you want to make sure that your displayed products are converted into sales. In this regard, customs have been playing a very significant role. The quality and the appearance of stickers is a huge factor that shows your brand’s standard. There is a dire competition between matte vs glossy stickers, due to their contrasting surface appearance. Brands select any of them to get the following benefits:
- Influence visibility
- Durability
- Readability
- Emotional appeal
Glossy and matte stickers may appear similar, but the message they convey is significantly stronger and different. Let’s read the blog and get an idea about matte stickers vs glossy ones.
Difference Between Gloss And Matte Stickers
The main difference between these stickers is the application of the coating. A muted and non-glossy coating is applied to matte stickers. On the other hand, gloss coatings give a reflective appearance and make the design sharp.
Gloss Stickers
These stickers have a shiny and reflective surface that is used when brands need to give a popping and vibrant appearance to their artwork or logo. Aside from this, gloss stickers have a reflective and rich appearance as they prevent ink absorption into the surface. Glossy stickers add an energetic and premium feel that is desired by most brands due to their reflective nature. In comparison of matte stickers vs glossy stickers, choose the glossy option for outdoor applications. The following coatings are applied to them to seal the ink:
- UV varnish
- Aqueous coating
- Laminated films
Matte Stickers
Matte stickers easily absorb the light and give a muted appearance. The designs in these stickers are less vibrant than those of gloss but have the ability to give excellent legibility. The muted tone gives a soft contrast and appeal to the brands looking for minimalist yet luxurious designs. In matte vs glossy stickers competition, brands prefer matte ones due to the following reasons:
- Tactile quality
- Natural premium feel
- Refined when touched
- Subtle and elegant look
- Improved readability
- Excellent clarity
- High sophistication and usability
Comparing Glossy Vs Matte Stickers
| Aspect | Matte Finish | Glossy Finish |
| Brand Signal | Quiet confidence | Visual excitement |
| Emotional Tone | Mature trust | Instant attraction |
| Audience Perception | Premium credibility | Energetic appeal |
| Visual Impact | Soft elegance | Bright intensity |
| Shelf Presence | Understated authority | High visibility |
| Text Clarity | Glare free | Light reflection |
| Color Effect | Muted richness | Saturated vibrance |
| Handling Feel | Smooth control | Slick surface |
| Writing Ability | Pen friendly | Ink resistant |
| Durability Needs | Protective coating | Lamination advantage |
| Outdoor Use | Limited exposure | Weather tolerance |
| Brand Personality | Minimal sophistication | Bold expression |
| Industry Fit | Wellness luxury | Retail promotion |
| Usage Goal | Informational clarity | Emotional engagement |
| Strategic Message | Smart confidence | Loud persuasion |
Gloss VS Matte Sustainable Aspects

Aside from branding and several other factors, one of the common questions that brands may prefer is the sustainable aspect of the stickers. On the whole, we can say that neither gloss stickers nor matte ones are sustainable. This is because the sustainability of the materials depends upon the base material and the intended lifespan of the stickers. The surface finish has less impact on the sustainable nature of the material than the core materials. Let’s see how this is true:
For paper-based stickers
Matter finishing is associated with a natural and sustainable look that can be recycled. Hemp and sugar cane fibers with organic linen are the materials used for paper-based stickers. The application of a biodegradable finish makes the stickers fully recyclable.
Synthetic And vinyl stickers
Both gloss and matte stickers can be produced as customized vinyl stickers, using durable synthetic materials designed for long-term use. Vinyl is an ideal choice if you want stickers that don’t need frequent replacement. Since customized vinyl stickers last longer and require fewer reprints, they can also be considered a more sustainable option.
Compostable Options
Custom kraft paper stickers are a compostable option. They can either be in matte or gloss appearance and are manufactured with compostable pulp. This pulp is refined in such a way that it will have a glossy feel like plastic that can be broken down under industrial composting conditions.
Choosing the Right Sticker Finish
There is no universal winner between glossy vs matte stickers. Each of them has a unique purpose and appearance that delivers benefits to multiple brands. Glossy stickers dominate when brands need vibrancy and clarity with excellently vibrant designs. Matter is used when a muted and somewhat powerful branding is employed with minimalism. Smart brands use both stickers in a strategic manner by understanding the strength of each of them. No matter the type of stocker our company needs, contact Custom Stickers Pro to get the best option. We also give consultation that will help you decide the most potent option between the two stickers.
