Stickers vs. Decals: What's the Difference?

Stickers and decals are easily confused – what are they?

Many people think stickers and decals are fully interchangeable terms. However, the two words do not mean the same thing! That can lead people to questions, like: "Is a decal a sticker?" and "What's the difference between a decal and a sticker?". Well, the Logotech blog is here to put those questions to rest!

What is a decal?

Pinning down what a decal is can be tricky for some people, but it's pretty simple. A decal is a type of decorative sticker that is generally made for outdoor use. These stickers come with three pieces; the backing paper, the decal, and the transfer paper. Decal stickers are applied by removing the transfer paper from the backing, which lifts the decal. The transfer paper is pressed hard onto the surface, then slowly removed, leaving only the decal. Decals generally use a permanent adhesive and a vinyl or polyester material, giving them outstanding durability– outdoor decals can last 3-5 years! People use decal stickers to decorate vehicles, storefronts, and other outdoor spaces.

Decal Pros and Cons

What is a sticker?

Defining a sticker is much easier than a decal; everyone knows what stickers are! Stickers are pieces of plastic with designs on the front and an adhesive on the back, held by a backing paper. When you peel the backing paper off, the adhesive is exposed, and you can place the sticker just about anywhere. Stickers can be seen adorning car bumpers, water bottles, phone cases, laptops, and more. Stickers adhere less than decals, so their life span can shorten with heavy outdoor use. However, stickers can last more than eight years if there's little exposure to the elements!

Stickers Pros and Cons

The difference between decals and stickers

All in all, 'sticker' is an overarching term– all decals are stickers, but not all stickers are decals. Decals are decorative stickers built for outdoor use, and they feature three layers– the backing paper, the decal, and the transfer paper. On the other hand, a sticker can be a wide range of things, from bumper stickers and labels to car decals.

How to best choose between stickers and decals

When choosing between stickers and decals, you should consider your needs. Stickers are the low-tech option. They can be placed practically anywhere and last for many years without exposure to the elements. Decals, however, feature a heavy-duty adhesive and are generally made with vinyl or polyester. If you need a permanent sticker in an outdoor area, you should opt for decals. However, stickers are the easier option if you're looking for a quick decoration method and you're not worried about longevity.

Whether it's decals or stickers you need, Logotech is the place to be! At Logotech, we have a vast selection of customizable stickers and decals. We can print logos or messaging using any colors, and our team of dedicated account managers is focused on providing the best customer experience. Are you interested in seeing your logo on custom stickers or decals? Create an account today, and an account manager will contact you promptly.