What is the difference between a sticker, a decal and a sign?
A sticker is a small adhesive vinyl graphic for handouts, packaging and personal items. A decal is the same construction at larger size for vehicles, windows and walls. A sign is a rigid printed panel, such as aluminum, acrylic, foam board or corrugated plastic, that stands on its own or mounts to a structure.
The simple test
Does it stick to something? Sticker or decal.
Does it need to be its own object? Sign.
Is it big, flexible and hangs? Banner.
Side by side
| Sticker | Decal | Sign | Banner | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Vinyl + laminate | Vinyl + laminate | Aluminum, acrylic, foam, coroplast | Scrim vinyl |
| Typical size | Under 6 in | 6 in to several feet | 12 in to 4 ft | 2 ft to 50 ft |
| Mounts by | Adhesive | Adhesive | Stakes, frame, screws, standoffs | Grommets, pole pockets |
| Life outdoors | 5+ years | 5+ years | 2-10 years by substrate | 1-3 years |
| Best for | Merch, packaging, labels, giveaways | Vehicles, windows, walls, equipment | Yard, wayfinding, ADA, office | Events, storefronts, fences |
Common decisions
- Storefront window: clear or white decal for permanent branding; banner for a temporary promotion.
- Vehicle: decals. Cast vinyl for curves and rivets.
- Yard or roadside: a corrugated plastic yard sign for short campaigns, aluminum for permanent.
- Trade show: banner for the backdrop, foam board for lightweight panels, stickers as giveaways.
- Equipment labeling: heavy-duty stickers or asset tags, not signs.
We make all of them
Stickers and labels are our core business, and we produce banners in house as well. Rigid signage, from yard signs and A-frames to aluminum and acrylic panels, is produced by the same company on the same UV flatbed equipment. See what we make.