How they differ
Enamel pins have raised metal lines with colored enamel in the recesses. Colors are solid, and the metal is part of the design.
Printed pins have the full design printed onto a flat metal surface and covered with a clear epoxy dome. They can show photos, gradients and unlimited colors.
Comparison
| Item | Enamel | Printed |
|---|---|---|
| Colors | Solid, up to up to 8 included | Unlimited, gradients and photos |
| Texture | Raised metal lines | Flat, glossy dome |
| Detail | Limited by line width | Very fine detail |
| Feel | Classic, crafted | Graphic, photographic |
| Price | Baseline | About 5% less |
Choose printed for
Photos, gradients, very detailed artwork, and designs that would lose meaning in flat colors, such as memorial pins with a portrait.
Choose enamel for
Logos, mascots and bold illustrations, pins meant to feel crafted or collectible, and anything you want to look like a classic pin.
Combining both
UV printing can add a gradient to part of an enamel pin; see UV printed gradient pins. Compare styles further on printed pins and soft enamel pins.
How each holds up
Enamel pins resist fading and wear for decades. Printed pins are protected by epoxy, which resists scratches and moisture, but long exposure to direct sunlight can fade printed colors over years. For pins worn outdoors every day, enamel is the safer choice.
Price example
At 200 pieces and 1.25 inches, a printed pin is $2.57 and a soft enamel pin is $2.70, delivered. The difference is small, so choose on looks, not cost.
Which one for common projects
Photo memorial pins and campaign pins with a candidate photo: printed. Logos, mascots, trading pins and awards: enamel. Detailed illustrations by artists: either, depending on whether the artist wants a crafted metal look or every detail of the painting.
Written by the Enamelore team, who proof every order. Questions about this guide? Email hello@enamelore.com.
