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What is the difference between a label and a sticker?
Stickers and labels are both adhesive-backed printed products — but they are designed for very different purposes. The simplest way to think about it:
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Stickers = durable, standalone graphics meant to be seen
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Labels = functional identifiers meant to communicate information
Both use similar materials and printing technology, but they behave differently, are delivered differently, and serve different roles.
What is a Sticker?
A sticker is a standalone adhesive graphic where the design itself is the product.
Stickers are engineered for visual impact and durability, making them ideal for branding, merch, decoration, and long-term use on personal items or equipment.
Technical characteristics of stickers:
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Printed on premium synthetic materials (PET, PP, PE, or vinyl)
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Often laminated for water, UV, and abrasion resistance
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Typically delivered as die-cut singles or kiss-cut sheets
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Designed for both indoor and outdoor use
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Focused on expression, branding, and overall aesthetics
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Applied by hand (peel & apply)
Common uses:
Laptops, water bottles, helmets, artist merch, promotional giveaways, packaging inserts.
What is a Label?
A label is a functional adhesive product used to identify, mark, or provide structured information about an item.
Labels prioritize clarity, consistency, and application efficiency — especially for packaging and logistics.
Technical characteristics of labels:
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Delivered primarily on rolls (compatible with dispensers and labeling machines)
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Made from thinner, flexible label materials optimized for packaging surfaces
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Can use specialized adhesives such as freezer-safe, food-safe, or removable
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Designed to display structured information: ingredients, barcodes, warnings, batch numbers, etc.
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Not typically laminated unless required for durability
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Intended for short- to medium-term use, depending on environment
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Applied by hand or machine, depending on the format
Common uses:
Product packaging, jars, bottles, shipping, inventory, barcodes, ingredient lists, QR codes.
Which one should you choose?
Choose stickers if you need:
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Long-lasting, durable graphics
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High visual appeal for branding or merch
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Outdoor- or heavy-use performance
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Standalone pieces handed out or sold individually
Choose labels if you need:
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Informational product marking
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Roll-based application for speed or automation
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Thin, flexible material for packaging surfaces
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Easy-peel, high-volume, or regulatory labeling
Still unsure?
If you’re not sure whether your project calls for stickers or labels, contact our support team. We’ll help you choose the correct product type, material, and adhesive for your exact use case.
Contact us, and our team will guide you in choosing the best option for your project.
