Glossy vs Matte Stickers: What’s the Difference and When to Choose Each

Let’s talk finishes! Glossy or matte - two small words that completely change how your stickers look and feel. Choosing the right one might seem simple, but it actually plays a big role in how your design comes across and how your stickers perform out in the wild.

Spoiler: the similarities outweigh the differences, so let’s break it down nice and easy, so you can make the best decisions for your stickers.

Oct 13 2025

TL;DR: Both glossy and matte stickers are durable, water and weatherproof, and highly protective. It all comes down to the look and feel you want for your stickers.

Glossy = Shiny, vibrant, and eye-catching. Perfect for bold colors, outdoor use, and when you want to make a statement.
Matte = Smooth, subtle, and stylish. Perfect for refined designs, indoor use, and when you're looking for a luxurious, sophisticated finish.

Glossy and matte stickers: similarities

No matter which laminate you choose, both glossy and matte stickers share the same solid foundation. Both options are:

Printed on the same base material, i.e., vinyl, holographic, mirror, etc.
Printed using full-color print.
Water and weatherproof, scratch-proof, and dishwasher-proof.
Available as die-cut and kiss-cut stickers, sticker sheets, hang tags, and sticker packs.

The differences come down to look and feel, the vibe your sticker gives off.

Glossy Stickers: Shiny and Eye-Catching

Glossy stickers are the showstoppers of the sticker world. They have a shiny, reflective surface that makes your colors pop, giving your design that extra punch. The glossy laminate enhances contrast and depth, making your artwork look more vibrant and polished.

The glossy laminate is also UV-protected, so if you're planning on slapping your stickers in direct sunlight, the glossy laminate is your go-to.

Opt for glossy laminate if you:

Want your bright, colorful design to shine at its best.
Want your stickers to look pristine outside, in sunny conditions.
Want a premium, high-energy look that stands out in good lighting.

Think: logo stickers, merch drops, event giveaways, or packaging labels that need to shine (literally).

two glossy notes with the text 666 and a cat on holographic material

Matte Stickers: Smooth and Subtle

Matte stickers bring a completely different energy. Their non-reflective finish gives them a soft, modern feel with muted tones and a velvety texture. They’re easier to photograph without glare, making them ideal for anyone aiming for an elegant, minimal aesthetic.

The matte laminate is not UV-protected, meaning matte stickers fade faster in direct sunlight. For long-lasting results outdoors, we recommend the glossy laminate.

Opt for matte laminate if you:

Want the colors in your design to look muted and less punchy.
If you're looking for a smooth, non-reflective finish.
Want a premium, refined look.

Think: product labels, boutique branding, or stickers meant to complement soft or minimalist designs.

two matte notes with the text 666 and a cat on holographic material

Choosing the Right Finish

When in doubt, think about how you want people to experience your sticker:

Want to dazzle? Go glossy.
Want to impress quietly? Go matte.

Both will serve you well, but your choice of laminate adds the finishing touch that ties your whole design together.

Also, keep in mind the matte laminate is not UV-protected.

If you’re still unsure, try ordering a sample pack – it includes samples of all materials, printed on both laminates, so you can see and feel the difference before you decide.