Stickers vs Labels: What's the Difference and Which Do You Need?

Stickers and labels are both printed on adhesive material, so the terms are often used interchangeably. But in printing, they are made for different jobs — and choosing correctly saves money and gives a better result.

Stickers: made to stand alone

Stickers are usually printed on thick, durable vinyl and are designed to be seen on their own — on laptops, water bottles, windows or as giveaways. They are often die-cut to the shape of the design and built to survive water, sun and scratches.

• Thicker vinyl with a protective laminate
• Die-cut, kiss-cut or circle shapes
• Best for branding, merch, promotions and packaging seals

Labels: made to inform

Labels are usually applied to products — bottles, jars, cosmetics and food packaging — and carry information like your brand, ingredients, barcodes and warnings. They are thinner, flexible to wrap around curves, and often supplied on rolls for fast application.

• Thin BOPP film or paper that wraps around curves
• Supplied on rolls or sheets
• Best for product packaging and high-volume use

Quick rule of thumb

If people will look at it as a design on its own, choose a sticker. If it goes on a product to describe it, choose a label. Still unsure? Try our free AI Design Studio — it recommends the right product for your use.