Stickers vs. Labels:
What's the Real Difference?
When it comes to product branding and packaging, stickers and labels both play a big role. While they might seem interchangeable at first glance, understanding the differences can help you choose the right solution for your needs. Whether you're printing in-house with a Primera or Epson ColorWorks printer, or outsourcing your designs, it’s important to understand which option suits your business goals.
What Are Stickers?
Stickers are designed for fun, flair, and durability. They’re often made from vinyl or clear polyester, built to withstand sunlight, water, and rough handling. You’ll find them on laptops, water bottles, or used as giveaways at events.
Businesses use stickers to promote their brand personality. Hand them out at trade shows, include them in packages, or sell them as branded merch. A well-designed sticker can travel far and wide—turning any surface into a mini billboard.
Popular Uses:
Event giveaways
Branded merchandise
Outdoor labeling
Fun packaging inserts
What Are Labels?
Labels are the everyday workhorses of packaging. They deliver critical product information—ingredients, barcodes, expiration dates, care instructions, and more. Labels can be printed on paper for indoor use or on durable BOPP film for products exposed to moisture or handling.
Think spice jars, beer bottles, cosmetics, vitamins, or shipping boxes—labels are everywhere and help your product look professional and compliant.
Popular Uses:
Product packaging
Bottle and jar labels
Shipping and barcode tags
Informational branding
Sticker vs. Label: Key Differences
| Feature | Sticker | Label |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Vinyl, clear polyester | Paper, BOPP film |
| Durability | High – water & UV resistant | Varies – some waterproof options |
| Purpose | Decorative, promotional | Informational, regulatory |
| Design | Bold, fun, eye-catching | Clear, readable, brand-consistent |
| Application | Events, laptops, gear | Retail products, shipping, compliance |
Design Considerations
While stickers often steal the spotlight with wild designs and bright colors, labels must balance form with function. Labels need to be easy to read and clearly communicate necessary information. However, a great label design can still be beautiful and boost your brand.
Stickers, on the other hand, should reflect your brand's energy and personality. Whether you're a startup selling direct-to-consumer or a manufacturer labeling your equipment, your sticker design should spark attention.
Print Your Own with Epson or Primera
If you’re ready to print high-quality labels or stickers in-house, printers like the Epson ColorWorks C4000/C6500 or the Primera LX500/LX910 are built for the job. These printers handle full-color label production with durable inks and are ideal for companies that want flexibility, control, and cost savings.
Pair them with compatible media to print waterproof, smudge-proof, and high-resolution designs.
Which One Is Right for You?
Ask yourself:
Is your priority branding or information?
Will the surface be exposed to moisture or sunlight?
Is the application indoor or outdoor?
Are you trying to delight or inform?
If the answer is “both”—you might need both stickers and labels!
Want to see the printers in action or browse label materials? Reach out and let us help you choose the right solution.