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What's the Difference Between Car Magnets and Car Decals?
Article Date: July 15, 2024
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Promoting your business on the go is a great way to get your brand noticed. When it comes to vehicle advertising, car magnets and car decals are excellent options to turn any vehicle into a mobile billboard. But which one is right for you? In this article, we'll learn what sets them apart from each other, so you make an informed decision when you go signage shopping.
What are Car Magnets?
Car magnets are flexible, thin yet strong custom-printed magnetic sheets that can be attached to metal surfaces like those of vehicles. They’re often used for car advertising, displaying logos, messages, or contact information.
What are Car Decals?
Car decals, or car stickers, are adhesive graphics, letterings, or images applied to the surface of a vehicle. They come in several types: clear, perforated, opaque, and high-adhesive. Car decals are mostly used for car advertising but also used for decorative purposes and personal expression.
This or That: Car Magnets vs. Car Decals
Material
Car magnets are made of flexible, thin yet strong magnetic sheets that easily stick to metal surfaces, while car decals are made of durable adhesive vinyl that adheres to smooth, flat surfaces on the vehicle like the windows, doors, front, and back. Both car magnets and car decals are weather-proof.
Longevity
Car magnets are suitable for temporary or short-term use. They can last for several years with proper maintenance and care but can still be prone to peeling when exposed to harsh weather conditions. On the other hand, car decals are permanent and more durable. They are designed to be long-lasting, UV-resistant, and weather-proof, making them ideal for long-term use.
Design and Customization
While both are customizable, design and customization options for car magnets are limited to standard shapes and sizes and simple designs. Meanwhile, car decals are more versatile and perfect for detailed and intricate designs.
Application
Car magnets are very easy to apply and don’t require any special tools. With car decals, you need to use accessories like a squeegee to ensure that there are no bubbles or wrinkles when they’re applied.
Removal
Like with its application, removing car magnets is easy, simple, and won’t leave any residue on the vehicle. With car decals, removing them can be tricky and may need special tools. They also might leave adhesive residue when removed.
Reusability
Car magnets are reusable – you can easily change them for short-term promotions, reapply them on your car door, or even transfer them from one vehicle to another. Meanwhile, car decals are good only for single use. They can be removed when no longer needed but they can’t be reapplied or repositioned.
Cost
Car magnets are cheaper and have lower initial costs, making them an affordable option for customers. And while car decals cost more, they provide long-term value for ongoing advertising versus magnets that may have to be replaced often.
Usage
Car magnets are best used for short-term promotions and events, as they are easy to change with the seasons. If you’re going for consistent and professional advertising, car decals are a suitable option.
Maintenance and Care
Car magnets require regular cleaning to prevent moisture buildup and ensure they retain their adhesion, while car decals need more effort like gentle washing and UV protection to make them last longer and prevent fading.
Key Considerations For Choosing
- Purpose. Consider if your ad will be displayed temporarily or long-term. If your promotions are seasonal, choose car magnets. However, choose car decals if you need to stay consistent with your advertising message or prefer something more versatile.
- Budget. How much are you planning to spend on vehicle advertising? Car magnets are cheaper, while car decals have long-term value despite their higher cost. Small businesses can benefit from car magnets more because of their low initial costs, but established businesses might see investing in car decals as a better option.
- Design Needs. Is your design composed of your logo and contact information, or does it require more intricate details? If you’re working with a simple design, opt for car magnets. For full-color graphics that showcase your products and message, choose car decals.
- Ease of Use. If you prefer a beginner-friendly application, car magnets are what you need. On the other hand, decals require more effort in their application.
- Weather Conditions. If you’re advertising in places or seasons involving harsh weather conditions, car decals will stay intact better than car magnets. For areas with mild climates, opt for car magnets instead.
- Ad Placement. When choosing between car magnets and car decals, consider where to place your ad on the vehicle. Choose car magnets if you only want to stick your ad on metal surfaces. Go for car decals if you want to maximize visibility, and place your ad on windows, doors, or the front or back of the vehicle.
- Vehicle Safety. Both options can cause damage to vehicles when not removed properly. Car magnets can cause scratches on the car, while decals can damage the paint. Whether you choose car decals or car magnets, remember to read instructions on properly caring for them.
Conclusion
When deciding between car magnets and car decals, consider your needs, budget, and advertising goals. Car magnets are flexible and easy to use, suitable for temporary promotions and short-term campaigns. Meanwhile, car decals are more permanent and professional, perfect for long-term use and detailed graphics.
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