Two badges can look alike on the first day. The difference shows up a few months later. Here is what actually changes between an engraved badge and a printed one, and when each makes sense.
How a printed badge is made
A printed badge has ink on its surface. That is what makes full-color logos and photos possible. It is also the weak spot: the ink sits on top, so depending on the print and any coating over it, it can scratch, rub or fade over time.
How an engraved badge is made
Our badges are 1/16 inch two-ply engraving acrylic: a thin colored or metal-look cap over a contrasting core. The laser cuts the lettering through the cap, so the letters you read are the core showing through. The text is part of the badge, not a coating on top of it, so there is nothing on the surface to wear away.
What that means day to day
- It stays readable. Engraved lettering can't smudge, peel or wear off in a pocket.
- It matches on every reorder. We keep your design on file, so a badge we make next year matches the ones on staff today.
- It has a real finish. Brushed gold and silver have the metal look without the weight, and they never rust, tarnish or need polish. Our wood badges are a sealed wood-fiber board with a walnut, maple or black finish.
When printing is the better choice
Engraving is one color. A full-color logo, a gradient or a photo has to be printed, so if your logo depends on several colors, a printed badge will show it more faithfully. Many logos have a one-color version, and that is what we engrave. If fine lines or small lettering won't hold up, we show you on the proof and suggest a cleaner version before anything is cut.
What an engraved badge costs with us
Our Brushed Gold or Silver Name Badge is $9 in the 1 x 3 inch size, with a magnetic back included. In a Business Name Badge Set of 25, badges work out to $5.20 each. Logos go on with no setup fee, and shipping is a flat $5.99 within the US.
See it before we make it
Ask for a free digital proof when you order and we send it within 1 business day. Nothing is engraved until you approve it. Questions about materials, backings or turnaround? Our FAQ covers them, or email us at contact@nametagsplus.com.