ALUMINUM:
Aluminum Alloy: 1100, 3003, 5005, 5052.Thickness: 0.008 in., 0.012 in., 0.016 in., 0.020 in., 0.025 in., 0.032 in., 0.040 in., 0.050 in., 0.063 in., 0.080 in., 0.090 in., 0.125 in.
Aluminum material is most popular, can do stamped tags/labels, debossed/embossed/ etched name plate, printed nameplate etc..
STAINLESS STEEL:
Alloy: 304, 316, 321, 410, 430.Thickness: 0.016 in., 0.018 in.|0.024 in., 0.030 in., 0.036 in., 0.048 in., 0.060 in., 0.075 in.
Stainless Steel looks more high-end than aluminum, and harder, can do laser engraving, acid-etching, various printing, etc.
BRASS:
Alloy: 70/30 (260), 85/15 (230)Thickness: 0.016 in., 0.020 in., 0.032 in., 0.040 in., 0.050 in., 0.063 in., 0.093 in., 0.125 in.
Brass material can do stamped label/tag, debossed nameplate, etched name plate, and can electroplating other colors.
ZINC:
Zinc Alloy Thickness: 1-2mm.Mainly do elecformed zinc logo nameplates/badges for cloth, backpack, bag, wallet, belt etc.
✅ Introduction
Selecting the right material is a critical step in customizing your metal nameplate, label, tag, or signage. Each metal offers unique properties such as strength, appearance, cost-efficiency, and compatibility with certain finishes or environments.
This guide breaks down the most commonly used materials we offer, so you can make the best choice for your project’s function, style, and budget.
🛠️ Commonly Used Materials
🪙 1. Aluminum
Features:
- Lightweight and corrosion-resistant
- Excellent for printing, etching, and embossing
- Can be anodized, brushed, or powder coated
- Cost-effective for mass production
Best For:
Product labels, signage, decorative panels, photo prints, rating plates
Finishes Available:
Brushed, anodized (color or clear), matte, glossy, sandblasted
🔩 2. Stainless Steel
Features:
- Durable and strong for industrial applications
- Rust-resistant and weatherproof
- Ideal for engraved or laser-marked content
- Sleek, modern appearance
Best For:
Asset tags, machine nameplates, outdoor signs, ID plates
Finishes Available:
Mirror polish, brushed, bead-blasted, blackened, matte
🟡 3. Brass
Features:
- Elegant gold-like appearance
- Good corrosion resistance
- Suitable for antique or luxury designs
- Ages beautifully for vintage-style branding
Best For:
Decorative plaques, door nameplates, logo badges, trophies
Finishes Available:
Polished, antique bronze, satin brass, clear lacquered
🧲 4. Zinc Alloy
Features:
- Perfect for die-casting and 3D relief designs
- Heavyweight feel and complex shape molding
- Excellent for custom shapes and intricate logos
- High durability with strong impact resistance
Best For:
3D metal logos, wine labels, keychains, brand emblems
Finishes Available:
Electroplating (nickel, gold, black), painted, enamel-filled
🩶 5. Nickel
Features:
- Ultra-thin and shiny
- Precision-cut for tiny decorative stickers or badges
- Ideal for tech branding or appliance logos
- Strong adhesion for curved or flat surfaces
Best For:
Nickel logo stickers, phone & electronics branding, fashion tags
Finishes Available:
Mirror silver, matte silver, black nickel, brushed
🪙 6. Tinplate / Iron
Features:
- Budget-friendly for high-volume orders
- Lightweight and flexible
- Suitable for soft embossed or lithographed finishes
- Common in packaging and product labeling
Best For:
Tin wine labels, promotional badges, gift tags
Finishes Available:
Printed, varnished, embossed
🔍 Quick Material Comparison Table
| Material | Cost | Durability | Appearance | Weight | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aluminum | ★★★ | ★★★ | Modern, clean | Light | Labels, signs, panels |
| Stainless Steel | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Industrial, polished | Medium | Machinery, outdoors |
| Brass | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | Luxury, classic | Medium | Plaques, trophies |
| Zinc Alloy | ★★★ | ★★★★ | Sculpted, heavy | Heavy | Emblems, keychains |
| Nickel | ★★★★ | ★★★ | Sleek, high-tech | Very Light | Stickers, tech branding |
| Tinplate/Iron | ★★ | ★★ | Economical, basic | Light | Promotions, labels |
✅ How to Choose the Best Material
- For Outdoor or Industrial Use: Stainless steel or anodized aluminum
- For Premium or Luxury Look: Brass or polished zinc alloy
- For Lightweight Branding: Aluminum or nickel
- For 3D Custom Shapes: Zinc alloy die-casting
- For Budget Promotions: Tinplate or printed aluminum
- For High-Tech Feel: Nickel with mirror or matte finish
If you’re unsure, just contact us — we’ll recommend the most suitable material based on your application, budget, and visual preference.
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Not sure what material fits your project best?
Our experts will help you compare options and send free samples upon request.