One of the most frequently-asked questions we receive here at NexCards.com directly relates to the options around business card stock. Your choice will depend on things such as the characteristics of your target customer, your brand positioning, your budget, and other factors.

Generally speaking, your business card stock options can be broadly segregated into 3 categories: paper stock, card stock, and other stock.

Paper, or “matte,” stock is always the least expensive and lowest quality option. It stands to reason that paper cannot be as durable, elegant, or “awe-inspiring” as the other 2 types. Paper stock is generally the most common business card medium out there, but that is mostly due to the fact that it is by far the cheapest option. The major downside is that this cheapness applies to the look and feel as well as the price, and utilizing bottom-of-the-barrel matte business cards can be expected to generate little more than a “ho-hum” first impression among clients and customers.

A much better option is actual card stock. Simplistically, this stock is akin to cardboard as opposed to paper, and thus by default can be expected to last longer and generate a higher perception of quality. Card stocks come in a variety of flavors such as glossy UV, silk, ivory, and synthetic materials.

Glossy business cards are usually the least expensive option. This option is appropriate for small businesses on tight budgets, and their shiny coating helps them stand out from traditional paper stocks. The primary downside is that glossy stock is not writable, and is prone to fingerprinting and glare.

On the other end of the spectrum, probably the highest quality card stock is silk. Silk business cards are non-glossy so they are fully writable and are not prone to finger smudges like glossy business cards. Also, this card stock is silky smooth, possessing an almost nylon-like look and feel. Silk business cards are definitely unique and are appropriate for businesses looking to exude class and elegance. And, while more expensive than glossy business cards, silk business cards are still very cost-effective.

The final category, “other stock,” encompasses “super premium” options like metal business cards, plastic business cards, translucent poly frost business cards, and magnetic business cards.

Of course a metal business card or plastic business card will wow your clients, but these tend to be at least triple the cost of any other type of card. Magnetic cards are useful because they have a functional purpose that will ensure a longer “shelf-life” once given to clients, but they too tend to be on the pricey side.

The product that represents the best compromise between uniqueness and cost is probably translucent poly frost cards. The thin plastic stock coupled with the inherent translucency offers class and elegance, and is typically priced similarly to standard card stocks.

To sum it all up, stay away from paper stocks unless you do not care about your customers’ perception of you and your company. If you are looking for an elegant business card at a reasonable price, opt for silk business cards. If you are looking for extreme uniqueness at a reasonable price, opt for translucent poly frost plastic business cards.