Matte Vs Gloss The Age-Old Debate Discussed in Detail

There are many ongoing debates in the packaging industry, and one such debate is the matte vs gloss finish. Brands have been actively researching which finish attracts more customers. There is no definite answer to this question. It is important to note that each finish has something different to offer. 

From getting to know why brands use finishing to decide which finish suits your brand better, this guide covers the important aspects. Read this blog till the end to know the basics of matte vs gloss finish. 

Why Brands Use Finishes on Packaging? 

Before exploring which finish is better for your packaging, let's see why brands go for finishes on their packaging boxes. Customization, as we know, helps a brand in standing out from the competition. Finishing techniques are one such customization. 

A finishing technique adds a final touch to your aesthetically pleasing customized packaging boxes. Different brands use these finishing techniques to improve their visibility. Matte and gloss are two of the most common finishes used by packaging companies. 

What is Matte Finish?

Matte finish is used by many brands worldwide because it offers a soft touch. This technique absorbs most of the light and gives a muted look. However, this does not mean that the boxes with matte finish do not attract attention. Boxes with matte finish offer a textured feel and do persuade customers.

How is Choosing Matte Finish Beneficial?

If your brand wants to choose matte finish on your product packaging, take a look at these benefits: 

Enhances Readibility 

Matte finish reduces the glare produced by the light, therefore, it enhances the readability of your packaging. This means if your brand has used a large size font on your packaging boxes, it can be read from a far place without any problem. 

Hides Minor Imperfections

Most brands go for recycled packaging, which means there can be certain imperfections like, scratches, dust smudges, and more. Using matte finish reduces these imperfections making your packaging boxes appear good-as-new.  

Good for Monochrome Packaging

Another advantage that matte finish offers is it enhances the texture and fine details. This is the reason this finishing technique is best suitable for monochrome packaging designs. Most brands use colors like black, brown, and other warm tones with matte finish. 

What are the Downside of Using Matte Finish?

While matte finish offers great benefits, there are a few drawbacks to keep in mind when you are opting this finish. Here are three disadvantages of using matte finish:

Needs Protection from Color Fade

Prolonged exposure to sunlight can affect the matte finish. The packaging boxes with matte finish need more protection when exposed to direct sunlight. 

Reduced Vibrancy

Matte finish reduces the vibrancy of colors on your packaging boxes. This is the reason why brands don’t use matte finish when they are using cool and bright colors. 

Prone to Scratches

Your packaging boxes are more prone to scratches when they have matte finish because there is no added protective layer around the box. 

What is Gloss Finish?

Brands use gloss finish to add a shine to their packaging boxes. Using  glossy finish, a layer of protection is added around the box. This layer reflects maximum light while offering a luxurious look to your packaging boxes. 

What are Some Benefits of Gloss?

Before deciding that your brand will be using gloss finish for your packaging boxes, it is important to know what benefits the brand can get from it. Some of these are: 

Vibrancy 

A gloss finish is used to highlight the colors and make them more vibrant. This means that even if your brand is using warm and dull tones, a vibrant touch is still visible. 

Moisture Resistant

The added layer around the packaging boxes resists moisture. This finish adds another layer of protection, and ensures your products safety from moisture. 

Sharper Details

Your brand can highlight and enhance the intricate details in packaging boxes using gloss finish. Many brands use glossy finish when they have intricate designs on their boxes. 

What are a Few Drawbacks of Gloss?

Gloss finish provides many benefits, but there are some drawbacks to know before finalizing the decision. A few disadvantages of using gloss finish are:

Adds Glare

Gloss finish reflects maximum light, and sometimes it does no good for the packaging. Under certain lightning conditions, glossy finish can add glare. 

Leaves Fingerprints 

Your packaging is more prone to have fingerprints if it has glossy finish. These fingerprints do not look appealing. 

Diminished Visibility 

Cosnumers can face difficulty in reading the brand’s or product’s name if it has glossy finish. This happens because gloss reflects maximum light. 

Matte Vs Gloss: Which Finish to Prefer?

The ongoing debate of matte vs gloss can be concluded by a brand, if they have clarity on some aspects. Here are a few factors to keep in mind when deciding which finish your brand should prefer for your packaging boxes: 

Which Colors Your Brand is Choosing?

Start by choosing the colors for your packaging boxes. If your brand is using bright colors and cool tones, try gloss finish. However, if your brand is using dull colors and warm tones, matte finish will complement well. 

If the brands are using a blend of colors, gloss finish can enhance the overall look. Matte looks best on monochrome packaging. However,  this is not a hard and fast rule. Your brand can always have gloss finish on dull and warm tones. 

Does Your Brand Want a Sharp Look? 

It is important to decide whether or not your brand wants a sharp look on your packaging boxes. For colorful images on the boxes, using gloss finish can enhance the overall look. Similarly, if your brand is not into using intricate designs, opt for matte finish. 

Use matte finish on your packaging boxes, if there are abstract art or doodles. Researching the market before using sharp images and designs can help a brand understand the consumer better. 

How Does Packaging Reach the Consumer? 

Last but not least, decide the finish based on how they will reach the consumer. For instance, if your brand solely focuses on online sales, choosing gloss finish can be a good idea. However, if your brand is in retail business, choosing matte is the best idea. 

The logic behind it is very simple. Fewer people touch your packaging when it comes to online shipping. But when your packaging boxes are on the shelves, you cannot predict how many people will grab them to take a closer look. 

Matte Vs Gloss: Which Finish Your Packaging Boxes Need?

There are no certain rules and circumstances where your brand  has to choose between the two. But these are a few considerations that can improve your chances of visibility. Custom Boxes Lane offers high-quality packaging boxes and finishing to its customers. Get your custom quote today!