Short answer: for the lowest cost on a large run of simple cards, use paper. For a card that lasts and can open your digital profile, use PVC; for a premium impression, metal; for a natural look with a simple logo, wood. We do not quote paper printing prices here because they depend on quantity, paper weight and finish, and change between printers; ask two or three printers for the same specification and compare.
The main options
| Material | Strengths | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Paper or card stock | Cheapest per card for large runs; many finishes | Bends and wears; details cannot change after printing |
| PVC plastic | Durable; full-colour print on both sides | Plastic feel; standard bank-card size |
| Metal | Premium feel and weight | Metal side printed in one colour; metal blocks NFC, so the tap side is PVC |
| Wood | Natural look | Single-colour print; wood tone varies |
For NFC cards, our own products work like this: the PVC card is printed in full colour; the metal card has a metal front in black, gold or silver with a PVC back; the wooden card is printed in a single colour on both sides. Compare them in metal vs PVC vs wooden, and see current prices on each product page.
What to ask a printer
- What is the exact trim size, and do you have a template? (See visiting card size.)
- Do you need 3 mm bleed, and which file formats do you accept?
- Which paper weight and finish (matte, gloss, laminated) does this quote include?
- Will I get a proof before the full run?
- What is the price for the quantity I need, and does it include cutting and delivery?
- How long does printing take after I approve the proof?
What changes the price
Quantity, paper weight, finish, single or double side, number of colours, special cutting and delivery. A higher quantity lowers the cost per card; extras like lamination add to it.
Avoiding reprints
- Proofread every name and number.
- Send vector artwork or 300 DPI images.
- Keep text 3 mm inside the edge.
- Check the proof on paper, not just on a screen.
When paper is not enough
A paper card cannot be updated. If your phone number, job title or address might change, or you want people to see your reviews, WhatsApp and website in one tap, an NFC card keeps the details in an editable digital profile. Our NFC cards include free profile updates for 2 years from activation. See NFC visiting cards, or read NFC card prices in Pakistan for what each type costs and why.
Next step
Not sure which suits you? Message us on WhatsApp +92 335 6656657 with your profession and how many cards you need.
Sources
- ISO, ISO/IEC 7810: Identification cards, physical characteristics.
- Material details are from our own product pages.
Talk to us
Questions, or want a free mockup of your card? Message us on WhatsApp on +92 335 6656657, or see our NFC product range.
