Matte vs Gloss Roll Labels

Choosing between matte and gloss is about readability, glare, and overall look.

It does not determine durability. That comes from the label material (paper vs BOPP).

Both matte and gloss are available in paper and BOPP roll labels.

 Choose Matte if:

  • You want low glare
  • You have text, barcodes, or QR codes
  • You plan to write on the label
  • You prefer a clean, understated look

Choose Gloss if:

  • You want bright colors and shine
  • Your design is simple and bold
  • Shelf appeal matters more than glare

 

Finish vs material

  • Finish (matte or gloss) affects appearance and glare
  • Material (paper or BOPP) affects durability and environment

A gloss label is not “stronger” than matte.

A matte label is not automatically “paper.”

 

 

Matte vs Gloss at a glance

What matters

Matte finish

Gloss finish

Surface look

Smooth, non-reflective

Shiny, reflective

Glare

Low

High

Readability

Excellent

Good (can reflect light)

Writing on labels

Easier

Harder

Color pop

Soft, muted

Bright, vibrant

Barcodes & QR codes

Preferred

Can be affected by glare

 

 

Matte Labels: when readability matters

Matte labels reduce reflections, making them easier to read under bright lighting and more reliable for scanning.

Best for

  • Text-heavy labels
  • Barcodes and QR codes
  • Industrial, warehouse, or logistics use
  • Products where pricing, dates, or batch codes are handwritten
  • A premium, subtle aesthetic

Matte finishes are often chosen when function matters more than shine.

 

Gloss Labels: when visual impact matters

Gloss labels reflect light and make colors appear more vibrant. They’re commonly used when shelf appeal is the priority.

Best for

  • Retail packaging
  • Bold logos and graphics
  • Product labels where appearance is the focus
  • Designs with minimal text

Gloss finishes tend to highlight color and contrast but can reflect overhead lighting.

 

Common misconceptions

  • “Gloss means waterproof.”
    No. Finish affects appearance. Material affects durability.
  • “Matte is lower quality.”
    Not true. Matte is often chosen intentionally for readability and a premium feel.
  • “Gloss always scans fine.”
    It can, but glare can interfere with scanners depending on lighting and angle.

 

Our most common roll label finishes: 

 

Still have questions? 

If you’re choosing between matte and gloss, ask yourself:

  • Will this label be scanned?
  • Will it be read under bright lights?
  • Is the design text-heavy or graphic-heavy?

If you want help, tell us your use case and printer model and we’ll recommend the right finish. CONTACT US

Matte vs Gloss FAQs

Matte is generally the safer choice for barcodes and QR codes because it reduces glare and reflections. Gloss finishes can reflect overhead lighting, which may interfere with scanning depending on angle and environment.

They can. Gloss finishes reflect light, which may reduce readability under bright, direct, or uneven lighting. Matte finishes diffuse light and are often easier to read in retail, warehouse, and industrial settings.

No. Matte and gloss communicate different aesthetics. Gloss is commonly used for bold, high-impact retail designs. Matte is often chosen for a clean, understated, or refined look and is frequently used on premium or minimalist packaging.

Writing on matte labels is generally easier and more consistent. Ink tends to dry faster and smear less. Writing on gloss labels is possible, but drying time and marker or pen choice matter more.

No. Finish does not determine durability. Durability depends on the label material (such as paper vs BOPP), the adhesive, and the environment. Finish primarily affects appearance, glare, and readability.

Both. Choose matte when readability, scanning, or writing matters. Choose gloss when visual impact and color vibrancy are the priority. The right choice depends on how and where the label will be used.