KNOWLEDGE HUB

Polypropylene vs Vinyl Tape: Which Is Best for Packaging?

By Millie Hill
Print & Bespoke Products Specialist
Last updated: 07/10/26

Comparison of poly and vinyl printed tape materials showing different custom printed packaging tape options.

Polypropylene and vinyl printed tapes are both suitable for packaging, but they have different strengths. Polypropylene is generally the more economical option for high-volume packaging, while vinyl offers a premium finish, quieter application and excellent print quality. The right choice depends on your budget, packaging environment and design requirements.

Feature PolypropyleneVinyl
CostLowerHigher
Print qualityGoodExcellent
Number of print coloursUp to 3Up to 4
Detailed designs GoodBetter suited
AppearanceGlossy / standard Premium finish
NoiseLouderQuieter
Best forHigh-volume packagingPremium branding
DurabilityHighHigh

Compare all custom printed tapes

2 Minute Read

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Polypropylene printed tape can be up to 20% cheaper than vinyl

Polypropylene custom printed tape is the most economical. In fact, it can be up to 20% cheaper than vinyl. This saving may not sound like much, but if you’re a high-volume user, it can really make a difference.

For example, 360 rolls of a one colour design would be £994 when using vinyl. On the other hand, the same quantity and colours using polypropylene would be £734. That would offer a £260 saving. However, vinyl shouldn’t be overlooked as it has some key advantages (details below).

Prices correct at time of post and based on Le Mark’s standard retail price.

Designs we love on Polypropylene

Custom printed polypropylene packing tape with branded logo design providing an affordable solution for secure packaging and brand promotion.
Custom printed polypropylene packing tape with branded logo design providing an affordable solution for secure packaging and brand promotion.
Polypropylene Custom Printed Tape | Colours - 1 (Orange) | Positive Print
Polypropylene Custom Printed Tape | Colours - 1 (Orange) | Positive Print
Polypropylene Custom Printed Tape | Colours - 1 (Turquoise) | Positive Print
Polypropylene Custom Printed Tape | Colours - 1 (Turquoise) | Positive Print
Polypropylene Custom Printed Tape | Colours - 1 (Blue) | Positive Print
Polypropylene Custom Printed Tape | Colours - 1 (Blue) | Positive Print
Polypropylene Custom Printed Tape | Colours - 2 (Black, Turquoise) | Positive Print
Polypropylene Custom Printed Tape | Colours - 2 (Black, Turquoise) | Positive Print
Polypropylene Printed Tape | Colours - 1 (Lime) | Positive Print
Polypropylene Printed Tape | Colours - 1 (Lime) | Positive Print
Polypropylene Custom Printed Tape | Colours - 1 (Blue) | Positive Print
Polypropylene Custom Printed Tape | Colours - 1 (Blue) | Positive Print

Vinyl is quieter (and potentially safer)

Have you ever heard the screeeeeching sound from polypropylene packing tape? It can generate well over 100dB. Even ‘low-noise polypropylene’ can hit 90dB. On the other hand, custom printed vinyl packaging tape is much quieter, averaging only 72dB in our tests. This discreet unrolling can make it easier for workers to hear what’s going on around them. As a result, it can potentially improve safety, especially in busy packaging areas. Similarly, it’s often the preferred choice for businesses that pack in close proximity to co-workers, like telesales teams.

My colleague, Mark, demonstrates the difference

Vinyl is best for print quality

If your design is multi-coloured or complex, a vinyl custom printed tape will likely give the best results. Vinyl receives the ink better than poly; thus, there’s less colour bleed. As a result, the print quality on vinyl allows for more detail in your design and often a sharper finish.

Furthermore, vinyl is recommended for designs that require flood coating or reverse printing as it gives the best result.

Designs we love on Vinyl

Custom Printed Packing Tape | Vinyl | Colours - 2 (Grey, Red) | Positive & Reverse Print
Custom Printed Packing Tape | Vinyl | Colours - 2 (Grey, Red) | Positive & Reverse Print
Vinyl Printed Tape | Colours - 1 (Blue) | Reverse Print
Vinyl Printed Tape | Colours - 1 (Blue) | Reverse Print
Vinyl Printed Tape | Colours - 1 (Silver) + Flood Coat
Vinyl Printed Tape | Colours - 1 (Silver) + Flood Coat
Premium vinyl custom printed packing tape featuring high-quality branded artwork for secure packaging and enhanced brand visibility.
Premium vinyl custom printed packing tape featuring high-quality branded artwork for secure packaging and enhanced brand visibility.
Custom Printed Packing Tape | Vinyl | Colours - 2 (Blue, Orange) | Positive Print
Custom Printed Packing Tape | Vinyl | Colours - 2 (Blue, Orange) | Positive Print
Custom Printed Packing Tape | Vinyl | 2 Colour (Black, Blue)
Custom Printed Packing Tape | Vinyl | 2 Colour (Black, Blue)
Vinyl Printed Tape | Colours - 2 (Black, Gold) | Positive print with reverse printed social media icons
Vinyl Printed Tape | Colours - 2 (Black, Gold) | Positive print with reverse printed social media icons
Custom Printed Packing Tape | Vinyl | Colours - 2 (Black, Grey) | Positive and Reverse Print
Custom Printed Packing Tape | Vinyl | Colours - 2 (Black, Grey) | Positive and Reverse Print
Custom Printed Packing Tape | Vinyl | Colours - 3 (Black, Blue, Brown) | Positive and Reverse Print
Custom Printed Packing Tape | Vinyl | Colours - 3 (Black, Blue, Brown) | Positive and Reverse Print
Custom Printed Packing Tape | Vinyl | Colours - 1 (Black) | Positive Print
Custom Printed Packing Tape | Vinyl | Colours - 1 (Black) | Positive Print

Which Is More Environmentally Friendly?

Both polypropylene and vinyl tapes are known as ‘recycling process friendly‘. However, they are both still plastic-based materials and may not be suitable for businesses looking to reduce plastic packaging.

If sustainability is a priority, custom printed paper tape or custom printed water-activated paper tape may be a better alternative. These products are increasingly popular with businesses looking to reduce their use of plastics.

Polypropylene vs Vinyl Printed Tape: At a Glance

Choose polypropylene if:

  • You want the lowest cost per roll
  • You ship high volumes
  • You need reliable everyday packaging

Choose vinyl if:

  • Brand appearance is important
  • You require detailed artwork
  • You want quieter tape application
  • You need premium printed tape

Which Tape is Best for My Business?

If you’re sending large volumes of parcels and want the most economical solution, polypropylene custom printed tape is often the best choice.

If brand presentation is a priority, vinyl custom printed tape offers superior print quality, reduced noise during application and a more premium appearance.

For many ecommerce businesses, polypropylene provides the best balance of cost and performance. However, luxury brands and businesses using intricate artwork often prefer vinyl due to its enhanced print finish and colour reproduction.

FAQs

Both polypropylene and vinyl custom tapes are very similar in terms of durability.

Vinyl tape is generally quieter during application than polypropylene tape, making it a popular choice in busy packing environments.

The best material depends on your priorities. Polypropylene offers excellent value, while vinyl provides enhanced print quality and a more premium appearance.

Yes. Polypropylene tape is widely used by ecommerce businesses because it offers strong performance, reliable branding opportunities and a lower cost per roll.

Both polypropylene and vinyl can produce excellent results. However, vinyl is generally preferred for:

  • Small text
  • Detailed logos
  • Reverse printing
  • Flood coating
  • Multi-colour designs

If your artwork is highly detailed, vinyl is often the recommended material for achieving the sharpest possible print quality.

Design your own printed tape

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Summary

If cost is a deciding factor, then a polypropylene printed tape may be the one for you. However, if print quality, design versatility and low-noise are high in your requirements, I’d recommend choosing vinyl. Ultimately, I’m here to help you find the best printed tape for your needs. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

Key Takeaways

  • Polypropylene regularly offers the best value
  • Vinyl is less noisy and can improve safety in packing areas
  • Vinyl is recommended for intricate designs, flood coating & reverse printing

Talk to a human

Millie

Hi, I’m Millie

I’ve been specialising in custom printed tape and branded packaging solutions for over 7 years. Whether you need help with tape design, artwork preparation or choosing the right printed tape for your application, I’m here to help.

Feel free to contact me directly with any questions about custom tape, printed tape or your artwork requirements.

01480 494540
millie@lemark.co.uk

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