Do you need a large, eye-catching visual that’ll draw attention to your brand? If so, then you might be looking at printed posters and banners. These are both hugely popular, but they’re typically used in different ways – and that’s why it’s essential you know what you’re buying.
Read on to see how printed banners and custom posters compare, including how they’re used and when you might want to pick one over the other.
What are the advantages of a poster?
Custom Posters are used to display new products, deals, and upcoming events.
These often include vibrant colours, sharp imagery, and are printed on high-quality paper or cardstock. Posters can also be printed in a range of sizes, ranging from small formats like A4, through to large formats like A1 and bigger. Custom posters are usually placed indoors, such as in retail stores, hair salons, community notice boards and coffee shops.
- Posters are most often seen up close, so they can include finer details
- They can be educational or explain complex deals or events
- Affordable materials generally make them the cheapest option
- Custom posters are easy to print in bulk and then distribute
- Poster prints are lightweight, so they’re portable and highly versatile
What are the advantages of a banner?
Printed banners are typically made from vinyl or fabric and are most often used outdoors.
Unlike poster prints, which are usually just stuck to a wall or window, banners can be hung or mounted with ropes or poles, attached to fences, hung from ceilings, or displayed on stands. You’ll find large-size banners at outdoor events, on shopfronts, building facades, and even used as overhead signage.
- Banners are usually seen from much further away than posters
- Hanging banners can be placed high above crowds and obstacles
- Vinyl banner printing makes for durable, weather-resistant products
- A larger banner means more design space for high-impact visuals
- Choose from a range of products, like economy and premium banners
How to choose between posters and banners
Whether you want poster prints or printed banners is entirely down to your marketing needs. Here are some guidelines to help you choose.
1. Think about location and placement
If you’re advertising inside a corner shop, you probably don’t need vinyl banner printing. Instead, an A3 or A2 poster could be just right. It’s smart to think about where your graphic will be displayed, be it a small store window or hanging from the ceiling of a shopping centre.
Did you know that some posters can be used outdoors? These outdoor posters are fully customisable and can be kept behind Perspex covers, like for billboards and at bus shelters.
2. Select the content to include
Banner printing is all about bold messaging and catchy slogans, while posters can feature more detailed information. So, you might use a banner to advertise a grand opening, and use a poster for a 2-for-1 deal. That’s because posters are designed for close-up viewing over a longer period, like at a coffee shop or reception area. Too much info on a banner could make it harder to read and easier to miss.
3. Decide how you’ll target your audience
You probably don’t need a mesh banner unless it’s for a building or scaffold. Likewise, An A3 poster might not be enough for a crowded show floor. That’s why it’s essential to consider who you’re targeting, under what situation, and whether it’s for a single wall or a hectic event space. For example, roller banners deliver style on wheels, and that makes them a great choice for exhibitions, product launches, activations, venues and open days.
4. Consider your budget
Custom posters are easy to print, so people often print multiple sheets at once. If you run out, or if they become damaged, you can always print more. Banners can be more expensive because of the materials, but you might not have to worry about getting them reprinted down the line – and that’s why you should decide what you can afford and how long your promotion will run.
We have banners for every situation, be it a tall and windy space or a bustling indoor area. Our double-sided banners can be used time and again, indoors and out. As such, they’re very cost-effective.
Check out our custom posters and printed banners
Ready to see our diverse product range? All of our banners and posters are sized to your needs, and you can choose between finishing requirements and production time. Upload any custom design or create one online using our handy customiser! Alternatively, get a custom quote for your individual needs.
Click the links for vinyl banner printing, poster printing, and for our wide range of creative products.
