What Is the Difference Between 14pt and 16pt Business Cards?

Your business card's weight and thickness depend on factors such as your budget, design requirements, and preference. While weightier cards look and feel more substantial, lighter ones cost less and are easier to carry around.

This blog post compares two popular business card widths (14pt and 16pt). So what is the difference between 14pt and 16pt business cards?

What Thickness Is Best for Business Cards?

Point (pt) is a unit of measurement that indicates paper thickness in the printing industry. A 14pt card is 0.014 inches thick, while a 16pt card is 0.016 inches thick. Thus, a 16pt card is slightly thicker and heavier than a 14pt card.

Consequently, a 16pt card feels sturdier and more substantial than a 14pt alternative. In addition, heavier stocks resist creasing and have a higher-quality look and feel.

However, 14pt cards are thinner and durable enough for printing. These properties make them affordable and easier to carry in bulk. Also, they are more flexible than the 16pt cardstock.

14pt vs 16pt business card stocks are popular options with peculiar advantages. We'd now consider their unique use cases and benefits to help you decide when shopping for a business card.

What Is the Difference between 14pt and 16pt Business Cards?

When comparing 14 pt cardstock vs 16pt cardstock, printing experts recommend lighter card stock for some design requirements while favoring weightier stocks for others. So, how does a 14pt vs. 16pt cardstock compare? We’ll see.

14pt Cards

A 14pt card stock thickness in inches is 0.014 inches. It offers these advantages:

Cost-effective: They are generally more affordable than thicker stock. So, these cards are a cost-effective choice.

Flexible and portable: 14pt stock is thinner and flexible, making it the ideal paper for Foldover business cards. In addition, these cards don't weigh much, so they are easy to carry around in bulk and won't impact the weight of your client's wallet.

A 14pt card will do the job, but note that these cards are less durable than the 16pt option. Also, some recipients are biased towards lightweight cards and may associate thicker stocks with higher quality. So a 14pt card may fail to leave a strong impression.

Another major drawback to using a 14pt card is that some finishes, such as embossing, debossing, or foil stamping, may be unavailable for thinner cards.

However, 14pt cards make the perfect Mini, Standard, or Foldover business card.

16pt Cards

A 16pt paper thickness has these advantages:

Premium feel and more durable: A weightier business card conveys quality and professionalism. Also, these cards are more durable and less prone to damage.

More options for special finishes: A 16pt cardstock can handle additional printing techniques, such as spot UV coating, embossing, debossing, and foil stamping, thus enhancing the visual appeal and overall card quality.

However, some potential drawbacks are the higher cost, less portability, and recipients occasionally interpreting your card presentation as too formal or excessive.

Enhancing Brand Impact with Premium Cardstock

Selecting the right cardstock for your business cards can significantly enhance your brand's perception. When it comes to deciding between 14pt and 16pt thicknesses, your choice conveys not only a sense of quality but also your brand's emphasis on detail and professionalism. A 16pt cardstock offers a more premium and robust feel, reflecting an image of solidity and longevity which can be particularly impactful for luxury brands or services that prioritize high quality above all else.

Moreover, the tactile experience of thicker cardstock, such as 16pt, often translates to a more memorable interaction with potential clients or partners. When that card sits alongside others in a wallet or a desk drawer, its substantial nature keeps your brand palpable and top of mind. Conversely, if minimalism and cost-effectiveness are integral to your brand values, a 14pt option provides a sleek, lightweight alternative that aligns with such an ethos, without sacrificing the tactile experience entirely.

Conclusion: Is 14pt or 16pt Better?

So what is the difference between 14pt and 16pt business cards? These cards have different weights, widths, and separate use cases. Depending on your preferences and needs, one might be better for you than the other. However, they are both popular choices for promoting your business.
Ordering a business card online from a reliable service like 4OVER4 will ensure your card meets your desired standard and impresses your audience. Call on +1 718-932-2700 or mail us at support@4over4.com to get started.

FAQs

Q: What are 14pt and 16pt cardstock, and how do they compare?

A: 14pt and 16pt cardstock are paper types commonly used in printing business cards, flyers, postcards, and more. The difference between the two lies in their thickness; 16pt cardstock is thicker and more durable than the 14pt option.

Q: When should I choose 14pt cardstock over 16pt for my marketing materials?

A: 14pt cardstock is a better option if you want a more economical choice that is still visually appealing. It is commonly used for promotional materials like flyers and brochures.

Q: In what situations would 16pt cardstock be the best choice?

A: 16pt cardstock is recommended when durability is a priority. It is thicker and more resistant to wear and tear, making it a great option for business cards or materials that will be handled frequently, such as tags or trade show handouts.

Q: How does the finish of the paper, such as matte or glossy, affect the choice between 14pt and 16pt cardstock?

A: The finish of the paper can impact the final look and feel of your materials. Matte finishes offer a softer look, while glossy finishes provide a more vibrant appearance. The choice between 14pt and 16pt should be based on both the finish and the durability required for the specific project.

Q: How does the thickness of 14pt and 16pt cardstock affect printing quality and durability?

A: Thicker paper options like 16pt cardstock are less likely to bend or tear during handling compared to 14pt cardstock. This added durability ensures that your printed materials will maintain their quality even with frequent use.

Q: Is there a significant difference in cost between 14pt and 16pt cardstock?

A: The cost difference between 14pt and 16pt cardstock varies based on factors like quantity and special finishes like laminate or adhesive. Generally, 16pt cardstock may be slightly more expensive due to its added thickness and durability.