Enamel Keychains vs. Acrylic Keychains: Which is Right for You？

Metal enamel keychains are generally the most durable keychain material. They can withstand everyday use and won't break down easily. 

While a decent acrylic keychain is not as durable as a metal keychain, it is more wear-resistant and durable than a wood keychain. Acrylic is inherently strong and is not going to deform with normal use unless exposed to excessive heat. But note, acrylic keychains are susceptible to scratches and break easily from hard impact.

Enamel keychains: Because of the metallic design, these keychains lend themselves to a more minimalist design. The metallic lines on the surface also give added depth to the design. Avoid too many colors because it will lose its overall impact; Around two or three colors is best. 

Acrylic keychains: Most of the patterns are printed, which guarantees bright colors, high definition, and detail. When compared to the simple design of enamel keychains, acrylic keychains typically have more design options, for example, photographs and illustrations.

Weight is a notable distinction between the two.

Acrylic keychains: Lightweight, typically 5g–15g (depends on thickness and size; 3mm is the average).

Enamel keychains: Heavier, typically 20g–50g (depends on size and metal material).

Because enamel is more difficult to produce, the price is higher than that of acrylic keychains. 

For a quantity of 100 2-inch keychains: Enamel keychain-$3.82 each.; Acrylic keychain-$2.37 each.

Enamel keychains:

 ● Metal plating: gold, silver, black nickel, rose gold, and antique finishes.

 ● Soft enamel and hard enamel.

 ● Choices: Epoxy coating, cutouts, laser numbered, rhinestones, and glow enamel. 

Acrylic keychains: 

 ● Double-sided or layered print. 

 ● Cut custom shape (die-cut to any shape). 

 ● Effects: holographic film, glitter, transparent colors, fluorescent, and glow-in-the-dark.

If you're on a limited budget, acrylic keychains are definitely a better value. The lower cost is attributed to the more straightforward production process for acrylic keychains. The production and finishing process is simpler, which means it can be mass-produced for lower cost, so they make good gifts for brand exposure, giveaways during trade shows, and fast-selling items for an e-commerce outlet. 

Enamel keychains will be overall more costly because there is more time invested in the process with metal, electroplating, color, and firing. Therefore, the price per unit will be double the price of acrylic or more. Enamel keychains are suited for the mid to high-end market for souvenirs or collectable items.

Acrylic keychains are aimed at the younger audience, anime enthusiasts, and personalization, which suits their creativity. Acrylic keychains can show detailed illustrations, characters from cartoons and trendy designs. For younger consumers, bright colors, clear or frosted finishes, and laser features can be very appealing.

Enamel keychains are more often preferred by quality and tactile individuals, such as collectors, corporate customers, or those looking for commemorative gift items. They prioritize the style, quality and sophistication of the keychain.

Acrylic keychains can showcase more detailed illustrations, characters from cartoons, and popular trends in accessories. Bright colors for younger consumers with different finishes like clear or frosted finishes, and some laser feel adds to the appeal.

Enamel keychains function better for long-term use, often over commemorative value, and branded products, including gifts for a company anniversary, gifts for museums, and travel souvenirs. Their metal finish and craftsmanship enhance their overall appearance. The metallic finish attracts your attention and will leave you with a lasting and memorable impression. 

If you want to implement designs that include complex patterns, gradients, and photos, acrylic keychains are a better material. Acrylic can support a high-definition print capacity that provides reproduction of the original artwork that is nearly perfect.

Enamel is more suited to simple designs that appear modern and elegant. 

An enamel keychain is reliant on the use of metallic lines to provide outlines or color fills, so overly complex designs are not recommended.

However, both metallic outlines and color fills can provide their own reliable means to convey a high-end, like feel or a retro or minimalist effect. Enamel keychains are suited for designs incorporating brand logos, a badge ideology like designs, or classic graphics.