What's the difference between decals and stickers?

Decals and stickers look similar at first glance, which is why a lot of people use the terms as if they mean the same thing. But they’re not exactly the same. If you've ever ordered one when you really needed the other, you’re not alone.

What is a sticker?

A sticker is made up of two layers: the front side with your design and a backing paper that protects the adhesive. When you’re ready to use it, you just peel it off and stick it down. Simple.

Stickers are generally printed on paper, plastic, or adhesive vinyl material. You’ll see them on laptops, water bottles, notebooks, packaging, and all kinds of smooth surfaces. They come in endless shapes and styles. They range from small decorative pieces to large bumper stickers for branding or fun messages.

While some custom stickers are waterproof or UV-resistant, many are best for indoor use. Paper ones especially tend to wear down over time. If you need something longer-lasting or for more demanding conditions, vinyl might be the better choice.

Recommended reading: What are stickers made of?

What is a decal?

A decal is basically a more specialized type of sticker, often used when you need something larger, more detailed, or longer-lasting. Unlike regular stickers, decals usually have three layers: backing paper, the design on vinyl, and a transfer tape on top. This top layer helps you place and apply it cleanly

You’ll often find vinyl decals on vehicles, windows, walls, floors, or signs. They’re commonly used for vehicle graphics, wall decals, and window decals. The extra layer (the transfer tape) helps you keep everything aligned. This is especially for cut vinyl decals with separate lettering or intricate shapes.

Most transfer decals are designed for solid surfaces and are great for both indoor and outdoor use. They're more resistant to fading and weather than a standard sticker, especially when made with vinyl or polyester material.

Main differences between decals and stickers

It’s easy to mix up decals and stickers, but there are some key differences that can help you pick the right one.

Layers

• Stickers usually have two layers: design + backing paper
• Decals usually have three layers: a backing paper, the design, and a transfer tape to help with application

Application

• Stickers: peel and place
• Decals: use the transfer layer to position, then press down using a card or squeegee

Best for

• Stickers: smaller items like water bottles, laptops, notebooks
• Decals: larger surfaces like walls, windows, vehicles

Durability

• Stickers vary depending on material — some fade or peel over time
• Decals (especially custom printed ones) are more durable, especially outdoors

Design complexity

• Stickers are great for full-color art and simple shapes
• Decals work better for cut vinyl designs, script fonts, and precise layouts

Surface compatibility

• Stickers: best on flat, smooth surfaces
• Decals: also work on curved surfaces and textured areas, depending on the material

Just remember: not all stickers are decals, but many decals are technically considered a type of sticker.

At Sticker it, most of our custom stickers are made to handle both indoor and outdoor use, except for our eco-friendly ones, which are better suited for indoor use. You can get waterproof and UV-resistant stickers in any shape, size, and material you need.

Final thoughts

Both stickers and decals have their place; it really depends on what you're decorating and how long you want it to last. Customizing a laptop? Adding your logo to a window? Creating vinyl stickers for your car? Knowing the difference helps you get better results

Want help choosing the right option? Drop your design into our builder and we’ll show you what works best. Start with our most popular choice - circle stickers.