Hard Enamel vs Soft Enamel: What's the Difference?
Both start out exactly the same way — a die struck from your artwork and hand-filled with coloured enamel. What happens next is what gives each finish its very different look and feel.
6 min read · Updated September 2026
How Both Are Made
A die is cut from your artwork, then each badge is struck before being hand-filled with coloured enamel and polished. That part is identical for both finishes — the difference comes entirely in how the enamel is finished afterwards.
Soft Enamel
The enamel is left sitting within the recessed lines of your design, so you can feel the raised outline under your finger. It's the classic pin badge look — slightly textured, with visible definition between colours.
Hard Enamel
The enamel is polished flush after filling, so the whole surface sits level for a smooth, glass-like finish. No texture, no raised lines — just a sleek, premium surface.
Which Should You Choose?
| Soft Enamel | Hard Enamel | |
|---|---|---|
| Surface | Recessed, textured | Flush, smooth & glossy |
| Look | Classic, tactile | Sleek, premium |
| Best for | Club & team pins, everyday badges | Corporate & presentation badges |
| Price | The same — see our full enamel badge pricing guide | |
Not sure which fits your design? Send us your logo or artwork and we'll recommend the finish that'll show it off best — at no extra cost either way.
One More Option: Epoxy Dome
Either finish can also be covered with a clear epoxy dome for an extra 6p per badge — a raised, glossy bubble over the design that adds shine and extra durability, popular for badges that get a lot of handling.
Want an even smoother, glass-like finish? See Cloisonné vs Enamel Pin Badges.
See the full range on our enamel & die-struck badges page, including pricing by size and quantity.
Ready to Choose Your Finish?
Send us your design and we'll advise on hard or soft enamel, plus a free, no-obligation quote.
Request a Free Quote