Lapel pin
A lapel pin is a small pin often worn on the lapel of a jacket. Lapel pins can be ornamental or can indicate wearer's affiliation with an organization or cause. Before the popularity of wearing lapel pins, boutonnières were worn.
Medal
A medal or medallion is a small portable artistic object, a thin disc, normally of metal, carrying a design, usually on both sides. They typically have a commemorative purpose of some kind, and many are given as awards. They may be intended to be worn, su
Challenge coin
A challenge coin is a small coin or medallion, bearing an organization's insignia or emblem and carried by the organization's members.
Keychain
A keychain (also key fob or keyring) is a small ring or chain of metal to which several keys can be attached. The length of a keychain allows an item to be used more easily than if connected directly to a keyring.
Enamel Pin vs Badge: What's the Difference?
When browsing through custom accessories, two terms often come up: enamel pins and badges. They might look similar at first glance, but these two items serve very different purposes. Whether you're looking to create a stylish accessory or an identification tool, understanding the difference between enamel pins and badges will help you choose the right product for your needs.
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between enamel pins and badges in terms of design, use, materials, and customization options.
What Is an Enamel Pin?
An enamel pin is a small, decorative pin typically made of metal and filled with colored enamel. It's designed to be worn on clothing, bags, hats, or displayed on pin boards. Enamel pins are known for their artistic and collectible value, and are widely used for:
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Branding
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Fundraising & awareness campaigns
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Event giveaways
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Merch for artists or creators
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Fashion & pop culture expression
There are two main types: -
Soft enamel pins: Have raised metal lines and a textured surface.
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Hard enamel pins: Have a smooth, polished finish and slightly higher durability.
What Is a Badge?A badge is typically used for identification or to indicate status, role, or membership. While some badges can also be decorative, most are functional in nature. Badges are commonly used by:
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Schools (student badges, prefects)
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Businesses (name tags, staff ID)
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Badges come in many forms — from metal nameplates to plastic ID tags, and can be worn using clips, pins, magnets, or lanyards.
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Police and military (rank or authority badges)
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Event organizers (visitor passes, volunteer IDs)
Key Differences Between Enamel Pins and Badges
Feature Enamel Pin Badge Purpose Decorative, symbolic, expressive Functional, informative, role-based Materials Metal + enamel (soft or hard enamel) Metal, plastic, laminated paper, PVC Design Artistic, detailed, colorful Simple, text-based, clear Size Small (0.5" – 1.5") Larger (up to 3"+ depending on type) Attachment Butterfly clutch, rubber backing, magnet Safety pin, clip, lanyard, magnet Typical Use Fashion, gifts, branding, collections ID, security, event management
So Which One Do You Need?
Choose an enamel pin if you want:
✔️ A high-quality decorative item
✔️ To represent your brand, message, or fandom in a c-reative way
✔️ A product that people want to collect, wear, and share
Choose a badge if you need:
✔️ Clear identification for staff, students, or guests
✔️ A role-based marker (e.g., security, volunteer, VIP)
✔️ Functional visibility and information
Custom Enamel Pins and Badges from Surewin
At Surewin, we specialize in custom enamel pins and badges for brands, events, schools, and businesses. Whether you're looking for soft enamel pins with glitter or durable name badges with magnetic backing, we've got you covered.
Why choose us?
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Factory-direct prices
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Free artwork & unlimited revisions
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Fast production & worldwide shipping
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100% satisfaction guarantee
Get a free quote today and turn your idea into a pin or badge!