Metal vs. Plastic Keyrings: Which One is Right for Your Brand?

Can you provide me with ideas for promotional merchandise? I get asked this all the time. In most instances, I would recommend keyrings. Especially knowing that keyrings are very popular as simple ornaments and attachments on bags, they become very desirable. Small, practical, and they have the potential for long-term brand visibility. However, when it comes to choosing between metal and plastic keyrings, how do you determine which one best suits your brand’s needs? Don’t worry, I have got you covered with a friendly showdown of metal vs. plastic keyrings—because sometimes it’s good to weigh your options before making that branding decision.

The Case for Metal Keyrings: Premium, Practical, and Built to Last

Let’s start with the heavy hitter: metal keyrings. These are the keyrings that are often seen in high-end corporate settings, and for good reason. They’re sleek, polished, and radiate that Premium feel that tells people, “Hey, this brand means business.”

1. Durability: Metal keyrings are tough cookies. They won’t snap after a few months of use, and they don’t fade as quickly as plastic does. They stand the test of time—just like your brand.

2. Impression Matters: Let’s be honest: when people feel something sturdy and shiny in their hands, they think quality. That’s what metal keyrings bring to the table—your brand gets an instant upgrade just by having its logo engraved or printed on a metal surface.

3. Visibility That Lasts: Since metal keyrings last longer, so does your brand visibility. Whether they’re attached to a bunch of keys or clipped to a bag, metal keyrings stay with people for years, ensuring long-term exposure.

(Note: there is a BIG difference between aluminium keyrings and metal keyrings, especially in weight and handfeel. If you are interested in purchasing, ask our team for samples before buying in bulk.)

Don’t Discount Plastic Keyrings (pardon the pun): Customizable, Fun, and Affordable.

Now, don’t count plastic keyrings out just yet. They may not have the same high-end feel as their metal counterparts, but they offer some significant advantages that make them ideal for certain branding situations.

1. Budget-Friendly: If you’re looking to hand out keyrings at a significant event with hundreds or even thousands of attendees, plastic keyrings are a cost-effective choice. They’re affordable, which means you can order in bulk without breaking the bank.

2. Customisable to the Max: Plastic keyrings are versatile. They can come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colours. Want a keyring in the shape of your logo? You can do that with plastic. Want bright, eye-catching colours to match your brand’s theme? No problem.

3. Good for High-Volume Giveaways: Plastic keyrings are ideal when you need something to catch attention at trade shows or conferences. They’re fun, easy to distribute, and people love having something to take away with them. Even if they don’t use it immediately, they might throw it in their bag for later—and that’s more brand exposure.

Metal Keyrings vs. Plastic Keyrings: The Big Showdown

So, let’s break it down and see how these two contenders stack up against each other:

When to Choose Metal Keyrings

1. For prestige and events, VIP gifts, and conferences where you want to leave a lasting impression.

2. When you need a giveaway that speaks quality and durability.

3. If you’re looking for something that can stay on people’s keys or bags for years.

When to Choose Plastic Keyrings

1. For budget-friendly occasions with a lot of guests, such as trade shows or community events.

2. When you want something eye-catching and fun that reflects a more playful brand personality.

3. If you’re aiming for a high volume of giveaways without exceeding your budget.

Which One is Right for Your Brand?

The good news is that whether you choose metal or plastic keyrings, both have their place in your promotional toolkit. It all comes down to your brand’s personality, your audience, and your goals for the giveaway. If you’re after a sleek, sophisticated giveaway that reflects your brand’s high-quality image, metal keyrings are a great choice. For fun or novelty, and you need something budget-friendly, fun, and easily customisable for a significant event, plastic keyrings will do the trick.

So, which side are you on? Team Metal, or Team Plastic? No matter the choice, you’ll be putting your brand into the hands of people—and that’s what really matters.

Ready to Choose Your Keyring?

Purchase Promotional Metal Keyrings 

or

Purchase Promotional Plastic Keyrings

Whether you’re leaning toward a premium metal keyring or a fun plastic one, we’ve got you covered. Contact our team today to discuss custom branding options, bulk pricing, and how we can help you select the ideal keyring for your next event.

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