Business cards come in a wide variety of sizes. But what size should you use for your business cards? We take a look at the standard business card sizes and give you some tips on choosing the right size for your cards.
Checkout this video:
Standard Sizes
If you are looking for a standard size, the average business card is 3.5 inches by 2 inches. This is the size that will fit into most wallets and business card holders. If you want your card to stand out, you can go for a non-standard size.
U.S. Standard
Many U.S. business cards are 3-1/2 inches wide by 2 inches wide, which is the finished size after being cut from a 8-1/2-inch-wide by 11-inch-wide sheet of paper. They may be printed on 10-, 12-, 14-, 16- or 18-point card stock, which is slightly thicker than copy paper but about half as thick as poster board. Depending on their intended use, business cards may be printed with one or two colors on one side or four colors on both sides. They may have standard or raised printing, or they may be printed on photo paper and laminated for a high gloss finish.
International Standard
The standard dimensions of a business card vary from country to country. In the United States and Canada, the standard size is 3-1/2 inches by 2 inches (88.9 mm × 50.8 mm). In mainland Europe the dimensions are generally the same, but in most other countries business cards are much smaller, often half that size.
Some business card sizes are specific to certain countries or regions. For example, Japan uses a smaller size that is just over 2 inches by 3-1/2 inches (54 mm × 90 mm), while Brazil’s cards have rounded corners and are slightly larger than 3-1/2 inches square (88 mm × 88 mm).
Non-Standard Sizes
There are a lot of different business card sizes out there. Some are the standard size, while others are non-standard. Standard business cards are usually 3.5 inches by 2 inches, but there are other sizes as well. Some people like to have bigger business cards, while others like to have smaller ones.
Square
Square Business Cards – When rectangular business cards just won’t do, you need to think outside the box. Pun intended. Our square business cards are Jaw droppers. Make a memorable first impression with unique square business cards.
Mini
This is the most non-traditional size, and as such, can be used to really make your card stand out. They are half the size of a standard business card, so they are very easy to carry around. However, because of their small size, you will need to be careful about the amount of information you include on them. You will also need to be mindful of how your design will look when it is shrunk down to this size.
Oversized
Business cards come in many shapes and sizes. While the standard size is 3.5″ x 2″, there are plenty of non-standard sizes to choose from. Here are some common non-standard sizes:
-3.5″ x 4″
-4″ x 6″
-5″ x 7″
-8.5″ x 11″
Oversized business cards are great for making a big impression, but they can be more expensive to print and may not fit in standard business card holders.
Custom Sizes
Business cards come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. You can find some that are very thin and some that are quite thick. Some are rectangle and some are square. There are even some that are die-cut into different shapes. So, what size should you choose for your business cards?
Die-Cut
die-cut cards are cut to a custom shape, usually to match the company logo. Die-cut cards tend to be more expensive than standard business cards, but they can help your card stand out from the crowd.
Folded
Most people are familiar with the standard 3-1/2″ x 2″ business card size. However, many companies are now opting for custom sizes that better reflect their brand identity.
Some common custom business card sizes include:
-3-1/4″ x 2-1/4″
-3″ x 4″
-2-1/4″ square
-5-1/4″ x 4″
Folded business cards are also gaining in popularity. These cards can be either half-fold or tri-fold and offer a larger printing surface for displaying your company information. Common folded business card sizes include:
-4-1/4″ x 5-1/2″ (half-fold)
-4-1/4″ x 11″ (tri-fold)
How to Choose the Right Size
Business cards come in many different sizes, but how do you know which one is right for you? The size of your business card should depend on how you plan to use it. If you want to put it in your wallet, you’ll need a smaller card. If you want to use it as a postcard, you’ll need a larger card. Keep reading to learn more about choosing the right size for your business card.
Consider Your Industry
Some fields are more traditional, and a standard-size business card may be expected. In other cases, a smaller card may be appropriate to save on costs. Then there are those times when a larger card may make more of an impression. Consider your industry when planning what size you need.
Other factors to consider include:
-How much information you need to include: If you have a lot of contact information or want to include additional details about your company or services, you’ll need a larger card.
-The type of paper or material you’re using: Heavier stocks or unique materials may require a larger size to prevent bending or creasing.
-Your budget: Larger cards cost more to print, so keep that in mind when making your decision.
Consider Your Branding
Your business card is often the first thing potential customers will see, so it’s important to make a good impression. Consider your branding when choosing the size of your business card. If you have a simple, clean logo, you may want to choose a standard size business card so your information is easy to read. If you have a more complex logo or design, you may want to choose a larger size so your design can be easily seen.
Consider Your Printing Method
Of course, you’ll need to take your printing method into account when choosing the size for your business cards. Some stocks just aren’t available in certain sizes. For example, you might want a large, oversized card to make a statement, but it won’t be possible if you’re planning on printing at home.
Here are some general guidelines for choosing a size based on your printing method:
* If you’re printing at home: Stick to standard sizes like 3.5 x 2 inches. This will ensure that your cards fit into your printer and that you don’t waste any paper.
* If you’re using an online printer: Most online printers will have a wide range of sizes available, so you can choose something that’s a little more unique. Just make sure that you have the dimensions of your chosen size in inches or centimeters before placing your order.
* If you’re working with a local printer: You’ll likely have even more size options available to you, so feel free to get creative! Just be sure to discuss your options with your chosen printer beforehand to avoid any surprises.
