Comparison guide
Choosing between SS316 laser annealed, engraved paint fill and printed labels depends on contrast, colour, lead time and how long the marking needs to last outdoors. This guide compares the three processes we use most.
Download Material Guide (PDF) Includes engraved plastic, SS316 and printed sticker options in one table.
Our Most Popular
SS316 annealed is a laser mark on marine-grade stainless. The beam darkens the metal itself, so there is no ink or paint to wear off. It is the fastest stainless option and the one with the longest marking life. Rush production is available.
Engraved paint fill is mechanically engraved into SS316, then the recess is filled with contrasting industrial paint. That gives the boldest contrast and a premium look. The recessed fill is protected as the surface wears. It needs a one-off setup and a longer lead time — about 20–30 business days.
Printed applies ink to the surface, including full-colour UV print on SS316, plastic, aluminium and vinyl. Use it when you need logos, diagrams, photos or multi-colour safety artwork. Outdoor life depends on the material: UV-printed SS316 is best indoors (about 10+ years) and typically 1–2 years outdoors.
| Feature | SS316 annealed | Engraved paint fill | Printed |
|---|---|---|---|
| How it's made | Laser anneals the stainless surface black | Engraved into SS316, then paint filled | Ink or UV print on the surface |
| Contrast | Black mark on brushed stainless. Contrast shifts with the light | Highest contrast | Full colour, including photos and logos |
| Outdoor life | Longest marking life | 15+ years outdoors | SS316 UV print: about 1–2 years outdoors, 10+ years indoors. Other materials vary with laminate and exposure |
| Scratch and chemical resistance | Excellent — the mark is in the metal | Very high — paint sits in the engraving | Moderate — the print is on the surface |
| Colour and graphics | Black mark. Best for text and simple symbols | Contrasting paint fill. Best for text and symbols | Full colour, logos, diagrams and complex artwork |
| Lead time | Fastest. Rush available | About 20–30 business days. One-off setup | Fast for most printed products |
| Best for | Switchboards, asset tags and harsh sites where life matters most | Premium plates that need to be read at a glance | Safety signs, branding and anything that needs colour |
Choose laser annealed stainless when the marking has to outlast the environment and you want the shortest stainless lead time. It is the most popular SS316 option.
Best for
Choose engraved paint fill when contrast matters more than speed. The lettering is cut into the stainless and filled, so it stays bold as the face wears. Allow for the setup and the longer production time.
Best for
Choose printed when the job needs colour, a logo, a diagram or a photo. UV-printed SS316 is a good indoor metal option. For long outdoor life in full sun, annealed or paint-filled stainless will outlast a surface print.
Best for
SS316 annealed. The mark is in the metal, so there is nothing to fade or chip. Engraved paint fill is next, at 15+ years outdoors. Printed SS316 is better indoors.
Engraved paint fill. The paint sits in a recess, so the lettering stays sharp and high contrast.
SS316 annealed, including rush. Printed jobs are usually quick too. Paint fill takes about 20–30 business days because of the engraving and fill process.
When you need full colour, a logo or a diagram. Annealed and paint fill are for text and symbols, not photos.
Configure size and wording on the product, or compare the three finishes together.
Laser Annealed Engraved + Paint Filled Full Colour Printed
