In today’s digital era, business cards might not be considered important, but that is far from the truth. In the professional world, business cards are still an essential networking tool. Well-designed business cards are quite impactful in making a powerful impression, keeping your contact details readily available, and sparking meaningful conversation. In regard to business card size, you need to know a lot of things.
Before knowing the nitty-gritty of its designs, you are supposed to explore the most essential aspect—business card size. Selecting the size is of the utmost importance. Keep reading to learn about standard size, vital alternatives, and crucial factors to consider before choosing the card sizes.
Business Card Size: What Size is a Business Card?
When it comes to the card size, there is no universal size. Each country and region has a different size around the globe. Every country has its own standard size. The standards have developed over time and are accepted in respective regions. Keep reading to find out what sizes are business cards.
North America
Here, the standard business card size is 3.5 x 2 inches. Practicality decides this size. This size easily fits in wallets while also being comfortable in hand. This is the final size without the extra 1/8” inch for the bleed (it gets trimmed after the printing). These business card dimensions are 3.75 x 2.25 inches to accommodate the additional area.
Europe
In Europe, the standard business cards size is a little larger: 3.34 x 2.16 inches. All European countries follow this specific measurement of business cards. Therefore, the standard sizes in the USA and Europe are clearly different.
Asian-Pacific Region
The standard business card size in the Asia-Pacific region is larger. It measures 3.54 x 2.165 inches. All professionals follow this dimension when choosing their business card size. Hence, if you plan to do business here, you need to abide by the standard business card size. Measuring business card size in inches is conventional and convenient.
Reasons to Choose Standard Sizes
There are various reasons behind choosing a standard business card size in a specific region or country. Different countries and regions have their own set of reasons behind choosing their standard size. A few of the reasons are described below.
Familiarity
The standard size ideally fits in hands, wallets, pockets, and card holders. It is also easily recognizable. Upon seeing the card, people instantly know what to expect, which makes the whole point of using a business card relevant.
Functionality
The standard size provides sufficient space to include all the crucial details- company name, your name, title, logo, contact details, and other relevant information, without cluttering.
Standardization
Online and physical printing services can better manage and handle the standard sizes of business cards. Thus, printing is affordable and convenient.
Due to all these reasons, different standard sizes are used for business cards in other countries and regions.
Alternative Business Card Size Options
Standard sizes are the most common and are followed by different countries and regions. Now you know what size are business cards. However, apart from standard sizes, various other sizes are also followed regarding business card measurements. Some of the alternative card sizes are described below:
Square Business Cards
Square business cards measure 2 x 2 inches (51 x 51 millimeters) and are known to be quite eye-catching. However, their practicality and comfort are debatable. Creative professionals like artists, photographers, and designers mainly use square business cards to exhibit their individuality and uniqueness.
Mini Business Cards
The measurements of mini business cards are 3.375 x 1.75 inches (86 x 44 millimeters). This shape of the business card uses a subtle approach. If you wish to stand out without being overly ostentatious, then using mini business cards will be the best option for you. The best advantage of using these cards is that they can be used with limited space, like product packaging and event badges.
Slim Business Cards
If you are looking forward to conveying a lot of information but don’t want your business card to be too bulky, opting for slim business cards is your best bet. This type of business card measures 1.5 x 3.5 inches (38 x 89 millimeters). It comes with an elongated format to show detailed information. Different professionals use these business cards for varied purposes.
Folded Business Cards
Do you want to go beyond the conventional two-dimensional format of business cards? If yes, then you have the option of going for folded business cards. This type of business card comes with double the standard space you can utilize according to your preference and need. It measures 3.5 x 4 inches (89 x 102 millimeters). You can fold this card in half or accordion style. If you wish to convey complex visuals or information, then use these cards.
The above cards are examples of non-standard business card sizes that businesses and individuals use. There are also some other types, like custom die-cut business cards and rounded corner business cards. Choose a size that perfectly complements your brand, logo, or individuality.
How to Choose the Right Business Card Size?
A business card has a purpose. You can use it for personal or business purposes, and the requirements for both could be different. Choose a standard or non-standard business card for your branding. However, your business card should have a more serious approach and style if you run a business.
Some key considerations you need to consider before choosing your business card size are given below.
Target Audience
The first thing you must consider before choosing your business card size is your target audience. Who do you want to reach with your business card? The most common target audience is corporate clients, businesses, and companies. The professional business cards need to be more formal and professional.
But if you use it for your branding or purpose, you might decide to go a little informal. Making it unique and catchy might benefit you. Choosing a unique format should be your primary purpose.
Purpose
Consider the message that you wish to convey through your business card. If you want to use it for business branding, then it is better to use a classical format. But if the card is for personal branding, you can opt for a modern approach to make the card look catchy and cool.
It ultimately comes down to your preferences and needs. The sizes and shapes of a business card are extremely crucial, as they could speak volumes about a business or individual. Hence, you need to give serious consideration to them before finalising one.
Information
You must also consider how much information and details you want to include in the business card. If there is little information to print on the card, choosing a sleek-looking card would be better suited. In this regard, the standard size would be more than enough to accommodate the information.
But if you wish to add a lot of information to your business card, then going for folded cards would be the best option for you. This card will allow you to put sufficient information as per your need and demand.
Budget
Your budget should also be an essential consideration. Printing standard-sized business cards is likely affordable. But if you want to opt for a non-standard size with unique finishes, you might have to pay a premium price for its printing.
Now, it is up to you how much you want to pay to print your business card. If you want it to be budget-friendly, choosing a standard-size business card would be ideal. Otherwise, you can go for non-standard-sized business cards.
Portability
Portability is another important consideration before choosing a specific business card size. If you want the card to be easily fitted in hands, wallets, or pockets, then choosing a standard size will be the best option.
Otherwise, you can proceed with non-standard business card sizes. In this regard, you have many options to choose from. There are different sizes and shapes available in non-standard sizes of business card. Therefore, it is better for you to do some prior research on this.
Materials
Another vital aspect to consider before finalizing your business card size is the materials used. If the card is for a business purpose, then the materials should be top-notch for obvious reasons. It is better to make the materials (such as paper quality, ink quality) durable and high quality.
If it is for personal use, the business card can be made of average-quality materials to ensure cost savings. But it all comes down to your personal preference.
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Conclusion
With the varying standard business card size, there is yet to be a universally accepted business card size. The sizes in different countries and regions are different. If you are doing business in your country, you must abide by the business card dimension standard of your country. However, you must comply with their dimension standards if you wish to do business in another country. This is how it works.
