You have probably heard of Vistaprint from their advertisement of business cards printing. Vistaprint is famous for their inexpensive business card offers, including the astounding 500 business cards for $5.
At first glance, it sounds almost too good to be true. But here’s the real question: Is it a good deal?
In this article, we explain everything you must know regarding Vistaprint’s business cards and evaluate the actual value behind the $5 promotion.
Here, I will cover the pricing, levels of customization, the overall quality of the cards, and determining who the deal is best tailored for.
This is especially so when the choice has a life-changing impact on their life or financial status, like starting a new small business.
Key Takeaways
- The $5 for 500 cards offer surely stands as one of Vistaprint’s most glaring advertisements, and serves as one of the many advantages small or starting businesses carry along in today’s fast paced world.
- Noteworthy is that the offer contains a default card stock paper that satisfies the needs of the overwhelming majority and meets basic expectations, yet won’t appeal those searching for high class or exquisit cards.
- Although the foundational price is low, some options such as premium paper, custom designs, or gloss finishes will require an extra payment.
- It’s an ideal offer for beginners, but those seeking a more polished, professional appearance may need to pay for an upgrade.
- It has been said by clients that the quality of the cards is satisfactory given the price, but it may not be suitable for sophisticated business dealings.
What Exactly Do You Get With Vistaprint Business Cards 500 For $5?
Many people reads this offer and overreact, saying something along the lines “this is absurd, there must be something hidden. 500 cards for 5 dollars?!!” It is pretty reasonable to have such a thought, however, after doing a thorough research, it is necessary to see what this offer genuinely provides.
Vistaprint does not sell discounted cards as the 5for500businesscardsdealnamesuggests,butlikeanyothersanebusiness,theyhavelimitations.Undertheconditionof5, one is entitled to buy 500 standard business cards. These will be produced using basic paper and there is an option to use an online design tool for modifications.
However, notice that the offer sounds enticing, but the foundational price only applies to basic cards printed on generic paper. In case you want a glossy finish, premium paper, or embossing, you will have to pay more to upgrade your order.
This assumes that customers will stick with the basic design options which means working only with Vistaprint’s pre-made templates or uploading basic docs. This is a wonderful option for those who lack professional graphic design skills, but need something visually appealing.
The Good Side of Vistaprint Business Cards 500 For $5
So, is this deal too good to be true? Let’s look at what makes it a solid choice for certain people.
Affordable Pricing for Business Startups
I understand how the budget can be tight when it comes to running a business, for instance spending money on branded business cards. Hundreds of dollars spent getting professionally designed cards would be quite an irrational investment given the limited funds available for a startup. However, the $5 for 500 cards offer is truly remarkable.
This is ideal for anyone looking to build their network. Using cards for promotion in bulk during networking events or even giving them away as souvenirs to people doesn’t feel like overspending at all.
At $5 for 500 cards, the offer is practically unbeatable. It poses no risk and works for almost everyone. Mathematically speaking, freelancers, small business owners, or anyone who requires cards in bulk will see significant savings. The cards will last several months and are extremely affordable.
Quick Delivery
Vistaprint has an additional advantage of maintaining a fast turnaround time for the orders. For an upcoming event or meeting, waiting weeks to specially order business cards is the last thing that should be on one’s mind.
With Vistaprint, this is not a problem as they usually guarantee a fast turnaround time, which is great for traveling entrepreneurs. Waiting will not be a problem, as you can start using your new business cards almost immediately. Business cards can be in your hand in a few days’ time if you chose faster shipping.
Basic Customization for Simple Designs
Adjustments for every piece of art are now considered standard. Business cards must precisely capture brand identity to elegantly portray the needed image. The brand identity can have a striking impact on potential clients for the business, and thus having a striking business card design is important. With the $5 deal, you can access Vistaprint’s design features, where you will find numerous templates that can be modified online.
For someone inexperienced, or looking for speed without depth, this deal works wonders. No prior knowledge is necessary. Select the desired template, make very simple modifications, and place the design order. It is incredibly straightforward and quick with no complicated instructions.
The Downsides of Vistaprint Business Cards 500 For $5
As good as the offer might sound, it comes with its own slew of problems. There are some people who prefer quantity over quality while other people won’t stand a chance to such limitations.
Limited Customization Options
I completely understand that you are day dreaming about people noticing your one out of a million distinguishing features of your business card. But if you are looking to increase your odds of being remembered by having favored special design features capped finishes, or linings then Vistaprint most certainly wouldn’t help you fulfill such necessities.
It can be argued that Vistaprint has basic offer customization and follows rules, but those want simplicity alone. The free templates are perfect if you want something straightforward, but won’t be able to deliver premium logo design, custom embossing or fancy paper that you might expect.
If you are willing to forego some of your elegance, you can always opt for higher priced designs and reserve them for special occasions. However, in such cases, do remember that the on the surface $5 offer is hardly the tip of the iceberg in regard to advanced options.
Hidden Costs for Premium Features
This section is where the deal begins to pose some challenges. The offer’s gloss and card stock is included for base price of $5, however, the following features will incur an additional payment:
- Glossy finishes
- Premium paper
- Foil stamping
- Thicker card stock
Upgrading each of these individually can be quite expensive. Although the initial offer seems appealing, expect to incur extra charges as you customize the card.
While the base offer is inexpensive, there is more to the story. If one seeks a more sophisticated product, expect to incur significant costs for the enhancements.
Comparing Vistaprint Business Cards 500 For $5 to Other Providers
Vistaprint’s offer certainly appears attractive, but what is its value on the market compared to other services? An in-depth analysis of the $5 deal and other competitor prices and services will be conducted.
Let’s begin with an industry peer, Moo. Unlike Vistaprint, competing companies like Moo provide unparalleled service looking business cards. However, they possess much steeper pricing, beginning at $19.99 for 50 cards.
If high-quality paper and novelty designs are appealing to you the aforementioned ‘Moo’ could be more suitable but not budget friendly at all. An adequate compromise is offered by GotPrint, where Vistaprint’s competitors are decidedly more expensive, but offer additional customization options.
Vistaprint’s $5 offer is quite appealing compared to other providers, which will be discussed in the following table.
| Provider | Price (500 Cards) | Paper Quality | Customization Options | Turnaround Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vistaprint | $5 | Standard | Basic templates | Fast |
| Moo | $19.99 | Premium | Extensive customization | 2-3 business days |
| GotPrint | $9.99 | Medium | Good customization | Fast |
| Staples | $15 | Standard | Basic customization | Fast |
Is Vistaprint Business Cards 500 For $5 A Good Deal?
When is It Worth It?
Vistaprint’s offer of 500 business cards for $5 is ideal for individuals embarking on a new venture and freelancers looking to expand their presence at networking events by having cards on hand, or for anyone hoping to purchase business cards in bulk for a budget-friendly price.
This offer ensures that you get the alert business cards you need in a matter of minutes for the lowest price possible. It will suffice for the majority of people who are simply looking to give out cards.
When to Consider Other Options
In case you are a person looking to elevate their image, design and the way the brand is perceived, then you should definitely look at premium options available for business cards.
In the case you work in an industry such as real estate or high end sales, where image is everything, then it is better to spend extra on the card, as it better reflect the affluent nature of your work. For these people, it makes sense to consider alternatives that include high end materials and bespoke designs.
My Opinion | Is the Vistaprint $5 Deal Right for You?
As with all great offers, there is a catch. In this case the offer does arise with limited options that one could choose from. Therefore, I believe that the Vistaprint Business Cards 500 For $5 is ultimately the perfect solution for someone on a budget.
This is ideal if you need an assemblage of straightforward and useful cards. However, if you are looking for something fully sophisticated, tailored, or more ornate, it would be prudent to consider a more premium product.
Suffice it to say that your requirements ultimately dictate the outcome. Grab this offer if you need business cards quickly and are on a tight budget. On the flip side, if your criteria include something truly distinct and luxurious, it would be beneficial to research alternative possibilities.