Buyers comparing OEM metal keychains and challenge coins often ask the same question first: soft enamel or hard enamel? Both are factory processes we run in Dongguan. The right choice depends on artwork, budget, and how the piece will be used.
Soft enamel
Color fills sit slightly below the metal lines. You can feel the recessed enamel. Soft enamel is widely used for promotional keychains, club coins, and colorful logos. Tooling and unit cost are usually lower than hard enamel for the same size.
- Best for: multi-color logos, souvenirs, giveaways
- Feel: recessed color cells
- Optional: clear epoxy dome for a smooth top
Hard enamel (cloisonné-style polish)
After filling, the surface is ground and polished so color sits flush with the metal. The finish looks premium and wears well on coins and badges that are handled often.
- Best for: challenge coins, lapel pins, brand gifts
- Feel: smooth, co-planar metal and color
- Lead time: typically longer than soft enamel
Which should you spec?
Choose soft enamel when color impact and price matter most. Choose hard enamel when you want a flat, jewelry-like face. Share Pantone targets, size, and plating (gold, silver, antique, nickel) with your drawing — we quote tooling and unit price on request.
See our custom metal keychains and challenge coins, or request a quote.