2D, 3D gel or 4D number plates: which finish should you choose?
Compare flat printed, domed gel and raised acrylic lettering, including 3mm and 5mm options, before building your number plates.
Start with the finish you like
Choosing a lettering style is easier when you compare the surface and depth rather than the names alone. At Vista Plates, 2D Standard is flat printed lettering, 3D Gel has a rounded glossy face, and 4D acrylic has defined edges with a flat face. 4D Gel combines acrylic depth with a gel surface.
Look at the close-up photographs in our builder before deciding. A front-facing preview is useful for checking your registration, while a close-up makes the difference between domed gel and flat acrylic clearer.
2D Standard: a classic appearance
Flat printed characters give a clean, familiar finish without a raised letter surface. This is a straightforward choice when replacing a damaged plate or when you prefer a simpler appearance.
2D is also the lettering option for our smaller display motorcycle plates and for longer display text where the builder does not offer raised lettering. Check the available options after selecting your plate size.
3D Gel: rounded and glossy
Gel characters have a domed face, giving the lettering a softer edge and a glossy surface. Choose this style if you prefer rounded lettering to the sharper outline of acrylic.
You can order a white front plate, a yellow rear plate or a matching pair. Check your plate selection as well as the finish before adding the order to your cart.
4D acrylic and 4D Gel: compare the depth
Our 4D acrylic options include 3mm and 5mm lettering. The deeper option gives more visible projection from the plate face; it does not change the registration you are ordering. 4D Gel adds a glossy gel face to the raised acrylic base.
Use the builder to compare the photographs and current price for each finish. If you are choosing a pair, review both front and rear previews before checkout.
Finish your specification
Select the plate size before adding a badge, border or fixings, because availability depends on the size. For plates intended for road use, choose Road Legal. For a display design, choose Show Plates and check the text and spacing carefully.
If you are unsure which finish matches an existing plate, contact us before ordering with a clear close-up photograph. A style name on its own may not identify a plate made by another supplier.