---
title: "Paper Tent Cards vs Acrylic Table Holders: Which to Use"
description: "Printed tent cards or acrylic sign holders with paper inserts? Cost, look, durability, how often you change the message, and when each one makes sense."
url: https://tent-cards.ca/guides/tent-card-vs-acrylic-holder/
last_updated: 2026-10-24
---

# Printed tent cards vs acrylic table holders

Both put a message on the table. The right choice depends mostly on how often the message changes and how rough the table is.

## Side by side

|  | Printed tent card | Acrylic holder + insert |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Printing only: $330.50 for 250 cards | Holders for every table, plus inserts |
| Changing the message | Order a new run | Print new inserts (often on a home or office printer) |
| Look | Full-bleed colour, custom shape on both faces | Clear frame, paper inside |
| Durability | Replace when stained or bent | Holder lasts years; wipes clean |
| Storage and shipping | Ships and stores flat | Bulky, can scratch or crack |
| Both sides | Two printed faces | Depends on the holder |

## When to choose which

- Choose printed tent cards: For a promo that runs weeks or months, for events, for hotel rooms, for many locations, and when you want the card to look designed, not inserted.
- Choose acrylic holders: For messages that change every few days, on patios and wet tables, and when you print inserts yourself.
- Or both: Some venues use holders for daily specials and printed tents for the permanent cards (Wi-Fi, QR menu, reviews).

## Related

- [Table tent cards for restaurants and cafés](https://tent-cards.ca/uses/restaurants/)
- [What is a tent card? Tent cards, table talkers and place cards](https://tent-cards.ca/guides/table-tents-vs-table-talkers/)
- [Tent card prices](https://tent-cards.ca/pricing/)

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Order: https://tent-cards.ca/order/ · Email: info@tent-cards.ca