There are a lot of similarities between Etching and Engraving, even though by the first look, it seems like both produce the same results. That is the primary reason why people don’t understand the difference between Etching and Engraving, but that is totally wrong.
First of all, Etching is a chemical process that once drowned in the acid, will dissolve the surface of the metal that is not protected. In this way, only the design will remain, with an elegant smooth look. On the other hand, Engraving is a Physical process in which somebody scratches or cuts out the surface of the metal with a tool.
The second major difference between Etching and Engraving is the amount of metal that is being removed during processes. Engraving is a lot deeper than Etching and it also can be made as deep and strong as you want, depending on how many times you put the laser to engrave the metal. The more times it does the process, the more metal is vaporized.
Etching is a different story because, when the metal is drowned in the acid, it will take away just the surface level. This is also an advantage for the Etching process because a lot of material is saved.
Throughout the engraving process, you can also do more damage to the material. If the metal is too soft, it can go through it. Etching usually works the best with zinc and copper, but it also can work with other types of metals like the most popular nowadays, which is stainless steel. For example, if you want a slim metal business card, the best process for you is Etching, because it will make the design look clean and smooth. Engraving, if the metal is too slim, may not look as perfect as with the Etching process.
One more difference between Etching and Engraving is that Etching is more precise and is a better choice for a soft clean design, not only for business cards but for many other things too, such as metal phone cases, spoons, forks, etc.. Use Engraving if you want your design to be stronger and make it stand out more.
Both of them are great, both of them can get you the result you want with your design on the metal. But now you know exactly the difference between Etching and Engraving and, of course, which one is better and for what type of design you can use it.
Use this information to make the right decision for your new customized object.