Hotel Key Card Materials
This page compares the body materials we use for hotel key cards. Each material has its own page with print method, lock compatibility and pricing detail.
- Materials
- 8 different bodies
- Most economical
- Eco Paper — 0.16 – 0.42 USD
- Compatibility
- All common hotel lock brands
- Samples
- Branded sample set available
Material comparison
Wooden: comfortably lasts beyond a single season in normal hotel use, works in humid areas but should not be left in water. Unit 0.90 – 2.20 USD.
Bamboo: comfortably lasts beyond a single season in normal hotel use, works in humid areas but should not be left in water. Unit 0.85 – 2.00 USD.
PVC: holds up to heavy daily handling, withstands pool, shower and rain contact. Unit 0.18 – 0.45 USD.
Recycled PVC (rPVC): holds up to heavy daily handling, withstands pool, shower and rain contact. Unit 0.22 – 0.55 USD.
Eco Paper: suits short stays and single-season use, is made for dry use; the surface suffers if it gets wet. Unit 0.16 – 0.42 USD.
PLA (Plant-Based): comfortably lasts beyond a single season in normal hotel use, works in humid areas but should not be left in water. Unit 0.24 – 0.60 USD.
Leather: comfortably lasts beyond a single season in normal hotel use, is made for dry use; the surface suffers if it gets wet. Unit 1.60 – 4.50 USD.
Metal: holds up to heavy daily handling, withstands pool, shower and rain contact. Unit 3.40 – 9.00 USD.
How to choose
For pool, spa and water-park use, water-resistant bodies come first. For room access only, wood, bamboo and rPVC are the most balanced options.
Properties reporting on sustainability lean to recycled or renewable material; for one-off events eco paper and Tyvek are enough.
Samples and production
A sample is the fastest way to be sure. We send a branded sample set so you can test it on your own locks before production starts.
Frequently asked questions
+Which material is most durable?
Metal and PVC bodies last longest; wood and bamboo hold a full season with the right finish. Eco paper and Tyvek are for short-term use.
+Are wooden cards water resistant?
With a protective finish they handle humidity, but should not be left in water. For pools a silicone wristband is the better fit.
+Does the material affect the chip?
No. The chip family is chosen for your lock system; the body material is independent.
+Can we mix materials in one order?
Yes. Wooden cards for rooms and silicone wristbands for the pool can run in the same order.
Related pages
Samples and quotation
Share your lock system and estimated quantity — we will propose the right chip and material and prepare your sample set.
info@keysmart.net