Quick answer: Choose VPF100 when a vehicle graphic needs a glossy, high-impact finish with strong color depth. Choose VPF100M when the project needs a matte surface with lower reflection. Both options are overlaminates used over printed film such as MAXDECAL APV80.
Overlaminate choice affects the final look of a printed vehicle graphic. The printed film carries the color, but the overlaminate determines how the surface looks and how the print is protected. For MAXDECAL APV80 projects, the main finish choice is between VPF100 gloss and VPF100M matte.
VPF100 is the gloss option. It is the right choice when the buyer wants a bright, polished and high-impact surface. Gloss overlaminate is especially suitable for race car liveries, commercial fleet branding, promotional vehicles, dealership graphics and graphics that need to catch attention quickly.
VPF100M is the matte option. It is better when the project needs a softer surface appearance, lower reflection or a more understated finish. Matte can work well for certain brand identities, indoor display vehicles, premium-looking campaigns or graphics that need to reduce glare in photography.
The choice should not be made only by personal taste. It should be based on where the graphic will be seen, how much reflection is acceptable, how the brand should feel and what kind of surface finish the customer expects.
Both products should be positioned as overlaminates, not printable face films. The recommended system is to print on APV80 first, then laminate with VPF100 or VPF100M depending on the desired finish.
Finish Selection Table
| Project Need | Recommended Finish | MAXDECAL Option |
|---|---|---|
| High gloss visual impact | Gloss | VPF100 |
| Strong color depth | Gloss | VPF100 |
| Race car livery finish | Gloss | VPF100 |
| Lower reflection | Matte | VPF100M |
| Subtle brand appearance | Matte | VPF100M |
| Photography with reduced glare | Matte | VPF100M |
FAQ
Should vehicle graphics use gloss or matte overlaminate?
Use gloss when the project needs maximum visual impact and color depth. Use matte when the project needs a lower-reflection or more understated surface.
Is VPF100 printable?
VPF100 should be positioned as an optically clear gloss overlaminate. The image should be printed on APV80, then protected with VPF100.
Can APV80 be used with matte overlaminate?
Yes. APV80 can be paired with VPF100M when a matte finish is preferred.
Discuss Your Production Workflow
Printer, ink, laminate, surface and installation conditions can change the result. Contact MaxDecals USA to review the application and request a sample-based evaluation before production.