Mylar vs Foil Balloons

Publié : janvier 26, 2026
Updated: janvier 26, 2026

Balloons are a major highlight of any party: from corporate events like brand promotions, trade shows to birthdays, weddings: name it, balloons are a must have. Party balloons are categorized into two broad groups: latex balloons and foil balloons. Latex balloon is the common balloon type most millennials or older generation folks are familiar with; the elastic and soft kind of balloon made from pre-mixed latex solution. On the other hand, foil balloons made from metallized polyester film such as mylar are inelastic, not as soft and today’s style.

These days, traditional latex balloons have been replaced by more versatile, durable and reusable alternatives – Mylar and foil balloons. Mylar and foil balloons are like the in-thing in the party supplies industry. They hold air or helium for a longer time than the latex balloons.

While mylar and foil balloons are both made from foil, there are still differences between these two. Keep reading to explore the core differences and the most appropriate choice for your party.

Key Differences Between Mylar and Foil Balloons

Characteristics	Ballons de baudruche	Mylar (Polyester Film) Balloons
Main Materials	Made from thin plastic film coated in metal. The plastic film or polyester is a composite of nylon and polyethylene. A thin coating of aluminum is applied to the surface for a metallic lustre.	Made from a kind of polyester film called BoPET (biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate). The core layer of mylar balloons is the biaxally -oriented polyester film laminated with polyethylene. Aluminum coating is added for shine. The name Mylar is more of a brand name because the polyester originally had a registered trademark of DuPont, Mylar®.
Feel and Texture	Thinner, softer and more brittle requiring extra caution when handling. Wrinkles easily. Wrinkles are difficult to get rid off	Sturdier texture. More resistant to tears. Thicker and tougher. Not as delicate as foil types and so tends to be reused. Wrinkles are easy to smooth out
Gloss	More shiny and reflective due to the thin layer of metallic coating on the surface.	Lower gloss level, however its metallic lustre is softer and sophisticated and allows for more customization. Very similar to high-end packaging paper.
Air/Gas Retention	Average gas retention. Typically stays afloat for 3-5 days when filled with helium gas.	Excellent gas retention span. It can hold helium gas for weeks due to its resilient texture.
Market Price	Cheaper and more economical in parties where decorations are not to be reused.	More expensive due to better performance of its material.
Utilisations courantes	One-off party decorations. Preferred in decorations requiring large quantities of balloons. Others include party backdrops and loose number balloons	Core decorations of major events where you would want to reuse the balloons. Themed birthday-parties for kids where customized balloons are preferred. Gift balloons.

How to Choose Between Mylar and Foil Balloons

Your event decor requires the right balloons for perfection. Mylar balloons and Foil balloons are two different kinds of balloons with unique qualities that influence their durability, cost, appearance, and adaptability for any event. Distinguishing them makes it easier to choose the best fit for your occasion or purchase.

Primarily, Mylar balloons are produced from a polyester film called BoPET (Biaxially Oriented polyethylene terephthalate) with a metallic coating that gives it a shiny appearance after production. The Foil balloons are thin and quite soft, made from metal-coated plastic films coated with aluminum. These differences are crucial because Mylar balloons allow helium to stay longer and are more tear-resistant, making them suitable for events that require balloons to stay inflated for a long period of time.

When selecting a balloon manufacturer, consider how long your event will last. For instance, happy birthday foil balloons deliver beautiful metallic finishes, but may release air faster than Mylar when subjected to heat or wind. However, purchasing from Mylar balloon suppliers can be considered if durability and personalized graphics are needed, like for wedding celebrations or corporate branding.

Cost is also an important consideration. Foil balloon cost are lesser than specialty Mylar balloons, but when considered with longevity and reusability, Mylar yields better value. It is important to check with the balloon manufacturer or wholesale balloon supplier about the material specifications and floating time before purchasing large quantities for your events.

The Scenarios You Can Use Them in and Recommendations

Mylar and Foil balloons can be used for various events and settings. Selecting the suitable one is dependent on the party location, purpose, and budget of the event.

Scénario	Recommended Choice
Private parties (like birthdays, baby showers, and anniversaries)	Foil balloons, such as the Foil number balloons wholesale and letter balloons wholesale are suitable for these events. They are very affordable, attractive, and can be customized for these settings. Usually, they are used for short-termed decors, picture backdrops, and themed parties. These events don’t last up to 24 hours, making the low helium retention less of an issue.
Professional events (exhibitions, brand promotion, and store openings)	Mylar balloons are good for events where the decorations have to stay inflated for longer periods. They maintain their shape longer, making them fit for in-house displays or extended occasions.
Outdoor celebrations (garden parties or outdoor anniversaries)	Mylar balloons are mostly considered, because they are effective under any temperature and environmental conditions. Their durability also makes them preferred for longer outdoor shows.
Outdoor celebrations with cost considerations	Foil balloons can also work for outdoor events when properly used. They can also be used as decorative additions or together with themed setups, adding more color without overshadowing the main decor. This can be incorporated for decorating larger spaces, while balancing design with budget.
Short-term events	Foil balloons can also work for outdoor events when appearance and affordability is priority, fit for events that do not require the decor to stay for long durations.
Events that should last for days or high-profile events.	Mylar balloons are the best fit when decorations have to last for long hours or days, while also maintaining their appearance. They are recommended for occasions where durability and quality are ranked high.
Buyer needs	Individual buyers may choose affordability and aesthetics for one-time celebrations, while professional event planners will choose durability and reliability. These will influence their decisions when purchasing.

Conclusion

There you have it! The key differences between mylar and foil balloons and the occasions or parties that require each. Are you a brand owner looking for a mylar balloon factory to supply your business? Or a party supplies distributor in search of competitive foil helium balloon wholesale deals? Look no further, Nicron has got you covered.
Nicron is a China-based party supplies company with years of experience and technical expertise in mylar and foil balloon production, party souvenirs and any thing party you can think of. Shop with Nicron today for the best deals on mylar and foil balloons in the industry. If you are oceans away, you need not worry – we deliver worldwide!