If you're upgrading from standard printed plates, the two styles you'll see most are 3D gel and 4D. Both give your registration raised characters with real depth, but they're made in completely different ways – and they look different up close.
How 3D gel plates are made
On a 3D gel plate the characters are printed first, then a clear polyurethane resin is applied over each one. The resin naturally forms a smooth dome – like a bubble – that sits around 2mm proud of the plate.
The result:
- A glossy, rounded look. Light wraps around the curved edges, giving bright highlights along every character.
- Soft edges. There are no sharp corners on the gel, so the characters look smooth and liquid.
- A subtle raise. The effect is noticeable but understated – it looks premium without shouting.
How 4D plates are made
4D plates use characters laser-cut from solid black acrylic, usually 3mm or 5mm thick, which are bonded onto the plate face.
The result:
- Crisp, sharp edges. Each character has flat sides and a flat top, so you see clean sidewalls and real shadows.
- More depth. At 3mm or 5mm the characters stand noticeably further out than gel.
- A choice of finish. Gloss acrylic reflects light like polished glass; matte has a softer, satin look.
Side-by-side comparison
- Look: gel is rounded and liquid; 4D is sharp and architectural.
- Depth: gel is around 2mm with a domed profile; 4D is 3mm or 5mm with straight sides.
- Finish options: gel is always gloss; 4D comes in gloss or matte.
- Durability: both are durable when made properly. Gel resin is flexible and resists chipping; acrylic is rigid and won't yellow when made with UV-stable material.
- Cleaning: both clean like normal plates – avoid abrasive pads and harsh solvents.
Are both road legal?
Yes – both styles can be road legal. Since September 2021 the British Standard (BS AU 145e) allows raised characters as long as they're a single colour, black, and the plate otherwise follows the DVLA display rules for font, size, spacing and margins. Read more in Are 4D number plates legal?
Which should you choose?
- Choose 3D gel if you want a glossy, premium finish that's raised but still subtle.
- Choose 4D if you want maximum depth and crisp shadows, or a matte finish.
- Not sure? Many drivers pick 3mm 4D as the middle ground.
The easiest way to decide is to see both on your own registration. Our number plate builder renders gel and 4D characters in 3D – switch between styles and rotate the plate to compare.
Browse the styles: 3D gel number plates · 4D number plates