Zinc Alloy vs Stainless Steel vs Brass: Choosing Hardware Materials
Metal hardware can look identical in a photo but perform very differently in use. The base material determines strength, weight, corrosion resistance, finish options and cost.
Zinc alloy
Zinc alloy is die-cast, so it can be formed into complex shapes with sharp details and logos. It is cost-efficient and accepts almost every plating. It is the standard choice for fashion bag hardware, decorative parts and logo plates. Because zinc can corrode, it should always be plated or coated.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel is strong and naturally rust resistant, which makes it the safest option for pet leashes, marine and outdoor products. It is harder to shape, so designs are usually simpler and tooling can cost more.
Brass and copper
Brass is heavier and feels premium in the hand. It polishes beautifully and is an excellent base for high-quality plating, which is why it is used in luxury handbags and metal zipper teeth.
Quick comparison
| Zinc alloy | Stainless steel | Brass | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design freedom | Excellent | Limited | Good |
| Corrosion resistance | Needs plating | Excellent | Good with plating |
| Weight / feel | Medium | Medium–heavy | Heavy, premium |
| Relative cost | $ | $$ | $$$ |
Read our full Material Guide or ask our engineers which option fits your product.
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