Lanyards are a simple but powerful tool for identification, organization, and branding at events, schools, and workplaces. They keep credentials accessible, make staff and attendees easily identifiable, and provide a professional, cohesive look.

But not all lanyards are made the same, and understanding the differences between breakaway vs non-breakaway lanyards can make a big impact on safety and usability - especially if kids will be wearing the lanyards, such as in school settings.

Breakaway lanyards have a safety clasp that detaches under tension, reducing the risk of choking or injury. They’re not just essential in schools but also in hospitals and many other active environments. We’ll help you figure out if you need this style or not below.

Just know that no matter the types of lanyards you need for your event or operation, CustomLanyard.net is here to help. We’re the preferred choice for personalized lanyards because you get the lowest prices with the best quality and exceptional support along the way.

With no minimum order requirements, fast turnaround, and a seamless online ordering process, it’s clear that your search for the best custom lanyards ends here. Take the next step today!

Benefits of Lanyards for Events and Businesses

Lanyards are often overlooked, but they play a big role in so many different aspects of events and everyday operations for businesses. Whether it’s a trade show or yet another school day, lanyards keep things running smoothly. 

Here are some of the most common reasons event planners and businesses alike rely on lanyards:

  • Identification and Security: Lanyards make it easy to display badges, passes, or IDs, so that teams, guests, and attendees are easy to identify. They reduce confusion and enhance security in large venues or workplaces.
  • Professionalism and Branding: Custom lanyards turn every staff member or guest into a walking brand ambassador. A prominent logo or event name is visible reinforces credibility and consistency.
  • Convenience and Functionality: They keep keys, cards, and small tools accessible without pockets or bags, streamlining workflow and reducing loss.
  • Cost-Effective Promotion: Lanyards are inexpensive to produce in bulk compared to other branded materials, and they have a lasting impact for your brand.
  • Versatility: They’re suitable for everything from conferences to concerts to classrooms, adapting easily to different use cases.

There are a lot of lanyard alternatives, but few things can check all these boxes. It’s easy to see why lanyards are a staple in corporate America and in countless other applications. But what makes breakaway lanyards, in particular, so special?

What Are Breakaway Lanyards?

These types of lanyards are designed with safety as the top priority. Their defining feature is a quick-release clasp (usually located at the back of the neck) that automatically detaches if the lanyard is pulled or caught. This prevents choking hazards and injuries.

As you can imagine, breakaway lanyards are pretty popular in environments where people move frequently or work around machinery. That includes schools, healthcare facilities, factories, and public events - really, anywhere safety and comfort can’t be taken lightly.

Breakaway lanyards still offer full customization despite the added mechanism, from materials like polyester and nylon to printing methods like dye-sublimation or woven designs. They can hold ID badges, keycards, or tools while maintaining the same professional look as non-breakaway versions.

But do you really need this type of lanyard? Or can you get by with the typical style? Let’s take a closer look at breakaway vs non-breakaway lanyards below to help you narrow it down. 

Breakaway vs Non-Breakaway Lanyards: Which Style is Right For You?

Just like with choosing between nylon vs polyester lanyards, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer as to which is better. It all comes down to the end user and the environment.

And while both serve the same core purpose (holding IDs, passes, or keys), the stakes are too high to just guess which is optimal between breakaway vs non-breakaway lanyards. Here’s what you need to know.

Safety and Environment

It goes without saying that user safety and the environment in which lanyards will be used are the two most important criteria to consider. 

Typical lanyards are fixed and don’t release under tension. That’s totally fine for offices, conferences, and controlled environments with minimal safety risks. But that might not be acceptable for situations where there’s potential for snagging or physical contact.

In these scenarios, breakaway lanyards are the best choice. Their safety clasp automatically releases if the lanyard is pulled or caught, which provides peace of mind when lanyards are used in schools, hospitals, factories, or large events.

Comfort and User Experience

Comfort plays a huge role in whether someone actually enjoys wearing their lanyard. And if someone doesn’t wear their lanyard, then what’s the point?

Fortunately, you don’t have to worry about this when choosing between breakaway vs non-breakaway lanyards from us. Everything we make is designed with the end user’s experience in mind.

Durability and Longevity

Both types of lanyards can be incredibly durable when made from high-quality materials like polyester, nylon, or woven fabric. Like we just mentioned, all the lanyards we create are crafted with top-tier materials and unparalleled attention to detail. 

That said, non-breakaway lanyards generally last longer because they lack a detachable mechanism that might weaken over time with repeated use. But don’t assume that breakaway lanyards are “weak.” That’s not the case at all. Ours feature reinforced clasps so they can withstand constant use, providing an ROI for years to come.

Speaking of which…

Cost Comparison

Non-breakaway lanyards are typically more affordable since there aren’t as many moving pieces. They’re an excellent choice for large-scale distribution at conferences, concerts, or temporary events.

On the other hand, you’ll pay a slightly higher price for breakaway lanyards - but it’s worth it for peace of mind in the right environment. They’re a smart investment for schools, hospitals, or workplaces where staff wear lanyards every day. 

The difference in cost is minimal compared to the benefits gained, especially when you buy in bulk. But if price is a major deciding factor for you, then you’ve come to the right place. We have the lowest prices online, guaranteed, across ALL our lanyards!

Bring Your Custom Lanyards to Life Today!

CustomLanyard.net has spent over a decade perfecting the art of custom lanyard manufacturing. We combine quality, affordability, and unmatched service for the ultimate user experience, every time. 

It’s why brands like Nike, Yelp, Facebook, and millions of others have trusted us for their lanyard customization needs. But small businesses, schools, and non-profits can expect the same attention to detail and commitment to excellence. 

From corporate events and trade shows to schools, sports teams, and security applications, we have the perfect lanyard template for any use case. You can narrow it down based on style below:

Our advanced printing technology ensures your designs come out crisp and vibrant, every time, no matter what you put on a lanyard. 

Getting started is simple. Just choose a material, pick a size, and configure your attachments. Then, upload your artwork, finalize the details, and we’ll send you a free digital proof before production begins. It’s really that easy!

We offer no minimum order requirements, bulk pricing, fast rush delivery, and 24/7 customer support, making the entire process quick and seamless. Bring your lanyard vision to life, whether you go with breakaway lanyards vs non-breakaway lanyards!

Wrapping Up Our Comparison of Breakaway vs Non-Breakaway Lanyards

Hopefully, this comparison of breakaway vs non-breakaway lanyards has left you with total clarity on which style suits your needs. If not, just get in touch with our customer service team and we’ll walk you through the decision-making process one-on-one.

In summary, though, breakaway lanyards offer peace of mind in active or high-risk settings where safety matters, while non-breakaway options deliver simplicity and cost efficiency for offices, conferences, or controlled spaces.

No matter which you need, you can start designing your custom lanyards today at CustomLanyard.net. Get a free quote and proof in minutes and see what keeps customers choosing our service, time and time again!