Cheapest Ways to Send Postcards
If your main goal is cost, standard print-and-mail postcards are usually cheapest. If your goal is impact, paying slightly more for better print, tracking, or video playback can deliver much better results.
Cost comparison
| Method | Typical cost | Delivery time | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY printed card | $0.50-$1.00 + postage | Varies | Lowest cost, inconsistent quality |
| Standard tourist postcard | $1.00-$2.50 + postage | 5-14 days | Simple, familiar, static message |
| Online print-and-mail service | $2.00-$4.00 | 3-10 days | Convenient ordering, varied quality |
| Digital e-card | $0-$2.00 | Instant | No physical keepsake |
| ARVideoCards postcard | $2.50-$3.90 | 2-10 days + browser video access | Printed card + living video message |
How to choose the right "cheap" option
Use this rule: choose the lowest-cost option that still meets your quality expectations. For one-off casual greetings, a basic card may be enough. For birthdays, travel memories, or client outreach, richer formats often perform better and are remembered longer.
If you want a printed postcard plus a personal video reveal in the recipient's browser, ARVideoCards sits in the same budget range as many premium postcard services while offering a stronger message format.
Compare cost with impact
See how a small budget increase can turn a static postcard into a living image experience.
Create a postcard