Are e-cards still a thing? E-cards vs paper cards in 2026
Yes. E-cards have changed from static images to interactive cards with voice notes, photos and group messages. Paper cards still win for something to put on the mantelpiece; e-cards win on speed, international delivery, cost and the ability to include your voice and the whole family. Many people now send both.
What changed
Old e-cards were a cartoon and a line of text. Modern ones are more like a short personal film: the person taps to open, hears your voice, sees your photos and reads messages from everyone who loves them.
E-cards vs paper cards
| E-card | Paper card | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | From about £3, no postage | £3–£5 plus a stamp |
| Delivery | Instant, worldwide | Days; weeks abroad |
| Timing | Can be scheduled to the minute | Depends on the post |
| Voice and photos | Yes | No |
| Group messages | Easy, from anywhere | Passed hand to hand |
| On the mantelpiece | No | Yes |
| Environmental impact | No paper or transport | Paper, ink and delivery |
When an e-card is better
- Family or friends in another country
- Last-minute occasions
- When you want them to hear your voice
- Group cards from people in different places
When paper is better
- Someone who doesn't use a smartphone
- When the physical keepsake matters most
Do both
Post a short paper card and send a voice card that arrives on the morning. Paper for the shelf, voice for the heart.
Are e-cards safe to open?
Only open cards from people you know and from sites you recognise. A genuine card opens in your browser with one tap and never asks for passwords or payment details.
Say it with Snowglobe.
An animated Christmas card with your voice, your photos and the whole family. From £2.99.
Questions
Are e-cards still popular?
Yes. Modern e-cards include voice notes, photos and group messages, and are popular for family abroad, last-minute occasions and group cards.
Are e-cards better for the environment than paper cards?
Generally yes, because they use no paper, ink or physical delivery.