Black vs White Gaffer Tape: Which to Choose

Gaffer tape comes in many colors, but black and white do almost all of the work. Picking the right one is mostly about one question: do you want people to see the tape or not?

Black vs white gaffer tape at a glance

When to use black gaffer tape

Black is the default color for film, video, theater and live events because it vanishes in low light and on dark surfaces. Use it for:

• Taping cables across stages, sets and dark floors
• Securing gear on black light stands, truss and cases
• Blocking light leaks and holding blackout material
• Any fix that might end up in the shot

Because black is matte and non-reflective, it does not catch stage lights or camera flashes. See black gaffer tape.

When to use white gaffer tape

White is about visibility. It stands out on dark floors and takes a permanent marker cleanly, so it is the go-to for anything you need to read or find quickly. Use it for:

• Spike marks and positions on dark stage floors
• Labeling cables, cases, shelves and equipment
• Hanging white paper and fabric backdrops in photo studios
• Taping on white walls, ceilings and light-colored surfaces

See white gaffer tape.

How much of each should you stock?

It depends on your work. Film, theater and event crews usually use far more black than white. Photo studios that shoot on white seamless often use more white. If you are not sure, start with mostly black and a few rolls of white, then track what runs out first.

Buying cases? At Wow Tapes, black and white cases count together toward business pricing, so you can split an order however your team needs. See buying gaffer tape in bulk.

Frequently asked questions

Which gaffer tape color is most popular?

Black. It is the standard for film, theater and live events because it disappears in shadow and on camera.

Can you write on gaffer tape?

Yes. White gaffer tape takes permanent marker well, which makes it ideal for labels and cable IDs. On black tape, use a white or silver paint pen.

Is white gaffer tape the same as black except for color?

For Wow Tapes, yes. Both colors use the same natural rubber adhesive and matte cloth backing, in the same 2 in x 50 yd size.

What is white gaffer tape used for in photography?

Photographers use it to hang white seamless paper and backdrops, mark positions on the floor and label gear, because it blends into light backgrounds.

Related: gaffer tape for photography backdrops · video podcast studio setup

Bottom line

Black hides, white shows. Keep black as your main stock for cables and rigging, and white on hand for marks, labels and light backdrops. Both are available as Wow gaffer tape in packs of 1, 2 and 6 and cases of 24.