When it comes to choosing a stamped concrete sealer you must first decide the finish and the level of protection you are looking for. If you are looking for a sealer to enhance the colors and textures with a wet look or gloss finish you are going to want to use a decorative concrete sealer. If you are looking to keep the appearance of the stamped concrete in its natural state you are going to want to use a penetrating concrete sealer.
Decorative concrete sealers are used to add a decorative finish and are usually acrylic or urethane based. They are used to protect concrete stains and concrete dyes bringing out the colors and textures.
Penetrating sealers are used when a natural, flat finish is desired. Penetrating concrete sealers can be water based or solvent based and are usually a silane, siloxane chemistry. They are used to protect against salts, including deicing salts and salt water pool decks, and they are able to resist staining from oils and greases.