Digital Printing vs Offset Printing Explained
What’s the REAL difference, and does it matter?
So, what’s the distinction between digital and offset printing? Printing is printing, right? Not exactly… Let’s take a look at these two printing methods, their differences, and where it makes sense to choose one or the other for your next print project.
What is Offset Printing?
Offset printing technology uses plates, usually made from aluminum, which is used to transfer an image onto a rubber “blanket”, and then rolling that image onto a sheet of paper. It’s called offset because the ink is not transferred directly onto the paper. Offset printing is the best choice when larger quantities are needed, and provides accurate color reproduction, and crisp, clean professional looking printing.
What is Digital Printing?
Digital printing doesn’t use plates the way offset does but instead uses options such as toner or larger printers that do use liquid ink. Digital printing shines when lower quantities are needed; think of a run of 20 greeting cards. Another benefit of digital printing is its variable data capability. When each piece needs a unique code, name or address, digital is the only way to go. Offset printing cannot accommodate this need. Learn more about digital printing options and capabilities.
While offset printing is a fantastic way to produce great-looking print projects, many businesses or individuals do not need large runs of 500 or more, and the best solution is digital printing.
What are the Advantages of Digital Printing:
Setup costs are lower for short runs
Print only the amount you need, when you need it
Lower minimum quantities (as low as 1, 20 or 50 pieces)
Inexpensive black and white digital printing
Variable data capability (names, addresses, codes or numbering can be done easily)
Improved technology has made digital quality acceptable for more uses
At the present stage, digital printing has become the main printing technology in the market, WER-CHINA Industry is the professional supplier for digital printers since the year of 2009 in Shanghai China, the main product including UV flatbed printers, DTG t-shirt printers, ECO solvent printers and large format solvent printers. If you have any question about the digital printing or any demand of the digital printing machines, welcome to contact us.