Digital and offset printing are the two most common commercial printing technologies in use today, making one of the most common questions, “Which one do I use for my project?”. We’ve outlined below the need-to-know information that will help you determine which process is best for your project.
Advantages
Smaller quantities
- Any print quantity under 1000 units is typically well suited for a digital press.
Faster turnaround
- Little set-up required.
Cost effective
- Prints lower quantities at much less cost.
Variable data
- Can print variable text or images where each sheet off the press is unique in some specific way.
Disadvantages
Larger colour variability
- Pantone colours are created using CMYK & other colours.
Limited choice of media
- Can accomodate a smaller variety of paper stocks.
Advantages
Larger quantities
- A print quantity of over 1000 units is typically well suited for offset printing.
Pantone (Spot) colours & varnishes
- Accurate Pantone colours as plates are filled with Pantone inks or ‘spot colours’
- Fluorescent & metallic inks.
- Spot or flood varnishes.
Cost effective
- Prints higher quantities at much less cost.
Larger media variety
- Rough or heavy papers, cloths or specialty papers.
Disadvantages
More time consuming
- Set-up, maintenance & drying time required.
Finishing time
- Requires drying time.
“Trades has been our large-format printing supplier for the past two years and has consistently met our delivery deadlines. We are very happy with their service. Carla and her entire team (from delivery, to production, to customer service) are very RESPONSIVE. They treat our orders both small and large with professionalism and urgency. Rather than blindly printing what files are submitted, they take the time to review our documents and will contact us to clarify details or to offer suggestions for improving print quality. When dealing with tight timelines, we feel fortunate to be working with Carla and her team of dedicated staff to help us deliver a quality print set for our clients.”
Elaine Chong (Applied Engineering Solutions Ltd)
All Testimonials →Still unclear on the best choice for your project?
No problem—give us a call and we would be happy to outline specifically how each process will apply to your project.
