Digital Printing vs Offset Printing Explained
What’s the REAL difference between digital and offset printing, and why does it matter? Offset printing has been around since 1875, whereas digital printing has only been around for the past fifty years. So what exactly is the difference between the two, and what makes each of them useful? Let’s take a look at these two printing methods, their differences, and how to make an educated decision on which type of printing you should use for your next project.
What is Offset Printing?
Offset printing was developed in England in 1875 by a gentleman named Robert Barclay. The new technology allowed more streamlined printing and efficient mass production because it utilized a metal cylinder rather than a flat stone. Offset printing uses flat “plates” of aluminum to transfer images onto a rubber sheet called a “blanket,” and then rolling that image onto a sheet of paper. This gives it the name “offset printing” because the ink never actually directly gets transferred to the paper; rather, the ink is used to prepare a system that can bulk produce a lot of material very quickly once it’s set up.
What is Digital Printing?
Digital printing doesn’t use plates, rather it uses options such as toner or liquid ink. Many of the printers we have in our homes use a special kind of ink suspension in combination with an extremely accurate application device (like a laser) that is capable of printing tiny little dots onto a piece of paper. Digital printing is the real MVP when it comes to printing in quantities that aren’t considered bulk volume. Rather than a magazine company, picture someone just needing to get 20 cards printed for a graduation party – or maybe they need 50 handouts for an event they’re putting together.
Volume isn’t the only thing that sets digital apart though. An additional benefit is the fact that because the designs are digitized, not imprinted onto a printing plate, digital is capable of changing small aspects of the design to be customized. Think of things like a person’s name, or unique addresses. When you need to print a similar design, with customizable details, digital is definitely the way to go.
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.
Why Should I Choose Digital Printing:
When setup budgets are lower; or for short runs
Print only the amount you need, when you need it
Lower minimum quantities (as low as 1, 20, or 50 pieces)
Variable data capability (names, addresses, codes, or numbering can be done easily)
Technology continues to make digital printing look higher quality
What are the Advantages of Offset Printing:
Large quantities can be printed cost-effectively
The more you print, the cheaper the price per piece
A large variety of paper types with custom finishes can be used
Special custom inks such as metallic and Pantone colors are available
Highest possible printing quality, with greater detail and color fidelity
Which printing is the right fit for my next print project?
As you can tell by everything that we’ve talked about so far, offset and digital printing are both extremely useful printing methods and each of them has particular advantages and downfalls. If you’re in a position where quality and quantity are high priorities, but customization of design from piece to piece is not… Offset printing is going to be the way to go.
Digital printing may be the route to go if your job requires less quantity, more customization and you really want to make sure that everything happens on a quick turnaround. The best part is, that as a business in the 21st century you have access to both of these printing methods and can use them to their fullest potential.
If you feel like you still have questions, and want to talk to someone about your specific needs, give our team here at Pinnacle Press a call at (330) 453-7060 and we can make sure to answer any of your questions!