Digital printing what is

Although digital printing works well on most stocks today, there are still some papers and jobs where offset printing works better. There are also some stocks and jobs where digital printing will perform as well as, or better than, offset printing. Printing is printing, right? Because offset presses run so efficiently once they are set up, offset printing is the best choice when larger quantities are needed, and provides accurate color reproduction, and crisp, clean professional looking printing.

Digital printing shines when lower quantities are needed; think of a run of 20 greeting cards or flyers. 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 or more, and the best solution is digital printing. Offset printing, also called lithography, is the most common kind of printing for high volume commercial jobs. Ever seen videos of newspapers running through big rolls? Typically, four colors are used cyan, magenta, yellow and black key , abbreviated CMYK , but offset printing also allows for custom ink colors most notably Pantone colors to be used instead.

Next, the design is transferred from the plates onto rubber rolls. The different colors of ink are spread onto the rubber and then the paper is run between them. The paper goes through all of the rolls, layering on the color, to get the final image. The inkjet or laserjet you hook up to your computer at home? Are you hoping for some unique business cards on metal or plastic? Variable printing is available with this type of printing process, allowing for each piece of direct marketing — whether that be a flyer, leaflet or brochure — to be unique.

In this day and age, it has become common accepted marketing practice to think of your customers as individuals, and personalisation is unrivalled when it comes to digital printing. The digital printing process produces higher quality prints from a lower resolution image. Digital technology has also significantly improved from the first printer of its type and, due to its non-contact printing process, this allows for less distortion of images.

The finish of the print is typically sharp and precise, whereas litho printing offers a softer finished product. With the surge in popularity for digital printing, the desire for this type of printing process is constantly undergoing development. As digital printing is faster and more cost effective, it is worthwhile adapting and improving. There are also other advantages in that digital printing requires fewer man hours, communication and has a higher turn around — all reasons to continue to develop the process in the future.

You print only as much as you need with digital, but with litho printing there is a minimum amount. To speak with one of our experts about your printer needs, just give us a call.

Please leave this field empty. Delivering world class mail and print solutions since , we know a thing or two about the industry. Read our latest news and insights to learn more about our experience and expertise. Get a quote today, call or email info wdmonline. Call: Email: info wdmonline. Get a Sample Pack Get a Quote. However, compared to traditional offset printing techniques, digital printing has a higher cost per page.

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