Print Sunday – Print Smarter, Not Harder.
Tuesday, 16 May 2023
Digital printing is a popular printing method, thanks to its affordability and efficiency. But what is digital printing, exactly? How does it differ from other printing methods, such as offset printing? And what are the pros and cons of using digital printing? So if you're curious about digital printing, read on!
Digital printing is a printing process that uses digital files to create printed materials. Digital printing, on the other hand, doesn't need printing plates or other physical setup materials like offset printing does. Instead, the digital file is sent directly to the printer, which uses toner or ink to produce the final product.
The two most common types of digital printing technologies are inkjet and dry toner (laser). Inkjet printers make high-resolution prints by spraying tiny droplets of ink onto the paper or other media being used. Dry toner creates prints using powder-based ink that is fused to the page with heat. Both inkjet and dry toner offer advantages such as vibrant colours, a wide range of papers, cost efficiency, sharp graphics, and quick turnaround times compared to their traditional counterparts.
The Advantages of Digital Printing
Digital printing is quickly becoming the preferred method among individuals and businesses alike due to its advantages over traditional methods such as offset printing. Some of these advantages include:
- Faster Turnaround Time
Digital printing eliminates the need for printing plates and setup materials, which can significantly reduce the printing process's turnaround time. - Cost-effective for Small Print Runs
Digital printing has a lower setup cost, making it more affordable for smaller print runs. This cost-saving is brought about by removing pre-press setup fees and not having plates be made. - Variable Data Printing
One of the most significant advantages of digital printing is the ability to personalise each print. This technology allows you to create customised printed materials with unique text, images, or graphics for each printed piece. This is ideal for direct mail campaigns, promotional materials, personalised marketing, or even a wedding invitation.
The Disadvantages of Digital Printing
Digital printing is a fantastic option for many projects due to its speed and quality—but it also has its drawbacks. Examples of drawbacks include:
- Limited Print Size
Digital printing has a limited print size, typically SRA3 (305x430mm) sheets. This meant printing an A4 Landscape book or A2 posters (on dry toner machine) is not possible. Larger print materials like banners or signs will need to be printed using other (digital) printing methods. - Colour matching
Despite its technological advancements, digital printing is limited to printing in greyscale and the CMYK palette. It is unable to achieve true colours like Pantone. Digital printing also cannot achieve white, metallic and fluorescent colour print. However, there has been some disruption in digital printing technologies in recent years, which we will discuss in a future post. - Non Cost-effective for Large Print Runs
While digital printing is an excellent option for smaller print runs, it may not be the best option for large print runs. This is because the cost per print may be higher for digital printing than for traditional printing methods like offset printing.
Digital printing is proving to be the preferred method for the majority of printing needs in the current environment where there is a need to quickly pivot. The ability to print only what you need brings about benefits like cost savings and being environmentally friendly. Less material ends up in landfills due to overprint or outdated information.
For all those who require a fast and reliable printing solution, digital printing has become the go-to choice. Not only does it provide incredible levels of customisability to suit any job's needs, but its speed and accuracy ensure that print projects can be completed in no time! Despite some drawbacks that have been steadily diminishing over time, there is still no better option for quick turnaround times than digital print—so why not get started today? Print Sunday has everything ready for your next big print!