Why Offset Printing is Preferred over Digital Printing?

The understanding of the difference between offset and digital printing is important for every potential print customer. Offset printing VS digital printing is better for higher printing volumes, such as 2,500+ copiers, while digital printing is ideal for small printing volumes, such as a single copy.

It is important to note that the main difference between digital and offset printing is only the volume because both methods are used for professional printing to facilitate a number of businesses. Sheet sizes and color capabilities are other prominent differences between digital press vs offset press. Let’s explore together how offset printing is a better option than digital printing for your business based on different factors.

What is Offset Printing?

Offset printing utilizes plates, preferably aluminum plates, to transfer ink or an image indirectly onto a paper sheet through a rubber sheet. The efficient setup and smooth running of offset make it an ideal option for larger volumes. An offset printer offers elegant and crisp printing in the presence of accurate reproduction of colors. You can check the drawbacks and benefits of the printing press.

History of Offset Printing

Offset printing was started in the early 20th century. This lithography offset printing method evolved from lithography. American printer Ira W. Rubel explored how inked images could be transformed from a lithographic stone onto a rubber sheet and then onto a paper sheet in 1901. It led to the offset printing development, ensuring faster production and premium quality prints.

Advantages of Offset Printing

• Consistent and high-quality prints with sharp text and images.
• Affordable method for larger volumes due to lower per-unit expense.
• Ideal for different paper thicknesses and types.
• Perfect for bulk printing due to quick production time.
• The best option for printing detailed text and images.
• A fabulous choice for color accuracy, particularly custom colors or Pantone.
• Durable prints with excellent resistance to fading and smudging.

Disadvantages of Offset Printing

• Higher initial setup expenses include the cost of an offset printing machine.
• Expensive for smaller volumes.
• Limited flexibility in design modification after printing is begun.

What is Digital Printing?

Digital printing utilizes larger printers or toners to transfer onto the material rather than using the plates. Printing press digital printing is perfect for small quantities in the presence of variable capability. This printing process ensures phenomenal accuracy for each unique address and name. Individuals and small businesses usually utilize digital printing machines for small volumes.

Digital Printing History

Digital printing was started in the 1990s, indicating the exceptional advancement in laser and inkjet printing. The invention of digital printing shows that Xerox 9700 was launched in 1977, becoming the first-ever digital press for higher printing volumes. Digital printers became versatile and cost-effective options due to advancements in computer technology. The evolution of printing technology made digital printing an ideal option for on-demand and short-run printing by the 2000s.

Don’t let printing terms confuse you! Find out what ‘collate’ means and how it impacts your projects. Dive into our blog “What Does Collate Mean When Printing?” take your printing knowledge to the next level!

Advantages of Digital Printing

• Lower setup expenses for small printing volumes.
• Quick turnaround time with just a few adjustments.
• Excellent flexibility for variable or customizable printing purposes.
• High-quality prints with sharp text and images.
• Perfect for fast and on-demand prints without longer delay.
• Easiest design modification during printing.
• No physical plates minimizing material waste.

Disadvantages of Digital Printing

• The high per-unit expense for larger volumes.
• Lower printing quality for larger volumes.
• A high risk of smudging.
• Inappropriate for specialty effects or high-end finishes.

Main Differences Between Offset VS Digital Printing

Why Offset Printing is Better Than Digital Printing

Superior Print Quality

Offset printing vs. digital printing is the perfect option due to the high-quality results. The utilization of plates ensures consistent and precise color reproduction. The detail and sharpness make offset printing an ideal choice for premium projects like packaging, customized printed pizza boxes, brochures, and magazines. On the other hand, while digital printing delivers good quality, it cannot match the fine details and accurate colors of offset printing.

Cost-Effectiveness Printing for Large Volumes

Offset printing is an affordable option for larger print jobs. While there are higher initial setup costs due to preparation and plates, it offers a lower cost per unit, making it an ideal choice for printing products like packaging, rigid boxes, newspapers, and books. In contrast, digital printing is suitable only for small volumes due to its higher per-unit cost, making it a costly option for large-volume production.

Variety of Paper and Finishes

Offset printing is preferred over digital printing due to the exceptional versatility to handle different types of finishes and paper. It allows printing for various coatings, textures, and paperweights in the presence of flexible creativity. However, digital printers come with limited options for the specialty or heavy papers. That’s why offset printing is a phenomenal choice over digital printing.

Durability and Longevity

Technique and technology script and print offer excellent resistance and durability to ensure long-term prints without smudging or fading. It offers excellent longevity and durability due to the use of thicker ink on the paper. However, digital printers are always more prone to tear and wear, particularly exposure to sunlight or frequent handling. Therefore, offset printing is a recommended option for the durability and longevity of prints.

Consistency

Offset vs digital printing offers ideal consistency for higher volumes of prints. However, digital printing can experience slight variations in quality and color. Let’s partner with Instant Custom Boxes and get the help of our professional packaging experts when you are looking to print your product packaging in a larger volume!