Digital Printing Definition
Digital printing refers to methods of printing from a digital-based image directly to a variety of media. Meaning: It goes directly from your PDF file, for instance, straight to the digital printer. There is no need to create any cylinders or plates, and setup time is a fraction of the time gravure printing would take.
Digital printing usually refers to professional printing where small-run jobs from desktop publishing and other digital sources are printed using large-format and/or high-volume or inkjet printers.
Benefits of Digital Printing
Incredibly Fast! There are fewer steps in the printing process, and as a result, the final product can be delivered quicker.
Less Expensive. If you have a low quantity (less than 1000 pieces), digital printing is far more cost effective than traditional gravure printing since there is no need to create any cylinders.
Short Runs. Digital printing is the ideal method of producing short to medium print runs compared to traditional methods.
Greater Flexibility. Digital printing allows for frequent changes to your printed material if needed.
Drawbacks of Digital Prints
Unable to Color Match. Despite the constant improvements in digital printing, it can unfortunately still be difficult to match Pantone colours and metalic colours exactly when adopting this method. This is due to digital printers use a four color process while traditional gravure printers use the PMS and inks to deliver color accuracy.
Fewer Material Options. Digital printing are quickly catching up to gravure printing in terms of what they can and can’t print on, but they’re not there yet. Traditional gravure printing still offer a wider range of printing material, color and finish options.
More expensive in higher quantity print runs. While you may need a project fast, if you have a higher quantity (more than 2500 pieces), traditional gravure printing pricing normally becomes more cost effective.
Conclusion
Gravure printing is still a highly effective printing method. Most large-scale print runs benefit from the factory-like process of gravure printing.
However, if you are a business owner and need something printed fast, while still maintaining a high quality and want to see a printed bag before your job gets started, this is where digital printing has advantages.
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