If you have ever ordered retractable banners, posters, or other signage for your business, you may come across two distinct printing options: offset and digital. What’s the difference between these two printing technologies, and which is the better choice for your marketing material?
This blog breaks down the differences between offset and digital printing. It also walks you through the pros and cons of each method so that you can choose the best option that works for your business requirements without breaking the bank.
What Is Offset Printing?
Offset printing is also known as lithography, and it is the more traditional printing service. In this process, ink is transferred from an etched plate to a rubber sheet. The ink is then passed from the rubber sheet to the final printing surface, such as paper. There are size restrictions with offset printing so it's not usually possible for larger items such as stand-up banners, fabric banners, or retractable banners. It is a long, two-step process that requires additional resources for each print job and can be more limiting.
What Is Digital Printing?
Unlike offset printing, digital banners and posters are created by transferring inks directly to the final media substrate. Modern digital printing methods use inkjet or laser technology for this process with a pigment or liquid ink known or a toner.
Digital printing has revolutionized the printing process, and it’s now possible to create high-quality digital prints at affordable prices. Inkjet printers use a series of nozzles that spray liquid ink directly onto the banner. In contrast, laser printers use dry toners to transfer the images. Compared with offset printing, digital printing offers more flexibility, reduces the cost of printing, and is quicker.
Offset Printing Vs. Digital Printing: Key Differences at a Glance
| Criteria | Offset Printing | Digital Printing |
| Quality | Excellent print quality is possible | Excellent print quality is possible |
| Quantity | Best suited for print jobs of medium to large sizes | Ideal for all print jobs, including small posters and banners |
| Turnaround Time | Depending on the set up process, can take longer to prepare to print, resulting in longer turnaround times. | The no complicated setup so the print job can be completed faster. |
| Medium | Typically prints on paper and card stock, but can print on some specialty materials up to the size limit of the press | Can print on all mediums, including magnets, fabric, films, PVC, etc. and can commonly be printed in very large sizes. |
| Personalization | Limited | Unlimited |
3 Reasons to Choose Digital Prints
Here are the top three advantages of digital printing:
- Fast Turnaround Times: If you’re looking for quick and seamlessly printed banners, posters, and other marketing material, digital prints are a good option. At Banner Stand Pros, we offer retractable banners, rollup banners, and other types of banners within four business days. We also offer rush options if necessary.
- High-Quality Prints: We use the latest inkjet technology to provide high-quality glossy or matte finishes. You’re guaranteed vibrant, accurate colors and high-contrast images that grab visitors’ attention.
- Eco-Friendly: In digital printing, we use exact amounts of ink to avoid waste. Also, digital printing eliminates the need to wash plates and blankets, avoiding toxic chemicals, and most inks are eco-friendly water based.
At Banner Stand Pros, our top priority is utilizing the best digital printing technologies to offer high-quality outputs. Contact us at 877-389-8645 to place your order.
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