Digital Printing vs Offset Printing: Which is the Best Option for Your Business?

When needing to get printing done for your business needs, there are plenty of options to choose from. Two common printing techniques that businesses frequently must decide between are digital printing and offset printing.

We look at both methods, their unique applications and their respective benefits, helping you decide which is best suited for your business’s requirements.

Digital and Offset Printing: Understanding the Basics 

What is Digital Printing 

Digital printing involves printing directly from digital images to various media, commonly using large-format or high-volume laser or inkjet printers for short-run jobs from desktop publishing sources.

It offers quick turnaround times and the ability to modify images for each print, making it ideal for personalised marketing materials and custom, small-scale projects. Read more about what is digital printing here.

What is Offset Printing

Offset printing is a commonly employed printing technique wherein the inked image is transferred (or “offset”) from a plate to a rubber blanket, then to the printing surface. This method is incredibly suited for large-volume printing needs such as newspapers, magazines, brochures, and books.

Cost Implications: Comparing Digital and Offset Printing Costs

The choice between digital and offset printing often comes down to cost considerations which vary depending on quantity, colour requirements, and page dimensions. 

For Small or Medium-Sized Runs

Digital printing is cost-effective for small, custom jobs due to no setup fees like those for offset printing plates. This offers faster turnaround and greater cost efficiency at lower quantities with flexible scaling.

For Large-Scale Production

Offset printing is more cost-effective at higher volumes, as initial setup costs are offset by lower unit costs with increased quantities, making it ideal for large-scale print campaigns or regular publications.

Quality and Material Versatility

Quality of Output

When it comes to quality, offset printing has a slight edge due to its precise control over the amount of ink and its distribution. The result is a consistent, high-quality image with richer, deeper colour fidelity and resolution. If your business requires extremely fine artwork such as catalogues or fine art reproductions, offset printing is the way to go.

Material Versatility

Offset printing presses handle a wide range of printing surfaces, including special papers and finishes. However, advancements in digital technology have expanded the materials usable in digital printing, with innovations like UV inks and heat processing enabling the use of varied substrates.

Speed and Flexibility

Speed of Production

Digital printing provides unmatched speed due to its minimal press setup. This allows for the rapid execution of print jobs and is particularly advantageous for businesses requiring immediate delivery of marketing materials. 

For companies in Perth looking to quickly produce and deploy advertising materials, EXBO’s digital printing options in Perth offer efficient and fast service tailored to urgent business needs.

Flexibility for Customisation

Digital printing shines in its ability to customise each print without slowing down the printing process. This is especially useful for applications such as personalised direct mail campaigns or variable data printing where names, addresses, codes or numbering must be unique for each impression.

Environmental Considerations

Environmental impact is a significant consideration for businesses selecting a printing method. Digital printing is recognised for its lower environmental footprint due to not using plates and using fewer chemicals compared to offset printing, and it reduces waste by printing the exact quantities needed. 

Need Printing Done for Your Perth Business?

Deciding between digital and offset printing for your Perth business involves weighing these comparisons. 

Businesses should ultimately consider their specific needs, the scope of their printing projects, and their budgetary constraints to make the best choice.

For businesses in Perth requiring prompt and flexible print solutions, explore local digital printing options at EXBO for a quick and efficient way to meet your immediate printing needs.