Here at Cambrian Printers, our job is to make sure that your design looks as fantastic in print as it does on-screen. Those who are having marketing materials or designs printed for the first time may not realise that there are two different types of printing to choose from. However, it is imperative that you choose a print type that is best suited to your designs. With new technical advancements, options and features being introduced into commercial printing on a regular basis, it’s imperative you know what’s what in the printing world. You will be left with a choice between digital and litho printing and knowing how the two differ could make all the difference when it comes to the final product. So, before you choose one our services, why not read our comparison of the two?
Which is which?
The litho printing process is typically used for products required in high-volumes. Your image will be burned onto a metal plate using a laser, which will then be loaded on to the printing press. The image is then transferred onto a rubber blanket and then applied to the printing surface. Whether you are printing on paper, card, or plastic, the process is pretty much the same – by relying on the repulsion of oil and water the picture will receive ink from the roller and the non-printed areas will be protected by a film of water. Digital printing on the other hand lacks many of the more mechanical steps that are involved in lithographic printing. Digital printing does not involve creating the plates, yet it is certainly not the same level of printing that you would see from an at-home printer. The digital printing presses are highly advanced and technical machines that can print your required image in a record amount of time.
Advantages of Lithography Printing
Litho printing provides consistently high quality images on a wide range of materials. From paper to plastic you are sure to receive the same crisp and clear image on every surface type. When you make a high-volume order of lithographic printing the unit cost decreases, which makes printing books or marketing products incredibly cost efficient. These time-tested printers are able to cope with consistent use without losing image quality, which makes it an incredibly reliable method. If you are looking for something more specific you are even able to choose special inks, Pantone Spots and a variety of metallic ink.
Advantages of Digital Printing
With a quick setup time and a fast turn-around, digital printing is ideal for those who need their products in a hurry. Digital printing will always ensure bright and vibrant results and, like lithographic printing, can be product results on a wide range of materials. Digital printing is the cheaper of the two options, which makes it ideal for low volumes of printing at any one time. One of the best advantages about digital printing is the wider personalisation options using a database. Text and graphics are able to be changed on each of your items without stopping or slowing down the entire press.
