We often get the question - "What's better, offset or digital printing?" And our answer is always - "Well it depends!" So here is what it depends on, and here are the advantages and disadvantages of both.

First, some Print Definitions:

Offset Printing - An image is transferred, or "offset," from a plate, to a rubber blanket, to the sheet of paper where the ink is applied. Those inks can be a four color process (CMYK) or a combination of Pantone (SPOT) colors. The plate is created (using computer-to-plate technology) prior to printing and contains the printed image. Plates are created in separations for the colors being used. For example, if a 4 Color CMYK press is being used, four plates, one for each color is created. Because of set up, offset printing is intended for larger runs, with longer turnarounds.

Digital Printing - Images are digitally transferred to paper using lasers, positive and negative static charges and either dry toner or liquid suspended toner particles. No plates need to be created and varying images can be transferred to paper quickly and efficiently. Digital presses differ from standard laser printers in the tight tolerances they are kept in, technologies developed in the offset world, and the graphics arts software that controls them. They also offer sheet sizes up to 14"x26" and up the 350GSM in weight.

Benefits of Digital Printing:

Fast Turnaround to meet tight deadlines
Fast Set Up and no Plate Creation
Less waste
Because there is no costly set up, digital printing is cheaper for shorter runs
On Demand Printing is available

Benefits of Offset Printing:

Slightly better image quality (although that is becoming more debatable as digital press technology advances)
The higher the volume, the less expensive it is to print
Larger sheet size possible on larger presses

So how do you choose?

Here are our recommendations, and of course give us a call at 416-483-4100, or email us at 1stopprint@gmail.com with any questions.

Quantity - If this is a long run print job with a very high quantity, than offset may
be cheaper than digital. Small and medium runs may benefit from digital as there is no set up.
Turnaround - Digital will always be faster, and can help you meet deadlines. Offset printing will take longer, mainly because of press set up and plate creation.
Proofing - Because of setup an actual proof off an offset press is very expensive. With a digital press, a single sheet can be printed prior to the run, and then easily repeated once approved. If a proof is required, and the job can be run on a digital press, proofing would not be an issue.
Paper Selection - Digital presses max out at 300GSM, while offset can go with heavier stock. Offset presses also offer 25x40 sheets size and more substrates.