Digital or offset printing? – which technology fits your project
For small runs — a few dozen to a few hundred pieces — and for tight deadlines, digital printing is the better deal: no set-up cost, immediate start. From around a thousand pieces, offset becomes cheaper per copy, in exchange for longer preparation.
The difference in practice
Offset uses printing plates and a CMYK halftone screen, giving extremely consistent colour across large volumes. Digital prints straight from the file, allows variable data, and is economical on short runs.
How it affects price
Offset has a fixed entry cost and a very low per-copy price; digital has no entry cost but a flat per-copy price. See our technologies and materials pages, or just ask for a quote.
Frequently asked questions
- Which one is better quality?
- Both are excellent today; it is a question of volume and cost.
- Which do you recommend for 50 pieces?
- Almost always digital.
- Can I switch later if volumes grow?
- Yes, a follow-up order can move to offset.
Not sure which one you need? Call Barbara or Misi — two minutes and you will know.