Digital Printing vs Offset Printing
Many people ask me about the difference between digital printing and offset printing. I like to explain it in a very simple way. One is like instant noodle, the other is like a well-cooked meal. Let me explain why.
If you only need to print 50 pieces of A4 leaflets, you can go to any printing shop in Malaysia that has digital printing. They can finish it the same day. It is fast and convenient. But if you need 5,000 pieces, offset printing is usually better. Offset printing takes longer, but the cost per piece is much lower when printing large quantities.
That is why I say digital printing is like instant noodle. You get it fast, but sometimes the result is not perfect. Offset printing is like a well-cooked meal. It takes longer, but the final result is more professional and satisfying.
Let’s discuss more about digital printing vs offset printing so you can decide which one is suitable for your printing project.
What is offset printing?
Offset printing uses plates to transfer an image onto a rubber “blanket,” and then the image is rolled onto the paper. It is called “offset” because the ink does not go directly onto the paper.
Think of it like cooking a proper meal. You need to prepare all the ingredients first. For offset printing, you need a digital colour proof to check the colours before printing. You also need CMYK printing plates. If you want extra colours, like Pantone, you need additional plates.
Offset printing is more complicated. You need to mount the plates, clean the rollers, and do test printing before the main print run. Like a proper meal, it takes longer, but the result looks professional.
Today, offset printing machines are very advanced. Some machines can print up to seven colours. If your job needs five colours but your machine only has four, you will need to run the machine twice for the fifth colour.
What is digital colour printing?
Digital printing is much simpler. You only need to upload your design file. Do a colour test, and when you are happy, press start. There is no need for plates or roller cleaning. A digital printing machine can be run by just one operator.
This is why digital printing is like instant noodle. You can print a small number of leaflets quickly and easily. Some high-end digital printers can print up to six colours. They also have binding machines, so you can print and bind brochures in one go.
Printing Quality Comparison
I have been designing for many years. I noticed that digital printing does not always match offset printing in colour accuracy. Sometimes digital prints look a little yellowish or reddish. This is because digital printing uses RGB colours, which are more like a computer screen. Offset printing uses CMYK, which gives more natural and accurate colours.
Offset printing produces crisp lines and professional-looking results. Packaging boxes, leaflets, brochures, and catalogues printed with offset printing always feel more premium.
Cost of Printing
In Malaysia, if you print 2,000 leaflets with offset printing, the cost per piece can be less than RM0.50. But with digital printing, the lowest cost per piece is around RM1.00, no matter the quantity.
On the other hand, if you only print 100 pieces, the cost of plates and colour proof for offset printing will make it more expensive. For small jobs, digital printing is cheaper. For large jobs, offset printing is more economical.
Speed and Efficiency
Once everything is set up, offset printing machines can print up to 15,000 pieces per hour. For large volumes, offset printing is faster.
But if you need only a few pieces or need them urgently, digital printing is unbeatable. You can submit your design in the morning and get your printed materials by the afternoon.
Flexibility
Offset printing works on a wide range of materials, including paper, cardboard, and plastic. Digital printing has more limitations.
For FMCG packaging boxes, which often need large volume printing, offset printing is usually used. After printing, we can also apply special finishes like lamination, foil stamping, embossing, or debossing to make the boxes more attractive.
Conclusion
Both digital printing and offset printing have their advantages and disadvantages. It depends on your needs. How fast do you need it? How many pieces do you want to print?
If you are looking for a printing company in Malaysia that can provide both digital and offset printing, Uniquelink can help. Whether it is a small batch or a huge quantity, we can deliver high-quality printing to meet your requirements.
For more information or to discuss your printing needs, please contact us today. We are ready to help you choose the best printing solution for your packaging boxes, leaflets, brochures, or catalogues.