When to Choose Lithographic Printing Over Digital

While digital printing has become the go-to choice for many, there are still certain situations where lithographic printing is the better option. We will explore the benefits and limitations of lithographic printing and help you determine when it is the right choice for your printing needs.

First, let’s understand what lithographic printing is. Also known as offset printing, it involves transferring ink from a printing plate onto a rubber blanket, which then transfers it onto the printing surface. This process allows for high-quality, consistent prints, making it ideal for large print runs. On the other hand, digital printing involves transferring the image directly from a computer onto the printing surface, eliminating the need for printing plates. This method is more suitable for small print runs and offers quick turnaround times.

One of the main benefits of lithographic printing is its ability to produce high-quality prints. As the ink is transferred from the printing plate onto the rubber blanket and then onto the printing surface, the result is a clean and crisp image. This makes it the preferred choice for printing materials such as brochures, magazines, and packaging, where image quality is crucial. Additionally, lithographic printing allows for a wider range of paper types and finishes, giving you more options for your print design.

In terms of cost, lithographic printing is more cost-effective for large print runs. This is because the cost of setting up the printing plates is spread out over a larger number of prints, making each print more affordable. On the other hand, digital printing is more cost-effective for small print runs, as there are no setup costs involved. However, as the number of prints increases, the cost of digital printing also increases, making it less cost-effective for large print runs.

Another advantage of lithographic printing is its ability to print on a variety of materials, including non-paper substrates such as plastic, metal, and fabric. This makes it the preferred choice for printing on items such as promotional products, packaging, and signage. Digital printing, on the other hand, is limited to paper and some thin materials, making it less versatile in terms of printing options.

One of the limitations of lithographic printing is the longer setup time compared to digital printing. As the printing plates need to be created and set up, it can take longer to start the printing process. This can be an issue if you need your prints quickly. However, for large print runs, the longer setup time is worth it for the high-quality prints produced. On the other hand, digital printing has a quick setup time, making it ideal for rush orders and small print runs.

In terms of colour accuracy, lithographic printing is known for its ability to produce vibrant and accurate colours. This is because the ink is mixed to match specific Pantone colours, ensuring consistency across prints. On the other hand, digital printing uses a four-colour printing process, which may not always match the exact colour you are looking for. This can be a limitation for branding materials that require specific colours.

So, when should you choose lithographic printing over digital? If you have a large print run and require high-quality, consistent prints, lithographic printing is the better option. Additionally, if you need to print on non-paper substrates or require specific Pantone colours, lithographic printing is the way to go. However, if you have a small print run and need quick turnaround times, digital printing may be the better choice.

Both lithographic and digital printing have their benefits and limitations, and the decision ultimately depends on your printing needs. We hope this guide has helped you understand when to use lithographic printing rather than digital. Remember to consider factors such as print quality, cost, versatility, and turnaround time when making your decision. Happy printing!