Digital v Litho - Which? to use, When? and Why?

These days, when we’re providing quotes to print booklets, brochures, posters etc., we always first go through the process of considering the type of print to use on each job.

What we are considering is:

• value for money
• quality
• deadlines

We try to get the right balance for each client, depending on their own priorities, and although we know that clients don’t always want to know the ins and outs of production methods, we do try to clarify which method has been quoted for to explain possible inconsistencies in pricing.

I’m sure there are more technical pro’s and con’s, but below are the ones that are generally of most interest to myself and most of our clients....

Litho - for

• superior quality print
• superior and consistent colour matching
• can print onto a greater range of thickness or paper surface
• generally cheaper for high quantity print runs

LItho - against

• generally dearer on lower quantities (i.e. less than 500)
• longer turnaround time (can be 2-7 days)

Digital - for

• high quality print - but beware, there are still some outdated low quality digital machines (and operators!) out there!
• generally cheaper on lower quantities - ( from 1-500)
• very quick turnaround time (can be as little as a couple of hours)
• *variable data print runs is an option - i.e. different name and address/image on each sheet, any quantity

Digital - against

• colours can be inconsistent and may not match existing branded materials
• can print on paper weight up to 350gm only
• page size is more limited

If you want more information on litho vs digital just Google and you’ll find many different opinions.

*If you want to know more about variable data, and how it works for your direct marketing project, then keep an eye on our blog and I’ll post some more information. Click here to read Variable Data post.