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digital vs. offset printing: what’s the difference?
At Leech Group, we offer both digital and offset printing technologies in-house, and each has its strengths depending on your project’s needs. In this post, we’ll break down the differences between digital and offset printing, and help you figure out which option is right for your goals, budget, and timeline.
Offset Printing: Tried, True, and Built for Volume
Offset printing is the traditional method of printing that uses metal plates to transfer ink onto paper. While it involves more upfront setup, it produces exceptionally high-quality results and becomes more cost-effective as quantities increase.
When Offset Printing is the Better Choice:
- Large quantities: Ideal for print runs of 1,000+ pieces.
- Precise colour matching: Uses the Pantone Matching System and CMYK inks for consistency and accuracy.
- High-end finishes: Allows for special techniques like metallic inks, embossing, spot UV, and varnishes.
- Specialty papers: Handles a wide range of substrates, including textured, coated, and heavyweight stocks.
- Repeatability: Once a job is set up, it’s easy to reprint future runs with consistent quality.
Think: magazines, product packaging, corporate brochures, and stationery - any project where consistency and volume matter.
Digital Printing: Fast, Flexible, and Ideal for Small Runs
Digital printing skips the setup of plates and prints your file directly onto paper - making it quick, cost-effective for small batches, and easy to personalize.
When Digital Printing Makes Sense:
- Short runs: Perfect for small quantities, whether it's 10, 100, or 500 pieces.
- Quick turnarounds: Minimal setup means your job can often be completed in just a day or two.
- Variable data: Customize each piece with different names, addresses, images, or messages - ideal for mail campaigns or personalized marketing.
- Lower initial cost: No setup fees, making it budget-friendly for one-off projects or tight timelines.
Think: business cards, posters, postcards, flyers, and short-run booklets - especially if you need them quickly or customized.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Offset Printing | Digital Printing |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | High volumes (1,000+) | Short runs and fast turnarounds |
| Setup Time | Longer (requires plate creation) | Minimal setup |
| Cost per Unit | Lower as quantity increases | Lower as quantity increases |
| Colour Accuracy | Superior (Pantone & CMYK precision) | Great, but can vary slightly |
| Personalization | Limited | Easy to personalize each piece |
| Special Finishes | Extensive options (metallic, spot UV, etc.) | Extensive options (metallic, spot UV, White Ink, etc.) |
| Paper Variety | Broad range of stocks & finishes | Slightly more limited |
| Turnaround Time | Longer due to setup | Typically faster |
How to Decide? Ask Yourself These Questions
- How many pieces do I need?
- Do I need them fast?
- Is personalized content important (e.g. names or addresses)?
- How important is exact colour matching?
- Do I want any special finishes or effects?
Not Sure What You Need? Let’s Talk.
At Leech Group, we guide our clients through every step of the process. Whether you’re printing 50 custom invitations or 50,000 product brochures, our team will help you choose the method that delivers the best quality and value for your project.
Reach out today - we’ll help you bring your next project to life with print that works as hard as you do.
