Azimuth Print LtdThe UK's premier printer

The Differences Between Offset And Digital Printing

What is Digital Printing?Modern printing methods such as laser and ink-jet printing are known as digital printing. It is a method where the digital-based images are printed directly to a variety of media. Small-run jobs from desktop publishing and other digital sources are printed using large-format and/or high-volume laser or inkjet printers. In digital printing, an image is sent directly to the printer

using digital files such as PDFs

and those from graphics

software such as Illustrator and

InDesign. This eliminates the

need for a printing plate, which

is used in offset printing.

http://en.wikipedia.org

What is Offset Printing?Offset printing is a commonly used printing technique in which the inked image is transferred (or "offset") from a plate to a rubber blanket, then to the substrate surface, normally paper or board. When used in combination with the lithographic process, which is based on the natural and antipathy of oil and water, the

offset lithographic technique employs a flat

image carrier on which the image to be

printed obtains ink from ink rollers, while the

non-printing area attracts a water- based film

(called "fountain solution"), keeping the non-

printing areas ink-free.

Azimuth Print one of the world's first Computer-to-Plate colour litho printers.

http://en.wikipedia.org

Okay, but what is the difference?

Each type of printing method has its own pros and cons, so read on to understand better and to choose the one that best suits your needs and the type of work you wish to complete.

We here at Azimuth Print can print your orders both digitally and lithographically. You can specify by which method you would like your printing undertaken. If you don’t specify it we will make the decision as to which printing method suits your order

Offset Printing ProsAbility to print larger quantities cost effectivelyCan print on a variety of surfaces. And use special colours where four colour process is not able to reproduce the required shade.

Offset Printing ConsThe process requires more time for the work to dry before finishingCosts more than digital presses for low runsSlower turnaround times

Digital Printing ProsFaster than lithographic printing for smaller quantitiesCan print in small quantities – ideal when not needing bulk runs of printed materialMore accuracy on each print when compared to the original designEach print can be customised and can be different in any way from the previous copy

Digital Printing ConsAlthough much improved over recent years, digital printing quality is still inferior to lithographic offset printingCan’t print large runs at lower cost

We look forward to producing your next print order

When considering your options for printing, keep in mind the size and material you want to use, the quantity of copies, the chosen colours and how fast you need it to be completed. This will help you decide which printing process is best for your project.

We offer a fast efficient and cost effective printing service, our products include flyers, leaflets, folded leaflets, postcards, folders, books, business cards, brochures, booklets and stationery.

Call 01454 319676or e-mail to

sales@azimuthprint.co.ukfor details and prices.

You can order online at

www.azimuthprint.co.uk