Digital printing is a method of printing from a digital-based image directly onto a variety of media substrates. It involves creating artwork on a computer in a variety of file types and then printing directly onto the material of your choice. Digital files such as PDFs or desktop publishing files can be sent directly to the digital printing press to print on paper, photo paper, canvas, fabric, synthetics, cardstock, and other substrates. The greatest difference between digital printing and analog methods, such as lithography, flexography, gravure, and letterpress, is that in digital printing, there is no need to replace the printing plate, whereas in analog printing, the plates are repeatedly replaced. This results in quicker turnaround time and lower cost in digital printing, but typically a loss of detail in most commercial digital printing processes.
Digital printing technology has grown significantly over the past few years with substantial developments in quality and sheet sizes. Digital printing enables additional advantages, including print-on-demand, cost-effective short runs, fast turnarounds, and personalization. Digital printing is also an ideal platform for producing user interface products such as labels, switches, keypads, graphic overlays, and dials.
Digital printing has a wide range of benefits and perks, including the ability to make small print runs, high-quality printing, fast turnaround time, lower cost per unit, and easy to provide printed proof. However, it also has a few drawbacks, such as a higher cost per page compared to traditional printing methods.
In summary, digital printing is a modern printing method that involves printing digital-based images directly onto a variety of media substrates. It offers several advantages such as cost-effectiveness, fast turnaround time, and personalization. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as a higher cost per page.