Offset Printing
- Higher setup costs due to plate creation
- Lower per-unit costs for larger print runs
- Excellent quality, especially for detailed or high-resolution images
Digital Printing
- Lower setup costs
- Higher per-unit costs for larger print runs
- Faster turnaround times
- Variable data printing capabilities
Cost Comparison
The cost per unit for offset printing is generally lower than for digital printing for runs of 500 or more copies. For smaller print runs, digital printing is typically more cost-effective. Other factors that can affect costs include:
- Paper type and weight
- Ink coverage
- Number of colors
- Complexity of design
- Finishing options