Flexography vs. Digital Print: Which is best for your brand?
TLDR: Flexographic printing and digital printing are two of the most popular methods used for printing on corrugated packaging.
Flexographic printing is fast and cost-effective. However, it can be challenging to achieve high levels of detail and resolution and requires a print plate.
Digital printing is perfect for intricate designs and you can make changes quickly and easily without needing a new printing plate. It's also ideal for smaller print runs, it can match approximately 98% of the Pantone color spectrum, and you can print variable data. However, it can be more expensive per box and has limited specialty ink options.
Flexographic Printing vs. Digital Printing
There’s a lot to consider when choosing the right print method for your branded shipping packaging. The two of the most popular options for corrugated are flexographic printing and digital printing.
Both methods have their pros and cons, and choosing the right one can be a bit of a challenge. So, let's explore the differences between flexographic and digital printing to help you make the best choice for your brand.
Flexo Print
First up is flexographic printing. It's a popular method for printing on corrugated packaging and involves using a flexible printing plate wrapped around a rotating cylinder. The ink is transferred from the plate to the packaging material, and it's known for being speedy and cost-effective.
Flexographic printing is ideal for large quantities of packaging and can print a range of colors, including metallic and fluorescent inks. However, it can be tough to achieve high levels of detail and resolution with this method, and it requires a printing plate for each specific color used, which can add to the overall cost and time required.
See also: Flexo Ink Drawdowns
Digital Print
Next, we have digital printing. It has become increasingly popular in recent years because it can produce high-quality prints quickly and cost-effectively.
With digital printing, you print directly onto the packaging material using a digital file, rather than using a printing plate. This method is perfect for multi-color dynamic graphic designs and gradients. Plus, you can make changes quickly and easily without needing a new printing plate.
Digital printing is also ideal for smaller print runs, and you can print variable data like product names, barcodes, and sequential serial numbers. However, it can be more expensive than flexographic printing per box, and it's limited with specialty ink options.
In Short…
Choosing the right printing method for your brand’s packaging will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you need to print a lot of packaging quickly and cost-effectively, flexographic printing may be the best choice. But if you require high-quality prints with intricate designs, digital printing could be the way to go. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each printing method will help you make an informed decision that'll ensure your packaging looks great and meets your requirements.
If you're in the process of selecting a printing method for your packaging, our team can help you make the right call.
