What is the difference between digital and screen printing?
Digital and screen printing are two very different printing technologies. Both methods deliver high-quality results, but the choice between them depends on the packaging design, box size, and the quantity ordered. Let’s compare both methods:
Digital printing for packaging (with FLATBED printers):
- Printed directly from a digital file, with no physical printing plates.
- Enables full-color (CMYK) and white ink printing.
- Metallic inks (such as gold or silver) cannot be used.
- Ideal for complex graphics, including photographic images.
- Suitable for small runs and fast turnaround.
- Not efficient for medium or large runs, as FLATBED printers are relatively slow.
- Suitable for large-format packaging, as FLATBED printers can handle large print areas (e.g., 1650×3200 mm).
Screen printing on boxes (Silkscreen):
- Each color is applied using a separate mesh screen.
- Best suited for single- or two-color designs.
- Cost-effective for medium and large runs, though it requires screen preparation, which adds to the cost.
- The printing process is relatively fast, but the overall turnaround time may be longer due to the time needed to prepare the screens.
- Not suitable for very large packaging formats or large print areas.
In short: Choose digital printing when your packaging design is colorful, includes complex graphics or photographs, and you need a small quantity of boxes. Use screen printing when your box design uses one or two colors only (especially if you want metallic inks like gold or silver) and you are producing a larger batch of packaging.