Advantages of Digital Label Printing
Jul 13, 2024
With digital printing, an electronic file is converted into a series of dots, also known as a raster image. Essentially, this raster file maps the image to dots on an x/y display grid. The raster image, sometimes called a bitmap, directs the imaging device to print the dots in the correct locations to recreate the image. The image is transferred to the media using ink or toner. Unlike offset or flexographic printing, where the image must first be created on a plate and then transferred to the media, digital printing redraws the image with each print.
Since digital printing does not require the production of plates, it offers many advantages over offset or flexographic printing. These advantages include:
Faster Production Time
Digital label printing does not require the production of platens, which reduces setup time. This can reduce production time and order turnaround time.
Variable Imaging
Digital label printing allows for variable imaging because the printer recreates the image with each print. Using information from a database, the text and graphics on each print can be changed. Sequential numbers or multiple barcodes can be printed on the label. It is even possible to print multiple versions of the same label.
Smaller Label Printing Runs
Traditional printing requires the production and payment of printing plates to complete label printing, which can be cost-prohibitive for short and medium runs because the cost is spread over a smaller number of labels. Without this additional expense, digital label printing is an affordable option for short runs.
Print Labels as Needed
Smaller label print runs and faster turnaround times offer companies a more efficient option for print management. Digital label printing gives companies the flexibility to print what they need, when they need it. This also enables brands or companies to change labels regularly, such as when testing new brands or keeping up with changing regulations.
Superior print quality
In the early days of digital printing, it was relatively easy to distinguish between digital printer prints and offset prints. But with advances in digital printing technology, today's digital prints can rival the quality of offset or flexographic printing. For example, the resolution of HP Indigo printers can exceed that of traditional printing. In addition, because each print is created independently, each print is the same. There is no variation in quality throughout the printing process. With the automatic color calibration option, you can ensure accurate color matching.
Faster proofs
The minimal setup time of digital printing speeds up the process of creating and approving proofs. This ultimately speeds up the entire process.
Expanded media selection
Digital label printing offers an extremely wide range of media, depending on the type of digital printing technology used. For example, HP Indigo printers can print on more than 3,000 substrates, including synthetics, dark media, and metallics.
