Digital Printing vs. Offset Printing
An understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of digital printing and how those compare to traditional offset printing is critical in making the right choice.
Commercial Offset is More Common
Commercial offset printing is the most common high-volume commercial printing technology. In offset printing, the desired print image is burned onto a plate and is then transferred (or offset) from the plate to a rubber blanket and then to the printing surface. The printing process is based on the repulsion of oil and water. The image that's to be printed is inked while the non-printing area attracts a film of water, keeping it free from ink. Mechanical Steps Eliminated in Digital Printing
Digital printing eliminates many of the mechanical steps required for conventional printing including making films and color proofs, manually stripping the pieces together and making plates.

DIGITAL	vs.	COMMERCIAL OFFSET
Best suited & most cost-effective for shorter runs.	QUANTITY	Best suited & most cost-effective for medium to larger runs.
Good. Digital can acheive the same vibrant colors & high contrast as offset printing.	QUALITY	Better. Offset printing allows you to hit exact PMS tones and has more consistent solid screen colors.
Instantly. Requires no drying time so each piece is ready to go as soon as it comes off the press.	TURNAROUND TIME	1-3 Days. Offset printing uses inks that require drying time. However offset is faster for large runs because it can produce multiple pieces at a high speed.
Varies depending on digital press. Typically digital presses can easily run text stocks and covers. Stocks up to 110# cover.	STOCKS	Nearly all stocks. Offset presses can print on most stocks including magnets, heavy cover stocks, stickers, translucent stocks & more.
Unlimited. Digital presses can create completely variable pieces in-line.	PERSONALIZATION Variable Data Printing	Limited. Your best bet is to create a shell that can later be personalized on a laser or ink jet.