Label Printing - Labelnet Blog Page

Digital vs Flexographic Labels | Labelnet

Written by Jessica Bedford | Aug 2, 2019 9:20:00 AM

Digital vs Flexographic Labels

With our two labelling options at Labelnet we quite often get asked what is the difference between the two.  In short Flexo printing is ideal for large volume orders using CMYK colours and Digital printing is great for shorter runs requiring a higher quality print or more vibrant label.  Please read about the difference below in more detail.

Flexo

Flexo operates much like a giant rubber stamp. Each label requires a plate which is set up prior to production. The plate features raised rubber moulds that display the desired artwork. Ink is then applied to the raised areas of the plate which then rotates on a cylinder at high speeds to transfer the image to the label substrate. The colours are printed in CMYK and printed in high volumes making it an affordable method for large label orders.

Benefits of Flexo

Large Volume Orders

CMYK colours

Lower Costs

Fast Printing

Quick Drying Inks

Digital

Digital printing operates in a similar way to flexography, but without the need for print plates. The artwork image is captured from pixels (rather than on rubber moulds), and the digitalised image is used to control the deposition of ink, toner and exposure, to replicate the image you would like to print.  The press prints by writing the image to a digital plate.  Pantone colours are used with Digital Printing meaning a wider range of colours are available and the prints are of a very high-quality.  Digital Printing is perfect for shorter run jobs.

Benefits of Digital

Creates unique textures

High Quality Print

Consistent Colour

Customisation

Pantone Colours

Good for Short Runs

If you require further information or help with what label you should choose our team are here to help you.  Please give us a call and we will be happy to advise  you or send samples out to you if you would like to see and feel the different labels.