Offset Printing
Offset printing delivers the highest quality for folding cartons and labels. Ideal for runs of 5,000+ units with Pantone color matching and fine detail. Setup costs are higher, but per-unit cost drops for larger runs.
Best For
- Premium cosmetics and luxury goods
- Food packaging with high-end graphics
- Brands requiring exact color consistency
Flexographic Printing
Flexo is the workhorse of flexible packaging and corrugated. Fast setup, water-based inks, and cost-effective for runs of 10,000+ units. Quality has improved significantly with digital plate technology.
Best For
- Flexible pouches and bags
- Labels and tags
- Corrugated boxes
Digital Printing
No plates, no minimum order. Digital printing is perfect for short runs and variable data. Perfect for prototypes, samples, and personalized packaging.
Best For
- 1–2,000 units
- Variable data and personalization
- Quick turnaround and testing
Conclusion
Your choice depends on volume, quality requirements, and turnaround. Many suppliers offer multiple technologies—ask for a recommendation based on your specific project.
