The most important thing first
Hybrid production means: Depending on the print run, speed and motif, production is done in either offset or digital printing. Offset convinces with high runs, fine screens and spot colors, digital printing with small quantities, fast production and flexible adjustment. At Schmid-Fehr the digital printing is technologically so advanced thanks to inkjet that a very high quality is also achieved here.
From my experience, the best solution is not automatically the most modern one, but the one that fits the order. That is why hybrid production in printing is so valuable, because it weights quality, costs, speed and environmental aspects according to need.
When is offset or digital printing worth it?
| Criterion | Offset printing | Digital printing |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | Very precise, fine screens, razor-sharp edges, spot colors like Pantone possible | At Schmid-Fehr technically at a very high level thanks to inkjet, strong for small runs and variable content |
| Costs | Worth it for large runs | Cheaper for small quantities |
| Flexibility | More suitable for larger series | Fast, flexible and good for adjustments |
| Environment | More chemicals and waste | Less waste |
How does digital printing work, how does offset printing work?
In digital printing, the data are transmitted directly from the computer to the printing machine. The template is processed without a traditional printing plate, facilitating quick changes and small runs. The text also emphasizes that the quality is very high thanks to technological innovations with inkjet processes at Schmid-Fehr.
Offset printing is considerably more complex. The ink flows over rollers, goes from the printing plate to a blanket cylinder and is only then transferred to the paper. For each ink color, i.e., cyan, magenta, yellow and black, its own plate is exposed.
Why is hybrid printing often the better decision?
What we repeatedly notice: Many first think of only one process, although the job can often be better solved by leveraging the properties of both systems. For larger runs, offset plays to its strength; for personalized or smaller runs, digital printing scores with speed and adaptability. For Schmid-Fehr this exact combination is the practical way to implement flyers, business cards, brochures and other print products appropriately.
- High runs with consistent quality are more suitable for offset printing
- Small quantities, personalization and quick delivery are more suitable for digital printing
- Spot colors and finest details often argue for offset printing
- When flexibility and short production times count, digital printing has the advantage
What you should consider when choosing
The question is not only which process is better, but what the print product will be used for. If you only decide by price per piece, you often overlook quality, run length, adaptability and production time. That's why a consultation before the start is worth it.
Frequently asked questions
For which print products is digital printing particularly suitable?
When is offset printing the better solution?
Does the quality still differ significantly between the two methods today?
Can hybrid production also be more environmentally friendly?
Hybrid production in printing is strongest when it is not seen as a compromise, but as a suitable answer to the job. The advantage lies exactly in this: quality, costs and production time can be sensibly balanced depending on the project. If you are looking for the right printing solution for your project, it is worth looking at the overall package and not just a single process.
Schmid-Fehr combines printing products, creative agency and communications design with web and process solutions. This results not only in printing, but in a clean implementation from concept to finished product. If you want to correctly categorize your next printing order, you should clarify early which technology best delivers the desired effect.
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Schmid-Fehr AG, Goldach