Printing Methods Compared: Screen, Pad & Digital
When it comes to printing on industrial components or branded products, choosing the right printing method matters. Each technique screen printing, pad printing, or digital printing offers distinct advantages, depending on your material, surface, volume, and end-use.
At Customark, we offer all three printing methods, and this guide will help you understand when to use each.
Screen Printing Method
Best for: Flat surfaces, bold colours, and high-volume production.
Why choose screen printing as a printing method?
- Long-lasting and highly durable prints, ideal for industrial and outdoor applications.
- Excellent colour vibrancy and ink opacity, even on darker materials.
- Cost-effective for large production runs.
- Compatible with a wide range of materials including plastics, metals, and polycarbonates.
Considerations:
- More setup is required, each colour needs its own screen.
- Not ideal for detailed gradients or photographic images.
Pad Printing Method (Tampo Printing)
Best for: Irregular, curved, or 3D surfaces like buttons, housings, and keypads.
Why choose pad printing as a printing method?
- Can apply fine detail to surfaces traditional methods can’t reach.
- Flexible silicone pads allow printing on curved or textured components.
- A versatile choice for electronics, medical devices, and branding components.
Considerations:
- Slower setup compared to digital.
- Smaller print area and may require more manual adjustment.
Digital Printing Method (UV Inkjet)
Best for: Multi-colour designs, variable data, and short-run jobs.
Why choose digital printing as a printing method?
- No tooling or screens, fast setup and turnaround.
- Perfect for detailed, photo-quality prints or prototypes.
- Great for short runs or where design changes frequently.
Considerations:
- Less durable than screen printing for high-abrasion or outdoor use.
- Cost per unit can be higher for large quantities
Which One Is Right for You?
| Project Needs | Best Printing Method |
|---|---|
| High volume with solid colours | Screen Printing |
| Complex shapes or textured surfaces | Pad Printing |
| Photographic detail, small batches, fast setup | Digital Printing |
Why Customark?
At Customark, we don’t just print, we problem-solve. We offer expert advice, in-house tooling, and ISO-certified processes to ensure the best solution for your project. Whether you need a graphic overlay, branded component, or industrial label, we’ll help you choose the right method based on your goals and environment. Contact us today to discuss your project.