If you need customized packaging, labels, or promotional materials for your company, the printing technique selection could make all the difference. One of the two sought-after printing methods used for these applications is screen printing and Flexo printing. 

Both have advantages; however, how do you determine which one is the best choice for your company? 

This article will look at the major distinctions between screen and Flexo printing and then determine which one is the best for your requirements.

What Is Screen Printing?

Screen printing is an flexible and widely-used printing technique which involves pushing ink across the screen (or mesh) stencil to produce an image. Each color is sprayed independently, and the screen changes for each color that is used in the design. 

It’s usually used for printing on flat surfaces like posters, clothing, as well as certain types of packaging.

What Is Flexo Printing?

Flexible printing on the contrary is a type of rotary printing that makes use of flexible plates for printing ink to a surface. It’s usually used for packaging materials like corrugated containers, plastic bags and various other flexible substrates. 

The benefit of Flexo printing can be seen in its rapidity and capability to produce large numbers of prints that are consistent in quality.

Key Differences Between Screen Printing and Flexo Printing

1. Order Quantity Requirements

One of the most significant distinctions between flexo and screen printing concerns the minimal order amount (MOQ) that is required.

• We offer MOQ of 500 pieces per size for screen printing. This is the perfect choice for companies with smaller requirements or for startups who want to test their packaging concepts without the commitment of a massive stock.
• However, for the flexo printing process qe typically requires more MOQ, which is approximately 100 kg or 5,000 pieces. This makes it a more suitable choice for companies that have to manufacture large amounts of labels or packaging.

2. Cost Efficiency

When it comes to costs, the flexo printing process is typically more affordable and has higher volumes. The reason is its efficacy for large-scale printing. 

When you order more printers, each unit will be lower, making it the ideal choice for production on a large scale.

If you’re a small or new company, screen printing may be more affordable in the short-term in particular if you’re placing an order for a small quantity. 

The costs of setup for screen printing are much lower, and it’s typically more affordable in smaller batches.

3. Quality and Detail

Both printing techniques produce excellent results, however they differ in terms of the level of detail they are able to achieve.

• Screen printing is renowned for its long-lasting durability and the capacity to create vibrant colors; it is best when combined with simple, striking designs. Screen printing is ideal for printing text, logos, or designs that don’t need intricate particulars or color gradients. 

The downside is that intricate artwork might not translate well, particularly for smaller prints or intricate artwork.

• Flexo printing has the capability of printing high-quality prints with exquisite detail and fine lines, even on surfaces that are rough or textured. It is ideal for more intricate designs that require a variety of colors, gradients, and precise details. 

With its advanced 8-color and 6-color flexographic printers, OK Printings ensures that each image is printed precisely, providing vivid, detailed, and precise reproductions.

4. Speed 

In terms of speeds, the flexo printer is in first place. Flexo printing uses the use of rotary presses that allows for faster production in comparison to the manual nature of screen printing. 

This makes flexo printing the ideal choice for large-scale orders that require to be produced and shipped fast.

However screen printing takes longer since each color requires an individual screen to be created and then placed on the item. 

This could be difficult to process orders that have many colors or in huge quantities, however it’s still effective for smaller orders.

5. Material Compatibility

Both flexo and screen printing are both superior in terms of compatibility with materials, however both differ with regard to the kinds that they can excel in printing on.

• Screen printing is ideal for printing on flat, hard materials like glass paper as well as textiles. 

Although it is a viable option to print certain types of packaging, Screen printing is typically restricted when it comes to flexible materials and, therefore, less suited for intricate packaging designs.

• Flexo printing Printing with Flexo is extremely flexible and can be used with a range of materials like films, plastic corrugated cardboard, and many more. 

This makes it the most popular choice for businesses that need to print on flexible packaging, such as shopping bags, mailer bags, plastic wraps, and more.

6. Eco-Friendliness

When it comes to environmental sustainability, flexo print holds an advantage because it employs water-based inks that are more eco-friendly when compared to solvent-based inks commonly used in screen printing. Utilizing water-based dyes decreases impacts on the environment of printing which makes it a greener option for companies looking to cut down on its carbon footprint.

Screen printing has also improved in recent times, with eco-friendly options now available. A lot of screen printers use environmentally friendly inks and water-based materials however flexo printing is a preferred alternative overall, in terms of environmental sustainability.

Which One Should You Choose for Your Business?

The choice between screen and flexo printing is based on the specific needs of your business.

If you’re a start-up or a small-sized business that has small quantities of orders screen printing may be a better choice. 

With a lower MOQ and more flexibility, you are able to play with your ideas and print in smaller quantities and reduce expenses while still receiving high-quality customized packaging.

If you’re a large-scale business or are planning to do high-volume production, flexo printing is the best way to take. 

The ability to print huge quantities of paper quickly and efficiently makes it perfect for companies who require printing many thousands. Additionally, its flexibility and high-quality output will ensure the design will stand out regardless of their degree of complexity.

The Bottom Line

In the final analysis both screen and flexo printing have distinct advantages which cater to diverse business needs. 

Screen printing is a great option for small and new businesses with less order volumes and less complex designs, whereas the flexo printing method shines in large-volume complicated packaging designs that require intricate and vibrant prints.

When you understand the difference and take a look at your business’s needs and needs, you’ll be able to make an informed choice that is best suited to the needs of your packaging and labeling.