What Is the Difference Between UV Printing and Traditional Printing?
When it comes to commercial printing, UV printing and traditional (conventional) printing are two widely used methods. While both can produce high-quality results, they differ significantly in terms of technology, drying process, materials, and applications.
✅ 1. Drying Method
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*UV Printing:
Uses ultraviolet (UV) light to instantly cure (dry) the ink. The ink contains photo-initiators that react and harden under UV exposure. -
*Traditional Printing:
Relies on air drying or oxidation absorption. The ink penetrates into the paper and gradually dries, which can take minutes to hours.
→ UV printing is much faster and cleaner.
✅ 2. Ink Type
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*UV Printing:
Uses UV-curable inks, which are thicker, more vibrant, and sit on the surface of the material. -
*Traditional Printing:
Uses oil-based or water-based inks, which are absorbed into the paper surface.
→ UV inks produce sharper colors and better gloss.
✅ 3. Material Compatibility
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*UV Printing:
Can print on a wide range of substrates, including plastic, metal, acrylic, wood, glass, coated paper, and even fabric. -
*Traditional Printing:
Best suited for absorbent materials like paper and cardboard.
→ UV printing is more versatile in terms of material choices.
✅ 4. Durability & Finish
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*UV Printing:
More scratch-resistant, waterproof, and has a glossier or textured finish (if desired). Suitable for luxury or outdoor applications. -
*Traditional Printing:
Less durable and may require lamination or coating for protection.
→ UV printing provides a higher-end, more durable finish.
✅ 5. Environmental Impact
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*UV Printing:
Considered more eco-friendly, as it emits fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and does not require solvents for drying. -
*Traditional Printing:
May release more VOCs depending on the ink used.
✅ Summary Table
| Feature | UV Printing | Traditional Printing |
|---|---|---|
| Drying Time | Instant (UV light cured) | Slow (air or heat dried) |
| Ink Type | UV-curable inks | Oil- or water-based inks |
| Material Range | Wide (paper, plastic, metal, etc.) | Mostly paper/cardboard |
| Color Vibrancy | High | Moderate |
| Durability | Excellent | Moderate to low |
| Eco-Friendly | Yes (low VOCs) | Depends on ink type |
| Cost | Slightly higher | Lower for large volumes |
✅ Conclusion
UV printing offers faster drying, more vivid color, and greater material flexibility, making it ideal for premium packaging, specialty products, and short-run customization. Traditional printing, on the other hand, remains cost-effective for large-volume paper-based jobs.
Understanding these differences helps brands and designers choose the right printing method based on their project goals, budget, and desired finish.
FAQs
What types of packaging do you specialize in?
We specialize in electronic packaging, plastic boxes (PVC/PET/PP), paper boxes, paper bags, and custom book printing.
Do you support custom designs?
Yes, we provide custom packaging designs tailored to your brand and product needs.
About us
The process of your packaging box production?
1. Make knife mold as per box size and structure
2. order material as per mold
3. make printing on material if need to print
4. suppress and cut material
5. Makeboxes with glue edge in machine
6. Package boxes into cartons
Leading time for samples production?
Normally we need 3-7 days for samples making, 10-12 days to complete your orders,but the delivery time more depends on the order QTY.
What is the box size and structure?
1. All boxes are customized and all detailed requirements can be provided by clients, we are definitely your OEM service supplier.
2. If you have no idea about the measurements and structure on your products, our professional design team can suggest and solute for you .
Best Pack’s Custom Recyclable Cardboard Childproof Packaging Box offers secure, eco-friendly storage with a child-resistant lock button. Designed as a round paper tube box, it ensures safety and sustainability, ideal for protecting products while supporting green packaging solutions.
Our factory-direct custom pre-roll and cigarette paper boxes are designed for premium presentation, protection, and branding. Made with thick, durable paperboard, these boxes are ideal for non-tobacco herbal pre-rolls, cigarettes, or CBD/THC joints. Available in various capacities (5-pack, 10-pack, 20-pack) and fully customizable with your logo and design.
Get in Touch with Best Pack
We’re here to help bring your ideas to life!
Creativity Meets Precision in Packaging.
Email: Teresa@gzbestpack.com
WhatsApp: +86 132 2665 7571
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