Heatset and coldset printing each offer unique advantages depending on the marketing project you need completed. Selecting the correct one for your project ensures you get the best results from your campaign or marketing materials. That’s why it can help to understand the difference between the printing types and how they are used. With years in the commercial print industry, our Signature Graphics team will explain heatset vs. coldset printing and show which method is right for you.
Heatset printing is a more premium option in printing that totes incredibly sharp images on coated paper. This heatset printing machine ensures eye-catching results with a premium coating, more clearly defined text and images and it works great for bulk orders. With benefits like these, the process is especially helpful for more premium results and more successful print marketing.
With multiple advantages in marketing, heatset printing is a great option for companies to get their brand out there and attract new customers with premium results. Heatset print offers quite a few benefits, including:
Coldset printing offers a newspaper-style of print that dries naturally on uncoated paper. This printing method is extremely cost-effective since it doesn’t require the extra drying step and is perfect for larger volumes. With no extra drying step, this method is highly economical with less energy consumption.
There are numerous advantages of using the coldset printing method in marketing. From faster turnaround times to bulk production orders, there are quite a few great reasons for opting for coldset printing:
Knowing the difference between heatset and coldset printing can help you narrow down your choices in your next print marketing campaign. From the type of coating to the quality of the image, this coldset and heatset printing chart compares their various advantage so you can figure out what works best for your project.
Benefits |
Heatset Printing |
Coldset Printing |
Coating |
Premium coating |
Uncoated paper |
Image Quality |
Clearer, more vibrant images |
Less clarity and vibrancy |
Drying Process |
Faster, heat-assisted dry time |
Slower, air-dried process |
Cost |
Higher cost |
Lower cost |
Turnaround Time |
Fast |
Fast |
Production Capacity |
High volume |
High volume, flexible |
Selecting heatset printing or coldset printing depends entirely on the print marketing you’re hoping to get done, your audience and the goals of your project. When determining heatset vs. coldset printing and which method works best, consider who your consumers are, your overarching goals (brand awareness, new customers, customer retention, etc.) and your intended result. Either option is great for projects, depending on what needs you’d like to focus on.
If you need help deciding which printing method works best for your upcoming projects or campaigns, our team at Signature Graphics knows just what kind of print marketing materials and methods will garner your best results. Ready to learn about our design, print and delivery capabilities?
©2025 Signature Graphics | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Minneapolis Web Design by BizzyWeb