Flexo, Screen, Digital: Why We Still Print Labels Using All Three
If you’ve ever toured a label pressroom or worked with a label supplier, you might’ve noticed something: they’re not using just one type of printing press. You’ll see flexographic (Flexo), Screen, and Digital Printing processes/presses. Why? Because no single method does it all. Each one brings something unique to the table, and depending on the label’s purpose, material, and run size, one method may outperform the others.
Let’s break down what each printing type does best.
Flexographic Printing: The High-Speed Workhorse
Flexo is the long-time champion of label printing. It uses flexible printing plates wrapped around cylinders to apply ink quickly and efficiently to a substrate (and it runs fast).
Why do we use it:
- Perfect for long runs of the same design — think hundreds of thousands of labels
- Specific or hard to create color matches
- Works on a wide range of materials, from paper to films and foils
- Cost-effective once plates are made
But here’s the trade-off: Flexo requires custom plates for each design, so there’s more setup time and cost. That makes it less ideal for short runs or frequent design changes.

Screen Printing: The Texture, and Opacity Expert
Screen printing isn’t as fast as Flexo, but it delivers something that’s hard to replicate like ink depth, vibrancy, and texture.
Why do we use it:
- Can lay down very thick ink layers for bold, raised effects
- Great for opaque whites on clear or metallic materials
- Adds tactile or high-durability features that other print methods can’t match
- Uses strong/durable inks that can provide your product with long lasting success

Digital Printing: The Customization Powerhouse
Digital printing is the newest player, and it’s quickly earning its place. Unlike Flexo and Screen, Digital doesn’t require tooling. It prints directly from a digital file, which makes setup fast and easy.
Why do we use it:
- Ideal for short runs and brands with many SKUs
- Handles variable data like barcodes, serial numbers, or personalization
- Perfect for on-demand printing or last-minute changes
Digital allows you to print exactly what you need with little to no setup costs. No waste, no overstock.

So Why Use All Three?
Each printing technology brings its own strengths, and the best label printers know how to combine them to give your product the edge it needs. Whether you’re after speed, impact, customization, or durability — there’s a print process (or three) for that.
Curious which print method is right for your label project? Contact Us and we’ll help you figure out the perfect mix.




















