In the world of promotional products, high-quality printing plays a crucial role in creating impactful and memorable items. Whether it’s a custom mug, branded pen, or corporate gift, using the right UV printer ensures sharp, vibrant, and durable prints. UV printers are especially favored for their ability to print on a wide range of materials like plastics, glass, metals, and wood, which are commonly used in promotional products. In this article, we will explore some of the best UV printers available for printing on promotional items and how they can elevate your branding efforts.
UV (ultraviolet) printers are a popular choice for businesses looking to produce promotional products because of their unique ability to print directly onto almost any material. Unlike traditional printers that rely on inkjet technology, UV printers use ultraviolet light to cure or dry the ink as it's printed. This process results in highly durable prints that are resistant to fading, scratching, and smudging—perfect for promotional products that need to withstand regular handling.
One of the biggest advantages of UV printing is its versatility. UV printers can print on a variety of materials, including non-flat or irregular surfaces, which makes them ideal for printing on promotional products of different shapes and sizes. From sleek metal water bottles to textured wooden keychains, UV printers offer the flexibility to print vibrant and detailed designs, even on items with complex contours.
Additionally, UV printing allows for the use of white ink, which is essential when printing on dark or transparent materials. This feature ensures that the design will pop and remain legible, even on products like glass or dark-colored plastic. UV printers are also eco-friendly, as they use less energy and produce fewer emissions compared to traditional printing methods.
When selecting a UV printer for printing on promotional products, there are several options to consider. Below are some of the top UV printers that stand out in terms of performance, quality, and versatility.
1. Mimaki UJF-7151 Plus
The Mimaki UJF-7151 Plus is a high-performance UV printer that offers exceptional print quality and versatility. It features a large print area and can print on materials up to 153 x 609 mm in size, making it ideal for medium to large promotional items. The printer uses advanced technology, such as a 2.5 picoliter ink droplet size, to produce fine details and smooth gradients. With support for white ink printing and clear coatings, the UJF-7151 Plus is perfect for creating vibrant, professional-grade prints on various promotional products.
2. Roland VersaUV LEF-300
The Roland VersaUV LEF-300 is another popular choice for businesses looking to print on promotional products. This UV printer offers a versatile flatbed design and can handle materials up to 30 inches wide and 2.5 inches thick. It is ideal for printing on a variety of items, including gift items, promotional products, and custom apparel. The printer’s advanced UV ink technology produces rich, vibrant colors with a smooth finish. Additionally, the LEF-300 comes with integrated white and clear inks, allowing you to print high-quality, full-color designs on any surface.
3. Canon Arizona 1300 XT
The Canon Arizona 1300 XT is a large-format UV flatbed printer designed to deliver high-quality prints on both rigid and flexible media. While this printer is larger and more suited for industrial environments, it is perfect for businesses with high-volume production needs. The printer’s flatbed system ensures accurate registration and alignment, even when printing on irregular or oversized promotional items. Its advanced UV inks are highly durable, providing long-lasting prints on materials like wood, acrylic, and metal.
4. EFI H1625-LED
The EFI H1625-LED is a versatile, high-speed UV printer that is perfect for businesses looking to print on both rigid and flexible substrates. With a 64-inch wide format and the ability to print on materials up to 2 inches thick, it’s ideal for printing large promotional items such as banners, signs, and custom gifts. The printer uses LED UV inks, which cure instantly and result in exceptional print quality. The EFI H1625-LED is known for its reliability, ease of use, and ability to produce fine details and vibrant colors across a wide range of materials.
Choosing the best UV printer for printing on promotional products depends on several factors, including the types of products you plan to customize, your production volume, and your budget. Smaller businesses or startups might find that a more compact model like the Roland VersaUV LEF-300 suits their needs perfectly. Larger enterprises that require high-speed production and larger print areas may prefer a more industrial printer like the Canon Arizona 1300 XT or EFI H1625-LED.
Another factor to consider is the type of materials you will be printing on. If you plan to print on a wide range of materials, it’s essential to choose a printer that can accommodate both rigid and flexible surfaces. Additionally, be sure to consider the printer’s ink capabilities, such as white ink printing and clear coating, which can add unique effects to your designs and improve durability.
Finally, it’s essential to consider the cost of ownership, which includes factors such as the initial investment, maintenance costs, and ink usage. While UV printers can be more expensive than traditional printers, the benefits they offer in terms of print quality, speed, and versatility often make them a worthwhile investment for businesses in the promotional products industry.
UV printers are an excellent choice for printing on promotional products, offering unparalleled versatility and print quality. Whether you’re looking to print on a wide variety of materials or produce high-volume, detailed prints, the UV printers listed above provide a range of options to meet your needs. Choosing the right UV printer depends on factors like print size, material compatibility, and production volume. However, no matter which model you choose, investing in a UV printer is a smart decision for businesses looking to create impactful, high-quality promotional products that leave a lasting impression on customers.