Why Colour Depth in Wide Format Printing Matters More Than You Think
- jameskisserwany
- Jan 15
- 3 min read
Colour depth has a significant influence on how printed work is received. It shapes the atmosphere of a design, enhances visual clarity and determines whether a piece feels vibrant, measured or flat. In wide-format printing, the depth and quality of colour can vary significantly from one system to another, and the technology behind the equipment often explains why.
Our sister company works with a broad mix of wide-format printers that each offer their own strengths when it comes to colour reproduction. Understanding how these systems perform helps customers make informed choices and achieve the standard of print they expect.
How different wide-format technologies create colour
Wide-format printing covers many types of machines, and each one handles colour slightly differently. Ink behaviour, curing methods, droplet placement and the way the printer interprets tonal transitions all influence the final result. These differences explain why one model can produce sharp, vivid work while another may appear softer or slightly muted.
Latex printing and its clean, controlled colour output
Latex printers are popular for their versatility and their ability to work across an extensive range of substrates. The colour tends to appear smooth and consistent, especially on coated media. Latex ink cures quickly and performs well in both indoor and outdoor environments. It sits closer to the surface of the material, which offers clarity but can sometimes limit the depth of darker shades. This makes latex a strong option for signage, displays and everyday print projects that require dependable, uniform colour.
Solvent and eco-solvent printing for intense, bold colour
Solvent technology is well known for producing rich, saturated colour that holds up extremely well over time. Solvent inks soak into the material, which creates strong density and depth, especially in blacks, blues and reds. This makes solvent printing a reliable choice for vehicle graphics, posters and durable outdoor displays. Although drying can take longer and the process may require more attention, the payoff is vivid colour that remains striking even in demanding environments.
UV printing for bright, clear colour across a wide range of materials
UV printers cure ink instantly using ultraviolet light, which allows them to print on an extensive list of substrates. This includes rigid materials like foamex, acrylic panels and composite boards, as well as fabrics, wood and other specialist media.
The result is sharp, vibrant colour with excellent detail. UV systems also support white inks and layered finishes, offering greater creative potential. The cured ink forms a slight film on the surface, so certain photographic gradients or skin tones may appear more textured, but the overall colour strength and flexibility make UV printing an attractive option for professional environments.
Why an expanded colour set can transform a print
Many advanced wide-format printers use more than the standard CMYK inks. Additional colours such as orange, green, violet, red, light cyan and light magenta help the machine reach hues that standard colour sets struggle to reproduce.
These extended systems produce smoother transitions, more accurate brand colours and deeper detail in photographs and artwork. High-end graphics, retail displays and photographic prints benefit significantly from this broader colour range.
Media choice affects colour as strongly as the printer.
Even the most capable printer will behave differently depending on the material. Gloss surfaces boost saturation and make colours appear more intense. Matte finishes soften the look and add a more refined tone. Canvas absorbs more ink, creating a natural and artistic finish. Rigid boards paired with UV technology deliver crisp, strong colour. Backlit films create brilliant vibrancy when illuminated.
Choosing the right material is one of the most effective ways to shape the final appearance of a print.
Why colour output varies between print providers
It is common for two print suppliers to produce noticeably different results even when using similar equipment. Printhead condition, environmental factors, calibration, profiling, ink choice and operator experience all influence colour performance. A controlled workflow is essential for keeping colour reliable and repeatable.
In summary
Wide format colour depends on matching the right technology to the right project. Latex provides clean and adaptable colour. Solvent offers deep, bold saturation. UV brings sharp vibrancy and excellent material compatibility. Combined with expanded ink sets and the correct media, the potential for achieving striking colour becomes much greater.
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