Pre-inked and self-inked stamps are different in many ways. But most people, when they need a stamp, they just buy. They do not know the advantages of using one type of stamps over the other. Through this article, let me take this opportunity to inform you about the difference between the two types. My goal is to help you make a good decision from an informed point of view.
What are pre-inked stamps?
These are stamps with ink impregnated (filled) in the rubber die. To create an impression, press it lightly. No fighting. Generally, the ink runs through the lettering or design you make on the rubber to create a good impression. Popular brands of these stamps include Brother Stamps, Xstamper, iStamp, and several others.
Self-inking stamps? What are they?
These lift up to hit the ink pad. After taking the ink from the pad, it is turned upside down to create an impression on the paper. In other words, they have a mechanism whereby the rubber die retracts to hit the ink pad each time you use your stamp to create an impression. Brands for these stamps include Ideal, Trodat, Cosco, Ultifast, and Shiny.
What is the difference between the two types of stamps?
♦ Mechanism
As already stated, pre-inked rubber stamps allow ink to pass through the lettering or stamp design to leave an impression on a paper with a simple press. On the other hand, self-inking rubber stamps flip up and down to leave an impression on a document.
Pre-inked rubber stamps print crisp, clear prints with very clear images. They are best when you need to integrate logos and / or other graphics into your stamp design. Self-inking rubber stamps, on the other hand, produce good images but not as clear. They are not suitable for detailed logos or graphics.
♦ ink
Pre-inked stamps use oil-based ink, while self-inking stamps use water-based ink. Oil-based ink is more expensive than water-based ink. But it produces very good prints and dries very quickly. In less than 5 seconds, it’s dry.
♦ Adjustable date
Presently, pre-inks do not come with a factory set date. But self-inks do.
♦ Size
Pre-inked stamps are comparatively smaller than self-inked ones. If size and portability matter to you, then pre-inked type is best for you.
♦ Versatility
Pre-inked stamps are versatile. You can put any font and image style on them. You can even use them to stamp your photo, which is not the case with self-inking stamps. They have limitations in this regard.
♦ Price
Pre-inked stamps are more expensive than self-inked stamps. Also, their ink is comparatively expensive but lasts longer than water-based ink. However, with self-inking stamps, you replace ink pads as they age in addition to buying ink. Pre-inked stamps have no parts to replace.
♦ Longevity
Pre-inked stamps last over 50,000 impressions with good ink fill. The auto inking stamp type lasts for approximately 10,000 impressions. Thereafter, you start to develop problems like die and ink pad wear, which require replacement. Additionally, its flip up and down mechanism also stops working normally over time.
♦ Production
Pre-inked stamps have their own machine that produces them. Typically, the manufacturers of such stamps make the machines that you use to make stamps. For example, Brother has StampCreator, which Brother stamp manufacturers use to produce stamps.
As for self-inking stamps, you just have to cut the rubber with the design you want. There are many ways to cut the rubber. You can do it manually or you can use a stamp machine. The best machine for making stamps is the laser engraving system.
How are the two types of stamps alike?
Both are refillable with ink. Both types are not recommended for glossy surfaces because ink can easily smudge. Plus, they all come in multiple colors that you can select from. But the most common colors are red, blue, black, purple, and green.
conclusion
In conclusion, when planning to buy stamps, consider the above points to make an informed decision. But as a precautionary measure, always buy your stamps from recognized stamp manufacturers to avoid counterfeiting. Your stamp bears the brand image of your company or organization. Recognized stamp manufacturers protect you against counterfeiting and duplication of their stamps. Plus, they do so with tamper-proof features. Buying your stamps from veranda stamp manufacturers has its own problems. Beware!
