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Two of the most widely used coding technologies in Indian industries today are Laser Marking and Inkjet Coding. But which one should you choose for your operations?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the difference between laser marking and inkjet coding, their applications, benefits, limitations, and guide you to make the right decision for your packaging line.
What is Inkjet Coding?
Inkjet coding is a non-contact printing method that sprays small ink droplets directly onto a substrate (such as plastic, metal, or paper) to create characters, barcodes, dates, or logos. It includes technologies like:
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CIJ (Continuous Inkjet) – Ideal for high-speed production environments such as FMCG, beverage, and pharmaceuticals.
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TIJ (Thermal Inkjet) – Suitable for clean, high-resolution prints, ideal for printing on cartons and labels.
Inkjet printers are highly flexible and are used across industries like food & beverage, pharmaceuticals, packaged goods, and automotive components.
Read more: CIJ vs TIJ Printers: Which One is Right for Your Packaging Line?
Also explore: How to Achieve Perfect Barcode Printing with BT Print's Solutions
What is Laser Marking?
Laser marking is a method that uses a concentrated beam of light (laser) to etch or engrave a mark on a surface. This could be a logo, QR code, serial number, or expiry date. It offers permanent, smudge-proof, and eco-friendly printing.
Laser marking is best suited for:
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High-value items
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Environments where ink use is restricted
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Long-term traceability needs
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Applications involving metal, glass, or hard plastic
Benefits of Inkjet Coding
Low Initial Investment
Inkjet printers (CIJ & TIJ) are generally more affordable upfront.
Flexible Substrate Support
Can print on absorbent and non-absorbent materials including plastic, paper, glass, and more.
High-Speed Printing
CIJ technology is built for fast production lines with minimal interruption.
Compact and User-Friendly
Easy to install and operate with minimal training.
Benefits of Laser Marking
Permanent Marking
Perfect for industries requiring long-term traceability, such as automotive, electronics, and medical devices.
No Consumables
No need for ink or solvents—making it eco-friendly and low-maintenance in the long run.
High-Resolution Output
Produces sharp, high-contrast, and tamper-proof codes.
Cost-Effective Over Time
Despite higher initial costs, reduced consumable use and longer lifespan make it economical.
Limitations to Consider
Technology Limitations
Inkjet Inkjet requires regular maintenance and consumables like ink & solvents
Laser Higher initial cost, not suitable for all substrates (e.g., thin films)
Laser Marking vs Inkjet Coding: A Quick Comparison
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Speed: CIJ is faster for continuous production; laser is also fast but better for precision-based printing.
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Cost: Inkjet has a lower setup cost, but laser offers long-term savings.
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Durability: Laser marking is permanent and resistant to wear, unlike ink-based prints.
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Maintenance: Inkjet printers require regular cleaning and consumables; laser systems are largely maintenance-free.
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Environment: Laser wins as it doesn’t use ink or solvents, reducing waste and emissions.
Industries Using Inkjet and Laser Marking in India
Both technologies serve a wide range of industries across India, including:
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Pharmaceuticals – for batch coding, MRP printing, and barcode serialization
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Food & Beverage – expiry date printing on bottles, cans, and flexible pouches
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FMCG Packaging – high-speed CIJ for shrink wraps, cartons, and wrappers
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Electronics & Automotive – laser engraving of part numbers and regulatory compliance marks
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Agriculture & Seed Industry – batch coding on woven sacks and laminated seed bags
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E-commerce & Logistics – product tracking through QR and barcodes
???? Learn more: Batch Coding Solutions for the Indian Seed Industry
???? Check out: The Role of Coding & Marking in E-commerce & Logistics
Choosing the Right Technology for Your Line
If you're a fast-paced manufacturing unit with varied product sizes and surfaces, CIJ or TIJ inkjet printers could be your best bet. But if your brand needs tamper-proof, permanent markings and you want to reduce operational costs in the long run, laser marking machines are the right solution.
Final Thoughts
Both inkjet and laser technologies are indispensable tools in modern industrial packaging. Your choice depends on production speed, substrate compatibility, budget, and regulatory requirements.
At BT Print, we understand that no two production lines are the same. That’s why we offer customized solutions including:
Ready to upgrade your printing system?
Visit our Laser Marking Solutions page
Explore our Inkjet Coding Solutions