‘Cheap’ vs ‘Affordable’: Why Good Print Isn’t Just About Price

There’s cheap… and then there’s cheap.

One is a smart score, great quality at a fair price. The other is the sad kind, the business cards you hide at the bottom of your bag, or the flyer that feels like it came free with your takeaway menu.

At PrintPup, we believe “affordable” means your print looks and feels like a million bucks, without costing anywhere near that. “Cheap” usually means corners have been cut so sharp they could slice your reputation.

Let’s sniff out where your print budget actually goes.

1. Setup — The Warm-Up Lap Before the Race

Before your job even hits the press, there’s a bit of behind-the-scenes magic: setting up your artwork, getting the colours just right, loading the press, and running test prints. It’s like stretching before a run — skip it, and things can get ugly fast.

2. Stock — The Stuff You Can’t Stop Touching

Paper is a lot like bread, you can get the squishy white stuff, or you can get the artisan sourdough. The weight, texture, and finish change everything. A sturdy card stock says “trust me,” while thin, floppy paper says… “please don’t judge me.”

3. Finishing — The Cherry on Top

Foil, embossing, spot UV, perfect folds — these are the little flourishes that make people go “ooh.” They might seem extra, but they can take your print from functional to unforgettable.

4. The True Cost of Going Too Cheap

When prices are rock-bottom, something’s been left out. Better stock, careful colour matching, time spent making sure it’s perfect. Sure, you save today… but you might end up paying twice when you have to reprint, or worse, when your print fails to impress.

Affordable Done Right

Affordable print is about spending smart. Investing in the bits that matter most so you get sharp colours, gorgeous finishes, and a result you’re proud to hand out. At PrintPup, we help you get maximum wag for your buck.

Bottom line: Cheap print might save you a few coins. Affordable print helps you fetch more wins.