In the world of custom sticker production, the printer you choose plays a huge role in the quality, durability, and profitability of your output. Whether you’re producing stickers for laptops, water bottles, packaging, windows, or outdoor signage, selecting the right machine and ink technology is key. Two names stand out in the sticker game: Roland and Mimaki. Both brands offer cutting-edge solutions designed to meet the needs of print businesses, and when it comes to stickers, they truly deliver.
So, how do you choose the best printer for your sticker production? Let’s break it down.
What Makes A Great Sticker Printer?
Before diving into specific models, it’s worth understanding what matters when printing stickers:
- Print quality – Crisp details and vibrant colours are essential.
- Durability – Stickers need to withstand handling, water, UV light, and sometimes even abrasion.
- Media compatibility – The printer should handle a range of self-adhesive vinyls and speciality films.
- Finishing options – Contour cutting capabilities or compatibility with integrated cutters.
- Speed and efficiency – Ideal for both short runs and higher volume jobs.
- Ink type – The ink defines everything from finish and adhesion to flexibility and longevity.
Roland And Mimaki: Sticker Printing Champions
Roland and Mimaki have built solid reputations in the industry, and for good reason. Their eco-solvent and UV printer ranges are particularly well-suited for sticker production, offering reliability, stunning print quality, and versatile media handling.
Roland Eco-Solvent Printers
Roland’s TrueVIS series (like the VG3 or SG3) is popular among sticker producers. These eco-solvent printers are known for their:
- Rich, vibrant colours thanks to advanced ink formulations.
- Outstanding durability – The prints are water-, scratch-, and UV-resistant, even without lamination (though lamination is often recommended for heavy-duty use).
- Integrated contour cutting – A big plus for sticker producers who want to print and cut in one seamless workflow.
- Low running costs and easy maintenance make them great for entry-level and professional users.
Eco-solvent ink is especially popular for stickers because it offers a slightly softer finish, excellent flexibility (important for curved surfaces), and a wide colour gamut that is perfect for brand colours and fine details.
Mimaki Eco-Solvent Printers
Mimaki’s JV100-160 or CJV200 series also stand out. Like Roland, Mimaki offers:
- Sharp resolution and consistent colour output with their SS21 eco-solvent inks.
- Print-and-cut capabilities (with the CJV series).
- Fast drying times and excellent media compatibility, including gloss and matte vinyls.
- Bulk ink systems to reduce costs over time.
Mimaki eco-solvent printers are often praised for their fine text and gradient performance, making them ideal for detailed sticker designs.
Why Consider UV Printing For Stickers?
UV inkjet printers are becoming more popular for sticker production, especially where instant curing and rigid media are involved.
They really stand out when printing onto speciality materials such as holographic and metallised effect media, which other ink technologies can’t print onto.
Roland UV Printers
Roland’s VersaUV series, including models like the MG & LG series, offers something special:
- Instant curing – Stickers are dry the moment they come off the machine, which speeds up production.
- Exceptional adhesion to a wide range of substrates, including speciality films and rigid labels.
- Texture and spot gloss effects – You can produce premium stickers with raised finishes, adding value and a tactile element.
- No outgassing – Unlike eco-solvent inks, UV inks don’t require drying time before lamination.
Mimaki UV Printers
Mimaki’s UCJV300 & UCJV330 series machines combine UV print and cut in one device, with standout benefits:
- White ink support - Essential for printing on clear or coloured vinyls.
- Multi-layer printing (e.g. colour/white/colour) - For double-sided or backlit stickers.
- Ultra-sharp detail & durable finish - Scratch and chemical-resistant.
UV printing is perfect for short runs, on-demand jobs, or where premium finishes are needed. It’s also an excellent solution for creating non-laminated stickers that still perform beautifully outdoors and in harsh conditions.
Eco-Solvent Vs. UV Ink For Stickers: Which Is Right for You?
| Feature | Eco-Solvent | UV Ink |
|---|---|---|
| Drying Time | Requires curing/outgassing | Instant curing |
| Media Flexibility | Excellent on soft, conformable vinyls | Great on both flexible and rigid |
| Finish | Smooth, vibrant | Durable, textured or gloss effects possible |
| Lamination | Often recommended | Often optional |
| Cost | Lower ink cost per m² | Slightly higher, but with added features |
| Use Case | General stickers, vehicle graphics | Premium labels, short-run, unique effects |
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing the best printer for stickers, Roland and Mimaki have you covered, whether you're after the reliable, flexible performance of eco-solvent or the premium finish and speed of UV.
If you’re producing high volumes of everyday stickers, an eco-solvent machine like the Roland VG3-540 or Mimaki CJV200-160 might be perfect. But if you want to add premium effects or increase production speed with instant drying, consider stepping up to a UV printer like the Roland MG-300 or Mimaki UCJV300-160.
Want help finding the right sticker printer for your business? Signmaster has a range of printers available for all your sticker needs. If you need more help choosing your next sticker printer, give our team a call. We’ll walk you through the options, from media and ink compatibility to workflow advice, so you can print with confidence and quality every time. Contact us today!
