Eco-Solvent vs UV Printer

Which Is Right for Your Wide Format Printing Business in the UK?

If you’re starting or scaling a wide format print business in the UK, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is this:

Eco-solvent or UV DTF printing?

They’re both popular, but very different. This guide compares two standout machines in each category:

ThunderJet AQ1602S (eco-solvent printer)
ColDesi UV 24H3R (UV DTF printer)

We’ll break down their strengths, ideal uses, and why your choice depends entirely on what you want to print.

What’s the Difference Between Eco-Solvent and UV DTF?

Eco-Solvent Printing

Eco-solvent printing uses mild, environmentally friendly solvents to create durable prints on flexible, coated media.

It’s great for:

Outdoor signage
Vehicle decals
Posters and wall vinyl
Long-run print jobs on rolls

Eco-solvent ink takes time to dry and usually requires lamination for long-term durability.

UV DTF Printing

UV printing uses ultraviolet light to instantly cure ink. DTF (Direct to Film) adds a layer of versatility, allowing you to print detailed designs onto a film that’s transferred to non-porous or uneven surfaces.

Ideal for:

Acrylic signs
Glass, metal, wood
Promotional goods
Customised products and packaging

UV prints are ready to use instantly. No drying. No weeding. No lamination.

Meet the ThunderJet AQ1602S:

Eco-Solvent Speed with Precision

View the ThunderJet AQ1602S product page →

This dual-head wide format printer is built for high output with sharp, consistent colour.

Key Features:

Dual Epson I3200-E1 printheads
1.6m max print width
Speeds up to 60m²/hour
Variable droplet tech for clean gradients
Built-in IR drying system
Intelligent head cleaning and anti-collision protection

Best for:

Roll-fed vinyl, banners, and window graphics
Medium to high volume signage
Commercial decal and POS production

Need speed, colour depth, and coated media support? The ThunderJet is your workhorse.

Meet the ColDesi UV 24H3R:

Print to Film, Rigid, and Round Objects

See the ColDesi UV 24H3R printer in action →
View the ColDesi UV 24H3R product page →

This compact flatbed + DTF roll printer is ideal for custom, high-margin applications.

Key Features:

CMYK + White
Up to 600mm width
3 i1600 printheads
Built-in UV DTF film system
Instant curing with no dry time

Best for:

Personalised gifts and promo products
Acrylic signage and point-of-sale boards
Curved surfaces like bottles and jars
Any job where versatility and detail matter

No weeding, no wasted time.

ThunderJet vs ColDesi UV 24H3R:

Which Is Right for You?

Choose the ThunderJet if:

You print large-scale signage, decals, or retail display graphics
Speed and cost-efficiency are top priorities
You primarily work with roll-fed materials

Choose the ColDesi UV 24H3R if:

You need to print on rigid, curved, or textured surfaces
You want to offer high-value customised products
You’re looking for fast turnarounds with no drying or lamination

Book a Demo or Talk to an Expert

Not sure which is right for your space or product range?

We’ll walk you through the pros, cons, and real running costs.