Self Inking Stamps VS Pre Inked Stamps VS Rubber Stamps

Self Inking Stamps VS Pre Inked Stamps VS Rubber Stamps

3 Types Of Rubber Stamps

There are three most common types of rubber stamps – traditional, pre-inked and self-inking: 

Traditional Rubber Hand Stamps – When most people think of a rubber stamp, this is what comes to mind. Unlike self-inking and pre-inked stamps, traditional rubber hand stamps are a bit old-school, as they require you to use a separate ink pad each time you want to create an impression. While this may seem inconvenient, it’s actually a good thing in many instances because it allows you to alternate ink colors with the same stamp. So if you’re going to be using your stamp for crafts or some other purpose that requires a variety of ink colors, the classic rubber hand stamp is probably your best bet, as it will save you from having to buy a stamp for every ink color you’d like to use.

Pre-Inked Rubber Stamps – Not a fan of the separate ink pad? Pre-inked rubber stamps allow you to go without it, as they have oil-based ink molded right into the stamp. Simply press down and the ink will flow through the die plate inside of the stamp and create a clean, flawless impression. Best of all, pre-inked stamps are typically good for 50,000+ impressions, meaning you’ll hardly ever have to interrupt your stamping to re-ink them.

Self-Inking Rubber Stamps – Much like their pre-inked relatives, self-inking rubber stamps don’t require a separate ink pad. This is because the stamps are mechanically inked each time you press down on them. Another benefit of self-inking rubber stamps is that they use water-based ink, meaning they’ll never bleed or go through your papers. While they run out of ink much faster than pre-inked rubber stamps (usually they need to be re-inked after about 7,000 impressions), it’s easy to add more ink. Furthermore, self-inking stamps are a great choice for those seeking quick and simple stamping. 

Which Ink Stamps Is Better?

When choosing what ink stamp is best for you, you must know how you plan to use it.

Traditional Wooden Handle Rubber Stamps are best when using specialty inks because the ink pad is separate which allows you to use multiple colors of ink with the same stamp.

Pre-Inked Stamps are more expensive because they last longer without needing to be re-inked. These ink stamps are beneficial for imprints that contain intricate details like logos because provide the highest quality image.

Self-Inking Stamps are the most affordable and are best for stamping in large quantities. Self-inking stampers do require periodic re-inking, but they can be used with a variety of inks.

What are all the differences? Pre Inked Stamp VS Self Inking Stamp

Pre Inked Stamp Highlights: 

A Pre Inked Stamp does not use a rubber die. These models flash your personalize information into an ink filled vessel within the stamp. This method allows for ink droplets to seep through the impression area only from the ink reservoir behind the stamp.

Pre-inked stamps must be re-inked with liquid ink only. They require the use of the same color as the initial ink stamps you've used. You must use ink specific to the manufacturer of the stamp mount that you've chosen.

  • A pre-inked stamp creates sharp, crisp, top quality impressions
  • Longest lasting ink stamps with up to 50,000 impressions
  • Compact mounts that are clean and easy to work with
  • Mounts have a bottom cover for storing
  • Easy to re-fill with ink, but must always use the same type
  • Recommended for stamps with logos
  • Making large Impression ( For example , IS-80 can make gargantuan impression which is measured by stamp die   ) which can not achieved through self ink stamp by mechanical nature 

Self Inking Stamp Highlights: 

A Self-Inking Stamp makes the traditional rubber stamp automatic by using a tiny built-in ink pad to re-ink itself for each quality impression. Your personalized die is made with real rubber and mounted on the ink stamps of your choosing. When making an impression, your die will retract back and forth against the internal ink pad within the stamp.

Initial ink pad comes in the stamp, but you can purchase additional ink for instances where impressions are becoming worn or when you would like to change your ink color. Just be sure to look for ink that is compatible with self-inking mounts.

  • A self-inking stamp is best for stamping repeatedly and quickly
  • Works quickly with a simple press
  • Can handle rough and heavy use
  • Can use a variety of inks which is useful for periodic re-inking
  • Self-inking stamps make about 10,000 impressions before needing ink
  • Easy to re-fill ink on your own
  • Affordable good quality impression