Which PDF Standard to use?

Report · Jan 04, 2024

I'm not sure if this question fits here, or maybe should be in the InDesign section, but let's go for it...

When generating a PDF mechanical to send to a print vendor for a 4-color process book that will go on a web press, which PDF Standard should I use?

I've keep finding conflicting recommendations--some places say to use PDF/X-1a:2003 for CMYK print jobs. Others recommend PDF/X-4:2010 (I don't remember their stated reason). I'm sure I've read recommendations for pretty much all of the standards available to generate a pdf in InDesign. I've reached a point where I am so confused that I am unable to decide which one to use.

Is there a standard that will work for practically any 4-color (no spot colors) print job? Is there one that is just a safe bet that any printer can work with?

Report · Jan 04, 2024

Coincidently, the PDF Association is hosting a free webinar about the PDF/X standards in a couple of weeks.

See the article and registration info at https://pdfa.org/gwg-webinar-why-are-you-still-using-a-20-year-old-standard-stop-that/

Without seeing your job, I can't recommend a particular version of PDF/X to use. But I do know that if your work contains blends and transparencies, then PDF/X-1 is NOT for your project.

If I'm sending the project to a quick printer (usually using toner ink, not offset or web printing), then I'll use whatever will work for the print shop, even PDF/X-1.

But you described your projects as CMYK for web presses and right there, you need a higher quality PDF to meet the exacting needs of your print shop.

I'd ask my print shop what they want. Sometimes it's even posted on their website. And of course, sign up for the upcoming webinar from the PDFa.org.

Report · Jan 05, 2024

Thanks for the info aboutthe webinar--I just signed up.

I've tried to learn as much as I can on my own, but there's a lot of contradictory information out there and the technical jargon can sometimes make things confusing for me.

I don't always have the luxury of speaking with the print vendor. Sometimes I won't even know where the job is being printed. I work freelance and many times I'm only communicating with editors (or art directors who aren't any more knowledgeable on the subject than I am). In those cases, I include the working files along with a pdf when I submit the job, in case adjustments have to be made. No one has ever complained about it, but I'll still feel better if I understand the subject a bit more.

I have high hopes that the webinar will be helpful.