Giclée vs. Standard Prints: Key Differences and Why They Matter

In the world of art reproduction and printmaking, choosing the right type of print can make all the difference—whether you're an artist selling your work, a collector investing in a piece, or simply someone looking to decorate your home with beautiful imagery. The two most common types of fine art reproductions are giclée prints and standard prints, and while they may appear similar to the untrained eye, there are important differences between them.

Understanding these differences can help you make more informed decisions based on your goals, budget, and expectations for quality. In this article, we’ll break down what giclée and standard prints are, compare their characteristics, and explain why it truly matters which one you choose.

What Is a Giclée Print?

“Giclée” (pronounced zhee-clay) is a French term meaning "to spray," referring to the inkjet printing process used to create high-quality fine art reproductions. Developed in the 1990s, giclée printing uses high-end inkjet printers that spray archival-grade pigment-based inks onto premium paper or canvas.

To be considered a true giclée print, the following criteria must generally be met:

  • High-resolution image: 300 DPI (dots per inch) or higher

  • Archival pigment inks: Not dye-based

  • Acid-free paper or canvas: To prevent yellowing over time

  • Color calibration: For color accuracy that matches the original artwork

These strict standards result in museum-quality prints that are visually stunning, long-lasting, and highly detailed.

What Is a Standard Print?

Standard prints—often referred to as poster prints, mass-produced prints, or consumer-grade prints—are typically produced using lower-end inkjet or laser printers and dye-based inks. The materials used are often non-archival paper with a smooth or glossy finish.

They are commonly found in retail settings, online marketplaces, and home décor stores, offering affordable access to artwork, photography, and designs without the high production cost of giclée.

While standard prints are more budget-friendly, they tend to lack the durability, resolution, and color fidelity of giclée prints.

Key Differences Between Giclée and Standard Prints

Let’s dive into the most important differences between these two types of prints and why they matter depending on your needs.

1. Ink Type

  • Giclée: Uses pigment-based inks that are UV-resistant and archival-grade. These inks are designed to last for decades without fading.

  • Standard Prints: Typically use dye-based inks that are less expensive but more susceptible to fading and color shifting over time.

Why It Matters: If you want your print to last for generations and maintain color integrity, giclée is the superior choice.

2. Print Resolution

  • Giclée: Printed at 300 DPI or higher, offering sharp, vibrant, and incredibly detailed reproductions.

  • Standard Prints: Often printed at 150–200 DPI, which may appear blurry or pixelated when viewed up close.

Why It Matters: Higher resolution means better detail and fidelity, making giclée ideal for intricate artwork or photography.

3. Paper and Material Quality

  • Giclée: Printed on acid-free, archival-grade paper or canvas that resists yellowing and deterioration.

  • Standard Prints: Printed on lower-quality commercial paper, which may be glossy or semi-gloss and prone to warping or fading.

Why It Matters: Archival paper ensures your investment maintains its appearance and value over time.

4. Color Accuracy

  • Giclée: Offers superior color matching thanks to professional color calibration and 8–12 ink color systems.

  • Standard Prints: Limited color range and may produce inaccurate or dull hues.

Why It Matters: Artists and collectors value true-to-original colors, which is essential for authentic reproductions.

5. Longevity and Durability

  • Giclée: Designed to last 100+ years under proper conditions without fading.

  • Standard Prints: May last only a few years before colors fade or paper deteriorates.

Why It Matters: Giclée prints are a long-term investment, especially for art collectors, galleries, and artists.

6. Price

  • Giclée: Typically more expensive due to the higher quality of materials, labor, and printing technology.

  • Standard Prints: Budget-friendly and widely accessible.

Why It Matters: If cost is a concern and the artwork isn’t intended for long-term display, standard prints may be the better option. However, for serious art or photo presentation, giclée is worth the premium.

Use Cases: When to Choose Each Type

When to Choose Giclée Prints

  • You’re a professional artist selling limited edition prints

  • You want to create museum-quality wall art

  • You’re producing a gift or keepsake meant to last a lifetime

  • You're reproducing a high-detail photograph or painting

  • You need color-accurate representations of original artwork

When to Choose Standard Prints

  • You’re decorating a space on a budget

  • The print will be used temporarily (e.g., event posters, seasonal décor)

  • You want inexpensive art for casual spaces like dorm rooms or offices

  • You're printing simple graphic designs or text-based posters

Giclée Printing Process: Behind the Scenes

Understanding the process of giclée printing can also help you appreciate why it delivers such superior results:

  1. Digitization of Artwork: The original artwork is either scanned at high resolution or photographed using a professional-grade camera.

  2. Color Matching: The digital image is color-corrected to match the original piece.

  3. Paper or Canvas Selection: Based on the desired finish (matte, watercolor, canvas), a suitable archival substrate is chosen.

  4. Inkjet Printing: Specialized printers (like Epson SureColor or Canon imagePROGRAF) use up to 12 pigment-based inks for exceptional tonal range and smooth gradients.

  5. Drying and Curing: After printing, the giclée is left to cure for 24–48 hours.

  6. Optional Coating or Varnish: Canvas prints may be sealed with a protective coating for added UV and moisture resistance.

This meticulous process is part of why giclée prints command higher prices but also ensure unmatched quality and durability.

Framing and Display Considerations

Both giclée and standard prints can be framed and displayed, but framing choices may vary depending on the print type.

Giclée Prints

  • Best protected behind UV-protective glass or acrylic

  • Use acid-free matting and backing

  • Canvas giclées can be gallery-wrapped or stretched

Standard Prints

  • May be laminated for protection

  • Often displayed with regular glass and matting

  • Not ideal for high-humidity or sun-exposed environments

Proper framing enhances longevity, especially for giclée prints, ensuring that you get the most out of your investment.

Why Artists Prefer Giclée Prints

Many artists use giclée printing as a way to offer limited edition reproductions that maintain the integrity of their original works. Since giclée prints can capture every brushstroke, texture, and color nuance, they make it easier to monetize art without selling the original.

Artists can also sign and number each print, adding perceived value and collectibility for buyers.

Collectors and Buyers: What to Know

If you're buying art for collection purposes, always check whether the piece is:

  • Giclée or standard

  • Signed and numbered by the artist

  • Printed on archival paper or canvas

  • Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity (for limited editions)

These details affect the value and longevity of your purchase.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

Giclée prints are often produced on demand, which reduces waste. Additionally, many giclée printers use eco-friendly inks and sustainably sourced paper. This makes giclée a better option for environmentally conscious buyers and artists.

Standard prints, by contrast, are often mass-produced, contributing to more waste and sometimes using non-recyclable materials.

Conclusion: Which One Is Right for You?

At the end of the day, the choice between giclée and standard prints comes down to purpose, budget, and expectations.

Criteria Giclée Print Standard Print
Ink Type Pigment-based (archival) Dye-based
Paper Quality Archival, acid-free Commercial-grade
Color Accuracy Excellent Moderate
Lifespan 100+ years 2–10 years
Resolution 300 DPI+ 150–200 DPI
Price Higher Lower

If you value artistic integrity, museum-quality display, and long-term durability, giclée is the clear winner. But if you're just looking for affordable, attractive wall décor that won’t break the bank, standard prints still serve a purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are all inkjet prints giclée prints?

A: No. While giclée prints use inkjet technology, not all inkjet prints meet the standards (archival inks, paper, resolution) required for true giclée status.

Q: Can I make giclée prints at home?

A: Technically, yes—if you have a professional-grade printer, pigment inks, and archival paper. However, most people rely on fine art printing services for quality assurance.

Q: Do giclée prints increase in value?

A: Limited edition, signed giclée prints by well-known artists can appreciate in value, though not as much as original works.

Q: Can giclée prints be printed on canvas?

A: Absolutely. Giclée canvas prints are popular for their texture and painterly finish, and can be stretched and framed like traditional paintings.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're an artist, collector, or decorator, knowing the difference between giclée and standard prints empowers you to make smarter choices. Giclée prints are a premium option for those who want superior quality and longevity, while standard prints offer accessibility and affordability.

If you're investing in art that you want to last a lifetime or preserve the integrity of your work, choose giclée. If you just want a fun or trendy image for short-term use, a standard print will do just fine.

Whatever your decision, now you know exactly what you’re getting—and why it matters.