EDP vs LamDeco vs Classic Cover Coat Full Technology Comparison

A practical guide to selecting the optimal method for ceramic printing and decal production.

Modern ceramic photo printing uses three main image-transfer technologies: EDP, LamDeco, and Classic Cover Coat (lacquer).

Each method has its own strengths, equipment requirements, and best-fit applications.

This guide helps you choose the ideal option for your production — from small studios to professional industrial workshops.

Comparison Table

EDP
LamDeco
Classic Cover Coat
Transfer type
Water-slide
Lamination
Spray / Screen coat
Speed
Fast
Medium
Slow
Image clarity
Excellent
Perfect
Medium
Firing durability
High
High
High
Applications
Universal
Premium printing
Small runs, tests, odd shapes
Required equipment
Printer + water
Printer + laminator
Printer + sprayer / screen table
Defect risk
Low
Minimal
Medium (requires skill)
Toner compatibility
LX / FX / GX
LX / FX
All series + classic decal systems
Lacquer usage
Not needed
Not needed
Required

Technology Breakdown

1. EDP (Express Decal Paper)

A pre-coated decal paper designed for fast, clean water-slide transfers.

Advantages

  • Excellent image clarity
  • Minimal number of processing steps
  • No lacquering required
  • Strong adhesion to ceramics, porcelain, and glass (EDP-N, EDP-F, EDP-G)

Best use cases

EDP is the universal solution for standard photoceramics, souvenir ceramics, plaques, ovals, and tiles.

Ideal for both beginners and high-volume production.

2. LamDeco

A laminated decal technology that provides the smoothest surface and the highest precision.

Advantages

Perfect clarity and density
Maximum repeatability for serial production
Minimal risk of bubbles or artefacts
Excellent for fine details and high-resolution images

Best use cases

LamDeco is ideal for premium projects, designer works, and professional studios where stability and flawless quality are mandatory.

Recommended for highly detailed portraits and architectural panels.

3. Classic Cover Coat (Traditional Decal Lacquer)

A historical decal technology used long before modern EDP papers appeared.

Advantages

  • Can be used with any uncoated decal paper
  • Works on complex or non-standard surfaces
  • Useful as an additional protective film

Limitations

Requires experience for even application
Higher risk of texture, bubbles, streaks
Longer workflow: print → lacquer → dry → transfer
Strong lacquer smell

Best use cases

Used in small workshops, for single-item orders, testing, or when EDP/LamDeco cannot be applied.

Which Technology Should You Choose?

EDP — best universal solution for 90% of all ceramic printing tasks.
LamDeco — premium quality, perfect for serial production and professional studios.
Classic Cover Coat — for non-standard cases or when extra protection is needed.

MARKITON Training & Support

Every MARKITON customer receives:

  • Detailed printing, transfer, and firing guides
  • Video tutorials and PDF manuals
  • One-on-one engineering support
  • Assistance in selecting materials and optimizing production

We help you achieve flawless results — even on your very first batch.

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