Roland TrueVIS VG3-540 vs. Mimaki CJV150-130: A Detailed Comparison of Print and Cut Printers for Sign Shops

In the world of large-format printing, having the right equipment is critical to staying competitive. For businesses in signage, promotional products, apparel, and even vehicle wraps, versatile print-and-cut machines are game-changers. The ability to print stunning graphics and precisely cut materials in one go can drastically reduce production time and improve the quality of the final product.

Two major players in this arena are Roland’s TrueVIS VG3-540 and Mimaki’s CJV150-130. These models have set a high standard for print-and-cut machines, providing excellent quality, speed, and versatility. But which one is the better option for your business? In this post, we’ll dive into a comprehensive comparison of these two models, discussing features, applications, and pricing to help you make an informed decision.

Why Print and Cut Machines Are Essential for Business

Before we get into the specifics of Roland and Mimaki’s offerings, it’s important to understand why print-and-cut machines have become a cornerstone for modern sign and print shops. The ability to print high-quality graphics and cut them into custom shapes in a single workflow saves time, reduces manual labor, and increases precision. This is crucial for businesses handling projects like:

• Vehicle wraps
• Window decals
• Banners and signs
• Promotional stickers
• Heat transfers for apparel

These machines are often the gateway to additional services, as many print shops eventually expand into laminating, flatbed printing, and sublimation once they master print-and-cut production.

Overview of Roland TrueVIS VG3-540

A Trusted Leader in Print Technology

Roland has long been a pioneer in the large-format print industry, with a reputation for innovation, reliability, and user-friendliness. The TrueVIS VG3-540 continues this legacy with cutting-edge technology designed to meet the needs of both experienced and novice operators.

Key Features of the TrueVIS VG3-540:

• Price: $14,995 (limited-time offer, includes a 3rd-year warranty).
• Ink Configuration: Up to 8-color ink system using TR2 Eco-Solvent inks, including specialty inks like white, orange, and light black.
• Technology: Roland’s FlexFire print heads and TR2 ink technology offer vibrant, high-quality prints, suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
• Touchscreen Interface: The 7-inch touchscreen control panel simplifies operation, making it intuitive for new users to get started.
• Versatility: From vehicle wraps to banners, decals, and heat transfers, this printer offers a wide range of applications.
• Cutting Precision: The integrated cutting system can produce detailed cuts with high precision, reducing the need for additional finishing work.

Application Flexibility:

One of Roland’s strengths is versatility. The VG3-540 is designed to handle a variety of materials and applications, including:

• Vehicle wraps
• Heat transfer materials for apparel
• Posters, banners, and signs
• Window clings
• Custom stickers and decals

Roland’s TR2 ink set also provides GreenGuard Gold certification, which makes it an eco-friendly option for businesses concerned with environmental impact.

Overview of Mimaki CJV150-130

An Affordable Powerhouse for Print and Cut

Mimaki has also made a name for itself as a reliable manufacturer of high-quality print technology. The CJV150-130 offers a more affordable solution without compromising on quality, making it a popular choice for small to medium-sized print shops looking to scale their services.

Key Features of the CJV150-130:

• Price: $12,995 (current pricing).
• Ink Configuration: Supports up to 10-color options, including silver, light black, and orange, giving it the edge for creative and dynamic color effects.
• Technology: Mimaki Advanced Pass System (MAPS) reduces banding, and the Nozzle Check Unit ensures stable printing performance.
• Cutting Precision: Like Roland, Mimaki offers an integrated cutting solution, but it also shines in specialized applications due to its ink range.
• Applications: Ideal for banners, signs, vehicle wraps, and stickers, the CJV150-130 is versatile enough for both everyday jobs and more complex tasks requiring specialty inks.

Application Flexibility:

Mimaki’s standout feature is its silver ink option, which allows for metallic effects, as well as fluorescent ink options for attention-grabbing designs. This makes the CJV150-130 particularly attractive for businesses that want to offer clients unique, high-impact graphics.

• Banners and signs
• Vehicle wraps and decals
• Specialty stickers and labels with metallic and fluorescent finishes
• Window graphics
• Posters and displays

The CJV150-130’s affordability and versatility make it an excellent choice for businesses looking to get started with large-format printing without a hefty initial investment.

Feature Comparison: Roland VG3-540 vs. Mimaki CJV150-130

Print Quality

• Roland VG3-540: Known for producing vibrant colors and smooth gradients, thanks to its 8-color TR2 ink system. Roland’s FlexFire print heads deliver high-definition prints with precision, and their inks are eco-friendly.
• Mimaki CJV150-130: Offers a wider range of color options, including silver and fluorescent inks, which allow for more creative designs. It’s perfect for companies looking to offer metallic effects and eye-catching prints.

Cutting Capabilities

Both machines offer integrated cutting systems that provide accurate and fast contour cutting. Mimaki’s system is excellent for handling complex, detailed cuts, while Roland’s cutting technology is known for its reliability and ease of use, with intuitive controls.

Ink Variety and Cost

• Roland VG3-540: Eco-Solvent inks, with standard ink configurations, are slightly more expensive, but the eco-friendly aspect may appeal to environmentally-conscious clients.
• Mimaki CJV150-130: Mimaki’s solvent-based inks offer a wider range of colors, including special inks like metallic silver and fluorescent, giving it the edge for businesses that need more creative flexibility. Mimaki’s ink costs are also slightly lower than Roland’s.

User Experience

• Roland VG3-540: Designed with user experience in mind, it features a 7-inch touchscreen display that makes operation a breeze, even for new users. The software is intuitive and provides clear workflows for printing and cutting.
• Mimaki CJV150-130: Although not as user-friendly as Roland’s interface, Mimaki’s RasterLink6 software offers powerful features for more advanced users who want to maximize the printer’s capabilities. However, it has a slightly steeper learning curve.

Speed and Efficiency

Both models deliver high-speed production. However, the Roland VG3-540 is known for its quick setup times and minimal downtime, making it more efficient for businesses handling large production volumes. Mimaki’s CJV150-130, while still efficient, may take slightly longer to switch between tasks due to the more complex ink configurations.

Pricing Comparison

The Mimaki CJV150-130 is priced at $12,995, making it the more affordable option compared to Roland’s $14,995 price tag for the VG3-540. For businesses that don’t need the additional user-friendly features of the Roland or can leverage Mimaki’s unique ink options, the CJV150-130 offers excellent value for money.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

Roland VG3-540:

Customers often praise the reliability and ease of use of the TrueVIS series. The machine’s touchscreen interface is frequently cited as a strong advantage, especially for new operators. Many also appreciate the eco-friendly aspect of the TR2 inks, which offer low emissions and fast drying times.

Mimaki CJV150-130:

Reviews for the CJV150-130 highlight its color capabilities and the unique effects produced by its metallic and fluorescent inks. Customers who need eye-catching, high-contrast prints find this machine delivers stunning results. However, the learning curve for the software and setup is a minor drawback noted by some users.

What Else Do You Need? Essential Add-ons for Print Shops

When investing in a print-and-cut machine, keep in mind that additional equipment like laminators, independent cutters, and even flatbed printers can expand your service offering. For example, a laminator can help protect vehicle wraps from weather damage, while a flatbed printer can allow you to offer rigid signs, custom furniture, or even promotional gifts.

Sublimation printers are another valuable addition, enabling print shops to create custom apparel, mugs, and more. These printers open up new revenue streams and can increase the overall versatility of your business.

Final Verdict: Which Printer Is Best for Your Business?

Both the Roland VG3-540 and Mimaki CJV150-130 are fantastic options, but your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs:

• Choose the Roland VG3-540 if you value ease of use, environmental considerations, and a user-friendly interface. It’s a perfect fit for businesses that require high-volume production with minimal downtime and are willing to pay a premium for user experience and support.
• **Choose the Mimaki CJV150-Roland TrueVIS VG3-540 vs. Mimaki CJV150-130: Choosing the Right Print-and-Cut Printer for Your Business

For businesses in the signage, graphic design, and promotional products industries, having the right equipment is vital to maintaining high-quality production. Among the top contenders in the print-and-cut category are the Roland TrueVIS VG3-540 and Mimaki CJV150-130. Both machines offer a blend of performance, versatility, and user-friendly features that make them ideal for a wide range of applications like banners, vehicle wraps, decals, stickers, and even heat transfers for apparel. In this comprehensive comparison, we will dive into the features, pricing, and performance of each machine to help you decide which is the best investment for your business.

The Importance of Print-and-Cut Machines

Print-and-cut machines are a staple for sign shops and printing businesses because they allow you to print high-quality graphics and cut them to custom shapes in one workflow. This integrated process increases efficiency, reduces material waste, and ensures high precision for applications like:

• Vehicle wraps
• Window decals
• Custom stickers
• Banners and signs
• Heat transfers for apparel

These machines are often a gateway for many businesses to expand into new markets such as laminating, sublimation, flatbed printing, or specialized cutting services. With the right tools, a sign shop can diversify its offerings, which ultimately increases revenue potential.

Roland TrueVIS VG3-540 Overview

Roland is a trusted name in the printing world, known for its innovations and reliable machines. The TrueVIS VG3-540 builds on this reputation, providing top-tier printing quality with an easy-to-use interface designed to boost productivity.

Key Features:

• Price: $14,995 (limited-time pricing with a 3-year warranty).
• Print Width: 54 inches.
• Ink Configuration: Up to 8-color TR2 Eco-Solvent inks, including specialty colors like white, orange, and light black.
• Touchscreen Control: A 7-inch touchscreen interface streamlines operations, making it accessible for new users.
• Versatility: Suitable for various applications such as banners, vehicle wraps, decals, and heat transfers.
• Eco-Friendliness: The TR2 ink is GreenGuard Gold Certified, making it suitable for indoor and environmentally-conscious printing.

What Can It Do?:

The VG3-540 is designed to handle large-scale projects efficiently, making it ideal for vehicle wraps, outdoor banners, window graphics, and more. Its specialty inks also allow for smooth color transitions and vibrant prints, perfect for high-end advertising materials.

Mimaki CJV150-130 Overview

Mimaki has made a name for itself by offering high-quality machines at more affordable price points. The CJV150-130 is a great example of this, providing excellent print quality and versatility at a lower cost.

Key Features:

• Price: $12,995 (current pricing).
• Print Width: 54 inches.
• Ink Options: Supports up to 10-color configurations, including specialty options like silver and fluorescent inks, providing more creative possibilities.
• Technology: Mimaki Advanced Pass System (MAPS) and Nozzle Check Unit reduce print errors and ensure consistency in high-volume production.
• Cutting Capabilities: Precision cutting is integrated into the system, allowing for a streamlined workflow from print to finish.

What Can It Do?:

The CJV150-130 is perfect for businesses that want to offer more creative, unique print solutions. The metallic silver and fluorescent ink options allow shops to produce high-impact designs that stand out from the competition. It’s well-suited for businesses handling banners, decals, signs, and specialty stickers.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Roland VG3-540 vs. Mimaki CJV150-130

Print Quality

• Roland TrueVIS VG3-540: Known for its vibrant colors and smooth gradients, the VG3-540’s 8-color TR2 ink system delivers high-definition prints. The FlexFire print heads help produce precise, professional-quality prints, even on challenging materials.
• Mimaki CJV150-130: Offers an advantage with its 10-color system, including silver and fluorescent inks. This makes it ideal for creating metallic effects or vibrant fluorescent designs that pop in both outdoor and indoor settings.

Cutting Precision

Both machines excel in their integrated cutting systems. However, Roland is often praised for its reliability and ease of use, whereas Mimaki shines in delivering detailed, complex cuts, especially when handling unique ink configurations like metallic finishes.

Ease of Use

• Roland VG3-540: Its 7-inch touchscreen and user-friendly design are perfect for operators of all experience levels. The machine simplifies complex workflows, making it a go-to for busy sign shops.
• Mimaki CJV150-130: While RasterLink6 software provides powerful features, it does have a steeper learning curve compared to Roland’s intuitive interface. Advanced users will find it offers plenty of control, but new users may require a longer learning period.

Speed and Efficiency

Both machines offer excellent speeds for high-volume production, but Roland has a slight edge in terms of faster setup times and job completion, especially for businesses with a heavy workload of large-scale projects.

Ink Costs and Environmental Impact

• Roland VG3-540: The TR2 eco-solvent ink is slightly more expensive, but it’s GreenGuard Gold Certified, making it the more environmentally friendly option.
• Mimaki CJV150-130: Mimaki’s solvent-based inks are more affordable, especially for businesses producing high volumes, but they don’t offer the same eco-certifications as Roland’s.

Pricing and ROI

The Roland VG3-540 is priced at $14,995, while the Mimaki CJV150-130 is available at $12,995. Although Roland’s VG3-540 comes with a slightly higher price tag, its ease of use, eco-friendly inks, and fast production capabilities might justify the extra investment for larger, high-volume shops. For smaller businesses or those looking to offer unique services like metallic or fluorescent prints, the Mimaki CJV150-130 offers incredible value at a lower price point.

Additional Tools You’ll Need

If you’re considering purchasing a print-and-cut machine, don’t forget about complementary tools that will help you expand your services:

• Laminators: Adding a lamination step ensures that your prints are weatherproof and long-lasting, especially for vehicle wraps and outdoor banners.
• Flatbed Printers: For those looking to expand into rigid signage, flatbed printers offer the ability to print on substrates like wood, metal, and acrylic.
• Sublimation Printers: Great for creating custom apparel, promotional gifts, and more.
• Standalone Cutters: Although print-and-cut machines are versatile, having an additional independent cutter can increase efficiency and handle specialized cutting jobs.

Which Printer is Right for Your Business?

Choosing between the Roland VG3-540 and Mimaki CJV150-130 depends largely on your business’s specific needs:

• Choose the Roland VG3-540 if you prioritize ease of use, eco-friendly operations, and a user-friendly interface. It’s an excellent choice for businesses handling large, high-volume jobs that require quick production times with minimal setup.
• Choose the Mimaki CJV150-130 if your focus is on creative flexibility and you want to offer unique prints with metallic or fluorescent effects. It’s also more affordable, making it a great entry point for businesses looking to expand their print services.

Both machines are outstanding in their own right and offer the kind of quality and performance that can take your print business to the next level.

By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each printer, you can confidently choose the one that will best meet your production needs, budget, and future growth opportunities. Whether you’re a small sign shop or a larger commercial printer, either of these machines can serve as the cornerstone for your business’s success.