Quick Summary: Roland DG has launched two exceptional large-format printers in the TrueVIS range. The XG-640 is an integrated printer/cutter perfect for stickers, decals, and cut graphics, whilst the XP-640 is a dedicated high-speed printer optimised for banners, signage, and vehicle wraps. This comprehensive guide helps you choose the right Roland printer for your business.
Introduction: The Next Generation of TrueVIS Printing
Roland DG has revolutionised large-format eco-solvent printing with two groundbreaking machines: the Roland XG-640 printer/cutter and the Roland XP-640 eco-solvent printer. Both models feature newly designed dual staggered printheads and represent significant advances in speed, colour accuracy, and reliability.
Understanding the differences between these two Roland printers is crucial for making the right investment for your business. Whilst they share many technological innovations, they’re designed for distinctly different workflows and applications.
Key Similarities: Shared Innovation
Before exploring the differences, it’s important to understand what these two Roland printers have in common. Both the XG-640 and XP-640 share several revolutionary technologies:
✓ Dual Staggered Printhead Technology
Both models feature newly designed dual staggered printheads that eject finer ink droplets at higher densities. This innovative configuration enables high-resolution output with fewer passes, delivering production-level speeds whilst maintaining exceptional image quality.
✓ TrueVIS Quality and Reliability
Both printers deliver the stunning colour accuracy and reliability that have made TrueVIS the world’s most trusted eco-solvent printer series. True Rich Color presets combine vivid colours with neutral greys, smooth gradations, and natural skin tones.
✓ Advanced Automation Features
Both models include a 7-inch colour LCD touchscreen, automatic media gap adjustment using TrueVIS optical registration technology, automatic media take-up systems, and the innovative perforated sheet cutting function for high-volume production.
✓ Professional Software Included
VersaWorks 6 RIP software and Roland DG Connect app integration come standard with both models, providing powerful workflow management and operational visibility.
The Critical Difference: Print-Only vs Print-and-Cut
The fundamental distinction between these Roland printers is simple but significant:
XG-640: Print + Cut
An integrated printer/cutter that prints stunning graphics and then precision contour cuts them in a single workflow. Perfect for businesses that produce stickers, decals, labels, and any application requiring die-cut shapes.
Best for: Sticker makers, label producers, vehicle graphics specialists, and sign shops requiring cut vinyl lettering.
XP-640: Print Only
A dedicated high-speed printer optimised for maximum throughput on banners, signage, and large-format graphics. No cutting functionality, but faster print speeds and the widest colour gamut in its class thanks to revolutionary Red ink.
Best for: Banner producers, sign makers, vehicle wrap specialists, and print shops focused on high-volume output.
Performance Comparison
| Feature | XG-640 | XP-640 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Integrated Printer/Cutter | Dedicated Printer |
| Print Speed (8-colour) | Up to 15.2 m²/h | Up to 15.2 m²/h |
| Print Speed (4-colour) | Not specified (dual CMYK) | Up to 22.5 m²/h |
| Ink Type | TR3 Eco-Solvent (500ml) | TH Eco-Solvent (500ml) |
| 8-Colour Configuration | CMYKLcLmOrGr | CMYKLkOrGrRe |
| White Ink Option | ✓ Yes (7-colour config) | ✗ No |
| Red Ink Option | ✗ No | ✓ Yes (8-colour config) |
| Contour Cutting | ✓ Yes (10-300 mm/s) | ✗ No |
| Maximum Printing Width | 1,600mm | 1,615mm |
| Weight | 196kg | 189kg |
| Certifications | GREENGUARD Gold (TR3 ink) | BLI Pick Award 2025 |
Ink Technology Differences
Whilst both printers use eco-solvent inks in 500ml cartridges, they employ different ink formulations optimised for their specific purposes:
XG-640: TR3 Eco-Solvent Inks
- GREENGUARD Gold certified for indoor air quality and environmental safety
- GBL-free formulation for safer, eco-conscious printing
- White ink option: Three times more productive than previous TR2 formulation, producing graphics 1.3 times more dense
- Colour options: 8-colour with Orange and Green, or 7-colour with White for window graphics and underbase printing
- Optimised for cutting: Fast-drying properties ideal for immediate contour cutting
XP-640: TH Eco-Solvent Inks
- Revolutionary Red ink: Widest colour gamut in TrueVIS history for accurate corporate colours and vibrant signage
- Lowest running costs in its category with economical ink consumption
- True Rich Color setting: Achieves highest TrueVIS image quality whilst using less ink
- Fast-drying formulation: Enables same-day lamination for high-volume users
- BLI Award-winning performance: 5-star ratings for image quality, colour accuracy, and colour gamut
Key Insight: The XP-640’s Red ink delivers exceptional accuracy in reproducing reds and oranges—the most critical and frequently used colours in sign graphics. This gives vehicle wrap and signage specialists a genuine competitive advantage in colour matching.
Application Suitability Guide
Choose the XG-640 If You Produce:
- Stickers and decals: High-speed printing with precision contour cutting for die-cut stickers, product labels, and promotional decals
- Cut vinyl lettering: Professional signage with precision-cut text and logos
- Vehicle partial wraps: Complex shapes cut with precision on cast vinyl
- Window graphics: White ink for opacity with contour cutting for custom shapes
- Custom-shaped banners: Unique designs cut to any shape with professional finishing
- Labels and packaging prototypes: Quick turnaround on custom die-cut designs
- POS displays: Contour-cut graphics that capture attention
Explore the XG-640 Printer/Cutter →
Choose the XP-640 If You Produce:
- Vehicle wraps: Full wraps with exceptional colour accuracy and red ink for perfect colour matching
- Banners and billboards: High-volume production at speeds up to 22.5 m²/h in dual CMYK mode
- Event signage: Large-format graphics with vibrant colours and smooth gradations
- Retail signage: Indoor and outdoor signs with accurate corporate colour reproduction
- Wallpaper and wall murals: High-quality interior graphics with natural colour tones
- Backlit signage: Excellent ink density for illuminated applications
- Fleet graphics: Consistent colour reproduction across multiple vehicles with superior red accuracy
Workflow Considerations
XG-640 Workflow: All-in-One Efficiency
The XG-640’s integrated print-and-cut workflow eliminates the need for separate cutting equipment:
- Design: Create artwork with cut paths in design software
- RIP: VersaWorks processes both print and cut data simultaneously
- Print: High-quality eco-solvent printing at up to 15.2 m²/h
- Cut: Precision contour cutting immediately after printing with perfect registration
- Finish: Weed excess vinyl and apply transfer tape if needed
Advantages: Single machine investment, no registration issues, faster turnaround for cut graphics, space-efficient, one workflow to master.
XP-640 Workflow: Maximum Speed
The XP-640’s dedicated printing focus enables uninterrupted high-volume production:
- Design: Create artwork optimised for Roland’s widest colour gamut
- RIP: VersaWorks with True Rich Color presets for optimal ink usage
- Print: Continuous printing at speeds up to 22.5 m²/h (dual CMYK mode)
- Finish: Optional lamination (same-day with fast-drying TH inks), trimming, and installation
Advantages: Fastest print speeds, lowest running costs, widest colour gamut with Red ink, optimised for high-volume banner and wrap production.
Cost of Ownership Analysis
| Cost Factor | XG-640 | XP-640 |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Investment | Higher (includes cutting capability) | Lower (print-only) |
| Ink Costs | TR3 500ml cartridges (220ml White) | TH 500ml – Lowest in category |
| Consumables | Cutting blades, maintenance parts | Maintenance parts only |
| Additional Equipment | None required for cutting | Optional: Laminator, separate cutter |
| Floor Space | ~7m² including finishing area | ~7m² plus laminator/cutter space |
| Labour Efficiency | One-person operation for complete workflow | Maximum print throughput |
Cost Efficiency Insight:
The XG-640 offers better value if 30% or more of your production requires cutting, as you avoid the cost of separate cutting equipment. The XP-640 delivers superior ROI for banner and signage-focused businesses due to its faster dual CMYK speeds and lowest-in-class ink consumption.
Which Should You Choose?
You Need the XG-640 If:
- Stickers and decals are a significant part of your business
- You produce cut vinyl lettering and graphics
- Space is limited and you want one machine
- You need White ink for window graphics
- Print-and-cut workflow efficiency is important
- 30%+ of jobs require contour cutting
You Need the XP-640 If:
- Banners and vehicle wraps are your primary business
- Print speed and throughput are critical
- Accurate red and corporate colour matching is essential
- You want the lowest running costs per square metre
- You rarely or never need contour cutting
- You want award-winning colour gamut performance
Why Buy from RGB UK?
As authorised Roland DG partners, RGB UK provides comprehensive support for both the XG-640 and XP-640:
- Expert installation: Certified Roland engineers set up and calibrate your printer
- Comprehensive training: 3-4 hours of operator training included (print and cut for XG-640)
- Competitive pricing: Best prices on genuine Roland TR3 and TH inks
- Fast consumables delivery: Quick turnaround on inks, blades, and spare parts
- Extended warranty options: Protect your investment with service contracts
- UK-based support: Technical assistance from Roland specialists
- Flexible finance: Payment options available for both models
Conclusion: Two Exceptional Machines for Different Needs
Both the Roland XG-640 and XP-640 represent the pinnacle of eco-solvent printing technology, each engineered for specific applications and workflows. There’s no “better” choice—only the right Roland printer for your business requirements.
The XG-640 printer/cutter delivers unmatched efficiency for businesses producing stickers, decals, and cut graphics, combining high-speed printing with precision contour cutting in one reliable machine. The integrated workflow eliminates separate cutting equipment, saves space, and ensures perfect registration on every job.
The XP-640 eco-solvent printer sets new standards for print-only performance with revolutionary Red ink technology, fastest-in-class speeds, and the lowest running costs. It’s the ultimate solution for banner producers, vehicle wrap specialists, and sign makers focused on high-volume output with exceptional colour accuracy.
Need Help Choosing the Right Roland Printer?
Our Roland specialists can assess your production requirements and recommend the perfect model for your business.
All specifications and features accurate as of January 2026. Both models include VersaWorks 6 RIP software, Roland DG Connect app access, and comprehensive warranty coverage. Contact RGB UK for current pricing and availability.