In contrast to a proof, a press proof is created using films or CTP printing plates on special press proof machines with the same colours and parameters as the subsequent production print.
A press proof is very precise in terms of colour and is also almost identical in appearance and feel to the subsequent print due to the production paper used. Compared to a classic proof, however, a press proof is usually many times more expensive and can quickly cost several hundred euros. A press proof also takes considerably longer to produce. For economic reasons, it is therefore hardly relevant today and is only used for very delicate prints with large print runs.