Compare eXact 1 with eXact 2
First-generation eXact instruments helped establish reliable pressroom color measurement. eXact 2 portable spectrophotometers build on that foundation. See the comparison below to understand why printers and packaging converters are upgrading to eXact 2 for easier operation, more confident measurements, and connected color workflows.
Ease of Use
Adjustable tilt screen provides a 30% larger viewing area and twice the resolution, while an intuitive interface helps operators learn and navigate the device with ease.
Fixed display offers a smaller viewing area and lower resolution, while traditional menu navigation requires more steps to access measurements and settings.
Less Chance of Contamination
Recessed aperture helps minimize ink tracking and contamination when measuring drawdowns, proofs, and other printed samples.
Surface-level aperture sits directly against the substrate, increasing the potential for ink transfer and contamination during measurement.
Measurement Confidence
High-resolution camera with video targeting helps operators align the device and measure the intended spot with confidence.
Traditional targeting window requires operators to visually align the instrument over the intended measurement area before taking a reading.
Efficient Print Inspection
Digital loupe offers up to 10x zoom for inspecting patches during or after measurement and identifying print artifacts, dirt, or other defects.
Print inspection is completed separately from measurement, requiring operators to use a manual loupe to evaluate patches.
Integrated Workflow Management
Connects measurement data with compatible color standards, formulation, quality control, and device optimization software, including NetProfiler, PantoneLIVE, ColorCert, MeasureColor, and Autura Ink. Integration options vary by model.
Offers limited ecosystem connectivity and relies on separate or tethered software workflows to manage and review color data.
Access to Digital Color Standards
Access preloaded solids, neons, and pastels, or connect to PantoneLIVE™ to retrieve thousands of additional digital color standards across multiple substrates.
*Standards are not pre-loaded for Basic model
Color libraries are managed separately and may require operators to load or update standards before they are available for measurement.
Faster Color Bar Measurement
Switch between spot and scan modes with a tap, then use integrated wheels and integrated camera to scan color bars quickly and capture results in seconds.
*Not available in Basic model
Supports spot and scan modes, but color bar scanning requires a tethered connection and additional setup before measurement.
Wireless Color Measurement Connectivity
Connect to quality control and formulation software from anywhere in the plant using fast, secure onboard Wi-Fi.
Connects to supported software through Bluetooth or a tethered connection, limiting mobility and access across the plant.
One Platform for Multiple Applications
Measure substrates ranging from flexible film to folding carton board with one eXact 2 Plus device and its switchable polarization filter.
Measuring across different substrate types may require separate instruments, adding complexity to device selection, training, and workflow management.
FAQs
eXact 2 builds on first-generation eXact with an intuitive touchscreen interface, a larger adjustable display, video targeting, digital loupe inspection, onboard Wi-Fi, integrated scanning (excluding the Basic model), and expanded color workflow connectivity. These enhancements help operators measure with confidence, work more efficiently, and access color data directly from the device.
First-generation eXact has been a trusted pressroom tool, helping print and packaging teams achieve reliable color measurement for years. eXact 2 builds on that proven foundation with enhancements designed for today’s more connected workflows, including a larger adjustable display, intuitive touchscreen navigation, video targeting, digital inspection tools, onboard Wi-Fi, and expanded integration options. It also helps teams prepare for the end of life of first-generation eXact Standard, eXact Xp, eXact Advanced, and eXact Basic Spectro, which will no longer be available for purchase after September 1, 2026.
The right model depends primarily on the substrates, measurement conditions, and level of functionality your workflow requires. eXact 2 Basic is an entry-level option for commercial printers that need simple, reliable color control and essential measurement capabilities for everyday print production. eXact 2 Standard is designed for paper, corrugated, and carton board, while eXact 2 Xp supports film, plastic, foil with white opaque, and other polarized substrates. eXact 2 Plus provides additional flexibility for measuring across a wider range of print and packaging substrates.
Depending on the model and configuration, eXact 2 can connect with color standards, quality control, formulation, and device optimization solutions such as NetProfiler™, PantoneLIVE™, ColorCert®, MeasureColor, and Autura Ink. Confirm the required integration when selecting an eXact 2 model.
eXact 2 uses a high-resolution camera and video targeting to show the intended measurement area on the device display. This helps operators position the instrument accurately and avoid measuring the wrong location or a visible print defect.
