Let’s be honest, finding the right equipment for your small business can be a headache. There are endless options, technical jargon to decipher, and the pressure to invest wisely. Direct-to-garment (DTG) printers offer incredible potential for custom apparel and on-demand production, but the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming.
Don’t worry – we’re here to help!
This guide aims to cut through the noise and provide all the information you need to find the perfect DTG printer for your small business. We’ll break down the key factors, compare top models, and help you make a confident decision that aligns with your specific needs and budget.
In a nutshell, Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing is like having a super-precise inkjet printer for your t-shirts, tote bags, and other fabric items. Instead of screens and layers of ink like traditional screen printing, it sprays water-based inks directly onto the garment, creating detailed, full-color designs.
Benefits over Screen Printing
- Ideal for Small Runs: Print one custom shirt or a hundred – DTG doesn’t have the setup costs of screen printing, making it perfect for on-demand production.
- Complex Designs Shine: DTG printers handle intricate designs with gradients, photos, and a huge range of colors with ease.
- No Setup Fees: Make design changes on the fly without the cost and hassle associated with re-creating screens.
Key Considerations for Small Businesses
- Print Quality (Resolution): Measured in DPI (dots per inch), higher DPI means sharper images. Balance quality with your design needs.
- Speed (Production Volume): How many items do you need to print per hour/day? Consider both print speed and garment loading time.
- Cost: It’s not just the printer price! Factor in ink costs per print, long-term maintenance, and any additional equipment you’ll need.
- Ease of Use: Some DTG printers are very beginner-friendly, others require more technical know-how.
- Size and Footprint: Will this fit in your workspace? DTG printers range from compact desktop models to larger production machines.
Top DTG Printer Picks for Small Businesses
Let’s dive deeper into some top-performing DTG printers catering to various budgets and production needs:
1. Best Overall: Epson F2270 DTG & DTF Combo Printer
The Epson SureColor F2700 redefines versatility for garment and textile printing. This hybrid DTG/DTF printer empowers businesses to expand beyond standard apparel. PrecisionCore MicroTFP print technology and UltraChrome DG2 inks deliver remarkable quality, speed, and vibrant colors. Expect a streamlined workflow, reduced downtime, and the renowned support that Epson provides.
Print Resolution: 1,200 x 1,200 dpi
Max Print Area: 16″ x 20″
Ink Technology: UltraChrome DG2
Maintenance: Approx. 10 minutes per week
Compatibility: Mac & PC
- Hybrid DTG/DTF Functionality: Print directly on garments or create transfers for diverse materials.
- PrecisionCore MicroTFP Printhead: High-quality output and impressive speeds.
- Bulk Ink System: Reduces ink replacement frequency and streamlines workflow.
- Automatic Garment Thickness Adjustment: Simplifies setup and improves consistency.
- Epson Garment Creator 2 Software: Powerful, intuitive design and print management tools.
- Intuitive Design: Touchscreen interface, quick-load platen, user-friendly features.
- Epson Cloud Solution PORT: Production monitoring capabilities for improved workflow.
- Unmatched versatility opens up new product possibilities.
- Delivers excellent image quality and production speed.
- Designed for ease of use, saving time and potential frustration.
- User-friendly maintenance helps maximize printer uptime.
- Backed by Epson’s support and reputation.
- Investment cost is higher than single-function DTG printers.
- There may be a learning curve for those unfamiliar with DTF printing.
Verdict
The Epson SureColor F2700 is an excellent choice for businesses that want the best in print quality, the flexibility to expand their product offerings, and the reliability to handle growing demand. While the price tag may be higher, the potential for long-term value and business growth makes it a worthwhile investment.
2. Best Budget: Epson Surecolor F1070 Hybrid DTG & DTF Printer
Introducing the Epson SureColor F1070 – a powerful DTG/DTF hybrid printer in a remarkably space-saving design. Ideal for smaller businesses, this printer delivers the same high-quality output as its larger counterparts, empowers you to expand your product offerings, and simplifies your printing workflow.
Print Resolution: Up to 2400 dpi
Max Print Area: 10″ x 12″
Ink Technology: UltraChrome DG2
Footprint: 35″W x 28″D x 17″H
Compatibility: Windows & Mac
- Hybrid DTG/DTF Functionality: Flexibility to print directly on garments or create transfers for diverse materials.
- PrecisionCore MicroTFP Printhead: Produces sharp details and vibrant colors.
- Cartridge-free Ink System: Less frequent ink changes and streamlined operation.
- Automatic Garment Height Adjustment: Simplifies setup and minimizes errors.
- Epson Garment Creator 2 Software: Powerful, intuitive design and print management.
- Compact Design: Ideal for smaller workshops, home offices, and tight spaces.
- WiFi Connectivity: Print conveniently without additional cables.
- Epson Cloud Solution PORT: Production monitoring capabilities.
- Combines excellent print quality with a space-conscious design.
- Expand product offerings beyond just garments with DTF capability.
- User-friendly features, simplifying your workflow.
- Ideal for businesses printing 100-200 garments per month.
- Backed by Epson’s support and reputation.
- Smaller print area compared to full-size DTG printers.
- May not be ideal for extremely high-volume production.
Verdict
The Epson SureColor F1070 is a fantastic solution for small businesses and startups requiring both DTG and DTF capabilities without sacrificing valuable workspace.
If you need a compact, versatile printer that delivers impressive results, the F1070 is a reliable choice.
3. Roland VersaSTUDIO BT-12 DTG Printer
Get started in the exciting world of custom apparel with the Roland VersaSTUDIO BT-12 Direct-to-Garment Printer Bundle. This complete package includes everything you need to print vibrant designs directly onto t-shirts, tote bags, and more – all with the ease of using an office printer!
Print Technology: Direct-to-Garment (DTG)
Print Resolution: Up to 1200 dpi x 1200 dpi
- User-Friendly: Designed for beginners and experienced users alike.
- High-Quality Prints: Sharp details and vibrant colors on a variety of cotton-based items.
- Versatile: Print on t-shirts, jerseys, accessories, home goods, and more.
- Complete Bundle: No need to purchase additional equipment to get started.
- Safe & Clean: Perfect for home or office environments.
- Affordable entry point into custom garment printing.
- Easy to learn and operate, minimizing setup time.
- Opens up new creative and business opportunities.
- Compact and convenient for smaller spaces.
- Best suited for garments with at least 50% cotton content.
- May not be ideal for extremely high-volume production.
Verdict
The Roland VersaSTUDIO BT-12 bundle is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to explore custom garment printing without a steep learning curve.
Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, an established business looking to expand, or a crafter, this DTG printer unlocks a world of personalized products.
4. Epson F2100 DTG & DTF Combo Printer
The Epson SureColor F2100 is a production-focused DTG and DTF printer, designed to handle garment printing at scale. With its PrecisionCore TFP printhead, UltraChrome DG inks, and dedicated DTG/DTF design, expect faster print speeds, outstanding image quality, and the reliability to meet tight deadlines.
Print Resolution: Up to 1,440 x 720 dpi
Max Print Area: 16″ x 20″
Ink Technology: Epson UltraChrome DG
Maintenance: Approx. 10 minutes per week
Compatibility: Mac & PC
- High-Speed DTG & DTF: Engineered for faster production with modes optimized for both processes.
- Simultaneous White & Color Pass: Exclusive Highlight White Ink Mode improves speed and vibrancy.
- PrecisionCore TFP Printhead: Delivers sharp details, smooth gradients, and consistent results.
- Durable UltraChrome DG Inks: Vibrant colors, wash-resistant, with cost-effective color/white pricing.
- Quick-Load Platen: Reduces setup time, streamlining workflow for higher output.
- Epson Garment Creator Software: Powerful yet intuitive, includes cost estimation and production tools.
- Self-Cleaning System: Minimizes manual maintenance, keeping your printer running smoothly.
- Significantly faster than previous models – ideal for high-volume production.
- Delivers top-notch image quality for both DTG and DTF printing.
- Features designed to reduce downtime and keep your workflow efficient.
- Backed by Epson’s renowned support and warranty.
- Investment cost is higher than entry-level DTG printers.
- May still require some technical knowledge for optimal use.
Verdict
The Epson SureColor F2100 is the right choice for established businesses that need the speed and output capacity to handle large garment orders confidently.
It’s also a great investment for expanding businesses wanting a printer that delivers superior print quality and streamlined production.
5. Best Industrial: Roland XT-640S-DTG Multi-Station Printer
The Roland Texart XT-640S-DTG Multi-Station Direct-to-Garment printer is a production powerhouse that revolutionizes short-run and on-demand garment printing. Its unique multi-station design maximizes output and streamlines workflow, while its versatile flatbed capabilities open up exciting opportunities for printing on diverse products.
Print Technology: Direct-to-Garment with multi-station and flatbed functionality.
Print Area: Varies based on platens used.
Ink Technology: INKU inks (CMYK + High-density White)
Additional Features: Pre-defined print environments, control tower, customizable platen system.
- Multi-Station Design: Load garments while others print, minimizing downtime and boosting output.
- Sliding Baseplate and Platen Flatbed: Seamlessly switch between standard t-shirt printing and printing on unique, oversized items.
- Intuitive Workflow: Preset modes, barcode generation, and easy controls streamline production for diverse orders.
- Expandable Platen System: Customize your setup to match your product mix (platens sold separately).
- 8-inch Height Clearance: Accommodates bulky items like blankets or jackets.
- INKU Inks: Produce vibrant graphics with a soft, natural feel.
- Ideal for both high-volume garment printing and diverse, one-off custom items.
- Exceptional speed and efficiency for handling large orders.
- Opens up new product possibilities beyond standard apparel.
- User-friendly even for those with less DTG experience.
- Recognized with an industry award for its excellence.
- Significant investment, best suited for established businesses.
- May require some workspace adjustments to accommodate its size.
Verdict
The Roland Texart XT-640S-DTG is a game-changer for businesses serious about scaling their garment printing capabilities.
It’s ideal for screen printers seeking to expand their offerings, as well as operations that want to tackle a wide range of products and order sizes with maximum efficiency.
Making the Right Decision
Choosing the right DTG printer is a big step for your small business. To ensure you make the best investment, consider these key factors:
Prioritize Your Needs:
- Budget: DTG printers range in price. Set a realistic budget and explore financing options if needed.
- Production Volume: How many items do you expect to print daily/weekly? Choose a printer that aligns with your output needs.
- Print Quality: Do you need exceptional detail for intricate designs, or are basic graphics sufficient? Balance quality with your budget and target market.
“Try Before You Buy”
If possible, attend trade shows or request a demo of your top printer choices. Seeing the machine in action and handling printed samples gives you a much better idea than just reading specs.
Calculate True Cost
Don’t just look at the printer price. Factor in:
- Ink costs per print (these vary significantly between models).
- Long-term maintenance (replacement printheads, cleaning solutions, etc).
- Any additional equipment needed (heat press, pretreatment machine)
Support and Community
- Brand Reputation: Choose a brand known for reliability and excellent customer service. This is crucial when you need help.
- Online Resources: Look for active user forums, tutorials, and communities dedicated to your chosen printer. These are invaluable resources for troubleshooting and inspiration.
Don’t rush your decision! Take the time to research, ask questions, and compare different printers. The right choice will empower your small business to create amazing custom products and succeed in the competitive garment printing market.
