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.
What is DTG Printing?
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
Key Considerations for Small Businesses
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.
Specs
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
Features
Pros
Cons
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.
Specs
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
Features
Pros
Cons
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!
Specs
Print Technology: Direct-to-Garment (DTG)
Print Resolution: Up to 1200 dpi x 1200 dpi
Features
Pros
Cons
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.
Specs
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
Features
Pros
Cons
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.
Specs
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.
Features
Pros
Cons
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)
- Don’t just look at the printer price. Factor in:
- 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.
