5+ Best DTG Printer For Small Business | Unrivalled Guide 2024

If you want to produce impressive custom garments as quickly as possible without compromising quality, it is important to choose the right  DTG printer for your business.

However, not everyone knows about DTG printers, and a great many business owners end up choosing inferior products or printers that do not meet their needs. So how can you choose the best DTG printer for your small business?
The Web-to-Print revolution has revolutionized today’s printing practices with the introduction of DTG printers, which have transformed the printing process by increasing efficiency.

Advances in technology and the need for more detailed and intricate prints on t-shirts have caused the printing industry to move away from traditional screen printing and embroidery to more digital direct-to-garment printing.

While screen printing and embroidery continue to be popular, the DTG printing industry is seeing higher growth in sales of DTG printers, which are capable of printing high-quality artwork with quick turnaround times.

Here we take a look at seven of the most popular DTG printers on the market and examine the pros and cons of each. Ultimately, it will be a matter of personal preference. However, it is important to know what you can expect from each option.

Also read: Best Printer For Book Printing

What is DTG printing?

DTG stands for Direct to Garments, a state-of-the-art technology that guarantees superior performance and high-quality production. Although the technology has made great advances, it is only being used by small and medium-sized businesses.

Direct to Garment digital printing is the opposite of what has been done with labour-intensive methods. These printers integrate inkjet printing technology with multiple colour reproduction programs and long-lasting print performance.
DTG printers, as the name implies, print designs directly on garments. With these printers, beautiful customized garments can be created with fast, high-quality prints. This “web-to-print” innovation makes it super easy to create intricate prints on t-shirts because the material does not expand.

Many companies use printers to print on fabric, but they are not DTG printers. Many companies use highly accurate inkjet printers or home dye-sublimation printers, which can be costly and time consuming. However, people who know about DTG printers do not know enough about DTG printers. Therefore, they buy printers that do not meet their needs.

With DTG printers, you can delegate highly technical tasks to technology. It is easy to find the best DTG printer for your small or medium-sized business, with high or low maintenance costs depending on the model. By choosing a Direct to Garment (DTG) printer that guarantees excellent printing accuracy, you can enhance your company’s reputation.

Also read: Best Printers For College Students

Best DTG Printer For Small Business | Comparison Table 2024

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Best DTG Printer For Small Business | 2024 Products Overview

1. PUNEHOD L1800 DTF Transfer Printer

Product Overview:

Introduction: Introducing the newly upgraded Roll feeder DTF printer, a cutting-edge solution designed to revolutionize your printing experience. Say goodbye to paper jams and hello to enhanced efficiency and speed. With its White Ink Management System, this printer ensures minimal clogs, extending the life of your print head. Dive into the future of printing technology with this remarkable device.

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Specifications: This A3 L1800 printer comes equipped with a roll feeder and auto heat station, offering convenience and reliability. It supports Windows computer systems, ensuring compatibility for seamless integration into your workflow. The package includes everything you need to get started, from ink bottles to PET film, setting you up for success from day one.

Setup and Installation: Setting up your DTF printer is a breeze, thanks to its user-friendly design and comprehensive instructions. Within minutes, you’ll be ready to unleash its full potential, with minimal hassle or confusion. Experience hassle-free installation and get straight to printing with ease.

Print Quality: Experience unparalleled print quality with vibrant colors and sharp details. Whether you’re producing posters, decals, or garments, this printer delivers professional-grade results every time. Enjoy stunning clarity and accuracy, elevating your prints to new heights of excellence.

Speed and Efficiency: With its advanced technology and streamlined workflow, this printer offers impressive speed and efficiency. Say goodbye to long wait times and hello to rapid turnaround times. Boost productivity and meet tight deadlines without sacrificing quality or precision.

Software and Interface: Navigating the software and interface is intuitive and user-friendly, even for beginners. With its seamless integration and robust features, you’ll have everything you need to unleash your creativity. Take control of your printing process and unlock endless possibilities with ease.

Durability and Maintenance: Built to last, this printer is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. From its sturdy construction to its reliable components, you can trust that it will deliver consistent performance for years to come. Plus, with simple maintenance procedures, keeping your printer in top condition is a breeze.

User Experience: Overall, the user experience with this DTF printer is unmatched. From setup to printing to maintenance, every aspect is designed with the user in mind. Enjoy hassle-free operation, exceptional print quality, and reliable performance, making it a must-have addition to any printing arsenal.

Also read: Best Printers For Art Prints

2. hrm Automatic A3

Product Overview:

Introduction: Are you looking to add a personal touch to your clothing or accessories? Look no further! Introducing our hrm Automatic A3 printer, designed to bring your creative visions to life with ease and precision.

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Specifications: Our garment printer is equipped with advanced features to ensure top-notch performance. It automatically adjusts the tray height and position, making printing a breeze. It can effortlessly print on various cotton materials such as T-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, pants, jeans, socks, bags, and more. With a printing size of 329x500mm and a printing distance of 1mm to 3mm, you can achieve optimal results every time. Plus, with a speedy A4 size photo printing mode, you can enjoy your creations in no time.

Setup and Installation: Setting up our garment printer is a cinch. With straightforward instructions, you'll have it up and running in no time. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, you'll appreciate the user-friendly setup process.

Print Quality: Experience unparalleled print quality with our garment printer. Say goodbye to smudges and imperfections. Our printer delivers crisp, vibrant prints that will make your designs pop.

Speed and Efficiency: Time is precious, and our garment printer respects that. With efficient printing capabilities, you can tackle projects of any size without compromising on speed. Enjoy quick turnaround times without sacrificing quality.

Software and Interface: Navigate with ease through our intuitive software and interface. Whether you're a tech-savvy individual or just starting, you'll find our system user-friendly and accessible. Dive into your creative process without any technical hurdles.

Durability and Maintenance: Invest in a printer that stands the test of time. Our garment printer is built to last, ensuring longevity and reliability. Plus, with simple maintenance routines, keeping your printer in top condition is a breeze.

User Experience: At the heart of our garment printer is the user experience. We understand the importance of seamless operation and customer satisfaction. From setup to printing, we prioritize user-friendliness, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience every step of the way. Have questions or need assistance? Our dedicated support team is here to help, providing prompt and knowledgeable assistance whenever you need it. Experience the ultimate in convenience and creativity with our garment printer.

3. hrm A4 DTG T-Shirts Printer

Product Overview:

Introduction:
Introducing the hrm A4 DTG, a versatile printing solution designed to meet your creative needs. With its advanced features and user-friendly design, this printer promises to elevate your printing experience to new heights.

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Specifications:
This machine boasts impressive specifications, including the ability to connect to your computer seamlessly. Compatible with Windows systems, it also offers the option to add Windows 10 for Mac users, providing double system functionality. With a printing speed of just 5 minutes for an A4 size image and the capacity to print 90 full A4 size images with just 100ml of ink, it offers both efficiency and economy. Plus, with the included AcroRip9.0 software, your prints will be waterproof and scratch-resistant, ensuring longevity and durability.

Setup and Installation:
Setting up the hrm A4 DTG is a breeze. With straightforward installation instructions, you'll have your printer up and running in no time. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, you'll appreciate the simplicity of the setup process.

Print Quality:
Expect nothing but exceptional print quality with the hrm A4 DTG. Each image is rendered with precision and clarity, ensuring that your prints always look their best. Whether you're printing photos, documents, or graphics, you can trust that the results will be professional-grade every time.

Speed and Efficiency:
With its rapid printing speed and efficient ink usage, the hrm A4 DTG is designed to streamline your printing workflow. Say goodbye to long wait times and wasted ink – this printer gets the job done quickly and effectively, allowing you to focus on what matters most.

Software and Interface:
The included AcroRip9.0 software makes printing a breeze. With its intuitive interface and robust features, you'll have everything you need to create stunning prints with ease. Whether you're adjusting settings, editing images, or managing print jobs, you'll appreciate the simplicity and power of this software.

Durability and Maintenance:
Built to last, the hrm A4 DTG is a durable and reliable printing solution. Its sturdy construction ensures years of trouble-free operation, while its low-maintenance design makes upkeep a breeze. Say goodbye to costly repairs and frequent maintenance – this printer is designed to keep up with your demanding workload.

User Experience:
From setup to printing to maintenance, the hrm A4 DTG delivers an exceptional user experience every step of the way. Whether you're a professional photographer, a small business owner, or a hobbyist, you'll appreciate the convenience, performance, and reliability of this top-of-the-line printer. Say hello to effortless printing and stunning results with the hrm A4 DTG.

4. cxb A4 DTG Printer

Product Overview:

Introduction

Discover a revolution in garment printing with the cxb A4 DTG Printer. Unleash your creativity and personalize your wardrobe like never before. With its cutting-edge features and user-friendly design, this printer opens up endless possibilities for customizing apparel.

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Specifications

1. Compatibility: Exclusively compatible with Windows systems and requires a heat press for operation.
2. Printable Materials: Ideal for printing on thin and flat garments such as t-shirts, socks, and onesies, with a maximum print size of 210 x 300mm.
3. Material Compatibility: Prints directly onto materials with a cotton content exceeding 50%.
4. Ink Requirement: Utilizes DuPont textile ink specifically formulated for Epson L805 printers to prevent damage.
5. Technical Support: Enjoy exceptional technical assistance from our team for seamless troubleshooting.

Setup and Installation

Setting up the cxb A4 DTG Printer is a breeze. Follow our straightforward installation guide, and you'll be ready to start printing in no time. With minimal assembly required, you can focus on bringing your designs to life without hassle.

Print Quality

Experience unparalleled print quality with vibrant colors and crisp details. Whether you're printing intricate designs or bold graphics, this printer ensures every garment reflects your artistic vision with stunning clarity.

Speed and Efficiency

Say goodbye to long wait times. The cxb A4 DTG Printer delivers swift printing speeds without compromising on quality. Boost your productivity and meet deadlines with ease, making it perfect for both personal and professional use.

Software and Interface

Navigate effortlessly through our intuitive software interface. Easily customize designs, adjust settings, and preview prints with just a few clicks. Seamlessly integrate the printer into your workflow for seamless operation.

Durability and Maintenance

Built to last, the cxb A4 DTG Printer boasts durability that withstands daily use. With proper maintenance and care, this printer guarantees consistent performance, ensuring your creations stand the test of time.

User Experience

Elevate your printing experience with the cxb A4 DTG Printer. From its user-friendly interface to exceptional print quality, every aspect is designed to enhance your creative journey. Enjoy peace of mind knowing that our dedicated support team is always ready to assist you every step of the way. Unlock limitless possibilities and transform ordinary garments into extraordinary works of art with the cxb A4 DTG Printer.

Also read: Best Printer For Home Use With Cheap Ink

5. PUNEHOD DTF L1800

Product Overview:

Introduction

Introducing the ultimate solution for printing custom T-shirts with unparalleled speed and quality – the DTF printer. Say goodbye to pre-processing clothing and hello to direct printing on PET film, resulting in vibrant designs that transfer seamlessly onto your garments. In this review, we dive deep into the features and performance of this game-changing printer.

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Specifications

This DTF printer offers plateless printing directly from a wide range of image formats, including TIFF, JPEG, JPG, BMP, and PSD. Compatible with Windows computer systems, it provides flexibility and ease of use. The package includes everything you need to get started, from the A3 modified printer to six bottles of inks in CMYK and white color, along with 100 sheets of PET film.

Setup and Installation

While the technology might be new to some, fear not! With the purchase of this printer, you'll receive expert guidance from an engineer who will remotely assist you in the installation process. Simply provide your Skype details after placing the order, and you'll be on your way to seamless setup.

Print Quality

Experience unparalleled print quality as your designs come to life on your T-shirts. The direct transfer process ensures vibrant colors and crisp details, rivaling traditional printing methods.

Speed and Efficiency

Thanks to its innovative technology, this DTF printer boasts impressive speed and efficiency. Skip the pre-processing step and streamline your workflow for faster turnaround times without sacrificing quality.

Software and Interface

Navigating the software and interface of this printer is a breeze, making it accessible even for those new to the world of DTF printing. Enjoy a user-friendly experience as you bring your creative visions to life.

Durability and Maintenance

Built to last, this printer is designed for durability and requires minimal maintenance. Spend less time on upkeep and more time on creating stunning designs for your customers.

Buying Guide

Garment printing for small projects requires an eye for finding the best DTG printer for your small business. The relatively low initial cost of this printer allows you to find a DTG printer within your budget as well as one with a high initial cost.

However, that brilliance is not golden. Don't chase the lowest price to save money and don't be tempted by expensive printers in the name of high performance. To make this difficult process easier, we offer the ultimate guide.

Below are some important factors to consider when looking for the best direct-to-garment printer. Take a look.

Also read: Best Printers for Occasional Use

1.) Print Resolution

When choosing a DTG printer for high-volume or small-scale production, it is very important to look for a printer that offers exquisite resolution. Therefore, it is important to choose a production-quality printer.

The minimum dpi (dots per inch) required for high-quality DTG prints is about 1440 dpi; less than 1440 dpi will result in poor image quality and blurred images. So remember to invest your money in a printer with a resolution of 1440 dpi or higher.

2.) Printing speed

For high-volume printing, a DTG printer with a high print speed is considered advantageous because it can increase production and save a lot of time. There are printers on the market that promise high volume production in a few hours.

Despite the printing speed, there are also features that can help apparel brands increase productivity, such as single-pass printing. Therefore, be sure to spend your money on a quality printer.

Also read: Best Canon Printers For Home

3.) Ease of use

In general, using DTG printers and understanding their various functions can be complicated and tedious for novice users. However, the majority of DTG printers today are designed to be user-friendly and easy to operate so that users will have no trouble using a DTG printer.

We recommend that you look for a printer that is easy to use. Epson printers are representative of DTG printers that are not only convenient but also easy to use.

Also read: Home Printer With Lowest Ink Cost

4.) Printable area

Maximizing the efficiency of your apparel business is not just about owning a DTG printer with fast print speeds. That's right, have you heard? By choosing a printer with a much larger print area than usual, you can now produce multiple high-quality prints at once.

Depending on your budget, you can choose an industrial grade machine with the ability to print 4-5 shirts in one pass, or a classic compact model that will be available in the mid-range price range.

5.) Print Quality

One thing to keep in mind when spending money on a high-end DTG printer is print quality. We recommend that you print sample T-shirts to check the print quality; if this is not possible, you should look at customer reviews, as the majority of reviews on DTG printers are about quality and speed. Our suggestion is to install a DTG printer with high resolution quality output and colour accuracy.

6.) Type of garment

The use of DTG printers is not limited to printing regular T-shirts. Aprons, sweatshirts, and even shopping bags can now be printed with DTG printers. Just be sure to check the size and capabilities of your printer.

Many of the DTG printers on the market have extensive features that allow you to decorate T-shirts and other garments, so make sure you put your money into the right printer for your garment business.

Also read: Best Printers For Posters

7.) Total Cost of Ink

DTG is a heavy one-time investment, so you will be looking for every possible way to maximize profits and save on expenses. An important part of earning efficiency is the total cost of ink: calculating the average ink cost per T-shirt or garment can give you an idea of the money you are spending.

With this information, you can choose whether to print in black and white or colour; the more frequently you use your DTG printer, the higher your ink costs will be.

What are the benefits of Direct to Garment printing?

DTG printers are considered the ideal short-run production equipment for printing directly on fabric. Their ease of use compared to competing methods is one of the main reasons for choosing this technology. These printers require very little preparation before setting up the garment.

These printers are capable of printing small batches, from a single piece of cloth to several pieces of cloth, and we invite you to read on to learn more about the wonderful benefits of DTG printing.

1.) Ease of use

Unlike the labour-intensive jobs that only a skilled person can do, DTG printing is super easy. The biggest reason these printers are so attractive to small businesses is that anyone can use them. This means you don't have to rely on anyone else.

They can be used just like regular printers in the home or office, so once you know how to use them, you can easily get the job done with a DTG printer.

2.) They are relatively inexpensive

It is also worth noting that these printers come at an affordable price point with low running costs: since the DTG printer is connected to the PC before printing, there is no need to create a separate screen to reproduce the design. This minimizes the overall print setup. Since no separate screens are needed, printing can be done at very low production costs.

3.) Colour printing

There is nothing better than having a printer that can print all colours at once. Yes, DTG can do this. Even the most complex printed material can be printed in a variety of colours in a single operation. However, on darker coloured fabrics, single pass printing may not work well and may require ironing to get very clear and sharp saturation.

4.) High flexibility

The DTG print industry is expanding into a variety of industries, not just garment printing. Although popular for fabric printing, it can be used in other areas as well. As a result, a market that can attract a large audience is being developed. From fancy dress to everyday wear, DTG printers have a wide range of capabilities.

5.) Can print on different fabrics

A decent DTG printer can handle all the common types of fabrics: t-shirts, shirts, polo shirts, hoodies, pants, and other cotton garments can all be printed on this printer. Additionally, designs can be printed on fabrics such as stretch leggings, baby bodysuits and bibs, sleeves, socks, underwear, silk pockets, and scarves.

6.) Fast delivery time

Every customer appreciates fast service from brands, and a competitive DTG printer is needed to meet this demand from customers. This essential piece of equipment is a great feature, especially for small businesses that print on a wide variety of garments.

As a buyer, you always want to deliver your products within 24 hours. Think like a buyer. This printer will be irreplaceable for you. This machine should not be overloaded because less than 20 is super convenient.
It is efficient at loading small batches and can process orders in a fraction of the time. Thus, the short set-up time will increase overall production with precision.

7.) Great detail

Will a print that looks good on a computer also look good on a shirt? DTG printers, with their high-definition digital printing capabilities, look brilliant on fabrics as well as screens.

These printers print high-quality graphics that do not disappoint customers. In addition, DTG printers are ideal for giving unique items to friends and family. Easily print on polyester, silk, and cotton; in addition to t-shirt printing, printing on cylinders, canvas bags, and cell phone cases is a new trend. Ideal for small businesses, DTG printers allow you to create your own fashionable collection.

8.) Sustainable Printing

Most buyers fear that their prints will crack over time. However, direct-to-garment printers ensure that this does not happen. The machine does not require an extra layer to cover the fabric and prints directly with ink, which prevents chipping of the print.

This makes the DTG printer an ideal item for commodity businesses. The ability to print custom T-shirts and other fabrics that will not crack over time and at such a low cost is a deal not to be missed at all.

DTG Printer Maintenance Tips :

01. Maintain a good printing environment

In order for the printer to function as it should, it must provide a suitable environment for T-shirts. During this time, regular attention should be paid to humidity, heat, and dust. Therefore, it is wise to keep the printer in an environment that is free from sudden temperature changes.

02. regular nozzle maintenance

Each day, before printing a T-shirt, perform a nozzle check. This will keep your prints and business at peak performance. If the nozzle is not working properly, it needs to be taken care of immediately. Also, if the obstruction is left unattended, it will become a permanent obstruction and render the printer unusable.

03. smooth ink flow

If the printer is equipped with an agitator, the agitator will continue to agitate the ink to prevent it from settling. However, if it is not, periodically and certainly shake the cartridges before the start of the day. It is wise to do this daily, even if you do not use the printer every day. It is a good idea to print a few sample T-shirts every day or every three days to avoid running out of ink.

04. keep the capping station clean at all times

The capping station is designed to create a vacuum around the nozzle plate, which feeds ink into the station. The pressure releases the nozzles and prevents the ink from drying out. Therefore, they must be cleaned with a cleaning solution such as demineralized water.

Best DTG Printer For Small Business| Video Explanation

Best DTG Printer For Small Business| Infographic

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the DTG business profitable?

DTG printing can significantly reduce the cost of your business. The average price of a custom t-shirt is $20-25, while the cost to design and produce one t-shirt with digital printing is only $1-3.

Do I need a pre-processing machine for DTG printing?

Yes! Each dark-colored garment that you intend to print with DTG requires the application of a pre-treatment solution. If your work is primarily white ink, you will need to pretend the color folder. Likewise, if the work is primarily colored ink, the white shirt will need to be treated as well.

How do I maintain my DTG printer?

Usually, the printer's noteworthy routine is to inform someone of the day's schedule. Usually, they shake out the ink left in the tank, turn on the noisy copy heads, start checking the nozzles, fill the lower tank with water, run the standard cycle, and make a few copies of whatever trash or unwanted items are around.

Can I print on hoodies with a DTG printer?

Yes, you can; DTG printers can print on thicker materials such as hoodies and pants, but it is the best idea to examine the product before purchasing to be sure!

What fabrics can be used for DTG printing?

DTG prints work best on fabrics such as cotton, combed cotton, and linen, but can also be used on lighter colored polyester.

Final Thoughts

Printing is a comfortable process only if you get the right printer. When looking for the best DTG printer for your small business, keep everything in mind. Everything from budget to type of printing needs to be known in advance.
Our honest advice is: "Don't just look at the printer's features, but determine if the printer is right for your needs. Also, think about how you can get the most out of it. Doing so will make the product selection process less stressful.

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