Design and Print Like a Pro: 14 Best DTG Printers for High-Quality Custom T-Shirts

Hey there, we’ve put together an exciting roundup of the latest and greatest dtg printers out there. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes into the world of digital textile printing, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to explore some fantastic options that will help you take your print game to the next level!

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Reviews

Superior Direct-to-Film DTG Printer for High-Quality Prints

The Direct-to-Film 24H2 transfer printer is a game-changer in the fast fashion market, offering machine output that’s up to five times faster than other DTG machines, even at a lower cost. With the incredible Raw Machine Output (RMO), you can produce stunning full-color prints in around ten seconds on virtually any garment and placement, enduring through dozens of wash cycles. This advanced technology uses PET transfer film, providing translucent designs for improved transfer characteristics, even on cotton and polyester fibers. The DTF-24H2 is versatile, working with an extensive range of garments and fabrics from T-shirts to sports uniforms.

RICOH Ri 1000X - High-Performance DTG Printer

Discover the power of direct-to-garment printing with the new Ricoh Ri 1000X printer. This high-performance machine offers vibrant, high-resolution prints at a fraction of the cost of traditional methods. Elevate your garment printing game and experience the convenience and efficiency of the Ri 1000X.

A3 DTF DTG Printer for T-Shirt Clothes and Bags Design

Say hello to the L805 - a versatile and easy-to-use DTF DTG Printer perfect for t-shirt and textile printing. Its multifunctional design, compact size, and simple control make it a breeze to use, even for beginners. Not only does it print beautifully on fabrics like t-shirts, but it also supports other materials such as dtf film and gold film. With its CISS ink supply system, vacuum platform for stable printing, and white ink stirring system, the L805 is a must-have for anyone looking to create professional-quality graphics on textiles.

Epson SureColor F1070 Hybrid DTG & DTF Printer Bundle

Epson’s SureColor F1070 sets a new standard for compact, versatile DTG (direct-to-garment) and DTF (direct-to-film) printing. With exceptional image quality, easy operation, and flexible performance, this little powerhouse is perfect for both small shops and home offices. It’s equipped with a PrecisionCore Micro TFP printhead and next-generation UltraChrome DG2 Ink for brilliant colors and stunning detail. The cartridge-free ink pack system reduces replacements, while the automatic garment height adjustment and robust Epson Garment Creator 2 software make maintenance a breeze. The F1070’s 28” design is perfect for confined spaces, making it an ideal option for those producing up to 200 t-shirt prints per month. With WiFi connectivity, a touchscreen interface, and a low maintenance design, creativity meets quality in the Epson SureColor F1070.

Ricoh RI 1000X DTG/DTF Printer with Enhanced Performance and Superior Quality Features

The Ricoh Ri 1000X is a top-tier DTG + DTF printer, designed for both beginners and pros. With its high image quality, accurate colors, and automated setup and maintenance, it outperforms its competitors. This printer boasts a 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution and features a 7” touchscreen display for easy use. The printer also includes a set of bonuses such as maintenance supplies, RIP software, and training materials.

Ricoh RI 1000X: Advanced Direct to Garment Printer with RIP Software, Training, and Ink Cartridges

Introducing the Ricoh Ri 1000X, the ultimate Direct-to-Garment printer perfect for both beginners and professionals. Experience increased productivity and color brightness with minimal ink consumption. This top-tier DTG printer is an award-winning choice, boasting a user-friendly interface, and automated maintenance. The Ri 1000X package includes everything you need, plus bonus items, such as a sprayer, RIP software, and training. With higher performance and great value, the Ricoh Ri 1000X is a must-have for your print shop or business.

Ricoh Ri2000 Commercial DTG Printer

The Ricoh Ri2000, a powerful commercial garment printer, is revolutionizing DTG printing by delivering unparalleled speed and sharp, vivid graphics. No need to compromise on quality or speed, this next-generation machine will elevate your projects to new heights.

Ricoh RI 1000: Award-Winning, High-Performance Direct-to-Garment Printer

Unlock the power of the Ricoh RI 1000, setting a new standard in commercial garment printing. This award-winning, top-of-the-line printer delivers insanely fast print speeds, industrial reliability, and stunningly crisp, high-resolution images. Its intuitive design, smart maintenance features, and quick platens make it the ultimate choice for new businesses and seasoned professionals alike. Say hello to your next industry game-changer.

Portable Award-Winning Entry-Level DTG Printer for Light-Colored Garments

The Ricoh Ri 100 direct-to-garment printer offers ease of use and quick setup, perfect for light garment printing. With a CES 2018 Innovation Award and a low entry cost, this highly portable printer is a great fit for various settings like events, retail environments, and home studios. Though it’s CMYK-only, you can explore the RICOH Ri 1000 and Ri 6000 for dark garment printers with white-ink capability.

Epson Direct-to-Garment Craft Printer

Experience the ease and efficiency of the Epson SureColor F2100 direct-to-garment printer, designed exclusively for printing directly onto fabric. With a large 16-inch by 20-inch imaging area, the printer offers a maximum resolution of 1140 x 720 dpi, allowing you to print high-quality designs in both color and white ink. The Epson UltraChrome DG ink and Micro Piezo TFP technology ensure vibrant, long-lasting prints. This powerful all-in-one machine caters to both DTG and DTF printing, providing versatility for small shops. The intuitive workflow, easy setup, and reduced maintenance time make the F2100 a reliable and cost-effective choice for your printing needs.

RICOH RI 2000 Direct to Garment Craft Printer

The Ricoh Ri 2000, aptly named a “craft printer, ” revolutionizes your direct-to-garment printing experience. Not only is it the epitome of industrial reliability, but also showcases impressive, award-winning print speeds. This amazing device comes in a bundle, offering everything you need from a business in a box.

A3 Automatic T-Shirt Printer for DTG & DTF Printing

Experience impressive and versatile printing capabilities with this multifunction DTF & DTG Printer. Suitable for a wide range of fabrics and materials, this printer eliminates pretreatment steps for DTG color clothes and offers automatic timing and intermittent stirring. Additionally, this printer boasts a small size and reduced failure rate, making it a convenient and efficient choice for your printing needs.

12” Wide DTF Printer for XL Fabrics

Upgrade your garment printing game with the Prestige XL2 DTF Roll Transfer Printer. This top-notch printer boasts dual printheads, leading to premium print quality and a smaller size compared to similar performers. Say hello to speed and efficiency with a print speed of up to 12 meters an hour, while the compact size makes it ideal for mid-sized businesses or ones ready to level up from smaller pipelines. Dual Epson i3200 print heads ensure head strikes are a thing of the past, and the maximum print width accommodates a 24” roll media. Bear in mind, inks and cleaning supplies are sold separately, and shipping might take up to 1-2 weeks.

Ricoh RI 4000 DTF Direct to Garment Printer - DTF Ink and Accessories

Experience enhanced creativity and productivity with the effortless Ricoh Ri 4000 Direct-to-Garment Printer. This robust machine excels in printing on a myriad of fabrics, eliminating the necessity for time-consuming manual pretreatment and streamlining your operations. Suitable for businesses and print enthusiasts alike, this cutting-edge printer offers a plethora of beneficial add-ons and advanced features, making it the outstanding choice for your DTG/DTF printing requirements.

Buyer’s Guide

Direct-to-garment (DTG) printers are becoming increasingly popular for those who want to print custom designs directly onto shirts, hats, and other fabric items. DTG printing produces high-quality results and is popular for its versatility in printing designs, logos, and text on a wide range of fabrics. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll discuss important features, considerations, and general advice about DTG printers to help you make an informed purchase.

Important Features to Consider

When shopping for a DTG printer, consider the following features to ensure you get the best fit for your needs:

1. Printing Technology: Choose between water-based or pigment-based inks. Water-based inks provide soft and breathable prints, while pigment-based inks are more resistant to fading. 2. Color Capacity: Look for a machine with a high color capacity for vibrant and accurate prints. 3. Print Speed: Consider the print speed to determine how quickly you can produce custom items for your customers or personal use. 4. Resolution: Ensure the printer has a high enough resolution for crisp and detailed designs.

Considerations for Different User Types

Different users may have different considerations when purchasing a DTG printer. For example, hobbyists and small businesses may have different requirements than professional graphic designers or large production facilities. Consider your specific needs and goals before making a purchase to ensure you choose the right DTG printer for your situation.

Advice for First-Time Buyers

If you’re a first-time buyer, consider the following advice to make the most informed purchase:

1. Research: Spend time researching different DTG printer models, reading reviews, and gathering information about the technology and its applications. 2. Trial Period: Look for an option with a trial period, if possible. This will allow you to test the printer and determine if it meets your needs. 3. Training and Support: Ensure the DTG printer comes with comprehensive training and ongoing support to help you get the most out of the machine and its features.

Direct-to-garment printers offer an excellent way to produce custom designs directly on fabric items. When shopping for a DTG printer, consider important features such as printing technology, color capacity, print speed, and resolution. Different user types may have different considerations, and first-time buyers should research, trial period options, and seek comprehensive training and support.

FAQ

What is a dtg printer?

A dtg printer, or direct-to-garment printer, is a specialized type of printer that allows for the printing of full-color images directly onto fabric. This technology has become increasingly popular due to its ability to create high-quality prints with a professional finish, and its versatility when it comes to the type of fabric it can print on.

Unlike traditional screen-printing methods, dtg printers use inkjet technology to transfer ink directly to the fabric, eliminating the need for screens, chemicals, and a separate production process. As a result, dtg printing offers more flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and a faster turnaround time for garment production.

What are some advantages of using a dtg printer?

Using a dtg printer offers several advantages over traditional screen-printing methods. These include the ability to print full-color images in high resolution, with a professional finish that is vibrant and true to the original design. This is particularly important when it comes to custom clothing, where the quality of the print plays a major role in the overall appearance of the garment.

Another advantage of dtg printing is its versatility. With a range of substrates available, dtg printers can handle a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and even some blended fabrics. This allows for the creation of custom garments for various applications, such as promotional clothing, sports apparel, and even fashion designs.

What are some common issues with dtg printing?

One of the main challenges of using a dtg printer is the need for consistent and accurate color matching. Since each printer and brand of ink may produce slightly different colors, it can be difficult to obtain an accurate match across different printers and even within the same printer over time. This can result in inconsistent colors, which may affect the overall quality of the printed design.

Another issue with dtg printers is the potential for ink bleeding or smudging on certain fabrics, especially lighter-colored fabrics or those with a high percentage of synthetic fibers. This can be avoided by selecting the appropriate ink and fabric combination for the specific dtg printer being used, but it is still a potential issue to be aware of.

What is the difference between a dtg printer and a screen printer?

There are several key differences between a dtg printer and a screen printer. First and foremost, the production process for each is different. Screen printing involves the use of a screen to transfer ink to the fabric, while dtg printing uses inkjet technology to print directly onto the fabric. This results in a faster production time and a more cost-effective process for dtg printing.

Another difference between the two types of printers is the type of image quality that can be achieved. While both dtg and screen printing can produce high-quality images, dtg printing is typically better suited for full-color images with a high level of detail, as it can provide a more accurate and vibrant representation of the original design. Screen printing, on the other hand, tends to produce simpler designs with more limited color options.

What types of fabrics can be used with a dtg printer?

A dtg printer can handle a wide range of fabric types, including cotton, polyester, and even some blended fabrics. This versatility allows for the production of custom garments for various applications, such as promotional clothing, sports apparel, and even fashion designs. However, it is essential to choose the appropriate ink and fabric combination for the specific dtg printer being used, as different inks and fabrics may react differently when subjected to the heat and chemical processes involved in the printing process.

It is also worth mentioning that certain fabrics, such as light-colored or synthetic fabrics, may be more prone to ink bleeding or smudging during the printing process. As a result, selecting the appropriate fabric for the specific ink being used is crucial to ensuring a high-quality printed garment.

How do I choose the right dtg printer for my needs?

When selecting a dtg printer, there are several factors to consider, such as the size and capacity of the printer, the type and quality of ink it supports, and the type of fabric it can handle. Additionally, it is essential to consider the level of control and customization available with the printer, as this can impact the overall quality and flexibility of the custom garments produced.

It is also important to consider the overall cost of ownership for the dtg printer, including factors such as maintenance, ink replacement, and consumable costs. This will help ensure that the printer is a good fit for your specific needs and budget. Finally, consulting with a dtg printing expert or visiting a dtg printing resource center can provide valuable insights and guidance when selecting the right printer for your needs.

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