In the custom apparel industry, businesses should invest in the best DTG printer to ensure reliable performance. Expanding your print shop with the right DTG printer can enhance your product offerings and improve operational efficiency. Whether focusing on high-resolution prints, quick turnaround times, or versatility in garment printing, selecting the ideal equipment can meet your needs and deliver exceptional results.
Scalable Press offers an extensive print vendor network and a user-friendly dashboard for managing orders. We support your print shop with high-performance printer models. Our solutions cater to small and larger businesses, providing innovative features. With competitive pricing, no minimum orders, and fast turnaround times, we ensure your custom apparel industry needs are met efficiently.
Leveraging our insights and extensive industry research, we’ve created this guide to explore the best DTG printer available. You’ll find detailed comparisons, including its image quality, color inks, printhead precision, and more. By the end of this blog, you’ll know the best options for your print shop, understand the benefits of each model and be ready to make an informed decision about your custom apparel printing needs.
Let’s get started!
Best DTG Printers Overall
Selecting the best DTG printer involves evaluating features like print quality, user feedback, and overall performance. Thoroughly researching high-quality models with proven performance and reading reviews can help narrow down your options. Here are our top 12 reliable printers that meet these criteria:
1. Epson SureColor F2100
The Epson SureColor F2100 stands out as the best DTG printer for custom apparel printing. This printer offers high performance and exceptional image quality, making it an excellent choice for print shops. Its innovative features and precision deliver high-speed printing on light garments and various substrates, including hoodies and denim. SureColor F2100’s ability to print on a variety of substrates and complex areas like zippers, seams, and other complex areas adds significant versatility to its applications.
Notable Features of Epson SureColor F2100
- High Resolution: Epson SureColor F2100 can achieve up to 1440 dots per inch (DPI) for white ink and 720 DPI for color prints, providing sharp and clear images.
- White Ink Mode: The printer’s simultaneous printing of white and color inks enhances speed and efficiency, making it a good choice for high-volume operations.
- Quick-Load Platen: With its ability to reduce load times, this printer boosts productivity and makes it easier to handle various garment types.
- Epson Garment Creator Software: This intuitive software includes tools for layout, color management, and cost estimation, streamlining the workflow.
- PrecisionCore TFP Printhead: It ensures consistent and high-quality prints, maintaining the large gap between printhead and garment.
Businesses can trust Epson SureColor F2100 for high performance and image quality in DTG printing. Its PrecisionCore printhead and UltraChrome DG inks produce vibrant, durable prints. The quick-load platen and user-friendly software boost efficiency, while its versatility allows printing on challenging areas like zippers and seams. Despite a learning curve, its innovative features are ideal for small businesses and larger print shops.
2. Brother GTX Pro
The Brother GTX Pro offers high-speed and vibrant color printing for various garment types. Its affordable price and innovative features make it a great choice for print businesses aiming to expand their capabilities. This garment printer delivers high DPI resolution and print size options, making it suitable for light and dark garments. Additionally, the Brother GTX Pro integrates automation to reduce downtime and enhance efficiency.
Notable Features of Brother GTX Pro
- High-Speed Printing: Brother GTX Pro achieves faster printing times with minimal downtime, making it ideal for high-volume production.
- Vibrant Colors: This printer utilizes Innobella ink to deliver vibrant and durable prints, ensuring high quality on all garment types.
- Large Print Area: This printer supports a maximum print size of 16″ x 21″ and accommodates various garment sizes and types.
- Versatile Platen Options: Multiple platen sizes are available for different garments, from baby clothes to adult hoodies, enhancing versatility.
- User-Friendly Software: Equipped with RIP software, Brother GTX Pro ensures precise color management and design layout to streamline the printing process.
With these features, the Brother GTX Pro excels as a high-performance garment printer. It offers exceptional print quality and speed. Its advanced Innobella ink system produces vibrant colors on various textiles, including dark garments. The printer’s automation features, such as reduced downtime and efficient ink usage, even enhance productivity. However, users may experience a learning curve when utilizing its RIP software and pretreatment processes.
3. RICOH Ri 6000
The RICOH Ri 6000 is a versatile printer with high performance and exceptional image quality. Its innovative features and precision ensure efficient printing on light garments and various substrates, including hoodies and denim. The Ri 6000 excels in handling complex areas such as zippers and seams, proving its versatility in the custom apparel industry.
Notable Features of RICOH Ri 6000
- Six Printheads: The Ri 6000 uses six printheads, including two for white ink, delivering high-speed and high-quality prints.
- Automatic Maintenance: Automated cleaning and maintenance features reduce downtime and operational costs.
- AnaRIP Software: This software simplifies design to print, enhancing productivity and ensuring superior results.
- Adjustable Table Height: Allows printing on thicker garments like sweatshirts and hoodies, adding versatility.
- High Resolution: Provides 600 x 600 DPI for detailed and vibrant prints, maintaining quality on various garment types.
Small businesses and larger print shops benefit the most from RICOH Ri 6000 for its outstanding performance in DTG printing with superior image quality. Its six printheads and automatic maintenance features enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs. The AnaRIP software also streamlines the workflow, which helps improve overall efficiency.
4. TexJet echo2
The TexJet echo2 stands out as one of the best DTG printers available. It offers superior print quality and efficiency, making it an ideal choice for garment businesses. The printer’s user-friendly design ensures smooth operation, even for beginners. Moreover, its customizable features allow for versatile applications catering to various printing needs.
Notable Features of TexJet echo2
- Spacious Print Area: With a print size of 41×60 cm, it accommodates larger designs, expanding your product range to include towels, bedsheets, and more.
- Automatic Height Adjustment: TexJet echo2 features a sensor that sets the ideal printhead distance, ensuring precision on various substrates, such as T-shirts, hoodies, and denim.
- User-Friendly Interface: Its intuitive keypad and RIP software streamline the workflow, making it easy for operators to manage printing tasks.
- High Ink Efficiency: The printer uses sealed cartridges to reduce clogging and maintenance needs. Additionally, it offers refillable options, which can be more cost-effective for high-volume printing runs.
- Versatile Printing Options: TexJet echo2 offers CMYK + 4White for light and dark garments or 2x CMYK for prints without white ink, adapting to different printing needs.
The TexJet echo2 delivers consistent, high-quality prints with vibrant colors and sharp details, making it the best DTG printer for professional use. Its advanced features, like automatic height adjustment and quick-swap platens, streamline the printing process and overall productivity. The hybrid printing capability and refillable cartridges offer significant cost savings.
Best High-Performance Industrial DTG Printers
High-performance industrial DTG printers are essential for businesses with high-volume production needs. Discover the best choices for garment printing that ensure efficiency and quality, ideal for demanding print shops. Here, we’ve curated the top high-performance DTG printers that focus on print speed, durability, and suitability for large-scale operations.
5. MAVERICK™ Industrial High-Speed DTG Printing System
The MAVERICK™ Industrial High-Speed DTG Printing System excels in print quality and speed, making it ideal for large-scale garment printing operations. With its expanded color gamut and dual-shuttling platform, the MAVERICK™ ensures precise and vibrant prints every time. It caters to diverse printing needs, handling various shirt colors with ease.
Notable Features of MAVERICK™ Industrial High-Speed DTG Printing System
- Dual-Shuttling Platform: Independent pallet shuttling allows for efficient printing, reducing downtime and increasing productivity.
- Expanded Color Gamut: Featuring six color-plus-white printheads, the MAVERICK™ delivers vibrant and accurate color reproduction.
- Proprietary RIP Software: Offers complete control over print parameters and image costing, ensuring optimal results.
- Ink Recirculation System: Maintains peak ink performance with in-tank agitators and continuous recirculation.
- Digitally-Controlled Heat Presses: Two heat presses flatten garment fibers and introduce residual heat, speeding up the white ink flash time.
The MAVERICK™ Industrial High-Speed DTG Printing System consistently delivers high-quality prints, proving it is the best DTG printer for demanding environments. Its robust construction ensures durability, while the user-friendly interface simplifies operation. Fast print speeds and the ability to handle intricate designs make it an excellent investment for businesses aiming to produce superior prints.
6. DTG M6 Industrial DTG Printer
The DTG M6 Industrial DTG Printer sets the standard for high-volume garment printing. This best DTG printer accommodates multiple garment sizes and fashion decoration panels, making it versatile and efficient. It can cater to a large print space and high resolution for detailed and vibrant prints, catering to various printing needs. With flexibility and advanced technology, this printer provides seamless and uninterrupted printing operations.
Notable Features of DTG M6 Industrial DTG Printer
- Garment Platen System: This system prints up to 3 oversized garments, six standard sizes, and 12 small-sized garments simultaneously, optimizing efficiency.
- Large Print Space: This printer utilizes a maximum print surface of up to 1150mm x 750mm, allowing multiple t-shirt prints simultaneously.
- High Resolution: It is equipped with 180 nozzles per channel and eight inks, delivering an output resolution as high as 2880 DPI for detailed prints.
- Flexibility: Supports printing on fabrics, cut pieces, and multiple finished garments, enhancing its versatility in fashion and garment printing.
- iQ Interweave Technology: Ensures seamless ink delivery, uninterrupted printing, and minimal maintenance for consistent performance.
The DTG M6 Industrial DTG Printer delivers exceptional performance and high-quality prints. Its advanced features, like the Garment Platen System and iQ Interweave Technology, ensure efficient and reliable operations. The DTG M6 stands out as the best DTG printer, meeting the needs of businesses looking for precision, speed, and versatility in garment printing.
7. Cheetah High-Quality Industrial DTG Printer
The Cheetah High-Quality Industrial DTG Printer is the best DTG printer for businesses needing efficiency and quality. This printer delivers superior print results for various fabric types. Users experience vibrant colors and precise details. This machine’s reliability and speed result in high-volume production.
Notable Features of Cheetah High-Quality Industrial DTG Printer
- Dual Independent Platen Technology: Maximizes productivity by simultaneously allowing continuous printing and loading.
- True OnePass Technology: Completes dark garment printing in one pass, enhancing efficiency.
- Industrial Bulk Ink System: Reduces costs with a trouble-free, continuous ink supply system.
- Wurk Enabled: Integrates with Wurk for streamlined, automated production processes.
- Space-Saving Footprint: Optimizes workspace usage while delivering high output.
The Cheetah High-Quality Industrial DTG Printer excels in performance, ensuring minimal downtime and consistent, high-quality prints. Its dual platen technology significantly boosts productivity. The bulk ink system reduces expenses and supports uninterrupted operation.
8. Uninet 6000 24″ Dual Head Roll Printer
The Uninet 6000 24″ Dual Head Roll Printer is the best DTG printer for high-volume production. This printer delivers exceptional quality for large-scale operations. Users benefit from its robust features and reliability. This printer’s advanced technology makes it the best DTG printer for various applications.
Notable Features of Uninet 6000 24″ Dual Head Roll Printer
- Dual Head System: Enhances productivity by enabling faster printing speeds and high-definition prints.
- Automated Powdering and Curing Unit: Ensures continuous operation with minimal manual intervention.
- Wide Fabric Compatibility: Prints on various fabrics, including cotton, polyester, spandex, and more.
- High-Resolution Output: Delivers prints with up to 1440 dpi, ensuring vivid and detailed images.
- Space-Saving Design: Optimizes workspace while supporting large-scale production.
The Uninet 6000 24″ Dual Head Roll Printer offers unparalleled performance in the DTG market. Its dual head system significantly boosts productivity, while the automated powdering and curing unit streamline the printing process. This printer supports various fabrics, making it versatile for different applications. With high-resolution output, it produces detailed and vibrant prints.
Best Budget-Friendly Entry-Level DTG Printers
Starting a DTG printing business requires cost-effective solutions without compromising quality. Ideal for small businesses and newcomers to garment printing, these printers offer excellent value and performance. Let’s explore the top four budget-friendly entry-level DTG printers, emphasizing affordability, ease of use, and maintenance costs.
9. Roland DG VersaSTUDIO BT-12
The Roland DG VersaSTUDIO BT-12 is the best DTG printer for budget-conscious beginners. This compact, user-friendly printer offers exceptional print quality and efficiency, making it ideal for small businesses and hobbyists. The BT-12’s versatility allows printing on various fabric types, enhancing its appeal to many users.
Notable Features of Roland DG VersaSTUDIO BT-12
- Compact Design: Fits easily in small spaces, perfect for home offices or small workshops.
- User-Friendly Interface: Simple controls and software ensure a smooth printing process, even for beginners.
- Versatile Printing: Printable on various fabrics, including cotton and polyester blends.
- High-Quality Output: Delivers vibrant and detailed prints suitable for creating professional-grade garments.
- Integrated Finishing System: Includes an oven to set the ink, streamlining the printing process.
The Roland DG VersaSTUDIO BT-12 excels in providing high-quality prints with minimal effort. Its user-friendly design ensures that even novices can produce professional-grade garments. The printer’s compact size makes it a practical choice for limited spaces. Its integrated finishing system also simplifies the process, allowing for immediate ink setting.
10. RICOH Ri 100
The RICOH Ri 100 is the best DTG printer for those seeking affordability and efficiency. This compact printer caters to beginners and small businesses, offering easy use and excellent print quality. With its innovative design, the RICOH Ri 100 can print custom T-shirts, bags, and other garments on demand. Its low cost and minimal maintenance make it a standout option among the best DTG printers.
Notable Features of RICOH Ri 100
- Compact, Efficient Size: Fits into small spaces with dimensions of 399 x 698 mm, perfect for home offices or retail shops.
- High-Quality Images: RICOH’s inkjet technology delivers vibrant and durable prints on various fabrics.
- Easy-to-Operate Design Software: This software allows users to import and edit images without specialized skills, making printing simple and quick.
- Low Initial Investment: Offers a budget-friendly entry into DTG printing, ideal for small-scale operations and startups.
- Excellent Operability and Safety: Designed for easy use and maintenance, ensuring safe and efficient printing processes.
Maintaining user-friendly operations and producing high-quality prints are what make RICOH Ri 100 beneficial. Its compact design allows easy integration into small spaces, making it suitable for various business environments. Other than that, its easy-to-use design software further simplifies printing, ensuring quick and accurate results.
11. PolyPrint TexJet shortee2
The PolyPrint TexJet shortee2 is another standout option for the best DTG printer. This compact, versatile printer fits small spaces, making it ideal for home-based businesses. With its high-quality output and easy maintenance, the shortee2 ensures excellent results for beginners. The affordability and reliability of this DTG printer make it a top choice for those entering the garment printing market.
Notable Features of PolyPrint TexJet shortee2
- Compact Design: Easily fits in small spaces, perfect for home businesses or event setups.
- Automatic Height Adjustment: Ensures optimal distance between the printhead and fabric, preventing damage.
- Large Print Area: This printer offers a print area of 30×45 cm (11.8×17.7 inches), suitable for various textile applications.
- Swift Snap-On Platen Swaps: Quick and easy platen changes enhance productivity.
- Refillable Cartridges: Use bulk ink for cost-effective and frequent printing runs.
The PolyPrint TexJet shortee2 excels in providing high-quality prints with minimal maintenance. Its compact design and automatic height adjustment feature make it user-friendly, especially for beginners. A large print area and swift snap-on platen swaps ensure an efficient workflow for diverse textile applications. Plus, its refillable cartridges also reduce costs, making it an economical choice.
12. Epson SureColor F1070
The Epson SureColor F1070 ranks as one of the best DTG printers for budget-conscious users. This printer’s hybrid capabilities support both direct-to-garment and direct-to-film printing. Its compact design and versatile performance make it an ideal choice for small businesses. The SureColor F1070’s PrecisionCore Micro TFP printhead ensures high-quality prints with vibrant colors and incredible detail.
Notable Features of Epson SureColor F1070
- Hybrid Printing: Epson SureColor F1070 supports both DTG and DTFilm printing, offering flexibility for various materials.
- Compact Design: This printer is space-saving and elegant, suitable for small workspaces.
- PrecisionCore Micro TFP Printhead: With this feature, Epson SureColor F1070 provides consistent, high-quality prints.
- UltraChrome DG2 Ink: The printer can produce vibrant, detailed prints with its cartridge-free ink pack system.
- Intuitive Touchscreen: Features a large, user-friendly interface for easy operation.
The Epson SureColor F1070 delivers exceptional performance, making it the best DTG printer for entry-level users. Its hybrid printing capabilities allow for a broad range of applications. Even more, its PrecisionCore Micro TFP printhead ensures consistent and high-quality prints. The UltraChrome DG2 ink system reduces ink replacement frequency. Additionally, the printer’s intuitive touchscreen and compact design enhance user experience.
Key Takeaway
Selecting the best DTG printer for your business requires careful consideration. The right printer will ensure high-quality prints, cost efficiency, and ease of use. Evaluating the top models based on performance, durability, and user feedback can guide your decision. Opt for a printer that meets your production needs for small business operations or large-scale industrial output.
Several factors affect the selection process for the best DTG printer. Key elements include print quality, software compatibility, and maintenance costs. DTG pricing varies significantly, so balancing initial investment with long-term operational costs is essential. Look for a model with strong after-sales support and user-friendly features to maximize productivity and minimize downtime.
Are you wondering about the difference between DTG and sublimation printing? At Scalable Press, we help businesses navigate these choices. For more information, explore our product catalog or visit the Scalable Press. Make the right choice with the best DTG printer tailored to your needs with this helpful, handy guide!