Best DTG Printer : A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing the best Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printer under $5,000 can be a game-changer for your printing business. Whether you’re a newcomer or looking to upgrade, finding the right printer can boost your efficiency and print quality. This guide dives into the top options available, examining their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
1. Roland DG VersaSTUDIO BT-12
Price: $3,495
Rating: 4.5/5
Description
- Compact and space-saving design
- Fully enclosed printing for safety
- High resolution up to 1200 dpi
- Simple three-step printing process
- Comes with a printer and finisher unit
- Durable printheads
- Two-year warranty coverage
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable | Only works on light-colored substrates |
| Compact | Single-shirt printing |
| high resolution | |
| safety features |
Verdict
Ideal for beginners due to its affordability and ease of use. While it’s limited to light garments, it still offers great value for those just starting.
2. Ricoh Ri 100
Price: $4,500 – $5,000
Rating: 4.3/5
Description
- Compact size, suitable for small spaces
- Works on cotton and poly products
- Fast printing time of two minutes
- High resolution up to 1200 dpi
- All-in-one design for convenience
- Includes a finisher to lock in designs
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable, versatile, fast printing | Only works on light-colored substrates, single-shirt printing |
Verdict:
The Ricoh Ri 100 is excellent for newcomers due to its user-friendly design and affordability. Best suited for light-colored garments.
3. PolyPrint TexJet Shortee2
Price: $9,000
Rating: 4.2/5
Description
- Compact and portable, fits in a car
- Prints on various substrates including cotton, denim, and nylon
- Capable of printing on dark-colored garments
- High resolution up to 1440 dpi
- Easy maintenance with automatic platen adjustment
- Can idle for up to 30 days without ink waste
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| High resolution | Expensive |
| Easy maintenance | Single-shirt printing |
| Versatile | Slow on dark garments |
Verdict
Best for those with a higher budget, the TexJet Shortee2 offers versatility and high quality, but is slower on dark garments.
4. Epson SureColor F2100
Price: $11,995
Rating: 4.5/5
Description
- Robust and reliable DTG printer
- Print speed is twice as fast as previous models
- Uses UltraChrome DG inks
- Highlight White Ink mode for simultaneous printing of white and color inks
- Comes with Epson Garment Creator Software
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Reliable | Some accessories and consumables are pricey |
| Fast printing | |
| High quality |
Verdict
With its speed and print quality, the F2100 is a great mid-range option, especially for those ready to invest a bit more for superior performance.
5. Brother GTXpro
Price: $19,000
Rating: 4.6/5
Description
- High print area of 16” x 21”
- Fast printing times
- Uses eco-friendly water-based inks
- Large gap between print head and substrate for printing over seams and zippers
- Easy maintenance to prevent clogged nozzles
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Flexible | Pricey |
| Fast | Potential ink waste |
| Easy maintenance |
Verdict
The GTXpro is ideal for larger shops needing flexibility and speed, but its higher price may be a consideration for smaller businesses.
Which is the Best Option?
When it comes to selecting the best DTG printer under $5,000, the choice depends on your specific needs and budget. For those just starting, the Roland DG VersaSTUDIO BT-12 and Ricoh Ri 100 offer excellent value and ease of use. If you are looking for more versatility and can stretch your budget, the PolyPrint TexJet Shortee2 is a worthy investment. Each printer has its unique strengths, so consider your business needs carefully before making a decision.
