How to Choose a DTG Printer for Sale

The DTG printer market is booming and there are many options available, ranging from $10k to over $100k. However, not all DTG printers are created equal. It is important to choose the right one for your business, as a poorly chosen machine will quickly become a paperweight. Choosing the right printer for your needs will also save you money in the long run. There are several different ways that DTG printers can be used, from small custom print runs for t-shirts to large online store fulfillment and even direct-to-consumer sales.

While there is no one-size-fits-all DTG printer, there are some general guidelines that can be used when deciding on a model. First, it is important to understand that a DTG printer cannot be used alone and must be paired with a pretreatment system to be effective. This is because the printer itself does not actually “print” onto the garment – it applies a layer of water-based ink to the fabric, which is then printed on with an inkjet or laser printer. Pretreat machines allow you to spray an even layer of pretreatment on the garment, which allows for a better print.

Next, it is crucial to determine which types of customers will make a DTG printer profitable. The two most common profitable DTG use cases are 1) on-demand printing and 2) online store fulfillment. Dtg printer are best suited for customers who need small print runs that can be covered by the cost of ink and the overhead of running a printer. This includes shops that do custom apparel for birthday parties, sports team uniforms, etc. Having a DTG printer will allow these businesses to offer the same level of service to those customers who need 12 or less shirts per month.

It is also crucial to consider the total costs of a DTG printer before purchasing it. There are hidden costs associated with buying a DTG printer, such as the cost of ink and the need for routine maintenance. Often, these costs are underestimated when purchasing a new DTG printer. It is also a good idea to read reviews of DTG printers before making a purchase, as there are a number of factors that can affect how well a particular model will perform.

Lastly, it is important to remember that a DTG printer requires a regular cleaning cycle daily, and this can take up to an hour. This is to prevent ink clogs and other problems that can lead to downtime. A DTG printer that is not properly maintained will quickly become a paperweight and may not be worth the initial investment.

While Facebook groups and industry forums can be a great resource for determining which DTG printer is best for your business, it is important to do your homework before investing in one. Do not rely on these sources to tell you which models are the best for your specific needs, as they will likely be biased towards certain brands. Also, be sure to look into the warranty of the DTG printer you are considering and find out what their customer service is like.