Best DTF Printer For Small Business

ByMuhammad Haseeb

Are you looking to buy the best DTF printer for small business? Here are the top six best choices for everyone to consider.

Best DTF Printer For Small Business

Direct-to-film (DTF) printers are becoming more popular among small companies that want to print bright, long-lasting designs on clothes and accessories without going through the long learning process and high setup costs that come with other printing methods, like screen printing. 

A design is printed on a special film using DTF printing. This film is then stuck to cloth using glue and heat. This method lets you print one-offs and short runs, which can be helpful for small businesses that need to be able to print different patterns with little waste.

It’s important to think about things like print quality, speed, and the general cost of operation when choosing the best DTF printer for small business. The printer’s color accuracy and ability to work with different types of fabric are also very important because they directly affect how appealing the final product is. Maintenance needs and how easy it is to use are also important, especially for businesses that don’t have a lot of professional know-how.

We know how hard it is to find best DTF printer for small business that works well and keeps the bank intact. To help businesses make an informed choice, we carefully compared several best small business printer, focusing on their performance, cost-effectiveness, and feature sets. 

Our goal is to offer top rated printers for small business that make printing easier, raise the quality of the products we sell, and eventually increase the potential of your business.

Related Posts: Best Sublimation Printers

Our Recommendations the Best DTF Printer for Small Business in 2024

  • Best overall: PUNEHOD L1800 DTF
  • Best Budget: PUNEHOD A3 DTF Printer
  • Best Value: PUNEHOD A4 DTF Printer L805

Top 6 Best DTF Printer for Small Business 2024:

1) PUNEHOD L1800 DTF:

PUNEHOD L1800 DTF
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We had a chance to test the DSV L1800 DTF Printer not long ago and were impressed with how well it worked. Because of its roll feeder and auto heat station design, paper jams happened much less often, and we were able to print work much faster and more efficiently.

The method for moving white ink stood out to us. It kept the ink moving easily, which is important to keep the print head from getting clogged, and the results were always perfect. In the past, this function has been very helpful, especially for large projects that need a lot of white ink.

Setting up and using the printer was easy. It wasn’t necessary to set the printhead by hand, and adding ink was a breeze. It was easy to switch from printing on PET film to using a heat press to transfer images to other materials. This feature sped up the production process in a way that would help any small business that needs to keep up with sales.

We did notice, though, that the DTF printer only works with Windows OS. Unfortunately, this means that Mac users can’t use it. At first, we had some problems installing the software, but customer service was quick to respond and help, and our problems were quickly fixed. This kind of help is very helpful, but be ready for a possible learning curve.

From our own experience, we also know that a lot of ink can be used, which could affect the long-term costs of running the business. This should be included in the budgets of small businesses.

Overall, the DSV L1800 DTF Printer worked well for us and came with a helpful support team. It’s a contender that you should think about because it can print well on a variety of fabrics and is easy to use once you get past the setup process. The DSV L1800 DTF Printer is a strong option for small businesses that want to add more printing options. It works very well and has an easy-to-use interface.

Specifications:

SpecsPUNEHOD L1800 DTF
ConnectivityUSB
Printing TechnologyThermal
Special FeatureRefillable Ink Tank
Printer OutputColor
Maximum Print Speed (Color)1 ppm
Max Printspeed Monochrome1 ppm
Weight43 Kilograms

Pros

  • Has an automatic heat station and a roll hopper that make the printing process easier
  • A white ink circulation device keeps the ink moving
  • Strong customer service and tech help

Cons

  • It only works with Windows computers and not Mac computers
  • Can have trouble setting up tools at first
  • The amount of ink used could make running costs go up

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2) PUNEHOD A3 DTF Printer:

PUNEHOD A3 DTF Printer
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We put the PUNEHOD A3 DTF Printer through several tests and can say for sure that it is useful for small businesses. We were able to skip the usually time-consuming pre-treatment step and go straight to printing when the setup was easy to use. This saved us a lot of time. The white ink’s circulation system is especially clever; it keeps the ink moving easily and stops those annoying clogs that slow down production.

It was amazingly easy to print on T-shirts, hats, and even bags with this machine because it could do so many things. It easily handled many different materials, which could help our small business give a wider range of products.

But it’s important to note that we had some trouble installing the software, just like some online reviews said we would. Once that problem was solved, things went pretty smoothly. Another difficult thing to think about is how heavy the printer is—at almost 95 pounds, it’s not easy to move around, which could be a problem for businesses that don’t have a lot of room.

Still, the amount of help we got was encouraging. With the help of installation guides and remote engineer support, it was easy to get the printer to work at its best. It’s important to note that this piece of equipment is more than just a printer. It’s an investment in our small business’s ability to make prints that look great and last a long time, which our customers will value.

This DTF printer is an excellent choice for small businesses that prioritize versatility and efficiency.

Specifications:

SpecsPUNEHOD A3 DTF Printer
Controller TypeRemote Control
Printing TechnologyInkjet
Special FeatureCushion
Printer OutputColor
Printer Media Size MaximumA3
Print mediaGlossy photo paper
Weight94.79 Pounds

Pros

  • Facilitates the production of T-shirts without the necessity for pre-treatment
  • Maintenance and interruptions are diminished by the circulation of white ink
  • Capable of printing on a wide variety of materials, which expands the selection of products available

Cons

  • May encounter an initial learning curve
  • Some users have reported software issues
  • A heavier weight may be a factor in the case of confined spaces

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3) PUNEHOD A4 DTF Printer L805:

PUNEHOD A4 DTF Printer L805
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The PUNEHOD A4 DTF Printer L805 is a great piece of technology that can print a lot of different things. Its Direct-to-Film (DTF) Printing technology lets you print directly on many types of fabrics, so you can make brightly colored unique t-shirts, hoodies, and more.

The printer’s advanced technology and exact control make sure that the results are of high quality. It makes pictures that are clear, bright, and full of detail and color accuracy. You can count on the PUNEHOD A4 DTF Printer L805 to make prints that last and stand out.

The PUNEHOD A4 DTF Printer L805 also comes with everything you need. The box comes with the printer, an oven for curing, 100 DTF films for copying your designs, the software you need to run the printer smoothly, and a device for moisturizing the printhead.

The program that comes with it is easy to use and has controls that make it simple to change settings, make designs your own, and get the best prints. This makes it a great choice for both new and expert users.

Lastly, the printhead hydrating device keeps the printhead from getting clogged and makes sure that the ink flows smoothly, which extends its life. This makes printing work reliably and consistently, so you can count on it.

Direct-to-film (DTF) Printing technology enables direct printing onto diverse fabric types, delivering superior print outcomes characterized by crisp details and vivid colors. 

This comprehensive solution includes a printer, curing oven, 100 DTF films, essential software, and a device for printhead hydration. The user-friendly software boasts intuitive controls, facilitating seamless operation. Additionally, the printhead moisturizing device ensures maintenance and sustains consistent printing quality.

Specifications:

Specs PUNEHOD A4 DTF Printer L805
ConnectivityUSB
Printing TechnologyInkjet
Special FeaturePortable
Printer OutputColor
Maximum Print Speed (Color)1 ppm
Max Printspeed Monochrome2 ppm
Weight6.7 Kilograms

Pros

  • Prints on various fabrics for unique designs
  • Produces clear, detailed, enduring prints.
  • Comes with everything needed for printing

Cons

  • Initial investment may be high
  • Software mastery takes time
  • Regular upkeep is required for consistency

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4) EnjoyColor A4 DTF Printer:

EnjoyColor A4 DTF Printer
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It was easy to set up this DTF printer because the whole package was ready to use right out of the box, with all the software that was needed. The built-in white ink circulation and stirring system surprised us. It keeps the ink fresh and lowers the risk of nozzle clogs, which are a common problem in the printing world.

We liked that the A4 DTF Printer could handle both rolls and sheets of DTF film during our test. It made it easy to switch between mass production and printing only what people ordered. The quality of the prints was also great; the colors were bright on a range of papers.

We liked the L805 print head because it was fast and had good clarity. It could make up to nine square feet per hour, which was more than enough to keep up with the smaller production needs of growing companies.

This printer, on the other hand, only prints in A4 size, which can be a problem if your drawings are often bigger than that. It works well, but people who are new to DTF printing might need some time to learn how it works. Finally, the short guarantee period for non-consumable parts might be a problem for companies that want to make an investment that will last for a long time without having to pay extra.

Overall, the EnjoyColor A4 DTF Printer is a good choice for small business owners who are new to garment printing because it hits a good balance between functionality and ease of use. It should meet the needs of many people because of how well it works and how well it’s made, but you should think about the size limits and warranty terms before making a choice.

Specifications:

SpecsEnjoyColor A4 DTF Printer
MaterialA4 DTF Printer + Oven
Product Dimensions10.2″D x 22.8″W x 6.7″H
Printer OutputColor
Weight22.71 Pounds

Pros

  • A built-in white ink circulation system reduces maintenance
  • Supports rolls and sheets, increasing printing versatility
  • The L805 Print Head prints faster without losing quality

Cons

  • Limited to A4, may not fit larger print projects
  • Operations can be difficult for beginners
  • A one-year warranty on non-consumable items may worry some

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5) HP OfficeJet Pro 8710:

HP OfficeJet Pro 8710
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We just recently got the HP OfficeJet Pro 8710 for our small office, and it’s already changed how we do things every day. It easily handles our large print jobs and always produces color prints that look great, just like a professional would.

The touchscreen display is one of the best parts. It lets us quickly switch between jobs and settings. This helped us a lot when we were in a hurry and needed to change settings right away.

The HP ePrint app makes it easy to print from our phones and laptops, which is another thing we like. We love not having to be tied to a desktop computer whenever we need to print pictures or documents.

We did notice, though, that the 8710 is a bit bigger than some other models. If you don’t have a lot of room in your office, this might be something to think about. It also took a little longer to set up than we thought it would, but we were willing to deal with that one-time problem because of how useful it is once it’s up and going.

Lastly, pay attention to how much ink you use. We do print a lot, so we have to keep an eye on the ink levels so that our work doesn’t stop for no reason. That’s where the Instant Ink program comes in handy; it makes sure we always have new refills when we need them without having to keep an eye on the ink levels.

Overall, the HP OfficeJet Pro 8710 has proven its reliability for business requirements.

Specifications:

Specs HP OfficeJet Pro 8710
ConnectivityWi-Fi, USB, Ethernet
Printing TechnologyInkjet
Special FeatureAuto-Document Feeder
Printer OutputColor
Maximum Print Speed (Color)22
Max Printspeed Monochrome22 ppm
Weight25.4 Pounds

Pros

  • Impressive printing speeds streamline our workflow
  • Touchscreen simplifies task management
  • Mobile printing enables printing from several devices easily

Cons

  • Bigger requires more office space
  • Initial setup takes time
  • High-volume ink needs frequent refills

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6) Epson SureColor P8000:

Epson SureColor P8000
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The Epson SureColor P8000 44″ Large-Format Inkjet Printer is designed for vivid, large-scale photo printing. It features the latest PrecisionCore TFP Print Head and PrecisionDot Screening Technology, paired with a nine-color UltraChrome HD pigment-based ink set that includes auto-switching black ink technology. This combination allows for the production of brilliant images with a finely detailed resolution of 2880 x 1440 dpi.

The P8000 handles both cut-sheet and roll media up to 44″ wide and can create panoramic prints up to 529″ long. It works quickly, able to produce a 16 x 20″ print in just over two minutes. PrecisionDot Screening enhances quality by precisely calculating dot size and placement. Users can manually clean the print head to maintain optimal performance.

The printer is easy to use and has a top-loading feed for rolls and cut-sheet media, and it includes a built-in rotary cutter for automatic cutting. The 2.7″ color LCD screen on the front control panel helps users check print status and settings. Connectivity options include USB 2.0 and Ethernet.

Key features include a System Chip (SOC) controller for faster processing, an UltraChrome HD 8-color ink system with a wide color gamut and long print life, and a high-resolution print capability with droplets as small as 3.5 picoliters. It supports roll media with 2″ and 3″ cores, tracks roll media length and alerts users when more media is needed. Additional options include a take-up reel system, an internal 320GB print server, and a SpectroProofer spectrophotometer for automated color calibration. The P8000 also offers advanced black-and-white printing technology and true 16-bit compatible drivers.

Specifications:

SpecsEpson SureColor P8000
Connectivity USB, Ethernet
Printing TechnologyInkjet
Special FeatureAuto Duplex
Printer OutputColor
Maximum Print Speed (Color)1
Max Printspeed Monochrome1
Weight135 Kilograms

Pros

  • Produces detailed prints at 2880 x 1440 dpi
  • 16 x 20″ prints in just over 2 minutes.
  • Supports both cut-sheet and roll media up to 44″ wide
  • Top-loading feed, built-in rotary cutter, and 2.7″ color LCD screen

Cons

  • Takes up significant space due to its size
  • Requires manual print head cleanings
  • Primarily USB 2.0 and Ethernet; no wireless options mentioned
  • Optional extras like the internal print server and SpectroProofer can increase costs

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Buying Guide, What to Consider When Buying the Best DTF Printer for Small Business:

What to Consider When Buying the Best DTF Printer for Small Business

1) Needs:

You need to look at the needs of your business before you decide if you need to switch to a DTF printer. As an example, how many copies will you need to print? What kinds of fabrics are you going to use? Just how complicated can your plans get? When you think about getting a professional DTF printer, these are some of the things you should ask yourself.

2) Do some Research and Analysis:

Next, look for printers that are a good mix of price, performance, and dependability. When put together, these three things make a deal that’s hard to beat.

Also, don’t forget about technical help and service after the sale. Let’s now talk about that.

3) Customer Service and Technical Support: 

What is the customer service and technical support like after the sale? Any mistakes that might happen during the process, will there be someone there to help you?

We’re saying that you should buy tools from a company you can trust.

4) Cost of Ownership:

It costs money to print. It costs money to run a DTF printer. And there are a lot of them, like electricity, ink, film, and powder. It all adds up to your bill every month. At the end of the day, you need to decide if you can buy one of these DTF printers.

5) Print Quality and Resolution: 

As an artist, all you want is good resolution and print quality so you can make your ideas come to life. But hey, each to their own, as the saying goes! Which one you choose depends on how important the quality and clarity are to you.

6) Versatility with Various Fabrics: 

Printer support is the next thing to think about. What kinds of clothes and other things are you going to wear? If you said that it could change a lot depending on the season, client tastes, and trends, then you need something that can handle everything! (“DTF!”), here we come!

7) Printer Size and Speed: 

Finally, you should look at your area to see if a DTF printer can fit. They take up a lot of room, so if you don’t have enough, you might want to look at other options besides DTF.

Of course, don’t forget to think about how fast it prints. For those who need to print a lot of things quickly or in large quantities, you might have to start building something big to make room for the DTF printer.

Bottom Line:

When looking for a Direct-to-Film (DTF) printer, it’s important to find one that can do a lot of different things. Being able to print on different types of paper and in different sizes not only makes your printing operations more flexible but also lets you meet the needs of a wider range of customers, which makes your business more appealing overall.

Also, a printer that is easy to use makes printing more natural, which cuts down the learning curve for new users and speeds up the printing process. This, along with easy care, makes sure that your printer stays in great shape with little work on your part, saving you time and money in the long run.

FAQ

A good printer for a small business depends on its specific needs, but some versatile options often recommended include all-in-one printers like the HP OfficeJet Pro series or the Brother MFC series. These printers typically offer printing, scanning, copying, and sometimes faxing capabilities, catering to various business requirements. 

Additionally, factors like cost per page, printing speed, wireless connectivity, and compatibility with business software should be considered when selecting the best DTF printer for a small business.

For DTF (Direct-to-Film) transfers, you’ll need a specialized DTF printer, a curing oven or heat press, DTF films, and essential software. The DTF printer is crucial for printing the designs onto the DTF films, while the curing oven or heat press is used to transfer the design from the film onto the fabric.

The DTF films act as the transfer medium, carrying the printed design from the printer to the fabric. Additionally, the software is needed to prepare and process the designs for printing. Some DTF printers may also come with a printhead moisturizing device to maintain consistent printing performance.

To start a DTF business, you’ll need a DTF printer for direct printing onto films, curing equipment like an oven or heat press, a steady supply of DTF films, essential software for design processing, various fabric types for printing, and a dedicated workspace. Additionally, focus on marketing your services, ensuring legal compliance, and establishing pricing and customer service policies.

When choosing a DTF printer, consider factors such as print quality, printing speed, compatibility with different fabric types, ease of use, and maintenance requirements. Look for a printer that offers high-resolution printing for sharp details and vibrant colors, along with versatile media handling capabilities. Additionally, opt for a model with user-friendly features and reliable support to ensure smooth operation.

For small businesses considering a DTF printer, key features to prioritize include affordability, compact size to fit limited workspace, user-friendly operation, and versatility in printing various fabric types. 

Look for a model that offers high-quality prints, consistent performance, and efficient ink usage to minimize operational costs. Additionally, consider compatibility with essential software, ease of maintenance, and reliable customer support for any technical assistance needed.

The Epson DTF printer stands out for small-scale operations due to its high print quality, user-friendly interface, and robust support network, which ensure reliable performance and minimal downtime. While it may have higher ongoing costs for ink, its consistent results and versatility make it a solid investment. 

Overall, Epson’s balance of quality, reliability, and support makes it a preferred choice for many small businesses.

A DTF printer is a good choice for beginners in the printing industry because it offers a straightforward and versatile printing process that is easy to learn and manage. DTF technology allows for high-quality, durable prints on various materials without the need for extensive setup or specialized skills.

 The ability to print detailed designs with vibrant colors and the relatively low maintenance requirements make it accessible for those new to the industry. Additionally, the flexibility to work on different substrates provides beginners with opportunities to explore and expand their services.

Investing in a DTF printer can be a cost-effective decision for starting a small printing business due to its versatility, high print quality, and relatively low initial setup costs compared to other printing methods like screen printing or DTG (Direct to Garment) printing. DTF printers allow for printing on various materials, including cotton, polyester, and blends, broadening the range of products a business can offer. 

While ongoing costs for inks and transfer films should be considered, the ability to produce detailed and durable prints without extensive manual labor or setup makes it an efficient and scalable option for small businesses aiming to deliver custom prints with professional quality.

Budget DTF Printers:

Pros: Lower cost, good for beginners, simpler to use.

Cons: Lower print quality, less durable, fewer features, limited support.

Premium DTF Printers:

Pros: Superior print quality, more durable, advanced features, and better support.

Cons: Higher cost, more complex, potentially excessive for small operations.

Choosing between budget and premium DTF printers depends on the specific needs and financial capacity of the business. Budget models are cost-effective and easier to start with, while premium models offer better quality, durability, and advanced features, making them suitable for businesses aiming for higher-end products.

Small businesses can ensure profitability with DTF printing technology by carefully managing costs and maintaining high print quality to attract and retain customers. Diversifying product offerings, such as custom apparel and promotional items, can broaden the customer base and increase revenue streams. 

Efficient workflow practices can reduce waste and improve productivity, while effective marketing on social media and online platforms can increase visibility and sales. Providing excellent customer service fosters loyalty and repeat business, and setting competitive prices ensures a healthy profit margin while delivering value to customers.

For DTF (direct-to-film) printing, you need specific software to manage and optimize your printing process. Essential software includes RIP (Raster Image Processor) software, such as AcroRIP, EKPrint Studio, or CADlink Digital Factory, which helps in converting digital files into a format that your printer can understand and print accurately. 

This software manages color profiles, ink levels, and other critical settings to ensure high-quality prints. Additionally, graphic design software like Adobe Photoshop or CorelDRAW is important for creating and editing your designs before they are sent to the RIP software. Together, these tools enable precise control over the printing process, ensuring vibrant and durable prints on various substrates.

An alternative to DTF (direct-to-film) printers is DTG (direct-to-garment) printers. DTG printing involves directly printing designs onto textiles using specialized inkjet technology. Unlike DTF, which prints on a transfer film that is then applied to the fabric, DTG prints directly onto the fabric, allowing for high-resolution, full-color designs with a soft feel. 

Another alternative is screen printing, which uses stencils (screens) to apply ink directly to the fabric. Screen printing is cost-effective for large runs and offers vibrant colors and durability. Sublimation printing is another option, primarily used for polyester fabrics, where dye is transferred onto the material using heat, resulting in bright, permanent prints. 

Each method has its advantages and suitability depending on the type of fabric, print quality requirements, and production volume.

Last Updated on June 13, 2024 by Muhammad Haseeb

Muhammad Haseeb founded Printer Insights, a website offering captivating reviews, insightful tutorials, and comprehensive insights into the world of printers. With academic backgrounds from Concordia College and the Virtual University of Pakistan, Haseeb brings over 5 years of experience in the printing industry.

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