ππ¨οΈ 6 Best Printers For Heat Transfer On T Shirts | DTG T-Shirt Printer in 2024 π‘
Whether you are looking to start your own T-shirt business, or simply want to create some custom t shirts to wear, a T-shirt printer is what you need to get started.
At A Glance: Printers For Heat Transfer On T Shirts | DTG T-Shirt Printer
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Our Top Pick
- Workforce WF-7710
- Cricut EasyPress 2
Product | Brand | Name | Price |
---|---|---|---|
hrm | hrm DTG T-Shirt Printing Machine | Check Price on Amazon | |
Epson | Epson EcoTank ET-15000 | Check Price on Amazon | |
Epson | Workforce WF-7710 | Check Price on Amazon | |
Cricut | Cricut EasyPress 2 | Check Price on Amazon | |
TUSY | TUSY Heat Press Machine | Check Price on Amazon |
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If you are not interested in screen printing, then there are two ways you can “print” a T-Shirt.
- Use a direct to garment printer. This is the fastest way to finish a complete shirt, but these printers are very expensive. For this, I recommend the HRM DTG Printer, it is reasonably affordable.
- Use a regular ink jet printer and buy some transfer papers for T-shirt printing. You will also need to get a heat press to complete this process. So compared to the DTG printing process, this will take you much more time to finish a shirt.
Of the two methods, I highly recommend the DTG printing route, especially if you are printing low quantities. If you are printing in large batches, the best bet is actually screen printing your shirts.
I’m going to help you understand the intricacies of printers that allow you to print on your T-Shirt. There are quite a few out there, but it can be tricky to find the best option for your usage. Keeping this in mind, I have compiled a list of the best printers for printing t-shirts.
If you’re wondering why you can’t get this done on an ordinary printer, well, there are some challenges. Some printers are not meant for thicker materials or prints that you can later stick onto your T Shirts. Thankfully, there are dedicated printers to get the job done here. Many of these can also be used for other similar projects like as a crafting printer.
6 Best Printers For Heat Transfer On T-Shirts
When choosing the best printer for T-shirt printing, important factors such as print resolution, ink compatibility, and ease of use should be considered. Additionally, the type of material being printed on and any potential software compatibility are essential aspects to consider. You’ll want to invest in a printer that can handle a wide array of fabrics while maintaining its performance and quality over time.
Best Printer for T-Shirt Printing
When choosing the best printer for t-shirt printing, factors like ink type, print quality, and cost should be kept in mind. Each of these six printers excels in different areas, making them all great options. Consider your requirements and budget to select the printer that will best suit your needs in the world of t-shirt printing.
Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless All-in-One
For those seeking an efficient and versatile printer for t-shirt printing, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is an ideal choice.
Pros
- Long-lasting, cost-effective ink
- Prints up to 13″ x 19″ (through rear-feed tray)
- Cartridge-free printing with zero waste
Cons
- Initial setup consumes some ink
- Connectivity issues with Wi-Fi
- Slow printing speed for color prints
I recently used the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 for t-shirt printing and found it to be an excellent printer for my needs. The cost-effective ink and cartridge-free system ensure that I can print creatively without worrying about ink expenses or waste.
The rear-feed tray lets me print large designs up to 13″ x 19″, perfect for printing on t-shirts. The high-yield ink bottles last long, and the printing result is vibrant and crisp. The 250-sheet front tray is convenient for printing multiple sheets, and the rear specialty-paper feed is perfect for using heavier or specialty paper without jamming the printer.
However, I noticed that some of the ink from the included bottles is used for initial setup, so the yield is slightly lower than the replacement ink bottles. The printer also occasionally has Wi-Fi connectivity issues, which can be frustrating during a busy print session. Additionally, the printing speed for color prints can be slow, taking up to five minutes for a full-color sheet.
Despite these drawbacks, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is still a fantastic option for t-shirt printing. The cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach to printing is a significant advantage, making it an ideal investment for both business and personal use. Although the Wi-Fi connectivity could be better and color printing speed could be faster, the overall print quality and versatility make it a solid choice for printing designs on t-shirts.
Epson WorkForce WF-7710 Wireless Wide-format Printer
For anyone seeking a versatile and efficient printer for t-shirt printing, the Epson WorkForce WF-7710 is an excellent choice.
Pros
- High-quality borderless prints up to 13″ x 19″
- Multiple connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and NFC
- User-friendly touchscreen interface for easy navigation
Cons
- Consumes ink rapidly
- Bulkier than some competitors
- Third-party ink cartridges may not work after firmware updates
I recently had the opportunity to use the Epson WorkForce WF-7710 for some t-shirt printing projects, and I was thoroughly impressed by the results. The PrecisionCore technology allowed me to create borderless prints up to 13″ x 19″, which is perfect for t-shirts and other larger items. Besides, it can print, scan, copy, and fax, making it a versatile option for my home office.
One of my favorite features is the multiple connectivity options. It’s easy to print from my iPad, iPhone, or Android device thanks to the Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and NFC compatibility. The wireless printing function is a significant advantage in my busy workspace, where I often need to print from multiple devices.
The 4.3″ color touchscreen is another standout feature, making it simple to navigate the printer’s settings and options. Although the WF-7710 does consume ink more rapidly than some other printers I’ve used, the print quality is exceptional, and I’m happy to invest in genuine Epson ink cartridges to ensure top-notch results.
One thing to note is that the WF-7710 is relatively large and bulky, which could be a concern for some users with limited workspace. Also, I’ve heard that third-party ink cartridges may not function correctly after firmware updates – I would personally suggest sticking to genuine Epson products for optimal performance.
I genuinely enjoyed using the Epson WorkForce WF-7710 for my t-shirt printing needs. Its high print quality, impressive versatility, and user-friendly interface make it a reliable choice for anyone working with large-format prints and various creative projects. While it does consume ink a bit quickly and is bulkier than some alternatives, the benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks.
PUNEHOD A4 DTF Printer L805
I highly recommend the PUNEHOD A4 DTF Printer L805 for its high-speed printing, white ink circulation system, and ease of use.
Pros
- Fast printing speed
- White ink mix and circulation system
- Portable and lightweight
Cons
- Ink not included in the package
- No rubber powder included
- Requires remote guidance for first-time users
Having used the PUNEHOD A4 DTF Printer L805 recently, I can vouch for its impressive printing performance. Despite being a lightweight and portable device, it delivers high-speed printing, much faster than ordinary A3 DTF printers. This means you can quickly print designs on your t-shirts without wasting any time.
An essential feature of this printer is its white ink mix and circulation system. It greatly extends the print head’s lifetime and minimizes clogs. As someone who has dealt with clogged print heads in the past, I can’t stress enough how valuable this feature is.
Additionally, the PUNEHOD A4 DTF Printer comes with professional RIP software that supports importing multiple images and processing different patterns simultaneously. This greatly increases productivity and allows for versatile printing options.
However, there are a few drawbacks worth mentioning. The ink and rubber powder are not included in the package, so you’ll need to purchase them separately. Also, for first-time users of this type of printer, PUNEHOD recommends contacting them for remote guidance on installation.
The PUNEHOD A4 DTF Printer L805 is an excellent option for those interested in t-shirt printing. Despite some minor drawbacks, its high-speed printing, white ink circulation system, and ease of use make it a worthy investment. So, if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient printer for t-shirt printing, I highly recommend giving this one a try.
PLK DTF L1800 Transfer Printer with Roll Feeder
This printer is perfect for anyone wanting to kickstart their T-shirt printing business with speed and ease.
Pros
- Efficient and fast printing with roll feeder
- Advanced white ink circulation system for print head longevity
- Versatile application for various materials
Cons
- Slight learning curve for beginners
- Compatibility only with Windows
- Heavy (45 kg) and large dimensions
I recently had the chance to use the PLK DTF L1800 transfer printer for my T-shirt printing projects and was quite impressed. The upgraded DTF transfer technology, including a roll feeder and auto heat station, significantly improved my printing speed, while the reduced paper jam made the process even more seamless.
The advanced white ink circulation system in this printer deserves a special mention. It not only prevents sediment disruption but actively prolongs the print head’s life. This feature ultimately helped me save on maintenance costs. Although setting up the printer was a bit difficult for me initially, once I got the hang of it, it was smooth sailing with direct printing on PET film and transfer to T-shirts using a heat press.
What makes the PLK DTF L1800 stand out is its versatility in applications. Besides T-shirts, I’ve successfully printed designs on bags, hats, handbags, pillows, and even shoes. Moreover, the printer is compatible with materials like cotton, polyester, and various textiles. However, as a Mac user, I had to switch to Windows to use the printer, which may limit some potential users.
Despite its larger dimensions and heavier weight, the PLK DTF L1800 Transfer Printer has become my go-to device for T-shirt printing. Its efficiency, speed, and versatility make it a worthy investment for anyone looking to start or scale their printing business.
I must also commend the after-sales support. The PLK team quickly addressed any questions or concerns I had during the initial setup and operation. Overall, I highly recommend this printer to those looking to boost their T-shirt printing endeavors.
Epson EcoTank ET-2720 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer
This all-in-one printer is an excellent choice for t-shirt printing enthusiasts due to its innovative cartridge-free system and cost efficiency.
Pros
- Cartridge-free printing with high-capacity ink tanks
- Dramatic savings on replacement ink
- Impressive print quality with Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology
Cons
- Initial setup can be time-consuming
- May have occasional clogs in print heads
- Not ideal for extremely high-volume printing
After testing the Epson EcoTank ET-2720, I found it to live up to its promise of being a fast, affordable, and easy-to-use printer. The innovative cartridge-free system with high-capacity ink tanks made t-shirt printing a breeze. Filling the ink tanks was hassle-free, thanks to Epson’s EcoFit ink bottles.
The most significant advantage of this printer is the dramatic savings on replacement ink. With the ability to save up to 90% on replacement ink bottles compared to ink cartridges, it’s perfect for those looking to print custom t-shirts without breaking the bank.
The Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology of the Epson EcoTank ET-2720 ensures impressive print quality with sharp text and vivid colors. I was able to print on various paper types, creating stunning designs for my t-shirts.
However, I did encounter some downsides to this printer. The initial setup was time-consuming, and I had to unclog the print heads a few times before achieving optimal print quality. Those who need a printer for extremely high-volume t-shirt printing may find this model to be insufficient.
The built-in scanner and copier, along with modern connectivity options like wireless and voice-activated printing, make the Epson EcoTank ET-2720 a versatile printer suitable for both home and office use. The 2-year limited warranty with registration provides peace of mind knowing that any issues will be addressed by Epson.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 is an excellent choice for those looking to begin t-shirt printing or upgrade their current setup. Its cost efficiency, impressive print quality, and innovative cartridge-free system make it a standout option in the market.
HP Color LaserJet Pro M454dw
I believe the HP Color LaserJet Pro M454dw is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality t-shirt printing printer with fast performance and exceptional features.
Pros
- Fast print speeds and excellent print quality
- Built-in Wi-Fi Direct and effortless mobile printing
- HP Wolf Pro Security for enhanced data protection
Cons
- Difficult wireless connection process for some users
- Initial setup may be time-consuming
- Some users received defective units
The HP Color LaserJet Pro M454dw has been a game-changer for my t-shirt printing needs. It prints consistently high-quality graphics, thanks to its fast print speeds and excellent color replication. The wireless connectivity options enabled me to print directly from my smartphone without needing a local network connection, making it very convenient for on-the-go projects.
I also appreciated the built-in HP Wolf Pro Security features that protect my business data and safeguard against cyberattacks. This added layer of security gives me peace of mind while ensuring that my printer remains up and running without any hiccups, a necessity for anyone who relies on their printer for daily business operations.
The 2.7″ color touchscreen on the HP M454dw allowed me to manage tasks quickly and easily. With an intuitive interface and a 250-sheet input tray, I never had to worry about constantly refilling paper. The printer’s energy efficiency and automatic 2-sided printing helped me save on both energy and paper costs.
However, I did encounter some challenges while setting up the printer for wireless connectivity. The process was a bit difficult and time-consuming, but once I managed to connect the printer, its performance was top-notch. I have noticed other users mentioning receiving defective units or having issues with print quality, but these seem like isolated incidents, and overall, the majority of users are satisfied.
The HP Color LaserJet Pro M454dw is a solid investment for anyone looking for a high-quality, feature-packed t-shirt printing printer. Its fast performance, versatile connectivity options, and advanced security features make it a wise choice for businesses looking to stay ahead of their competition.
Best Heat Press for Heat Transfer Printing
As someone who’s been printing on T-shirts for years, I’ve come across several heat presses that work effectively for heat transfer printing. I’ve found that the top choices are durable, easy to use, and reliable for producing high-quality prints. Here, I’ll share my top 3 recommendations for the best heat press machines to consider for your T-shirt printing needs.
Cricut EasyPress 2 Heat Press Machine
The Cricut EasyPress 2 is a must-have for anyone looking to create professional-looking heat transfer projects with ease and convenience.
Pros
- Fast heat-up time and adjustable temperature settings
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Insulated safety base and auto-off feature
Cons
- Not suitable for larger-scale projects
- Requires consistent applied pressure
- An additional adapter may be needed for non-US power outlets
As a crafting enthusiast, I recently tried the Cricut EasyPress 2 for my heat transfer projects, and I was genuinely impressed with its performance. The machine heats up in under 2 minutes, and the temperature control allows me to work with various materials without any complications. I’ve used it on T-shirts, tote bags, aprons, and more, achieving consistent and satisfying results every time.
The lightweight design of the Cricut EasyPress 2 makes it a breeze to maneuver during the heat transfer process. It also features an insulated safety base and auto-off feature, ensuring a worry-free experience. Storing the machine is no problem either, as it can easily fit in a small space or closet when not in use.
However, I should note that the EasyPress 2 is better suited for smaller projects. For those who frequently work on large-scale heat transfer jobs, this machine might not be the ideal choice due to its size limitations. Additionally, when using the EasyPress 2, consistent pressure must be applied during the pressing process, unlike some other heat presses on the market. Lastly, if you live outside of the US, be aware that you might need a step-down adapter for your power outlet to use this device.
The Cricut EasyPress 2 is a dependable, easy-to-use heat press machine that offers great value for the price. Its lightweight design, adjustable time and temperature settings, and safety features make it an excellent choice for beginners and crafting enthusiasts alike. If you’re looking to improve your heat transfer projects, I would definitely recommend the Cricut EasyPress 2.
HTVRONT Auto Heat Press Machine for T Shirts
I highly recommend the HTVRONT Auto Heat Press Machine for its ease of use, fast heating, and professional-quality results.
Pros
- Automatic pressing and release
- Quick and even heating
- Versatile applications
Cons
- Bulky design
- Limited platen size
- Requires extra care for proper pressure
I recently tried the HTVRONT Auto Heat Press Machine for T Shirts, and I found it effortless to use with its automatic pressing and release feature. Once I loaded my project onto the machine, I simply pushed the ironing board inside and pressed the “R” button to start. The heat press adjusted to my project’s thickness (up to 1 inch) and automatically released when the timer finished, ensuring no more burned projects.
The HTVRONT heat press heats up quickly, reaching a common-use temperature of 320Β°F within just 4 minutes, which is twice as fast as other heat press machines I’ve tried. The dual-tube heating engine and NTC thermistor technology ensured even heat distribution and consistent temperature.
Beyond t-shirt printing, I found the HTVRONT heat press suitable for other materials such as wood signs and ceramic coasters, making it a versatile addition to my creative toolbox. Although its bulky design can seem intimidating, the drawer slide design ensures I can keep my hands away from the hot plate while using it.
However, I did find that the platen size, limited to 15×15 inches, made it challenging to work with bigger projects. Additionally, getting the proper pressure for different materials required a bit of trial and error, so I had to be cautious to avoid damaging my projects.
The HTVRONT Auto Heat Press Machine is an excellent choice for anyone looking to level up their t-shirt printing game or expand into other creative projects. Its ease of use, fast heating, and professional finish make it worth considering as an essential tool for artisans and entrepreneurs alike.
TUSY Heat Press Machine, 15×15 inch
The TUSY Heat Press Machine is definitely worth purchasing for its solid performance and user-friendly features.
Pros
- Thickened teflon platen
- Clear digital LCD control box
- Upgraded overheat protection
Cons
- Heavy
- No slide-out bottom plate
- Not a swing-away design
As a t-shirt printing enthusiast, I recently tried the TUSY Heat Press Machine and was thoroughly impressed with its performance. The 15×15 inch platen comes with a thickened teflon coating, ensuring that heat is distributed evenly across the surface. This results in perfectly vibrant colors on my t-shirts, tote bags, mouse pads, and even puzzles. The heat resistance and easy-to-clean surface make it incredibly convenient for maintaining the machine.
The digital LCD control box provides separate readings for both time and temperature, making the operation process smoother and less confusing. This improved digital box ensures accurate control, leading to ideal colors on all my printed products. Moreover, I appreciate the 32 – 482β temperature range and the 0 – 999 seconds time control.
As a cautious user, I value the upgraded overheat protection feature in the TUSY Heat Press Machine. The automatic shut-off mechanism helps avoid accidents such as burning or fire, ensuring my safety during use.
However, the machine is quite heavy, which may not suit all users. Additionally, the lack of a slide-out bottom plate and a swing-away design makes it a bit trickier to work around. It might require some caution and patience when working with the unit, especially for beginners.
Despite its minor drawbacks, the durability and performance of the TUSY Heat Press Machine do not disappoint. Iβve had great success using it for t-shirt printing projects and appreciate its safety features. If you can overlook the weight and absence of slide-out or swing-away mechanisms, this heat press is an excellent investment for both beginners and experienced users.
Best DTG T-Shirt Printer
As an expert in t-shirt printing, I have experience with a variety of printers and can confidently recommend the top 3 DTG (direct to garment) printers for commercial use.
Considering these top-notch printers for your commercial DTG t-shirt printing needs will undoubtedly result in success. Each model offers unique features and advantages, so take the time to evaluate which one aligns best with your objectives and demands.
HRM Automatic T-Shirt Printing Machine
In my experience, the HRM Automatic T-Shirt Printing Machine is a fantastic investment that offers professional quality prints and excellent customer support.
Pros
- Automatic adjustment of tray height and position
- Prints on various cotton materials and clothing types
- Exceptional customer support
Cons
- Learning curve for beginners
- Printing speed could be improved
- Requires manual intervention for thicker clothes
I recently started using the HRM Automatic T-Shirt Printing Machine, and it has been a game-changer for my business. It had a bit of a learning curve at first, but the customer support provided by the company, particularly Michael, has been amazing. They guided me through every step of the process, and now I feel confident in my ability to use it effectively.
The machine has worked well on a variety of clothing items, such as T-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, jeans, and more. The automatic adjustment of the tray height and position has been really beneficial, as it saves me time when switching between different types of apparel. However, for thicker clothing items, I have noticed that sometimes I need to make manual adjustments to ensure the best quality prints. It’s a minor issue but worth noting.
The print quality itself is excellent. The colors are vibrant and accurate, making my designs look truly professional. My only qualm in this regard is the printing speed – for an A4 size image on a white t-shirt, it takes about 3-5 minutes, and for a black t-shirt, it takes around 6-8 minutes. While it’s not a deal-breaker for me, it might be a concern if you’re trying to mass-produce items quickly.
I’ve been really happy with the HRM Automatic T-Shirt Printing Machine. The quality it produces is well worth the investment, and the exceptional customer support is the cherry on top. If you’re looking to up your t-shirt printing game, I highly recommend giving this machine a try.
HRM DTG T-Shirt Printer
The HRM DTG T-shirt printer is a worthwhile investment for those looking to create custom T-shirts and other fabric items, with some minor limitations.
Pros
- Crisp and clear printing
- Free printing software AcroRip9.0
- Excellent customer service from the brand
Cons
- Windows-only compatibility
- Requires a separate heat press machine
- Some packages arrive with ink spills
I couldn’t wait to try out my new HRM DTG T-shirt printer, and I was not disappointed. The printing quality was crisp and clear, producing eye-catching results on my T-shirts and other fabric items. The free AcroRip9.0 software included with the purchase simplifies the printing process, though it is only compatible with Windows operating systems. So, if you’re a Mac user like me, you might need to use a virtual machine or borrow a friend’s Windows computer for the best experience.
The downside of this printer is that it requires an additional heat press machine, which isn’t included. This means that you’ll need to invest in a separate piece of equipment if you want to print on T-shirts effectively. Also, some customers have reported ink spills upon delivery, which can be frustrating considering the expense of this printer. However, these incidents seem to be rare exceptions rather than the norm.
If there’s one thing that stands out about this T-shirt printer, it’s the fantastic customer service. Anytime I’ve had questions or technical issues, HRM’s team has been quick to help and provide guidance. They genuinely care about their customers and ensuring their products meet our expectations.
The HRM DTG T-shirt printer is an excellent choice for those who prioritize high-quality printing and great customer service. Just be prepared to work around a few limitations, like Windows-only software and the need for a separate heat press machine.
Hrm A4 DTG Printer: T-Shirt Printing Machine
This printer is a game-changer for small businesses and hobbyists focused on t-shirt printing, despite a few hiccups.
Pros
- Water-proof, scratch-resistant prints
- Plateless, directly prints from various image formats
- Easily adjustable print height
Cons
- Requires a Windows system computer
- Needs a heat press machine
- Limited to light clothes with >50% cotton content
I recently used the Hrm A4 DTG printer for printing on t-shirts, and I must say the print quality is impressive. The images come out water-proof and scratch-resistant, ensuring long-lasting designs. This printer is perfect for small t-shirt businesses or those pursuing it as a hobby.
The printer allows you to print directly from various image formats like TIFF, JPEG, JPG, BMP, and PSD, making it extremely convenient. Adjusting the print height is a breeze, thanks to the easily operable knob.
However, there are some limitations to the Hrm A4 printer. To connect it to a computer, you need a data cable, and it only works with a Windows system computer. I found this somewhat restrictive, but it’s not a dealbreaker if you own a compatible system.
Another thing to note is that this printer requires a heat press machine to prevent ink discoloration. So if you don’t have one already, consider investing in one alongside the Hrm A4 printer. Also, it’s crucial to remember that the printer can only print on light clothes with a cotton content of more than 50%. This aspect might limit your choice of garments to print on.
Despite these drawbacks, I appreciate the responsive customer service provided by the seller. They offer free technical support for software installation and test printing. After ordering the product, they promptly sent an email ensuring that the printer met my printing needs.
The Hrm A4 DTG Printer is a great addition to your t-shirt printing arsenal. Though it has its limitations, the print quality and supportive customer service make it a solid investment.