Comparing Roland vs Prestige DTF Printers: Which One Should You Buy?

The demand for Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing machines is at an all-time high, triggering a flood of textile printers in the market. Many manufacturers are offering a wide range of printers. However, most people go with either the DTF Prestige or the Roland DTF Printer.

Both are leading brands that cater to different segments of users. A detailed comparison of the brands is necessary to make an informed choice.

1. Brand Overview

Roland: A globally recognized brand known for its build quality, latest technology, and user-friendly features. The Roland DTF Printer series has captured a lion’s share of the DTF printing market. It offers printers for every need—from beginners to professionals.

Prestige: Customers post positive reviews about the global support this brand provides. They are also satisfied with the overall performance of their printers. The DTF Prestige lineup is designed for versatility, convenience, and affordability.

2. Print Quality

Roland BY20: Engineered for perfection, the Roland BY20 offers color vibrancy, detailing, sharpness, and consistency. The user-friendly features further enhance its usability.

Prestige: This printer is a clear winner in ink quality. It delivers a rich CMYK+White output across all print jobs and handles gradients well. Ideal for hobbyists, everyday apparel printing, and bulk print jobs.

🏆 Winner: Roland is best for premium output; Prestige suits competitive printing.

3. Speed and Efficiency

Roland: The printers come with dual printheads, automated feeding systems, and intuitive touch controls. They can run longer print jobs at high speed without requiring maintenance breaks or compromising on print quality.

Prestige: A leader in A3 printers, perfect for startups and short-run jobs. While not designed for industrial-scale output, it offers competitive speed and pricing for mid-range needs.

🏆 Winner: Roland for industrial-grade output; Prestige for small setups.

4. Ease of Use & Maintenance

Roland: Known for automation—features like auto-cleaning, white ink circulation, and built-in RIP software streamline operations and reduce the learning curve.

Prestige: Plug-and-play with features like automatic nozzle cleaning and maintenance alerts. It allows the use of any RIP software and compatible inks. Strong online support is a plus.

🏆 Winner: Roland for beginners due to its integrated automation.

5. Pricing & Value

Roland: As a premium brand, Roland printers come with a higher upfront and maintenance cost. They also emphasize the use of branded supplies.

Prestige: A budget-friendly option with quality performance. The Prestige R1 offers the best balance between affordability and results, ideal for new businesses and mid-volume production.

🏆 Winner: Prestige R1 wins on value and affordability.

6. After-Sales Support & Compatibility

Roland: Offers global customer support through a strong network of service centers. It is compatible with a wide range of third-party inks and RIP software.

Prestige: Provides quality support through a wide distributor network. Its printers are highly compatible with third-party products as well.

🏆 Winner: Both brands excel in after-sales service and compatibility.

Final Verdict

Whether you choose a Roland DTF Printer or the DTF Prestige, the decision comes down to your specific printing needs:

• Choose Roland if you're looking for professional-grade performance, automation, and long-term reliability.

• Choose Prestige if you're aiming for budget efficiency, startup-friendly features, and flexibility.