Affordable DTF Printers in 2025: Choosing the Right One for Your Business

Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing is a revolution because it offers high-quality results at an affordable cost. If you want to start a garment printing business, you can search for DTF printers for beginners that are both useful and affordable. A portable printer can fulfil the needs of both beginners and hobbyists.

Here are the best affordable garment printers available in the market

1. DTF MODEL J 13" Printer

Cost: $2,974.99

Highlights:

• Bi-Directional roll feeder

• White ink circulation system

• Vacuum

• RIP software

Best For: It is a compact machine with all the necessary features, including a white ink circulation system and RIP. It is also the cheapest DTF printer you can buy for your garment printing business or hobby printing. Its biggest advantage is that it works well in all environments and setups. 

2. DTF LOTUS II Direct-to-Film PRINTER

Cost: $4,994.69

Highlights:

• Dual Epson F1080 printheads

• Printer stand

• Embedded roll feeder

• Roll cutter

• RIP software

Best For: The compact design, dual printhead technology, and auto roller feeding make it one of the fastest printers on the market. If you are looking for a printer that can complete bulk print jobs, it is the right choice. It comes packed with quality RIP software, training, and onboarding support for professional workflows.

3. DTFLine VANTAGE 14-inch Printer

Cost: $3,499.79

Highlights:

• Embedded roll feeder

• Roll cutter

• RIP software

• Auto cleaning feature

• Plug-and-play convenience

Best For: It is a cheap DTF printer, but suitable for mid-volume to commercial-grade printing jobs. It can print up to 50 t-shirts per hour and give consistent results. It's built-in vacuum platen holds the printing films in place during printing. The auto cleaning features ensure regular maintenance.

4. DTF MAXi 17" Printer

Cost: $9,255.59

Highlights:

• Dual printhead technology

• Embedded roll feeder

• RIP software

• Humidity sensor

• Ink tank continuous feed system

Best For: The demand for DTF printing is growing with each passing day. If you want to set up a flourishing garment printing business, you can consider investing in this printer. Its dual-head printer technology can print up to 100 t-shirts per hour. It can save money on each print job.

5. Roland BY-20 Direct-To-Film Printer

Cost: $8,999.99

Highlights:

• Sheet cut and contour-cutting

• Optimized print modes

• Integrates with popular DTF powder shaker and heater

• Roland’s 1-year warranty

Best For: Roland DTF printers stand out in build quality, advanced technology, low maintenance, and value for money. The BY-20 model is a compact machine designed and equipped to customize garments at high speed and with consistent print quality. Its advantage is that it is suitable for both commercial printing and home printing jobs.

Conclusion

Start small, focus on cost saving, and prioritize support. If the above-mentioned printers don’t match your needs, you can consider the STS Direct to Film Printer. It costs approximately $8,391.29 and comes with all the necessary features. Similarly, you can explore more options and compare all the shortlisted printers to find the best DTF printer.