11 Best DTG Printers for Small Businesses in 2026

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TL;DR

• DTG printers print directly onto garments without screens or transfers
• Best choices balance print quality, speed, and price for small businesses
• Entry-level models fit startups; industrial models power high-volume shops
• Hybrid DTG/DTF options add versatility for broader production workflows

Are you an entrepreneur or startup looking for the best DTG printer for small business? Whether you print t-shirts at home, sell online, or run a brick-and-mortar, this list has what you need.

Find the right printer for your production needs and budget now.

My team and I have researched and compared eleven of the best direct-to-garment printers available in 2026 to save you time. Overall durability, affordability, and ease of use were the primary factors we considered to compile this list.

What a DTG Printer Is (2026 Update)

A Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printer uses inkjet technology to apply digital prints straight onto fabric without screens or transfers. Unlike traditional screen printing, DTG prints full-color designs by spraying microdroplets of pigment-based ink directly onto cotton and high-cotton blend garments, producing highly detailed, vibrant results.

Small businesses, custom apparel shops, and entrepreneurs often choose DTG printing for low to medium volume production because it eliminates setup costs associated with screen printing and allows fast turnaround for custom orders.

How DTG Printing Works

DTG machines function much like standard inkjet printers, but with specialized printheads and garment platens. A shirt (or other garment) lies flat on the platen while the printhead moves overhead and sprays the design. Pretreatment of dark garments improves ink adhesion and durability.

The workflow typically involves:

• Preparing artwork in RIP (Raster Image Processor) software
• Loading the garment onto the platen
• Applying pretreatment (for dark fabrics)
• Printing the design layer by layer
• Curing the ink with heat (built-in or external)

This process yields vibrant, wash-resistant prints ideal for custom tees, hoodies, and promotional apparel.

Best DTG Printers for Small Businesses in 2026

1. DTG Pro Fusion V2

Overview

With its cutting-edge technology, the DTG Pro Fusion V2 printing system provides excellent results at an unbeatable price.

What it is
A cost-effective DTG printer with excellent color reproduction and precision.

Features
• Epson-based L1800 engine
• Magnetic adjustable print plates
• Precision linear rail system
• Supports thicker garments

Best for
T-shirt shops, e-commerce apparel brands, small vendors

Pricing

With its attractive price point and no hidden fees, this is the best DTG printer under $5,000. Perfect for those on a budget. There also is a payment plan option of $407 per month with Affirm, with credit approval.

2. RICOH RI100 Printer

Overview

The RICOH RI100 stands out as a revolutionary entry-level DTG printer that redefines accessibility in the garment printing industry. This CES Innovation Award Honoree transforms any desktop into a professional-grade printing station.

What it is
A compact DTG printer that brings affordable garment printing to small spaces.

Features
• Ultra-compact footprint
• Multiple resolution modes
• Intuitive design software
• Stackable finisher option

Best for
Home studios, startups, retail counters

Pricing

The RICOH RI100 is available for $3,159.00 as a complete starter package, making it the most affordable entry point into professional DTG printing. The bundle includes the printer, RIP software, ink cartridge set, cleaning cartridges, maintenance supplies, and comprehensive training.

3. Procolored T8 Panda DTG Printer 8.2″ A4 L800

Overview

The Procolored T8 Panda DTG printer is a direct-to-garment printing option that provides an excellent solution for customizing textiles such as clothing and pillows. 

What it is
A versatile DTG printer with enhanced cooling and automatic white ink circulation.

Features
• White ink circulation system
• Bidirectional printing
• Visible maintenance windows
• Simple touchscreen controls

Best for
Beginners and small custom apparel shops

Pricing

The Procolored T8 Panda DTG Printer 8.2″ A4 L800 is available for a one-time payment of $3,599, which includes free shipping and pre-assembled parts such as printer stands, print heads, and the ink system. With all its features and benefits, this garment printer is a steal.

4. Roland Versa STUDIO BT-12

Overview

The Roland VersaSTUDIO BT-12 represents Roland’s commitment to bringing professional DTG capabilities to desktop environments. This compact direct-to-garment printer seamlessly integrates into Roland’s comprehensive ecosystem of wide-format printing solutions.

What it is
A compact DTG system from a trusted brand with included finishing tools.

Features
• High resolution prints
• Fully enclosed printing
• Included finisher and software
• Multi-format support

Best for
Creative professionals and boutique brands

Pricing

The Roland VersaSTUDIO BT-12 complete bundle includes the BT-12 printer, HB-12 finisher (valued at $995), complete ink set, A4 cassette tray, cleaning and maintenance kit, $500 in SoFontsy designs, Roland Design Software, and lifetime product support.

5. Epson Surecolor F1070 Hybrid DTG & DTF Printer

Overview

The Epson SureColor F1070 breaks new ground as the first hybrid DTG and DTF combo printer designed for desktop environments. With PrecisionCore Micro TFP printhead technology and next-generation UltraChrome DG2 ink, it delivers exceptional versatility.

What it is
A hybrid DTG/DTF machine for broader garment and transfer workflows.

Features
• Hybrid DTG + DTF printing
• UltraChrome DG2 inks
• Automatic garment height adjustment
• Remote monitoring support

Best for
Multi-purpose print businesses and shops scaling services

Pricing

The Epson SureColor F1070 base bundle is priced at $6,495.00 (reduced from $7,495.00). The comprehensive bundle includes the F1070 printer, 250ml full ink set, 10″x12″ garment platen with hoop, maintenance components, exclusive 1-year preferred exchange warranty, and national on-site service within 12-24 hours.

6. SYXINGL A3 DTG & DTF Printer Multifunction

Overview

The SYXINGL A3 Printer Multifunction is perfect for bringing your creative ideas to life. With DTG and DTF capabilities, you can print directly onto white clothes and use heat transfer on colored fabrics.

What it is
A multifunction printer combining direct printing and transfer capabilities.

Features
• DTG + DTF support
• Wide fabric compatibility
• Easy operation
• Pre-assembled system

Best for
Small businesses bridging print and transfer services

Pricing

Unlock the power of printing with SYXINGL’s cutting-edge A3 Printer Multifunction for a one-time payment of only $5,299.00. With Affirm, you can make monthly payments of $190.71, depending on your credit score.

7. Brother GTX Pro

Overview

The Brother GTX Pro represents the pinnacle of direct-to-garment engineering expertise, built from the ground up with proprietary firmware, software, and print heads.

What it is
A high-end DTG printer built for speed, productivity, and precision.

Features
• Large max print size
• Dual white ink circulation
• High-speed output
• Advanced platen options

Best for
Medium to high-volume print shops

Pricing

The Brother GTX Pro is competitively priced at $28,999.00, positioning it in the mid-range professional DTG market. Given its extensive feature set, it provides excellent value for medium to high-volume operations.

8. DTG Digital M6 Direct to Garment Printer

Overview

The DTG Digital M6 represents the culmination of 10 years of garment printing research and development, designed specifically for industrial applications requiring multiple garment printing and fashion panel decoration.

What it is
An industrial DTG system optimized for high throughput and scalability.

Features
• 4-2-1 platen system
• Large print area
• High-speed industrial printheads
• iQ Interweave banding reduction

Best for
Large production, garment manufacturers

Pricing

The DTG Digital M6 is positioned as an industrial solution with pricing that reflects its advanced capabilities and production capacity. The complete system includes on-site installation, 2-day training, multiple platens, enhanced starter kit.

9. Epson SureColor F2100 DTG Printer

Overview

The next-generation Epson SureColor F2100 DTG Printer is the perfect solution for any digital textile printing business. It combines Epson’s PrecisionCore TFP printhead, UltraChrome DG inks, and advanced garment imaging technology. 

What it is
A proven, high-quality garment printer suitable for small to medium operations.

Features
• Vibrant UltraChrome DG inks
• Easy setup and operation
• Ethernet & USB connectivity
• Durable platen design

Best for
Growing apparel businesses

Pricing

Currently priced at $9,995, the SureColor F2100 is a cost-effective option for any business that wants to upgrade its digital garment printing equipment.

For those wanting to negotiate a lower price, check back frequently or contact them directly.

10. Anajet RICOH Ri 2000

Overview

Get the Anajet RICOH Ri 2000 and bring your DTG business to the next level. It boasts several settings for fast print speed, simplified maintenance, and a full-feature set designed for the power user.  

What it is
A professional DTG system with strong performance and discount availability.

Features
• High-speed print capability
• Strong print quality
• Optional financing
• Professional support network

Best for
High-volume shops and enterprise use

Pricing

Grab the Anajet RICOH Ri 2000 DTG Printer for a remarkably discounted price tag of $16K. Payment plans are available with approved credit, and you should expect a monthly payment ranging from $1,300 to $1,400. 

11. Azon Tex Pro DTG Printer

Overview

Azon Tex Pro DTG Printer is a cutting-edge solution for businesses or entrepreneurs looking to print full-color designs onto textiles with unmatched adhesion quality.

What it is
A robust DTG printer capable of printing onto diverse textiles.

Features
• Full-color textile printing
• Strong adhesion performance
• Wide material compatibility

Best for
Businesses printing varied garment types

Pricing

FAQs

What makes a DTG printer different from screen printing?

DTG prints digitally onto garments without screens, making it ideal for small runs and full-color designs without setup fees.

Do DTG printers only work on cotton?

DTG works best on high-cotton or cotton-rich blends; polyester may require pretreatment or hybrid systems.

Are hybrid DTG/DTF printers worth it?

Yes. They increase versatility by allowing both direct garment prints and transfers from the same machine.

What should I consider before buying a DTG printer?

Consider print volume, garment types, maintenance costs, and total cost of ownership.

Can beginners use DTG printers?

Entry-level models with intuitive software and compact form factors are ideal for beginners.

Final Thoughts

DTG printers are a game-changing investment for small businesses in 2026, allowing you to create high-quality designs with minimal effort.

From fast and efficient printing to affordability and ease of use, these 11 printers have it all – so take your business to the next level with the latest digital printing technology!