Best DTG Printers for Small Businesses in 2026

Quick answer: Entry-level DTG printers, which are converted OEM Epson-based machines, run roughly $3,500-$10,000. Mid-level, factory-built machines run about $15,000-$25,000, and industrial systems start around $25,000 and can climb past $100,000. Which tier makes sense for you comes down to daily order volume more than starting budget alone.

New to DTG? Start with DTG Printing Explained before using this guide to shop by tier.

Entry-Level DTG Printers ($3,500-$10,000)

Most entry-level DTG printers are commercial Epson inkjets that have been converted to direct-to-garment machines, with a manufacturer-built platen system and bundled RIP software replacing the original paper feed. Despite the lower price, print quality on these machines can rival much more expensive equipment, which makes this tier a common starting point for new print-on-demand businesses and side hustles. DTGPro's own DTG PRO FUSION V2 and Ricoh Ri100 are representative examples in this range.

Mid-Level DTG Printers ($15,000-$25,000)

Mid-level machines are built entirely by their manufacturer rather than converted from an off-the-shelf printer, which drives up the price even though output quality is often close to entry-level machines. This tier is aimed at print shops that need faster throughput, larger platens, or more automated maintenance than an entry-level machine offers. The Epson F2000/F2100 and Ricoh Ri1000 series are commonly cited names in this range, though bundle pricing varies a lot depending on included platens, software, and training.

Industrial DTG Printers ($25,000+)

Industrial systems are built for continuous, high-volume production, with names like Kornit, the Ricoh Ri2000 and Ri4000, the Brother GTX PRO, and the Epson F3070 showing up at this level. The Ricoh Ri4000 in particular stands out for automating the pretreatment step that every other tier still does by hand or with a separate machine, which cuts labor significantly on high-volume runs. At this price point, get a hands-on demo and talk through your actual order volume with the seller before committing.

Don't Overlook a DTG/DTF Hybrid

If you want to print directly onto garments and produce transfers for other surfaces, hybrid machines exist that do both from one printer, which can be more cost-effective than buying two dedicated machines while you're still building order volume. See our DTF vs. DTG vs. Screen Printing comparison to think through which capability matters more for your business.

What Should Be Included in the Bundle

At any tier, confirm your bundle includes RIP software, platens sized for the garments you'll print most, a pretreatment machine or sprayer if you're printing on dark garments, and onboarding or training, since DTG has a real learning curve around pretreatment ratios and curing settings. Many DTG equipment sellers, including DTGPro, also offer financing and a limited warranty worth factoring into your comparison alongside the sticker price.

Once you've picked a tier, budget for ongoing ink, pretreatment, and maintenance costs too; see our DTG printing cost breakdown for what it takes to keep one of these machines running profitably.

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