Procolored vs. DTG Pro DTF Printers: Which Should You Buy in 2026?

Procolored is one of the most searched DTF printer brands online, largely thanks to aggressive marketing and a wide lineup of budget-to-mid-range machines. But "most searched" isn't the same as "best value," and it's worth comparing what you're actually getting before choosing one over a manufacturer-direct alternative like DTG Pro. A hands-on review from Hackster.io.

How Procolored Positions Itself

Procolored sells a range of DTF and UV printers, from smaller desktop units up to larger industrial-style machines, generally marketed toward hobbyists and small print shops looking for a lower entry price than legacy DTF brands. Their printers are popular partly because they're widely available through major online marketplaces, which makes them an easy first search result for anyone starting to research DTF equipment.

Where a Manufacturer-Direct Alternative Differs

DTG Pro builds its DTF printers, like the DTFLine VANTAGE, around industrial-grade print heads (the same Epson DX7 head used in machines from established brands that often cost over $10,000), then sells manufacturer-direct without the reseller and marketing markups that get added onto many big-name and import machines. In practice, that means the printhead technology and speed specs are aimed more at small business production runs than hobby-level output.

Specs Worth Comparing Before You Buy

• Printhead type. This determines resolution, speed, and how long the head lasts before it needs replacing. Ask specifically what generation printhead is used, not just the brand name. Our DTF printer maintenance guide covers this in detail.
• Print speed (sq ft/hour). This is what actually determines how many shirts you can realistically turn out in a day.
• White ink management. Look for both stirring and continuous circulation, not just one or the other, since this is the main defense against clogging.
• Warranty and support. Imported machines can be harder to get warranty service on if something goes wrong; ask where repairs and replacement parts actually come from.

A Direct Comparison Point

The DTFLine VANTAGE 14" DX7 DTF Printer is currently priced at $3,499.99, includes a built-in film cutter, dual white ink management (stirring and continuous circulation), RIP software, and a 6-month warranty with personalized onboarding. It's built to output up to roughly 18 square feet per hour, positioning it as a step up from most entry-level 13" desktop-converted machines, which is the category most Procolored models compete in.

Bottom Line

Procolored's visibility online makes it a natural first stop when researching DTF printers, but it's worth comparing the actual printhead technology, ink management system, and warranty support before deciding. If you want to see how a manufacturer-direct, industrial-grade alternative stacks up, take a look at the DTFLine VANTAGE before finalizing your decision.