DTG vs. Screen Printing: Which Is More Profitable?

If you're launching a custom apparel business or expanding your print shop, choosing between DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printing and screen printing is a crucial decision. Both methods have their strengths, but when it comes to profitability, which one wins in 2025?

Let’s break down DTG vs. screen printing from a business perspective—covering startup costs, production speed, customization options, and profit margins.

1. Initial Investment: DTG vs. Screen Printing

DTG Printing:

• Requires a DTG printer, pretreatment machine, heat press, and ink.

• Entry-level models start around $3,000, while professional options can go up to $20,000+.

• Easier to get started with minimal space.

✅ Ideal for small businesses and print-on-demand models.

Screen Printing:

• Requires a screen printing press, screens, inks, dryers, and chemicals.

• Setup costs are lower per unit but higher when printing many colors or designs.

• Takes more physical space and manual labor.

✅ Better for bulk production of the same design.

2. Production Speed and Workflow

Screen Printing:

• Faster for large batches—once the screens are set up, the production rate is very high.

• However, the setup process is time-consuming and labor-intensive.

DTG Printing:

• Slower per shirt but perfect for small orders or custom one-offs.

• No screens or complex setup—just upload the design and print.

➡️ Winner for speed in bulk: Screen printing ➡️ Winner for on-demand: DTG printing

3. Customization and Design Flexibility

DTG excels in printing:

• Complex, full-color graphics.

• Photorealistic images.

• Custom one-off designs without extra setup.

Screen printing is limited by:

• Number of colors.

• Setup time for each design.

• Difficulty in achieving high-detail photo prints.

✅ For businesses offering personalization and niche designs, DTG wins hands down.

4. Profit Margin Comparison

DTG printing shines in low-volume, high-margin business models like:

• Print-on-demand stores

• Personalized gifts

• Niche t-shirt brands

Screen printing becomes more profitable with:

• Large wholesale orders

• Promotional apparel

• Uniforms and events

5. Which Is More Profitable for You?

✅ Choose DTG Printing if:

• You're a small business or solopreneur.

• You want to offer unique, custom designs.

• You're selling online or through marketplaces.

• You aim to start with minimal staff and space.

✅ Choose Screen Printing if:

• You have high-volume orders consistently.

• You want to reduce cost per unit for bulk jobs.

• You’re focused on simple designs with few colors.

Final Verdict: DTG Is the Winner for Flexibility and Profit in 2025

While both printing methods have their place, DTG printing is more profitable for small businesses, startups, and online entrepreneurs in 2025. The ability to offer personalization, reduce setup time, and adapt to market trends gives DTG a serious edge.

Looking for a reliable DTG printer to launch or grow your apparel business?