DTF vs DTG: What is the main difference?
Release time：
2025-07-11
The two abbreviations DTF and DTG are very similar, and both of these technologies use inkjet printers with white ink. What are the differences between them?
Investment
Compared with DTG printers, the investment for DTF printing is very low. The price of a DTF kit is almost one-tenth of that of a DTG printer.
Production time
DTF printing first prints patterns on the film. Then, you must add DTF powder. After that, the printed film needs to be cured and the pattern transferred from the film to the fabric. DTG printing allows the printer to directly print patterns on the clothing, which significantly shortens the production time compared to DTF printing.
Printing texture and effect
DTF printing has a slight "plastic" feel, similar to HTV or screen printing transfer. However, the ink has excellent elasticity and can prevent the printing from cracking when the clothing is stretched. DTG printing can completely absorb the ink into the clothing, thus achieving a more delicate effect and better integration with the fabric.
White strength and purity
In this case, the white produced by DTG printing is purer and more intense. While the white produced by DTF printing is not as pure and intense.
Cost of consumables
The production costs of both technologies are low. Although DTF printing seems more expensive because it consumes more consumables during the printing process, the final cost of T-shirts printed with this technology is slightly lower than those printed with DTG printing.
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