Screen Printing vs. DTF – Cost, Quality, and Speed Compared

Screen Printing vs. DTF – Cost, Quality, and Speed Compared

In the world of custom apparel, one of the most common questions is:
Should I choose screen printing or DTF printing?

Both methods have their place, but if you're looking for a printing solution that offers full-color flexibility, faster turnaround, and better cost efficiency — DTF (Direct to Film) is quickly becoming the go-to for businesses and creators alike.

In this guide, we compare Screen Printing vs. DTF based on cost, print quality, and production speed to help you make the right decision for your brand or business.

🖨️ What Is Screen Printing?

Screen printing involves creating a mesh stencil (screen) for each color in the design. Ink is pushed through the screen onto the fabric. It’s best suited for bulk orders with limited colors and has been the industry standard for decades.

💡 What Is DTF (Direct to Film) Printing?

DTF printing uses a digital inkjet printer to print artwork onto a film. The design is then transferred to garments using heat and pressure. It's ideal for multi-color, small-run, and on-demand production — no screens required.

Explore DTF products at:

💰 COST: Which One Is More Affordable?

🎨 Screen Printing:

  • Setup Costs: High (screens, films, ink mixing)

  • Per-Unit Cost: Low for large orders (50+ units)

  • Limitations: Expensive for small runs or full-color designs

  • Hidden Costs: Screen charges, screen cleaning, setup time

🖨️ DTF Printing:

  • Setup Costs: $0 – just upload and print

  • Per-Unit Cost: Slightly higher for large batches, but much lower for small runs

  • Best For: 1 to 500 units, with no minimums

  • Real Cost Advantage: No waste, no unused transfers, no overstock

✅ Winner: DTF for small businesses, startups, and custom orders
💡 Build your custom DTF sheet online

🎨 QUALITY: Which One Looks Better?

Screen Printing:

  • Great for solid color designs

  • Ink sinks into fabric – plastisol feel

  • May fade or crack over time

  • Limited detail and gradients

DTF Transfers:

  • Photorealistic resolution

  • Print full-color images, gradients, shadows

  • CMYK+White for vibrant edge-to-edge color

  • Stretchable, washable, long-lasting

🎯 Upload your own gang sheet and experience the color sharpness of DTF for yourself.

✅ Winner: DTF for full-color, detailed, and high-resolution designs

⚡ SPEED: Which Is Faster?

Screen Printing:

  • Design setup takes hours

  • Multiple screens need to be burned

  • Ideal for batches that don't need fast turnaround

  • Slower if you frequently change designs

DTF Printing:

  • No setup time

  • Orders ship in 24–48 hours

  • Perfect for on-demand drops or fast turnarounds

  • Press and ship same-day if needed

📍 Need fast fulfillment? We offer local pickup in Humble, TX or quick shipping anywhere in the USA.

✅ Winner: DTF by a mile for speed and simplicity

🧢 Which Should You Choose?

Feature Screen Printing DTF Printing
Best For Large batches (100+) Small to mid batches (1–500)
Setup Time Hours None
Design Flexibility Limited colors Unlimited colors
Fabric Options Mostly cotton & poly Cotton, poly, blends & more
Cost Efficiency Bulk only Any order size
Design Changes Expensive Easy and instant
Turnaround Time Days 24–48 hours or less

🛍️ Why Customers Prefer DTF at Express DTF Supply

  • 🎯 No minimum order

  • 💨 24–48 hour production time

  • 🖨️ Full-color gang sheets

  • 🛒 Fast shipping or pickup in Humble, TX

  • ✅ Simple online ordering

Get started now with:

Need stickers for tumblers or hard surfaces? Try:

🗣️ What Our Clients Are Saying

“I used to rely on screen printing, but switching to DTF saved me so much time and money.”
– Tyler G., Apparel Brand Owner

“We do short runs for multiple designs. DTF is the only way we can stay profitable and fast.”
– Amanda P., Print Shop Partner

🙋 Need Help Deciding?

Still unsure which method is best for your project?
Check out our FAQs, About Us, or Contact Us — we're happy to guide you.