Best T-shirt Printing Machine Reviews and Buying Guide

Decided to start a small t-shirt printing business? Custom designed t-shirts or just want to buy t-shirt printing machine to have some lovely imprints and logos on your unique gifts?

If so, but can’t decide about the best t-shirt printer machine for yourself, as there are tons of these machines in the market. You’re probably looking for the best t-shirt Printing Machine reviews and you are at the right place!

There’s no need to panic, we are here to help you. Our research team has spent lots of hours looking for some of the best t-shirt press machine currently available on the market.

If you’re suddenly struck by the idea of making custom T-shirts then you probably want a basic knowledge of these machines.  Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered on this.

We will look at various aspects such as size, cost, portability, durability and color stations which determine the print quality and life of the machine. Before we check out the machines let’s have a brief look at the some of the most basic features and functionality which are required for your purpose.

Best t-shirt printer machine Comparison – Our Top 5 Pics

It’s obvious not all of these machines are for the hobbyist, as some of the best t-shirt printers have a premium price tag.

Considering all the factors in our observation, we have made a list of top 5 best t-shirt printer 2018

Contents

Best T-Shirt Printer Machine Features & Reviews

Here are the Reviews of top 10 t-shirt printing machines and their features with pros & cons

#01. ePhotoInc 15 x 15″ T-Shirt Heat Transfer Press Sublimation Machine

ePhotoInc Swing Away 9 x 12 T Shirt Heat Press Machine Transfer...
  • Brand New swing away Transfer Heat Press Machine by ePhotoInc. Voltage:110V Power: 1200W Heat Press...
  • Heat Press Machine is fully equipped with latest digital Temperature and Time Display Controller,...
  • This ePhotoInc swing away T Shirt Heat Press machine arrives fully assembled and ready to use out of...

This is the last product on our list, and just for the records, it is the biggest heat press on our list today. This clamshell giant offers you an enormous 15 X 15 area, which greater than any other t-shirt press machine and is sufficient enough to take care of your most substantial print requirements. The clamshell design brings the compactness to the table thus making it ideal for small spaces.

The press feels very much sturdy and is made from steel making it one of the most massive presses on the list. It also features adjustable pressure knobs to ensure proper pressure depending on the thickness and nature of the substrate. This press comes pre-assembled and is ready to be used out of the box. This machine is the answer to all you heat transfer need as it works in perfectly with almost every substrate.

Special Features

There are various reasons to consider this press; let’s have a look at few of them.

  • Durability: If you want your new heat press to be durable then your search is over, this press is designed to last. It is made from steel its and is robust.
  • Pressure control: The adjustable pressure knob allows you to easily control the pressure depending on the substrate material
  • Digital controls: The parameters such as temperature and timer setting are controlled digitally, giving the best results
  • Larger range: The 0-999 second timer and 32-500-degree Fahrenheit temperature is capable enough to deliver all kinds of print requirements

There are other features of this press and we will discuss them as we go on. 


Pros

  • Has digital control and electronic timer
  • Fahrenheit and Celsius’s scale is selectable
  • Features adjustable multi-spring balancer
  • Teflon coated heating platen to prevent scorching.
  • Even good for larger garments





Cons

  • Poor user manual



#02. Fancierstudio Power Heat press Digital 15 x 15 Sublimation – Best printing Machine For T Shirts

Fancierstudio Heat press Digital Heat Press 15 x 15 Sublimation Heat...
  • Voltage: 110 volt Power: 1400 watts, Heat Press Style Clampshell
  • Temperature Range: 0-500
  • Electronic time and heat control

If you are going to start a commercial customized T-shirt business, then, this should be your first choice. This machine offers the perfect blend of versatility, durability, and affordability. It has a compact design and does not require large space. Talking about versatility, this professional t-shirt printing machine is ideal for imprints on fabric and also handles canvas, puzzles and many other things with much ease.

The 15” X 15” surface area of the element gives you plenty to work with much larger projects. Moreover, the heat platen it is glued with an additional layer of silicon rubber base. It offers you a high-temperature range and can reach up to a maximum of 700 degrees Fahrenheit which is more than you usually require. The timer control has ranged from 0 to 999 seconds and is controlled electronically which makes it more precise. The overall build looks sturdy and should last for the decent amount of time.

Thanks to the high efficiency of the machine you can recover its cost with few weeks and sooner or later you may get addicted to printing with this machine because it’s easy to use. Given its performance and features, it should be quite expensive, but that’s not the case as it is lighter on your purse.

Special Features:

  • Electronically controlled timer and heater, precise control
  • Machine with highest temperature range available in this price range
  • Adjustable pressure and silicon-gel based board

Pros

  • Highly versatile
  • Larger size for imprinting
  • Best temperature range
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable
  • Reliable





Cons

  • A bit heavy
  • Initial smell



 

#03. PowerPress Industrial-Quality Digital Sublimation T-Shirt Heat Press

PowerPress Industrial-Quality Digital Sublimation Heat Press Machine...
  • Teflon coated Heating Plate: 15x15 inch. Voltage: 110V. Power: 1400 W. Digital Control Board...
  • Removable Silicon Mat: The silicon mat is not glued on the bottom board. Advantages: Washable (Easy...
  • Bottom handle: When the heating plate is closed with high temperature, the shape of the machine...

If you are looking to buy a heat press that will last you a long time than look no further than the PowerPress Industrial-Quality Digital Sublimation Press. Currently, it is the best seller on Amazon and what makes it such a desirable heat press machine is its blend of durability and versatility to print on any kind of flat surface at such affordable price. For a T-shirt business, this machine will make an ideal choice. This heat press can transfer excellent quality prints not only on fabric but also on items such as customized mats, ceramics plates, license plates and wood with quite ease.

The heat press offers a 15” X 15” area of the element which is quite nice even if you work on some of larger sized projects. The glued silicone gel board and even heat distribution through the element, it results in high-quality print every single time. It offers you a temperature range from 0 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, an electronic time control option between 0 to 999 seconds with an alarming system. The machine has a power rating of 1800 W and works even with 110 V supply.

If you are looking for a portable device this machine should be your first choice as it weighs a mere 53 pounds and very easy to carry. It’s also the best t-shirt printing machine in this price range. The board is made from scratch resistant and quality material; it’s easy to use and fits well in your budget. Make your choice before it goes out of stock.

Special Features:

  • Gives precise control thanks to it’s electronically controlled timer and heater
  • Comes with adjustable pressure thus it provides option for independent configuration for various printing materials
  • Has a specially designed rubber base to provide better grip even on slippery surfaces

Pros

  • Highly versatile
  • 15×15-inch platform
  • Better temperature and heat range
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable
  • Reliable
  • Efficient digital and electronically controlled





Cons

  • Smells during first few uses
  • Temperature range could be better



 

#04. USCutter 15″x15″ Digital Heat Press Machine, T-Shirts, Vinyl, Non-Stick Sheet (STARTER BUNDLE)

15"x15" USCutter Digital Heat Press Machine, T-Shirts, Vinyl, Non...
  • Includes: USCutter Digital Heat Press, 2 Tshirts, 5 Sheets Siser EasyWeed Vinyl, Non-stick Sheet
  • Large Digital LCD Display - Preset desired time and temperature control for precise operation
  • Heavy Duty - stable and supported by rigid steel frame which is built to last

If you are looking for a press to print t-shirts that can be used right out of the box, then look no further. This t-shirt printing machine features a Clamshell design and provides enough space to work on T-shirts and other fabrics. The Clamshell design requires a smaller space as compared to other models and it’s simpler to operate.

The entire machine is made of high-grade aluminum and features a high-density heating board which heats up pretty quickly. Overall the machine is solidly built and is quite stable as a steel frame has supported it. It comes with a replacement sheet, five transfer vinyl, and two cotton T-shirts for testing purpose. Also, it features a large LCD along with multiple predefined operation parameters.

This is one of the heat presses for a very reasonable price currently available in the market. The process is quite straightforward and easy, and you would have no problems setting the temperature and pressure. Also, you should check out for the warranty period. The warranty is one of the indicators for the customers for better quality.

Special Features:

  • Clamshell design for better work space management
  • Sturdy and durable design for longer lifespan
  • Comes fully assembled

Pros

  • Quick heat up
  • Decent size
  • Durable
  • Digital control panel





Cons

  • No detachable cradle
  • Inconsistent timer



 

#5. F2C Pro 6 in 1 Combo

F2C 12" x 15" Heat Press Machine Pro 6 in 1 Swing Away Digital Heat...
  • Full 360-degree rotation and professional swing-away design.Note: If the heating plate is not flat,...
  • Non-stick surface with detached upgraded aluminium alloy cradle for use of the mugs, hats & pads...
  • Power input:110v - with US-standard grounded plug;Wattage :1000W

Next, in line, we have a heat press made by one of the most renowned manufacturers and its none other than the FC2. The FC2 pro 6 in 1 come has been engineered to give you complete freedom to work with any design.  It is the ideal machine for someone whose need is versatility and works on almost all the business substrate.

The press offers you a standard 12 X 15 non-stick heating platen which is decent for most of the requirements. The presses output is 1000W and comes with a 4.5’ length power cord. The Clamshell design makes it ideal for any compact space.

Special Features

Some of the significant advantages of the  F2C Pro are mentioned below.

  • Versatility: This is a 6 in 1 machine which means that you can print not only T-shirts but also plates, mugs, hats, number plates and many more. It can work with most of the fabrics like garment, glass, ceramic or even metal.
  • Size: It offers a vast working are about 12X15 inch but also with an adjustable height from 13.5 to 17 inches.
  • Digital controls: The vital printing parameters such as transfer temperature and transfer time are controlled digitally, giving the best results
  • Very vast range: A 0-999 second digital timer and 32-500-degree Fahrenheit temperature is capable enough to process almost every kind of print requirement

There are other features which speak for this press, we will discuss them as we go on. 


Pros

  • Features digital control and electronic timer
  • Independently selectable Fahrenheit and Celsius’s scale
  • Adjustable multi-spring balance to different needs
  • Features a Non-stick sheet for heat platen
  • Adjustable height based on thickness of material





Cons

  • Priced slightly higher
  • Insufficient user manual



 

#6. Zeny Heat Press 12″ x 15″ Pro 6 in 1 Combo Heat Press Machine – Best t-shirt printing machine

ZENY Heat Press Machine for T Shirt 12x15 Inch 6 in 1 Combo kit Swing...
495 Reviews
ZENY Heat Press Machine for T Shirt 12x15 Inch 6 in 1 Combo kit Swing...
  • Advanced digital combo heat press machine can transfer colorful pictures and characters of...
  • Multifunctional heat press machine, LED display.This all-in-one press can be used for T-shirts,...
  • Adjustable multi-spring pressure knob,Full 360-degree rotation of swing-away design,Allows the...

Well if you are looking for the Best heat press machine that is also multipurpose, then Zeny Pro 6 in 1 Combo Heat Press Pro is for you. It has a 12” X 15” Teflon coated platen press element which quite significant to design your T-shirt. As the name suggests it’s a 6 in 1 combo and comes packed with one Hat press, two Mug presses, two Plate presses, one Silicon pad and one cotton Pad with a Fully assembled machine with platen plates.

It has an adjustable temperature scale in which you can choose between Fahrenheit and Celsius. Also, it has an adjustable multi-spring balancer which allows pressure to be distributed more evenly across the platen when closed. The built-in structural support maintains flatness during operation. Its cradle is made from upgraded aluminum thus offering even heating and can be detached to use mug elements.

It offers wide temperature range in between 0 to 250 centigrade and timer option from 0 to 999 seconds and can be easily adjusted depending on the thickness of the material on which you will work. It’s a one of a kind device and is a favorite among its users.

Special Features

  • Adjustable temperature scale between Fahrenheit and Centigrade
  • Adjustable multi-spring balance for even pressure distribution
  • Detachable cradle for mug elements and multiple attachments
  • Built-in structural support to maintain flatness while operation

Pros

  • Adjustable temperature scale
  • Offers even heating
  • Lightweight
  • Removable cradle
  • Easy to use





Cons

  • Small plate size
  • Priced slightly higher



 

#07. DG HEAT PRESS Digital Sublimation – Best affordable t-shirt printing Machine

Fancierstudio DG Digital Heat Press Pull Out Lower Platen 5.5" Slide...
  • Fancierstudio DG Heat Press 15 inch by 15 inch heat press. Voltage: 110V (standard US and Canada)...
  • Temperature Range: 0-500 degrees F; Time Range:0-999 s
  • Electronic time and heat control; precise time set-up. Voltage:110V Power:1500 W

If you are on a small budget, but still want one fo the best t-shirt printing machines, than Fancierstudio DG15 is tailored to your needs. This machine is an industrial grade, heavy duty space saving Clamshell model which comes at a much affordable price. This beast is capable of transferring prints not only on fabric but also on wood, license plates, ceramic and many other materials without tampering them.

It features a large 15” X 15” heating element which is non-stick in nature and is Teflon coated to prevent scorching of transfer thus it does not require additional silicon or Teflon sheets. It has a wide temperature range up to 500 Fahrenheit and also has an adjustable pressure setting for materials of different thickness. Also, it houses an alarm and timer system which work in pair to let you know that work has been completed.

It is delivered fully assembled and is ready to use as soon as you unbox it. Heats up evenly and makes your imprinting work quite comfortable. You won’t be disappointed by its performance as it works like a charm.

Special Features:

  • Pre-installed Teflon Coated heat platen
  • Easy to open and close handle with spring assist
  • Electronic temperature and time controller

Pros

  • Large heating surface
  • Silicon gel based board
  • Full range loading pressure
  • Durable
  • Well priced





Cons

  • Pressure consistency
  • Minor alarm issues



 

#08. Superland 8 in 1 Digital

No products found.

Well, you have looked at the top three products and still didn’t make up your mind then hang on we have got something unique to you. The Superland has got the best feature from all the top models combined into one. If versatility is your need, then this may be the heat press from you. This 8 in 1 heat press helps you deal with every type of transfer required thanks to its multiple attachments.

 

This heat press features a Swingaway design thus provides a safer working environment for the user, at the same time offers even pressure and complete access to the working area. The press offers you a 12 X 15 non-stick heating element which is big enough to take care of your needs. It also features a detachable cradle which is made from upgraded aluminum alloy. This makes it lightweight compared to other machines. In addition, it features a detachable lower platform which is elevated with dual support.

Special Features

There are many reasons to consider this press; let’s have a look at few of them.

  • Versatility: This is an 8 in 1 machine which means it will work with everything you throw at it may be it T-shirts, ceramics, mugs, hats, number plates and many more. Also, it can work with glass, ceramic or even metal.
  • Pressure control: The adjustable pressure knob which lets you easily control the pressure depending on the substrate material
  • Digital controls: The vital printing parameters such as transfer temperature and transfer time are controlled digitally, giving optimum results
  • Very vast range: A 0-999 second digital timer and 32-500-degree Fahrenheit temperature is capable enough to process almost every kind of print requirement

There are other advantages of this press which we will discuss later. 


Pros

  • Features digital control and electronic timer
  • Independently selectable Fahrenheit and Celsius’s scale
  • Features adjustable multi-spring balancer
  • Teflon coated heating platen to prevent scorching.
  • Has adjustable feet for uneven floors





Cons

  • Slightly expensive



 

#9. Fancierstudio Swing Away 9″x12″ Coated with Sheet

Fancierstudio Heat Press 9-by-12-Inch Heat Press Swing Away Heat Press...
  • 9 X 12 Fancierstudio Power Heat Press with Teflon sheet included
  • Heat Press Style: Swing Away (Green Black Color)
  • Temperature Range: 0 - 500 F

If your business requirement is small and you are looking forward to a compact machine that can still deliver quality direct to garment prints, then this is the heat press for you. Thanks to its swing away design the upper heating element moves entirely away from the user making it completely safe. To ensure smoother transfer, the heat press has been provided with the additional base plate.

The press has been designed as per modern standers, so it’s going to last for a longer time. Moreover, the additional coating on the heating element prevents a lot of wear and tear. The press offers you a 9 X 12 non-stick heating platen which is enough to take care of your needs. The press is compact and yet powerful with a given output of 1800W.

Special Features

There are various many reasons to consider this press; let’s have a look at a few of them.

  • Durability: This machine is designed to last, I mean look at its sturdy construction. The additional coating or baseplate increases its longevity
  • Pressure control: The adjustable pressure knob allows you to easily control the pressure depending on the substrate material
  • Digital controls: The vital printing parameters such as transfer temperature and transfer time are controlled digitally, giving optimum results
  • Very vast range: A 0-999 second digital timer and 32-500-degree Fahrenheit temperature is capable enough to process almost every kind of print requirement

There are many reasons to consider this press; let’s have a look at a few of them.


Pros

  • Features digital control and electronic timer
  • Independently selectable Fahrenheit and Celsius’s scale
  • Silicone gel lined baseboard to provide a soft base for substrate to place on
  • Teflon coated heating platen to prevent scorching.
  • Very durable as built with industrial strength





Cons

  • Slightly smaller in size
  • Insufficient user manual



 

#10. Mophorn Heat Press Machine 12×15 inch T-Shirt Heat Press Transfer Combo Swing-Away Presser 

No products found.

With significant technological advancements in recent years, a heat press has become a very common thing for the hobbyist as they have become more affordable. As almost everyone has a heat press, you need the one which can take care of all your business needs and at the same time must be cost-efficient.  If you are looking for a replacement or a new machine for your business then ShareProfit 12’’ X 15’’ 5 In 1 heat Press Digital Heat Press is ideal for you as it comes pre-assembled and is ready to be used right out of the box.

The swing away design gives you full access to the working area and provides even pressure on the entire surface. The main advantage of the swing away design is that you don’t have to work under heated platen thus avoiding the chances of accidental burns. It features an LCD that shows the present timer and temperature setting. Both the temperature and timer are controlled digitally. The press comes with long arm handles with comfortable rubber grips. There are five different attachments for caps, cups, and others giving you a better option.

Special Features

Below are few highlight features mentioned about the heat press.

  • Versatility: Regardless of the nature of material whether fabric, garment, glass, ceramic or even metal this machine can transfer on any flat surface. Thus it creates opportunities to work on various projects just with a single tool
  • Size: It offers a vast working area which can be entirely used for printing
  • Digital controls: The vital printing parameters such as transfer temperature and transfer time are controlled digitally, giving optimum results
  • Very vast range: A 0-999 second digital timer and 32-500-degree Fahrenheit temperature is capable enough to process almost every kind of print requirement
  • Heavy duty: The machine is built to last and provide the massive number of prints on continuous basis

There are various other features which speak for this press, we will discuss them at some later point in time.


Pros

  • Features digital control and electronic timer
  • You can adjust the multi-spring
  • Features a Non-stick sheet for heat platen
  • Offers a larger working area
  • Ideal for printing on any flat surface
  • Adjustable height based on thickness of material





Cons

  • Priced slightly higher



Features of the Best T-shirt Printing Machines

Below we provide you with some of the most basic yet essential elements of a T-shirt printing machine.

Machine design:

There are three different styles of t-shirt printing machines available- the Clamshell, Swing Away and Draw machine. Each style has their pros and cons, which we dive into below.

a. Clamshell: These are the best machines for T-shirt printing. They employ a hinge design between two plates which open up like a clam where the T-shirt is placed and pressure is applied to transfer the print.

b. Swing Away: In these machines, the upper plate swings away on one side thus revealing the lower plate completely providing complete access to working lower plate and avoiding the danger of touching the heated plate. They require more space but are more production efficient. 

c. Draw: It incorporates a design where the lower plate can be pulled out and provides direct access to the working platform. Here the working surface is moving, so you are required to work more carefully when placing the design.

The Degree of Automation:

Depending on the key aspects which can be programmed a machine may be manual, semi-automatic and fully automatic.

a. Manual: In these types of machines all the elements such as temperature, pressure, and timers have to be manually selected. Also, the press is opened and closed manually. Manual machines come in two forms- the Clamshell and the Swing-Away.

b. Semi-automatic: When using this machine you need to close the press manually. The temperature, pressure, and timers are pre-programmed. Once the transfer process is complete, then it automatically opens up. They are only available in the Clamshell model.

c. Fully Automatic: These are more popularly known as vacuum or hydraulic presses; they control the heat, timer, and pressure digitally such that every time you get the perfect print. These machines have a much higher rate of production and are much easier to use. Automatic machines are available in both Swing Away and Clamshell models.

Machine Size:

Machine size is one of the most influencing factors when deciding which model will suit your requirements the best. The size of the machine depends on these following factors –

  • The product which you will be printing
  • The space available to you
  • Portability- in the sense that if it’s permanently fixed or requires to moved

Here, in this case, it’s true “the larger, the better,” as it would allow you to print on larger items such as towels or bed sheets and others but the other hand larger machines are tougher to move. Whereas if you had a restricted space and confined to print only smaller items, then a little machine would be a better choice for you, also they are easy to move.

Temperature Range:

It is one of the factors that decide your printing range i.e. what types of materials you can print on. If you are looking to work on various products, then you will require a machine with greater temperature range which can quickly adjust to the printing needs. Always be well informed and don’t get caught up in a single idea.

Versatility:

There are many heat transfer materials and media available for printing other than the sublimation prints (which are more popular.) There are multiple choices available for you to select. Some machines are adaptable to different materials and can provide quality prints.

Durability:

If you’re going to invest a hefty sum in a printing machine, and your business will depend on it, durability comes into question. Your machine should be capable of delivering a high volume of work and must not need frequent repairs and maintenance.

By now you have learned about the features of the great tee shirt printer machine. Now take a look at some of the FAQ about t-shirt printer machine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Why should I purchase a quality t-shirt machine?

Seriously! Are you asking this question? With a high-quality heat printing machine, you are able to print a high-quality logo, design or other graphical inscription and be ahead of the competitors in the market.

  • Which is better heat transfer or screen printing?

It depends on the quantity and design. If you are planning to print a larger quantity of t-shirts with a design, then screen printing is the best, economical & efficient choice. On the contrary, a t-shirt press machine should be your pick for customizing shorter quantity t-shirts with unique designs.

  • How much is a T-shirt Printer machine?

The average T-shirt Printing machine cost will depend on inflation but you can find a t-shirt printing machine for sale within a fair budget of $180 to $230. The high-end machines will force you to up your budget accordingly.

  • What are the materials used in screen printing?

First and foremost, you need a T-shirt! Other T-shirt printing equipment that you will need includes a screen and frame, fabric ink, a photo emulsion and sensitizer, a 250-watt bulb, sponge, and a pair of latex gloves for safety. Additionally, to prepare your screen, you will need a dark room.

  • How does T-shirt screen printing work?

A t-shirt printing printer is different from a conventional paper printer. First, you print the negative of your design onto the t-shirt press machine screen. Then, you place it on your t-shirt correctly and press. Here you go! Ink(s) will roll over your screen design and take over its territory off your Tee. Dry it off and you are done.

  • How much does it cost to print a shirt?

Roughly 5-10 bucks are more than enough for single colored prints on cotton t-shirts. For multicolor prints, you will be spending more. It totally depends on the ink’s you intend to use. However, if you go for a bulk purchase, it will save a big portion of the projected cost.

  • Can I make money from printing T-shirts?

YES, you can. Just be creative with the design and start with any of the popular niches. It’s super easy! You can kick-start your business with a very little investment and minimum production. With the help of social media and the niche-specific communities, you can even promote your designs for free and meet sales! Think yourself trying. Read our guide to have a step-by-step instruction.

  • What is the best t-shirt printing machine?

Your necessity leads you the Best machine for printing t-shirts for your need. It varies usually. If you are an individual hobbyist or beginner, you can choose a small and cheap t-shirt printing machine. If you are a t-shirt printing business owner you need a machine with at least a year warranty with a larger press size.

 

Final Thoughts on the Best T-Shirt Printing Machine 

When you are searching for the best heat-printing think of your needs and business demands. Decide a decent budget which you can spend on the machine. Don’t hesitate to spend some extra bucks to get a quality product.

 

With that being said any of the machines on our list are more than sufficient to fulfill all your business needs, but I would pick Zeny Heat Press as the best machine to print t-shirts for starters. Although it’s more expensive compared to the others it provided me with other option to print on more than just fabric. It performed well and allowed me to print huge loads continuously without compromising print quality.

 

Although, if you want a lower priced machine there are many places that offer used t-shirt printing machines. You can always buy from them to start.

Last update on 2023-09-17 at 21:43 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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