DTG (Direct-to-Garment), also known as digital printing, has transformed the custom apparel industry. Once a novelty, it now stands toe-to-toe with the traditional king of printing: screen printing. But which one is better for your needs?

The Short Answer

We use both techniques daily. They’re reliable, professional options for custom apparel. The choice depends on your specific needs, design, order size, and budget. Let’s break down the differences to help you decide.

What Is Screen Printing?

Screen printing (or silkscreening) involves pushing ink through a mesh stencil (screen) layer by layer, with each color applied separately and cured using heat.

Screen Printing Technology

Modern automatic screen printing machines can produce over 100 shirts per hour. This makes it ideal for high-volume, high-speed production.

Use Cases:

• Large bulk orders
• Single-color logos or text
• Prints on synthetic fabrics (polyester, etc.)
• Specialty inks or effects
• Precise color matching with Pantones

What Is DTG Printing?

Direct-to-Garment printing uses inkjet technology to spray water-based ink directly onto the fabric. Think of it like a printer for T-shirts.

DTG Technology

DTG printers use 4 to 6 colors (CMYK + red/green) to produce full-color images and gradients with incredible detail.

Use Cases:

• Small, on-demand orders
• Full-color designs or photographic elements
• Designs with gradients or blends
• 100% cotton garments
• Soft, lightweight prints

DTG vs. Screen Printing: Feature-by-Feature Comparison

1. Vibrancy

Winner: Screen Printing

• Uses opaque Plastisol inks that create bright, vibrant colors
• Better for dark garments

DTG prints are slightly duller due to water-based inks, though newer machines have improved significantly.

2. Color Blending

Winner: DTG

• Prints smooth gradients and complex blends
• Superior for photorealistic images

Screen printing requires halftones for blending, which can be visible up close.

3. Color Matching

Winner: Screen Printing

• Pantone color matching ensures precision
• Better for brand-specific colors

DTG is limited by CMYK gamut and may struggle with ultra-bright or exact brand colors.

4. Detail Reproduction

Winner: DTG

• High-resolution printing (up to 1200 DPI)
• Excellent for fine lines, textures, and small text

Screen printing can struggle with tiny details, especially over long print runs.

5. Durability

Winner: Screen Printing

• Proven to last decades
• More resistant to fading and cracking

Modern DTG holds up well but may not match screen printing’s long-term durability.

6. Comfort and Feel

Winner: DTG

• Lightweight and soft
• No thick ink buildup

Screen prints are heavier due to Plastisol ink but can be softened with techniques like discharge printing.

7. Versatility

Winner: Screen Printing

• Works on all fabric types (cotton, blends, polyester, etc.)
• More flexible with garment types and print placements

DTG is mostly limited to cotton and standard placements due to equipment constraints.

8. Consistency

Winner: DTG

• Fewer variables
• Digital precision ensures uniform prints

Screen printing can vary due to ink, tension, and setup inconsistencies.

9. Special Effects

Winner: Screen Printing

• Offers specialty inks: metallics, glow-in-the-dark, puff, glitter, shimmer, and more
• DTG lacks widespread specialty options

10. Popularity

Winner: Screen Printing

• Most people associate custom T-shirts with screen printing
• Perceived as more professional or “authentic”

Which One Should You Use?

Here’s a quick decision guide:

Final Thoughts

Both DTG and screen printing have their place in modern apparel printing. Our printing specialists choose the best option for each project based on quantity, artwork, fabric, and desired outcome.

Still not sure? Reach out to our team. We’re happy to help you pick the right method, design an amazing shirt, and bring your vision to life. Let’s get printing!