There are many print-on-demand platforms to choose from, and it can be challenging to decide which one is right for your business. Each platform has unique features, so it's essential to do your research before making a decision. This blog post will discuss the best print on demand sites and what you need to consider before choosing one. We'll also provide a few tips on how to get started with print-on-demand services. Let's get started!
What are Print-on-Demand Services?
Print-on-demand services are a type of printing technology that allows users to print documents or images on-demand without ordering large quantities in advance. This service is often used by businesses that need to print small amounts of marketing materials, such as flyers or business cards, on an as-needed basis. Print-on-demand services are also popular with individuals who want to create custom photos, invitations, or other personalized items.
One of the main advantages of print-on-demand services is that they can save time and money by eliminating the need to order large print runs in advance. In addition, these services provide a high level of flexibility, allowing users to make changes to their orders up until printing. As a result, print-on-demand services offer an efficient and cost-effective solution for businesses and individuals who need to produce small quantities of printed materials.
Discover the efficiency and precision in print shop operations with the integration of cutting-edge production management software for print shops, as we explore the top print-on-demand sites revolutionizing the industry.
Benefits Of Using Print-on-Demand Services
In a world where technology has made it easier than ever to produce and distribute artwork, print-on-demand services offer a unique opportunity for artists to reach a global audience. By using a print-on-demand service, artists can upload their work to an online platform and make it available for purchase by anyone in the world. Print-on-demand services handle all of the production and distribution logistics, so artists can focus on creating new work.
In addition, print-on-demand services provide a hassle-free way for artists to sell their work, as they do not have to worry about inventory or shipping. And because the customer pays for the product only after it is produced, artists can offer their work at a lower price point than if they were selling through a traditional retailer. For all of these reasons, print-on-demand services are an attractive option for artists who want to reach a global audience without incurring significant overhead costs.
We’ve been asked every so often to compare Printful vs Printify and give an in-depth summary and recommend the best platform to launch a T-shirt business.
9 Print-on-Demand Platforms
1. Gelato
Gelato enables independent e-commerce entrepreneurs and artists to establish their own worldwide businesses. They provide on-demand production services in 32 countries and have developed software that connects to over 130 production facilities. With a wide range of 48 product categories available, including greeting cards, t-shirts, hoodies, drinkware, wall art, and calendars, Gelato operates without owning any fixed assets. Instead, they collaborate with local production partners, allowing them to scale production volumes effectively.
One of Gelato's distinguishing factors is their ability to produce approximately 90% of orders within the destination country. This results in faster delivery times, reduced costs, and lower carbon emissions, providing a unique experience for their merchants.
Key Information:
Gelato boasts an exceptional reputation in the print-on-demand market, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 on Trustpilot, the highest in the industry.
In 2022, Gelato added 32 production partners and they have set their sights on further growth, aiming to exceed 200+ partners.
2. PrintKK
PrintKK is a great option for ecommerce sellers as their platform is super easy to design your own branded products and then connect up your store with their easy integrations via Shopify, Etsy, Amazon etc.
Their product quality is great and they have superior digital printing technology to make sure your products stay super sharp looking.
Their 3D Insta-view allows you to view your products in various positions which is a great selling feature for customers.
3. Printful
Source: Images from Printful
Printful is a print-on-demand service that offers custom printing and fulfillment for businesses of all sizes. Their services include a t-shirt, posters, flyers, and more. They also offer a wide range of customization options, so you can create products that are unique to your brand. With Printful, you can easily create and sell custom printed products without investing in inventory or equipment.
In addition, Printful has no minimum order quantity, so you can start small and scale up as your business grows. Printful also handles all the printing, shipping, and customer service for you, so you can focus on running your business. You can count on their state-of-the-art facilities and experienced team for high-quality products and fast turnaround times. Plus, their easy-to-use online platform makes it simple to upload your design files and get started.
Printful offers many clothing items, such as t-shirts, hoodies, and other custom products, including:
- Mugs
- Blankets
- Jewelry
- Stickers
- Posters
- Swimsuits
- Backpacks
- Leggings
- Accessories
- Phone cases
- Home decor and more
The company has built strong relationships with major eCommerce platforms such as:
- Shopify
- WooCommerce
- BigCommerce
- Squarespace
- Wix
- Magento
- Ecwid
- Launch Cart
- Weebly
- Prestashop
- Weebly
- Big Cartel
- Gumroad
- ShipStation
- Shift4Shop
Source: Images from Printful
PROS:
- Print on demand: Printful offers high-quality printing at competitive prices. Their print-on-demand service includes custom garment printing, vinyl decals, direct to garment (DTG) printing, embroidery, sublimation printing, and more.
- Fully Customizable Products: All of Printful's products are fully customizable, which means businesses can add their own logos, designs, and text to create truly unique products. This is a great way to differentiate your business and stand out from the competition.
- Ecommerce fulfillment: In addition to print on demand services, Printful also offers ecommerce fulfillment. This includes order management, warehousing, pick and pack, shipping, and customer service. With Printful's ecommerce fulfillment services, you can focus on running your business and leave the fulfillment to them.
- Global reach: Printful has print facilities in the US, Europe, and Asia, which means they can print and ship orders to customers anywhere in the world.
- No minimum order: There's no minimum order quantity with Printful, so you can print one item or one thousand.
- Free design services: Printful offers free design services to help you create custom designs for your products. Their team of professional designers can turn your ideas into reality.
CONS:
- Printful's prices are higher than some other print on demand services, so you may need to mark up your products accordingly.
- Printful's turnaround times can be longer than some other services, so you'll need to plan ahead if you have time-sensitive orders.
Printful was founded in 2013. It has grown to become one of the leading print-on-demand companies in the world, with over 200 employees and facilities in the US, Europe, and Latina America. Overall, we believe that Printful is an excellent option for businesses looking for a turnkey solution to get started with selling custom products online.
4. Sellfy
Source: Images from Sellfy
Sellfy is an e-commerce platform that allows users to create and sell digital products. With Sellfy, there is no need to worry about inventory or shipping costs. Users can upload their products and set a price. Customers receive a link to download the file when they purchase a product. Sellfy takes care of the rest, including processing payments and handling customer service. This print-on-demand model is convenient for both sellers and buyers. For sellers, it eliminates the hassle of managing inventory and shipping. And for buyers, it provides instant access to digital products.
Sellfy offers choices of 50 different products, including:
- T-shirts
- Hoodies
- Tank tops
- Tote bags
- Hats
- Mugs
- Water bottles
- Phone cases
- Wall art
- Aprons
- Backpacks
- Notebooks
- Stickers and many more
Source: Images from Sellfy
Another thing to consider is the price of Sellfy. The platform is very affordable and offers a free version. It starts at just $22 per month for a starter plan. It should be more than enough for most people to start selling digital products. However, if you need more features, paid plans offer more storage space and support for more products, such as business and premium plans.
PROS:
- You can use Sellfy to sell both digital and physical products.
- There are no transaction fees – you get to keep all of the profits from your sales.
- Sellfy offers a wide range of integrations, especially for eCommerce platforms like Wix, Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, and PrestaShop, so you can connect it to the other tools that you use for your business.
- The platform is easy to use, even if you're not tech-savvy.
- Sellfy provides excellent customer support.
CONS:
- You need to upgrade to a paid plan to access some features, such as advanced shipping options and abandoned cart recovery.
- The checkout process is not as smooth as it could be – customers must leave your site to complete their purchase.
- Some users have reported that the platform is buggy and prone to glitches.
Overall, Sellfy is a great eCommerce platform for small businesses and individual entrepreneurs. It's easy to use and has many features, including checkout customization, automatic shipping calculation, taxes, coupon codes, and abandoned cart emails. Plus, the price is reasonable, especially if you sign up for a yearly plan. If you're looking for an eCommerce platform that can help you start selling online quickly and easily, Sellfy is worth considering.
5. Gooten
Source: Images from Gooten
Gooten is a print-on-demand fulfillment provider that allows eCommerce businesses and independent content creators to sell a wide range of personalized products without worrying about inventory, warehousing, or shipping.
When someone orders a product from a Gooten-powered store, the order is sent to one of their warehouses, where it is printed, packaged, and shipped directly to the customer – all within a matter of days. They work with some leading global manufacturers to offer high-quality products at competitive prices, and their technology allows us to print and ship orders quickly and efficiently. Plus, their team is dedicated to providing world-class customer support. The company integrates with popular eCommerce platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, Etsy, and Amazon, making it easy for entrepreneurs to start their online stores.
Some of the products that Gooden offers include:
- Travel bags
- Fleece blankets
- Framed prints
- Dog beds
- Clothing
- Umbrellas
- Tote bags
Source: Images from Gooten
PROS:
- Low MOQs: Gooten has no minimum order quantities, so it's easy to test products without making a large investment.
- Variety of products: Gooten offers a wide range of products, from apparel to home decor. This means that businesses can find all the products they need in one place, making sourcing and inventory management easier.
- Flexible pricing: Gooten offers a tiered pricing structure, so businesses can get the best rate based on their volume. This makes it easy to scale your business without having to worry about rising costs.
- Fast fulfillment: Gooten has fulfillment centers around the world, so products can be shipped quickly to customers no matter where they are located.
- Building relationships with vendors: Because Gooten works with a network of vendors, businesses can develop relationships with multiple suppliers, making it easier to negotiate on price and terms.
CONS:
- Lack of control: When you work with Gooten, you're relying on them to manage production and shipping. This can lead to delays or other issues if they are not well-organized.
- Limited customization: Gooten offers some customization options, but not as many as some of their competitors. This can be a problem for businesses that need to have a high level of control over their product offerings.
- Higher prices: Gooten's prices are higher than some of their competitors. This may not be a problem for businesses that are able to pass on the costs to their customers, but it can be an issue for businesses with tight margins.
When it comes to online printing and ecommerce fulfillment, Gooten is a top-notch option that offers a comprehensive suite of services and products. They are a one-stop-shop for all your printing and fulfillment needs, whether you are looking for high-quality prints, on-demand production, or warehousing and logistics services. In addition, Gooten is an excellent choice for businesses of all sizes, as they offer both white label and API solutions. Overall, Gooten is a reliable and affordable option for all your ecommerce printing and fulfillment needs.
6. Teelaunch
Source: Images from Teelaunch
Teelaunch is a print-on-demand platform that enables entrepreneurs to sell their designs on products like t-shirts, mugs, pillows, and phone cases without worrying about inventory or fulfillment. Founded in 2014, Teelaunch has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Shopify's Build a Business competition.
With over 200 products and no minimum order quantities, Teelaunch makes it easy for entrepreneurs to get started with print-on-demand. In addition, Teelaunch offers several features that make it unique among print-on-demand platforms. For example, Teelaunch offers a free mockup generator that allows entrepreneurs to create product images without hiring a professional photographer. In addition, Teelaunch provides free shipping worldwide on orders over $75. Teelaunch integrates with Shopify and Etsy, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, and API, so businesses can easily add their products to their online store and start selling.
Teelaunch offers a wide range of personalized products, including:
- Home goods (rugs, blankets, shower curtains, coasters, doormats, towels, etc.)
- Kitchenware (glass cutting boards, platters, wooden cutting boards, plates, bowls, etc. )
- Pet products (pet pillows, crate mats, dog bowls, bandanas, etc.)
- Accessories, Office Products, and more
Source: Images from Teelaunch
PROS:
- No minimum order quantities
- A wide range of print locations around the world
- Automated print fulfillment
- A la carte product offerings
- Free shipping on orders over $75 to the US and Canada
- Discounts for bulk orders
CONS:
- Limited design customization options
- More expensive than some other print-on-demand services
Overall, Teelaunch is an excellent option for those looking to get started in print-on-demand. It is easy to use, has a wide range of features, and offers competitive pricing. However, it is worth noting that there are some alternatives out there that may be better suited to specific users. Ultimately, whether or not to use Teelaunch comes down to your individual needs and preferences.
7.GearLaunch
Source: Images from GearLaunch
GearLaunch is a print-on-demand platform that helps businesses with on-demand printing, merchandising, and fulfillment. The company was founded in 2013 and is based in the United States. GearLaunch offers two primary services: on-demand printing and merchandising. On-demand printing is a service that allows businesses to print documents or products on-demand without having to wait for production.
Businesses can get their products to market faster without worrying about inventory or minimum order quantities. Merchandising is a service that helps companies sell their products online. GearLaunch provides businesses with an eCommerce platform and fulfillment services so that companies can sell their products to customers worldwide. GearLaunch also offers design services so that companies can create custom designs for their products. It is integrated with Shopify, an eCommerce platform. It provides various other services such as warehousing, shipping, and customer support. GearLaunch is a one-stop-shop for all your print-on-demand needs.
GearLaunch offers a wide range of personalized products, including:
- Accessories
- Apparel
- Home decor
- Wall art
- Drinkware
- Bathroom and Bedroom Needs
- Phone Cases
- Stationeries
- Lawn Signs and much more
Source: Images from GearLaunch
PROS:
- Print quality is great
- Print turnaround time is quick
- Customer service is responsive
CONS:
- You have to order a minimum of 25 items per design
GearLaunch is one of the most user-friendly print-on-demand platforms currently available. The interface is straightforward to navigate, and users can create an account and start printing within minutes. One of the most appealing features of GearLaunch is its low price point; users only pay for the prints they order, and there are no monthly fees or hidden costs. Prints are excellent, and orders are typically shipped within 24 hours. Overall, GearLaunch is an affordable, high-quality option for anyone looking for a print-on-demand platform.
8. CafePress
Source: Images from CafePress
CafePress is a website that allows users to create unique products with their designs. Users can upload their images or choose from a selection of stock images. They can then add text and select from various product types, including t-shirts, mugs, tote bags, and more. Once the design is complete, CafePress produces the product and ships it directly to the customer. Because there is no need to maintain inventory, CafePress is an ideal platform for businesses or individuals who want to sell custom merchandise without the hassle of traditional manufacturing and retailing. It is integrated with platforms such as WordPress, Blogger, and Joomla.
CafePress offers a wide range of personalized products, including:
- Pajamas
- Hoodies
- Ornaments
- Buttons
- Aprons
- Notebooks
- Mugs
- Greeting cards
- Gifts
- Stationeries, Signs, and many more
Source: Images from CafePress
PROS:
- CafePress also has no setup fees or monthly charges, so it's an excellent option for those starting in the print-on-demand industry.
- CafePress provides users with a wide range of marketing tools to help promote their products. For example, you can create promotional codes and offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount.
- It provides advanced order tracking to keep an eye on your sales and address any issues that may arise.
- Thanks to its millions of monthly visitors, it has a built-in audience, giving you a ready-made customer base for your products.
CONS:
- CafePress has very low-profit margins. It is because they use a print-on-demand model, meaning each product is only printed once ordered. It results in high printing and shipping costs, which eat into any potential profits.
- CafePress has been known to be unreliable when it comes to quality control. Multiple reports of poor-quality prints, misaligned designs, and defective materials have been reported. It can be a massive problem if you rely on CafePress to produce professional-looking products.
- CafePress doesn't offer the same customer service level as some competitors. If you run into problems with your order, getting in touch with a representative who can help you resolve the issue can be difficult.
Overall, CafePress is a decent print-on-demand platform, but there are some definite drawbacks that you should be aware of before using their services. Plus, compare prices with other POD providers before committing to an order.
9. Screen Print Direct
The next noted name in the list is Screen Print Direct! They are an e-commerce website that offers high-quality screen printing supplies, equipment, and services for businesses and individuals. Founded in 2004, the company has grown to become a leading supplier of screen printing products in the United States, providing a range of solutions to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.
The company's product line includes everything needed for the screen printing process, from inks and emulsions to screens, squeegees, and exposure units. Screen Print Direct also offers a variety of printing presses, including manual, automatic, and semi-automatic models, as well as other printing equipment such as heat presses, flash dryers, and exposure units.
In addition to providing top-quality products and services, Screen Print Direct is committed to providing exceptional customer service, offering a satisfaction guarantee and a knowledgeable and friendly support team to assist customers with their needs.
FAQS
How do I choose the best print on demand sites?
Nowadays, there are many print-on-demand platforms to choose from. So how do you know which one is right for you? Here are some things to consider:
Ease of Use: The first thing you'll want to consider is how easy the platform is to use. You'll be spending a lot of time using the platform to upload designs, create products, and manage orders, so you'll want something intuitive and easy to use.
Printing Quality: Of course, you'll also want to consider the printing quality of the platform. Print-on-demand businesses require high-quality printing to be successful, so be sure to research the print quality of each platform before making your final decision.
Shipping Options: Another critical factor to consider is the shipping options offered by the platform. You'll want to make sure that the platform you choose offers a variety of shipping options so that you can offer your customers the best possible experience.
Cost: Finally, you'll want to consider the cost of using the platform. Print-on-demand businesses have a low overhead cost, so you'll want to choose a platform that offers a competitive price.
How do I know if a print-on-demand platform is right for me and my business?
Deciding whether or not to use a print-on-demand (POD) platform for your business can be challenging. There are a few things you should consider before making your choice. First, think about your production process. If you already use a fulfillment service, you may want to stick with them.
However, a POD platform can save you time and money if you are producing and shipping your products yourself. Second, consider your product line. If you have a large number of SKUs or frequently introduce new products, a POD platform can help you reduce your inventory costs. Finally, think about your marketing strategy for your digital products.
If you plan to sell your products through brick-and-mortar stores, trade shows, or other channels that require large quantities of inventory, a POD platform can give you the flexibility to produce smaller batches of products. Ultimately, whether or not to use a POD platform depends on your specific needs and goals. But if you take the time to consider all the factors involved, you can make the best choice for your business.
Are there any restrictions on what I can print using a print-on-demand platform?
When it comes to print-on-demand platforms, there are a few things to remember in terms of what you can and cannot print. For the most part, these platforms are pretty lenient when it comes to the content that you can print. However, there are a few restrictions that you should be aware of.
First and foremost, you cannot print anything copyrighted. It means you cannot print images or text to which someone else owns the rights. Additionally, you cannot print anything that is deemed to be hateful, violent, or pornographic. Lastly, you should also avoid printing anything that could be considered to be defamatory. If you stick to these guidelines, you should be able to use print-on-demand platforms without issues.
What file formats are compatible with print-on-demand platforms, and do I need to prepare my files in a specific way before uploading them for printing?
Most print-on-demand platforms are compatible with PDF and JPEG files. However, it is always best to check with the specific platform you are using to ensure that they can accommodate your file type. PDF files are generally preferred because they retain the quality of your original artwork better than JPEGs. However, depending on the design of your artwork, a JPEG may be acceptable.
If you are unsure, you can always ask the customer service team for assistance. When preparing your files for upload, ensure they are the right size and resolution. Again, depending on the platform you use, specific requirements may exist.
But in general, you want your file to be at least 300 dpi (dots per inch) at print size and sized proportionately to how you want it to appear on the finished product. For example, if you are creating a t-shirt design 4 inches wide by 6 inches tall, ensure your file is at least 1200×1800 pixels. Once your file is ready, simply upload it to the print-on-demand platform and follow their instructions for ordering.
Conclusion
Many print-on-demand platforms are available today, and choosing the right one for your needs can be challenging. When reviewing the best print on demand sites, it is essential to consider the quality of the prints, the turnaround time, the customer service, and the price. Some platforms are better than others in print quality, while others may have shorter turnaround times.
It is essential to find a platform that balances these factors. In addition, choosing a platform with good customer service is vital. It is necessary if you are new to print-on-demand and need assistance setting up your account or getting started with printing.
Finally, price is always a factor when choosing a print-on-demand platform. Some platforms are more expensive than others, but it is crucial to find one that fits within your budget. By considering these factors, you can be sure to find the best print-on-demand platform for your needs. We hope this guide was helpful in understanding the different types of print-on-demand platforms and how to choose which one is right for your business.
About the Author
This article was written by Nick Patrocky who is a UX/UI designer, app reviewer, software reviewer, and blogger. Nick’s worked with over 150+ clients from countries all around the globe. Nick also enjoys reviewing mobile apps, web apps, and websites. Check out his blog if you want to know what it takes to be an app designer or a successful freelancer.
