Comparing White Toner Laser Printers and Direct to Film Printers
One of the benefits of offering so many choices for product customization is that ColDesi ends up with a unique edge compared to other sellers.
ColDesi offers BOTH white toner printers and Direct to Film (DTF) systems. That means we know the ins and outs of both technologies very well.
The ColDesi Edge: We can have a frank conversation about your business and recommend WHICHEVER solution is the absolute best fit for your needs. We don’t try to pigeonhole you into one system just because it’s all we sell.
The Equipment Lineup
We sell top-tier equipment for both categories under our respected brands:
- White Toner (DigitalHeat FX): Including the Crio 9541WTD, Crio 8432WTD, and the i560 system.
- Direct to Film (DTF): Including the commercial-grade DTF 24H2 system.
Common Questions: White Toner vs. DTF
Below are the most frequent questions we receive when customers are trying to decide between these two technologies.
1. What is the Price Difference?
There is typically an inverse relationship between the cost of the equipment and the cost of the product it produces (Cost of Goods). This rule applies perfectly here.
White Toner Systems
Cost: $5,000 - $15,000
Monthly Payment: ~$250 - $300
DigitalHeat FX systems are lower entry cost but have a slightly higher cost per print compared to roll-fed DTF. Great for custom, short-run orders.
DTF Systems (24H2)
Cost: ~$25,000
Monthly Payment: ~$550
Higher initial investment, but designed for high Raw Machine Output (RMO). Perfect for large production runs where profit per shirt is lower, but volume is high.
2. Can I Print on Light AND Dark Garments?
Direct to Film (DTF): Yes. As the name suggests, you print directly onto a film which is then transferred to the fabric. DTF is gaining prominence because it gives you the freedom to choose almost any surface.
- Works on Cotton, Polyester, Synthetic, Silk, etc.
- Works on ANY color fabric (Light or Dark).
- No need for "A & B" paper marrying process.
3. How Long Does It Take per Shirt?
White Toner Transfers: ~3 Minutes Total
The process involves:
- Print: ~15 seconds per sheet (on Crio 8432WTD).
- Marry (A+B Paper): ~75 seconds.
- Heat Press: ~45 seconds.
- Trim/Position: ~30 seconds.
Note: Transfers can be printed ahead of time, but "marrying" them immediately is recommended if storing.
DTF Transfers: ~2 Minutes (But faster in bulk)
Because the DTF 24H2 is roll-fed, it shines in production runs. While a single transfer might take time to print, doing 50 or 100 shirts drops the "per shirt" time drastically.
- Transparency: PET film is translucent, allowing you to easily position the design on the shirt (saving time).
- No Marrying: The adhesive powder is applied automatically in the shaker/dryer unit.
- Cold Peel: The films are designed for easy peeling.
Check out our Girl Scout T-Shirt Case Study for a detailed breakdown of DTF speed and costs.
Still Unsure Which is Right for You?
We are happy to walk you through the pros and cons based on your specific business model.
Check Them Out >Or call 877-793-3278 to chat with a pro.
