The print on demand industry is growing fast and changing how custom products are made and sold. It was worth $9.89 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $75.3 billion by 2033, growing at a strong 25.3% per year.
In 2025, Print on demand is everywhere—from custom T-shirts and mugs to books, packaging, and even 3D printed items. Whether you’re starting a new business or expanding an existing one, having the right machines can boost both your profits and creativity.
But with so many printing machines out there, figuring out what you actually need—and how much it will cost—can be confusing. In this blog, we’ll explain everything: the types of print-on-demand machines, what they’re used for, and what you can expect to spend in 2025.
Print on Demand Machine
- It’s a machine that prints personalized designs onto items like t-shirts, books, mugs, posters, phone cases, packaging, and even 3D products on demand. Refers specifically to the main device that performs the actual printing process.
- It could be:
- A DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printer for T-shirt
- A sublimation printer for mugs and phone cases
- A 3D printer for objects
- A book printer for self-publishing
It’s the core hardware that applies ink, toner, resin, or filament to a surface or substrate.
Factors that affect the cost of Print on Demand machines:
When investing in a print-on-demand (POD) setup, understanding what affects machine costs can help you plan smarter and avoid hidden surprises. Here’s a breakdown of what drives the price of POD machines in 2025:
1. Printing Technology
The type of printing technology affects the cost of the machine.
- DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printers, great for t-shirts and fabrics, are more expensive because they can print detailed, full-color designs.
- Sublimation printers are more affordable but can only print on polyester and coated surfaces like mugs or phone cases.
- UV printers, used for materials like acrylic, glass, and wood, are the most expensive due to their high precision.
- 3D printers vary in cost depending on size, resolution, and materials.
- Digital presses for book printing can also be pricey, especially for high-volume printing.
2. Brand & Quality
Reputable brands like Epson, Canon, HP, and Mimaki come with higher price tags, but they also offer better reliability, long-term durability, and support. While budget or lesser-known brands may seem appealing, they can bring risks like print inconsistency, more frequent breakdowns, and lack of service availability.
3. Features & Capabilities
Reputable brands like Epson, Canon, HP, and Mimaki come with higher price tags, but they also offer better reliability, long-term durability, and support. While budget or lesser-known brands may seem appealing, they can bring risks like print inconsistency, more frequent breakdowns, and lack of service availability.
4. Import Costs
If your machine is imported, factor in additional charges like customs duties (15–35%), GST (typically 18%), and shipping or logistics fees. These costs can significantly raise your initial investment.
5. Extra Equipment Needed
Printing machines often require supporting gear like heat presses, vinyl cutters, UV curing stations, or specialized software like RIPs. These add to your total startup cost.
6. Ongoing Maintenance & Supplies
Even after purchase, printers require ink, toner, resin, filaments, spare parts, and maintenance kits. Surprisingly, some low-cost machines have higher long-term supply costs.
7. Production Volume
Are you printing a few items a day or hundreds? Industrial-grade machines are more expensive upfront but are built for speed and scale. Entry-level models are great for beginners or small batches, but might not be efficient for high demand.
8. Service & Warranty
Paying more for a machine with a good warranty and responsive customer service can save you headaches down the line. When things go wrong, fast support can keep your business running smoothly.
key benefits of using Print on Demand machines
1. Low Startup Costs
- No need to invest in bulk inventory.
- Only print when you receive an order, reducing financial risk.
2. Zero Inventory Management
- Say goodbye to warehousing and unsold stock.
- All products are made only when demanded, cutting down waste and storage costs.
3. Customization Made Easy
- Personalize products like t-shirts, mugs, or phone cases in real-time.
- Great for niche markets and customer-specific designs.
4. Faster Product Launch
- Quickly test new designs without mass production delays.
- Launch seasonal, trending, or limited-edition items on the go.
5. Eco-Friendly Production
- Most POD machines use on-demand printing, which reduces overproduction and waste.
- Many modern machines also support biodegradable or recycled materials
6. Versatility Across Products
- Print on apparel, mugs, books, home décor, 3D objects, and more using different machines.
- Ideal for diversified online stores or marketplaces.
7. Scalability
- Easily scale from home-based setups to full-scale operations.
- Add more machines or products as your demand grows—no need to overhaul everything.
8. Automation & Integration
- Many machines integrate with eCommerce platforms or POD software, automating orders and printing.
- Reduces manual errors and boosts efficiency.
9. High Print Quality
- Modern POD equipment delivers professional-grade quality, perfect for commercial use.
- DTG, UV, and sublimation printers are known for crisp details and vibrant colors.
10. Suitable for Home or Studio Use
- Compact models are now available for small spaces.
- Perfect for creators, artists, and home-based businesses.
Launch your T-Shirt selling business online with Qikink print on demand!
Print on demand machine price in India
In the world of print-on-demand, the machine you use will depend heavily on what product you’re customizing. Each type of printer is tailored for specific materials, surfaces, and design methods. Let’s break down the cost of most common types of Print on demand machines:
1. DTG Printer (Direct to Garment)
A DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printer is a machine that prints designs directly onto fabric, like t-shirts and hoodies, using inkjet technology. It works like a paper printer but for clothing, allowing full-color, detailed prints without the need for screens or transfers. DTG is ideal for small batches and custom orders.
Best for: T-shirts, hoodies, tote bags, and fabric-based products
Pros:
- Great for complex, full-color designs
- No setup needed for different designs
- Ideal for short runs or one-off pieces
Cons:
- Works best on cotton or cotton-blend fabrics
- Slower than screen printing for bulk orders
Price Range:
- Entry-Level Models: Approximately ₹5,00,000 – ₹8,00,000+.
- Professional-Grade Models: Starting from ₹12,00,000 and can exceed ₹35,00,000+ depending on features and brand.
Printer Model | Estimated Price (₹) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Brother GTX Pro | ₹19,75,000 | High-speed industrial DTG printer with 16″ x 21″ print area and 1200 dpi resolution. |
| Epson SureColor F2100 | ₹12,00,000 – ₹15,00,000 | Reliable DTG printer with easy maintenance; ideal for small businesses and startups. |
| Kornit Breeze | ₹30,00,000 – ₹40,00,000 | High-end DTG printer with built-in pre-treatment; suitable for professional use. |
2. Sublimation Printer
A Sublimation Printer is a type of digital printer that uses heat and special sublimation ink to transfer designs onto products. The process turns solid ink into gas (skipping the liquid stage) and bonds it directly into the surface of materials like polyester fabric, coated ceramics, metal, and plastic.
Common uses: Mugs, coasters, phone cases, mousepads, polyester apparel (AOP), home decor, promotional items, and photo gifts
Pros:
- Permanent, vibrant prints that don’t fade or peel
- Great for hard surfaces and synthetic fabrics
- Ideal for custom drinkware and merchandise
Cons:
- Only works on polyester or polymer-coated surfaces
- Not suitable for cotton products
Price Range:
- Basic Sublimation Printers: Starting around ₹2,00,000 to 5,00,000+
- Advanced Models: Can go up to ₹35,00,000 or more, especially when bundled with heat press machines.
Examples:
Printer Model | Price (₹) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Mimaki TS55-1800 (64″) | ₹10,50,000 to ₹12,00,000 | High-quality, high-speed printing suitable for large-format applications like fashion, home decor, and promotional items. Features Nozzle Check Unit (NCU) and Mimaki Advanced Pass System (MAPS) for precise printing and reduced banding. |
| Epson SureColor F9370 (64″) | ₹12,50,000 to ₹15,00,000 | Professional-grade sublimation printer with high-speed capabilities. Ideal for high-volume businesses. Features PrecisionCore TFP printheads and advanced media handling for large-volume production. |
| Mutoh ValueJet 1948WX (74″) | ₹25,00,000 to ₹30,00,000 | High-end roll-to-roll sublimation printer for high-speed, high-quality printing in signage, fashion, and home decor industries. |
| Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-6100 | ₹18,00,000 to ₹22,00,000 | Delivers exceptional color accuracy and can print on a wide range of materials. Features LUCIA PRO pigment ink technology for rich, vibrant colors. |
Sublimation also requires a heat press machine (₹32,000 – ₹3,50,000 depending on type) to transfer the printed design onto products.
3. UV Printer (Ultra Violet Printer)
A UV Printer is a modern digital printing machine that uses ultraviolet light to instantly cure or dry the ink as it’s printed. Instead of soaking into the surface like traditional inks, UV ink sits on top of the material, making it possible to print on a wide variety of surfaces including glass, wood, acrylic, metal, leather, plastic, and more.
Common Uses: Custom phone cases, Promotional items and gifts, Signboards and displays, Packaging prototypes, Interior decor (glass, wood panels).
Pros:
- Can print on flat or curved surfaces
- Supports white ink for printing on dark materials
- Produces durable, scratch-resistant prints
Cons:
- UV ink can be costly
- Machines are typically more expensive
Price Range:
- Flatbed UV Printers: Approximately lies between ₹12,00,000 – ₹45,00,000+ Prints directly on rigid surfaces like acrylic, wood, glass, tiles, metal, etc. Ideal for signage, decor, and promotional items. Larger beds and higher resolution push prices higher.
- Roll-to-Roll UV Printers: Typically range from ₹18,00,000 – ₹55,00,000+ Designed for flexible media like vinyl, banners, wallpapers, vehicle wraps. Excellent for large-format continuous printing.
- Hybrid UV Printers: Range between ₹22,00,000 – ₹65,00,000+ . Can handle both rigid (flatbed) and flexible (roll) materials. Offers great versatility but is more expensive due to its dual capability.
Examples:
Machine/Brand | Price (₹) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| EFI VUTEk D3r | ₹1.5 Crore – ₹2.5 Crore | Industrial-grade roll-to-roll printer for high-volume, wide-format jobs. |
| Colorjet Verve Mini Flatbed UV Printer | ₹14 Lakh – ₹18 Lakh | Compact yet powerful. Prints directly on rigid materials like wood, acrylic, etc. Suitable for small to medium scale business. |
| Mimaki UV Printers | ₹12 Lakh – ₹60 Lakh+ | Options range from small flatbeds (UJF series) to large format (UCJV series). |
| Roland UV Printers | ₹10 Lakh – ₹45 Lakh+ | Known for versatility, print on rigid and flexible media. |
| Canon UV Printers | ₹20 Lakh – ₹70 Lakh+ | High-end production printers for signage and packaging with great color depth. |
4. 3D Printer
A 3D printer is a machine that creates physical objects from digital designs by building them layer by layer, usually using materials like plastic, resin, or metal. It’s widely used for making prototypes, custom parts, and even finished products in industries like manufacturing, healthcare, fashion, and design.
Best for: Physical objects like miniatures, home decor, tools, jewelry
Types:
- FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling): Uses melted filament (like PLA, ABS)
- SLA/DLP (Resin Printing): Uses light to cure liquid resin, ideal for fine details
- SLS/SLM (Powder-based): For industrial or metal parts
Pros:
- Can print on flat or curved surfaces
- Supports white ink for printing on dark materials
- Produces durable, scratch-resistant prints
Cons:
- Post-processing may be needed
- Learning curve for modeling and machine handling
Price Range:
- Entry-Level FDM Printers: Starting from ₹1,00,000 – 5,00,000+
- Professional-Grade Models: Can exceed ₹50,00,000 – 1 crore+ depending on technology (FDM, SLA, SLS) and specifications.
Machine/Brand | Price (₹) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Prusa i3 MK4 | ₹1,20,000 – ₹1,50,000 | Open-source, highly reliable, great for batch printing. |
| Raise3D Pro3 | ₹5,00,000 – ₹7,50,000 | Industrial-grade quality, enclosed chamber, dual extrusion. |
| Ultimaker S7 | ₹8,50,000 – ₹12,00,00 | Precision, dual extruder, production-grade prototypes. |
| Stratasys F370 | ₹25,00,000 – ₹40,00,000 | Reliable industrial FDM, great material variety. |
| EOS M290 (Metal 3D Printer | ₹1.5 Crore+ | Industrial metal parts, used in aerospace & automotive. |
| Formlabs (Form 3+) | ₹3.5 Lakh – ₹6 Lakh | Industrial-grade SLA, smooth surfaces, ideal for dental, jewelry, prototypes. |
5. Book Printing Machines (Digital Press)
A Digital Press Book Printing Machine is a high-speed, high-quality printer designed to produce books directly from digital files – no printing plates or large setups needed. It prints page by page using inkjet or laser technology, making it perfect for short runs, self-publishing, or on-demand book orders.
Digital presses offer sharp text, vibrant images, and flexible customization, making them ideal for modern publishing and small-batch printing.
Best for: Self-published books, manuals, journals, notebooks.
Pros:
- Print 1 copy or 100+ without extra cost per setup
- Fast turnaround and professional quality
- Ideal for self-publishers and niche authors
Cons:
- Limited paper and binding options compared to offset printing
- Higher per-book cost at scale
Price Range:
- Small-Scale Digital Presses: Starting from ₹25,00,000.
- Industrial-Grade Presses: Can range between ₹1,00,00,000 to ₹5,00,00,000 or more.
Examples:
Machine/Brand | Price (₹) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Xerox iGen Series | ₹2 Crore – ₹5 Crore+ | High-volume, high-speed production. Ideal for commercial print shops. |
| HP Indigo Presses | ₹3.5 Crore – ₹6 Crore+ | Premium versatile digital press for flexible media types and rich color output. |
| Canon VarioPrint | ₹1.5 Crore – ₹3.5 Crore+ | Fast B&W printing for books, manuals, and enterprise-level docs. Best for Publishers or companies that need consistent, fast, and cost-effective printing. |
Print on Demand Kiosk machine
A Print-on-Demand kiosk is a compact, self-service setup or small retail booth that lets customers customize and instantly order printed items like T-shirts, mugs, phone cases, photo gifts, or documents. These kiosks are often placed in malls, events, or retail stores, offering quick turnaround and personalized product creation.
Key Features
- Touchscreen Interface: Lets users upload files easily using USB, email, QR code, or cloud apps.
- Built-in Printer: Can print A4 documents, photos, receipts, and ID cards.
- Multiple Payment Options: Accepts cards, mobile wallets (like Google Pay or Apple Pay), and sometimes cash.
- Extra Features: Some kiosks also let you scan, copy, or fax.
- Secure Printing: Files are kept private with encryption and deleted automatically after use.
Popular Models & Providers
Model Name | Type | Features | Approx. Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xerox Workplace Kiosk | Multi-Function Kiosk | Print, scan, copy, email, secure release, cloud & payment integration. | ₹8,00,000 – ₹12,00,000 |
| Advanced Kiosks – Document Kiosk | Document Printing Kiosk | Touchscreen, self-service, cloud print, secure data deletion. | ₹7,00,000 – ₹10,00,000 |
| PrintWithMe Kiosk | Public Print Station | Cloud-based, email-to-print, contactless payment. Ideal for cafes, co-working spaces. | Subscription Model (₹2,500 – ₹5,000/month) + setup cost. |
| Cartadis CBOT Kiosk | Copy-Print-Scan Kiosk | Multi-brand printer compatibility, secure file handling, wide payment support. | ₹4,50,000 – ₹8,00,000 |
Benefits:
1. Easy & Convenient
You can print documents, photos, or tickets anytime. No printer or shop needed. Just use a USB, QR code, or cloud storage.
2. Self-Service & Touch-Free
Use it on your own with a touchscreen. Pay using cards or UPI. No need to touch cash or wait for help.
3. Great for Public Places & open 24/7
Perfect for places like cafes, libraries, Universities, retail stores, airports, and residential areas/ hostels. Anyone can use it without staff around anytime.
4. Extra Income for Owners
Businesses can earn money from each print, scan, or copy made on the kiosk.
5. Eco-Friendly
Prints only when needed. Less waste. Some use eco inks and power-saving features.
Drop On Demand Inkjet Printing
Drop on Demand inkjet printing is a type of inkjet printing technology where ink is deposited onto the substrate (e.g., paper, fabric, plastic, etc.) only when needed. Unlike Continuous Inkjet printing, which continuously jets ink, DOD printers only release ink droplets when instructed to do so, resulting in less ink wastage and more control over the print quality.
How Drop on Demand Inkjet Printing Works?
1. Ink Loading:
Ink is filled into the printer’s head from a cartridge or reservoir.
2. Ink Droplet Creation:
- Piezoelectric Method: An electric charge creates pressure making a crystal inside the printhead change shape, pushing out a tiny drop of ink.
- Thermal Method: A tiny heater boils the ink, forming a bubble that forces ink out through the nozzle.
3. Droplet Placement:
The printer controls where each drop goes to create sharp, detailed images.
4. Drying:
Once printed, the ink dries using air, heat, or UV light depending on the type of ink used.
Advantages of Drop on Demand Inkjet Printing
1. Cost-Friendly for Small Jobs
No setup hassles or wasted ink. Perfect for small print runs and one-off orders.
2. High-Quality Prints, No Plates Needed
Prints sharp images and smooth colors. No need for printing plates like offset printing, so it’s faster and cheaper for small batches.
3. Works on Many Surfaces
Prints on paper, fabric, plastic, canvas, and more. Great for products like books, packaging, and clothes.
4. Eco-Friendly
Only uses ink when printing, which cuts waste. Many printers use water-based, non-toxic inks.
5. Fast Turnaround
Quick to set up and print. Ideal for print on demand, online orders, or urgent jobs.
Limitations of Drop On Demand Inkjet Printing
Higher Cost for Big Jobs
DOD printing is great for small batches, but for large quantities, the cost per item is higher compared to traditional methods like offset printing. It’s not the best choice for mass production.
Slower for Bulk Printing
While it’s quick for small runs, DOD printers can’t match the speed of traditional machines when printing in bulk. This can be a drawback for high-volume needs.
Examples
Model | Application | Price (₹) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domino Gx-Series | For industrial marking and coding | ₹8,00,000 – ₹25,00,000+ | High-speed DOD coding on packaging lines- text, barcodes, and logos. |
| HP PageWide Web Press T250 HD | Books, Packaging, Direct Mail | ₹3 – ₹10 Crore | Roll-to-roll high-volume DOD inkjet press for ultra-fast production. Used by top publishing & packaging firms. |
| EFI VUTEk Q5r | Wide-Format Signage & Displays | ₹2.5 – ₹3 Crore+ | Super high-end UV DOD inkjet printer. Handles banners, wraps, rigid boards. Offers fast speeds and superior image sharpness. |
| Durst Tau RSCi | Labels & Industrial Packaging | ₹2 – ₹4 Crore+ | Advanced DOD inkjet press designed for industrial label and packaging printing . Precise, efficient, and scalable. |
Print on Demand Equipment
Print-on-demand equipment refers to the supporting tools used alongside your main printer. These are essential for heat transfer, cutting, curing, binding, and post-processing, depending on the type of product you’re creating. Let’s discuss about the supporting equipments in detail below:
1. Heat Press Machines
- Used for transferring designs onto t-shirts, mugs, hats, and more. Ensures that sublimation or vinyl designs bond properly with the product.
|
Type |
Price Range (₹) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flat T-shirt Heat Press | ₹12,000 – ₹25,000 | Ideal for t-shirts and flat surfaces |
| Mug/Cap/Plate Press | ₹6,000 – ₹15,000 | For individual items (mugs, caps, etc.) |
| 5-in-1 / 8-in-1 Combo Press | ₹15,000 – ₹35,000 | Multi-use for shirts, mugs, hats, etc. |
2. Cutting Machines
Used for cutting heat transfer vinyl (HTV), stickers, decals, or card stock. Adds customization and detail-great for logos, quotes, and DIY designs.
Popular brands: Cricut, Silhouette
Model | Price Range (₹) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cricut Joy | ₹13,000 – ₹17,000 | Compact, beginner-friendly |
| Cricut Explore Air 2 | ₹22,000 – ₹30,000 | Versatile, HTV, paper, vinyl |
| Silhouette Cameo 4 | ₹28,000 – ₹35,000 | Pro-level with more features |
3. Curing/UV Lamps
Used for hardening resin prints or UV-reactive inks on objects. It increases print durability and ensures proper setting of materials, especially in 3D printing or UV printing.
Model | Price Range (₹) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Resin Curing Station | ₹3,000 – ₹8,000 | Entry-level, for resin 3D prints |
| UV Lamp for Object Printing | ₹5,000 – ₹12,000 | For UV-reactive inks or coatings |
| Wash & Cure Combo (e.g. Elegoo) | ₹9,000 – ₹18,000 | Combines resin washing + curing in one unit |
4. Binding Machines (for Books)
- Used for finishing printed books with spiral or glue binding. Gives your print on demand books a professional, sellable finish.
|
Model |
Price Range (₹) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spiral Binding Machine | ₹3,000 – ₹8,000 | Manual office use |
| Glue Binding Machine | ₹15,000 – ₹40,000 | For paperback book binding |
| Heavy-Duty Binder | ₹40,000+ | Commercial book print-on-demand setups |
5. Cleaning Stations / Fans / Ventilation Systems
- Used for cleaning resin prints (resin washing stations), ventilation for 3D printers (especially resin-based or enclosed machines) which ensures safety, odor control, and ensuring high-quality finishes.
|
Equipment |
Price Range (₹) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mini Exhaust Fan System | ₹2,000 – ₹6,000 | For open spaces with basic airflow needs |
| Fume Extractors | ₹12,000 – ₹25,000 | For resin printers or enclosed 3D printing setups |
| Resin Cleaning Station | ₹6,000 – ₹15,000 | Used after resin 3D printing |
Conclusion
Print on demand is reshaping how products are created and sold—offering flexibility, lower upfront costs, and endless customization. As of 2025, the market is booming, and choosing the right equipment is key to standing out.
Whether you’re investing in a DTG printer for apparel, a sublimation setup for mugs, or a 3D printer for custom items, understanding the costs and capabilities helps you make smarter decisions.
The right machine setup depends on your product focus, budget, and business goals. With this guide, you’re now better equipped to plan, invest, and grow in the fast-evolving world of print-on-demand.
Qikink, one of the top leading print-on-demand companies, already utilizes all these types of machines ranging from DTG and sublimation printers to UV setups. If you’re looking for a reliable partner with cutting-edge equipment and seamless fulfillment, Qikink is a solid choice to consider.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of a T-shirt print machine?
T-shirt printing machines like DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printers can cost anywhere from ₹2,00,000 to ₹20,00,000, depending on the brand, features, and printing quality. Entry-level options are more affordable, while professional models offer higher speed and resolution.
Which machine is used for T-shirt printing?
The most common machines for T-shirt printing are DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printers, sublimation printers, and heat press machines. The choice depends on the material, design complexity, and production volume.
What is the drop on demand technique?
Drop on Demand (DOD) is an inkjet printing method where ink droplets are released only when needed, allowing precise, efficient, and low-waste printing. It’s commonly used in 3D printing, product labeling, and custom packaging.
What is the price of printing T-shirts?
The cost of printing a T-shirt ranges from ₹50 to ₹300 per piece, depending on the printing method (DTG, screen, or sublimation), design complexity, quantity, and fabric quality. Bulk orders usually lower the cost per unit.
