DTF vs Screen Print Transfers
Both DTF transfers and screen print transfers have advantages and trade-offs. Understanding the difference will help you choose the right option for your print project.
The type of printing method you choose can have a major impact on your costs and product quality. Both screen print transfers and DTF transfers need a heat press to apply them to apparel or other soft goods. You do not need to cut or weed either method, which makes for a fast, one-step application workflow.
Screen print transfers are a more traditional way to print. Screen printing is a great printing process that has been around for over a thousand years. DTF is exciting new digital technology that is still emerging. While screen print transfers can be printed using spot colors (1, 2, or 3 colors) or full color methods (CMYK + White), DTF exclusively prints using full color.
Key Points
- DTF transfers are often ideal for colorful small projects (1-50) and for heat-sensitive fabrics where a low 285º application temperature is preferable.
- Screen print transfers come in many types, or formulas. Across formulas, screen print transfers are consistently more affordable than DTF at large quantities and for artwork containing 1-3 colors.
- Our Fashion and Full Color Athletic screen print formulas are recommended over DTF for Full Color (4+ colors) projects of 50+ pieces. These screen print transfers are nearly 50% more affordable than DTF starting at quantities of 100.
- A free Sample Pack and our Customer Support team are great resources to determine which heat transfer type is right for your project!
DTF vs Screen Print Transfer Comparison
As the most direct alternative to DTF transfers, Fashion screen print transfers are also represented in the below chart and excluded from the information presented in the Screen Print transfer column.
Full Color
Full Color
Varies by formula; Full Color options available
As low as 80¢
$2.75 for standard 11x11" sheet size
As low as 95¢
$1.25 for standard 9x12.75" sheet size
As low as 15¢ (One Color)
$0.15 for standard 9x12.75" Athletic sheet size; $0.25 for Vintage
As low as $0.02 per square inch
As low as $0.01 per square inch
As low as $0.001 per square inch
n/a
$65+ for Single Image
$25+ for Single Image
1-36
50+
50+ for Full Color
5+ for One Color
Same-day when ordered by noon EST
2 business days when ordered by 3pm EST
Ranges from same-day to 3 business days; varies by formula
100% Cotton, 100% Polyester, Cotton-Poly Blends
100% Cotton, Cotton-Poly Blends
Varies by formula; 100% Cotton, 100% Polyester, Cotton-Poly Blends, Non-woven Polypropylene; Fabrics containing Lycra, Spandex, or Elastane
As low as 285º
340º
As low as 300º
Assorted Single Image & Gang Sheets, from 4x4" to 22x48"
Assorted Single Image & Gang Sheets, from 4x6" to 12.75x19"
Assorted Single Image & Gang Sheets, from 4x6" to 12.75x19"
Support
Our customer care team is here to help if you still have questions about which type of transfer is best for your next project!
Contact us at 888-788-7133 or customersupport@fmexpressions.com