See the Difference: Visual Guide to T-Shirt Printing – Digital, Screen, and Transfer Print

We print hundreds of thousands of Tees a year. This is the definitive visual guide on the three most popular printing methods for tee shirts. We also answer: “How do you decide which print method works the best?” Whether you’re designing uniforms or branded apparel for an event, understanding the differences between the top T-shirt printing techniques—digital printing, screen printing, and transfer printing—can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ll walk you through each method with detailed close-ups that showcase the visual results, helping you choose the best one for your next order. Before we Begin, here is a close up photo of Digital Print vs Screen Print vs Transfer Print up close.

What Digital Printed Tees Look Like (DTG)

Digital printing on garments, also known as Direct-to-Garment printing (DTG)

• Recommended for 25 garments and under
• No, Set up costs
• Full-Colour Print & Gradients

Take a look at the close-up images of a digital print below. The colours pop, and the fine details of the design are sharp and clear, from complex gradients to intricate patterns. With digital printing, there are no limits to the creativity you can bring to life on fabric. Whether a custom design with rich colours or a photo-quality image, digital print ensures your artwork looks stunning, even on small orders.

What Screen Printed Tees Looks Like

Many businesses choose screen printing for high-volume printing.

• Very cheap per unit when it comes to printing
• Setup costs make it not recommended for 25 garments and under

It’s perfect for logos, text, and simple designs with solid colours. As you can see in the close-up photos, screen-printed designs have a solid, clean look with crisp edges, making them ideal for classic branding uniforms.

What Transfer Printed Tees Looks Like (DTF)

This method involves the transfer of your graphic onto a transfer paper, which is heat-pressed onto the fabric.

• Recommended for 10 pieces or more
• No, Set up costs
• Full colour print is possible

Transfer printing is your best bet if you’re looking for a printing method that delivers vivid colours, sharp images, and a premium finish. Unlike screen printing, transfer printing allows for fine details and gradients, making it ideal for designs requiring photo-like quality. Look at the close-up of transfer prints below—notice the vibrant colours and sharp edges that make your design pop.

Which T-Shirt Printing Method Is Right for You?

The best printing method depends on the size of your order, the complexity of your design, and the durability you need. Here’s a quick recap to help you choose:

• Digital Printing is best for small runs (under 25 garments) and full-colour, detailed designs with gradients or photographic finishes.
• Screen Printing is ideal for large orders (over 25 pieces) and bold, spot-colour designs with no gradients.
• Transfer Printing is excellent for medium runs (10+ pieces) and full-colour designs, including photographic prints and fine details.

We specialise in offering these three printing methods, and we are here to help you determine the best solution for your brand. With years of experience in the promotional products industry, our team ensures that your custom prints are top quality, no matter the method or design. See our range of Promotional Tee Shirts and make a purchase.

Why us For Printed T-shirts?

As an award-winning, Australian-owned supplier, we are the only supplier who offers all 3:

1) Certified Carbon Neutral offset
2) Mend and Repair Program
3) Garment Recycling

Find out more by clicking the link. Call us now to buy personalised T-shirts. Organisations, major corporations, and small businesses trust us as the most trusted supplier in Australia.