Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing has become one of the fastest-growing methods in textile and custom apparel production. Unlike traditional screen printing or sublimation, DTF uses specialized inks and transfer films to create durable, full-color designs that can be applied to almost any fabric. Choosing the right DTF ink brand directly affects print quality, wash resistance, and overall cost-efficiency.

In this guide, we’ll review the top 10 DTF ink brands, compare their performance, and highlight the best options for beginners and professionals. By the end, you’ll know which ink brand fits your business goals and how to make the most of your DTF printing setup.

What is DTF Ink?

DTF ink is a specialized water-based pigment ink designed for Direct-to-Film printing. It is engineered to bond with PET transfer films and powdered adhesives before being heat-pressed onto garments.

Unlike standard inkjet inks, DTF inks are formulated with higher pigment concentrations to ensure vibrant colors and long-lasting results on fabrics. They are typically available in CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) plus White ink, which acts as a base layer to ensure designs appear sharp and opaque on both light and dark textiles.

Why DTF Ink Matters

• Color accuracy and vibrancy: Affects how designs pop on fabric. 
• Wash durability: Determines how long prints last without fading or cracking. 
• Machine compatibility: Different brands work best with certain DTF printers. 
• Cost efficiency: The right ink reduces waste and lowers production costs. 

High-quality DTF inks provide smoother prints, fewer nozzle clogs, and better adhesion compared to cheaper alternatives. This is why selecting the right brand is crucial for consistent results.

Top 10 DTF Ink Brands Reviewed

Choosing the right DTF ink is one of the most important decisions for print quality and business growth. Below is a detailed review of the leading brands in 2025, based on color vibrancy, durability, printer compatibility, maintenance needs, and cost-effectiveness.

1. STS Inks

Overview:
STS Inks, based in the USA, is one of the most trusted names in the DTF printing industry. Known for consistent formulation and reliable results, STS is often the default choice for professional shops using Epson-based DTF printers.

Key Features:

• Vibrant, consistent CMYK colors and a high-opacity white ink. 
• Low-clogging formula, which reduces downtime and maintenance costs. 
• Wide compatibility with Epson printheads, including i3200 and DX5 models. 
• Eco-friendly, water-based pigments safe for garment applications. 

Pros:

• Excellent wash resistance (40+ cycles without major fading). 
• Highly stable in bulk ink systems. 
• Supported by a wide distribution network in North America and Europe. 

Cons:

• Premium pricing compared to generic brands. 
• Some users report higher ink consumption with white layers. 

Example:
A custom T-shirt shop in Florida reported that STS inks reduced their printer maintenance by 25% compared to cheaper inks, saving both ink waste and technician costs.

2. Kodak DTF Inks

Overview:
Kodak, a household name in imaging, has extended its expertise to the DTF market. Kodak DTF inks are positioned as a premium solution for shops that prioritize longevity and high-definition prints.

Key Features:

• Strong pigments for deep blacks and vivid colors. 
• Superior wash durability (tested beyond 50 washes). 
• Smooth gradients, excellent for photo-quality prints. 
• Designed to work with a variety of PET transfer films. 

Pros:

• Premium-grade pigments provide richer depth of color. 
• Excellent long-term resistance to cracking and peeling. 
• Backed by Kodak’s reputation for consistency and quality control. 

Cons:

• Higher cost makes it less appealing for entry-level users. 
• Limited availability in some regions compared to STS or Inktec. 

Example:
A mid-sized apparel company in California reported that switching to Kodak inks reduced customer complaints about fading by 40%, particularly for dark garments that require strong white underbases.

3. Nazdar DTF Inks

Overview:
Nazdar is a well-known brand in the screen-printing sector and has brought its industrial ink expertise to DTF printing. Their inks are designed to be tough, reliable, and eco-friendly.

Key Features:

• Strong adhesion and stretchability on both cotton and polyester. 
• Water-based, low-odor, and safer for indoor production. 
• Available in CMYK + White sets for wide printer compatibility. 
• Focus on bulk production efficiency. 

Pros:

• Trusted by screen printers transitioning to digital DTF. 
• Good balance between cost and performance. 
• Eco-conscious formulations for greener production. 

Cons:

• Colors are not as vibrant as Kodak or SubliJet inks. 
• Smaller product line compared to larger DTF ink brands. 

Example:
A factory in Mexico producing uniforms reported Nazdar inks held up exceptionally well under heavy washing, making them ideal for workwear and sports apparel.

4. SubliJet DTF Inks (by Sawgrass)

Overview:
Sawgrass is a global leader in sublimation inks and recently introduced SubliJet DTF inks. They focus on high-quality design applications, appealing to creative users and boutique shops.

Key Features:

• Extremely sharp details and smooth edges. 
• Optional neon colors that are rare in DTF inks. 
• Excellent white ink layering for opacity. 
• Works well with polyester blends and cotton alike. 

Pros:

• Perfect for fashion designers who need bold and unique colors. 
• Smooth printing with minimal clogging. 
• Trusted Sawgrass brand support. 

Cons:

• Higher ink cost per liter compared to Inktec. 
• Neon colors require additional setup and are not for everyone. 

Example:
A small fashion brand in New York used SubliJet inks to print neon-based designs for a streetwear collection, which became a best-seller due to its unique color vibrancy.

5. Inktec DTF Inks

Overview:
Inktec is a Korean manufacturer known for affordable yet stable-performance inks. They are popular among small businesses and startups that want to get into DTF printing without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

• Smooth ink flow reduces printer downtime. 
• Balanced formulation provides reliable results across fabrics. 
• Available in CMYK + White, compatible with most Epson-based printers. 
• Competitive pricing, making it beginner-friendly. 

Pros:

• Affordable without compromising quality. 
• Good choice for startups testing the DTF market. 
• Reliable color reproduction for everyday prints. 

Cons:

• Wash durability is slightly lower compared to Kodak or STS. 
• Less vibrant compared to premium inks like SubliJet. 

Example:
A startup T-shirt shop in India used Inktec inks for its first six months of operation and achieved consistent customer satisfaction while keeping production costs manageable.

6. DuPont Artistri DTF Inks

Overview:
DuPont, a pioneer in digital textile inks, has brought its Artistri line into the DTF space. These inks are known for industrial-level consistency and long-lasting results.

Key Features:

• Rich color saturation with a smooth finish. 
• Extremely durable, surviving 60+ wash cycles. 
• Designed for commercial-level production printers. 
• Eco-friendly, water-based formula with certifications for safety. 

Pros:

• Ideal for bulk apparel manufacturing. 
• Excellent stretch and flexibility on cotton and blends. 
• High compatibility with premium DTF printers. 

Cons:

• More expensive than Inktec or Nazdar. 
• Overkill for small shops that don’t need industrial-level performance. 

Example:
Large-scale production houses in Europe favor DuPont inks for uniforms and branded merchandise, citing their exceptional durability.

7. Mimaki DTF Inks

Overview:
Mimaki, a respected Japanese printer manufacturer, produces proprietary DTF inks optimized for its printers. They are among the most consistent OEM (original equipment manufacturer) options.

Key Features:

• Vibrant colors with precise ICC profiling. 
• Designed for Mimaki TxF150 and TxF300 printers. 
• Excellent white ink stability with less sedimentation. 

Pros:

• Seamless integration with Mimaki systems. 
• Lower maintenance compared to third-party inks. 
• Trusted Japanese engineering and reliability. 

Cons:

• Limited to Mimaki printers (not widely compatible). 
• Higher upfront cost. 

Example:
Print shops in Japan and the US using Mimaki printers report virtually zero nozzle clogging with Mimaki-branded inks, saving hours of maintenance per month.

8. Epson UltraChrome DTF Inks

Overview:
Epson is one of the leaders in inkjet print technology. Its UltraChrome DTF inks are designed for Epson’s industrial DTF setups.

Key Features:

• Ultra-sharp details and professional-grade color profiles. 
• Excellent fade resistance. 
• Ideal for photographic-quality prints on garments. 

Pros:

• Best-in-class printhead compatibility. 
• Reliable OEM ink support and warranty. 
• Superior for photo printing and gradient work. 

Cons:

• Expensive compared to aftermarket brands. 
• Primarily designed for Epson’s professional DTF printers, not entry-level setups. 

Example:
Photo studios offering custom merchandise choose Epson UltraChrome inks for replicating high-definition images on apparel.

9. ProColor DTF Inks

Overview:
ProColor is a budget-friendly brand aimed at small businesses and hobbyists. Despite being cost-effective, it offers decent color performance for everyday apparel printing.

Key Features:

• Available in CMYK + White with good opacity. 
• Easy to work with, less prone to clogging than other budget inks. 
• Affordable bulk options. 

Pros:

• Excellent entry-level pricing. 
• Consistent results for casual or startup-level businesses. 
• Works with most converted Epson printers. 

Cons:

• Not as durable as Kodak or DuPont inks. 
• Colors may appear less vibrant after multiple washes. 

Example:
Etsy sellers creating small-batch custom T-shirts often use ProColor inks as a low-cost entry point into the DTF market.

10. Printers Jack DTF Inks

Overview:
Printers Jack is another affordable option that has grown popular with home-based businesses and small operations. It’s known for accessibility and beginner-friendly use.

Key Features:

• Affordable CMYK + White ink bundles. 
• Compatible with most desktop Epson conversions. 
• Smooth, clog-resistant flow for casual use. 

Pros:

• Very beginner-friendly. 
• Cost-effective option for testing the DTF process. 
• Widely available online. 

Cons:

• Not ideal for professional-level bulk production. 
• Shorter wash life compared to premium brands. 

Example:
A hobbyist in the UK reported Printers Jack inks worked well for small-batch family events and fundraisers, but switched to Kodak for larger orders requiring durability.

 

Pros and Cons of Using DTF Inks

To help buyers decide, here’s a side-by-side advantages vs limitations overview:

Advantages	Limitations
Works on a wide range of fabrics	White ink requires more maintenance
High durability with proper inks	Cheap inks may fade or crack quickly
Vibrant, photo-quality colors possible	Can be more expensive than sublimation
Flexible production (cotton, blends, etc.)	Requires PET film & adhesive powder
Suitable for small shops and big factories	Printer clogging risk if poor-quality inks used

 

Practical Buyer Tips: How to Choose the Right DTF Ink

When deciding between the top DTF ink brands, keep these factors in mind:

1. Match Ink to Your Printer

• OEM inks (like Epson or Mimaki) are best if you’re using their printers. 
• For Epson conversions, choose STS, Kodak, or Inktec. 

2. Balance Quality vs Cost

• Premium inks (Kodak, DuPont, STS) = higher upfront cost but better durability. 
• Budget inks (ProColor, Printers Jack) = good for testing or small shops. 

3. Consider Wash Durability

• If selling professional products, choose brands tested for 40+ washes. 
• For casual or hobby printing, mid-range inks may suffice. 

4. Look at Customer Support & Warranty

• OEM brands (Mimaki, Epson) usually include stronger support. 
• Third-party brands may require more self-maintenance. 

5. Start Small, Then Scale

• Test small batches with budget-friendly inks before committing to bulk orders. 
• Once demand grows, upgrade to premium inks for customer satisfaction

Frequently Asked Questions About DTF Inks

1. What is the best DTF ink brand in 2025?

STS and Kodak are the leading DTF ink brands in 2025 due to their excellent wash durability, vibrant colors, and low maintenance. However, the best brand depends on your printer type and business scale.

2. Are DTF inks washable?

Yes, high-quality DTF inks can last 40–60 washes without major fading. Brands like Kodak, DuPont, and STS are particularly known for superior wash resistance.

3. Can I use any ink for DTF printing?

No, only specialized DTF inks should be used. Regular inkjet inks are not designed for heat transfer or PET films, and they will not bond properly to fabric.

4. Which DTF inks are best for beginners?

Inktec, ProColor, and Printers Jack are affordable and easy to use, making them good choices for beginners and small businesses.

5. Do DTF inks clog printers?

Yes, clogging can happen if inks are low-quality or printers are not maintained. To reduce clogs, choose reputable brands (STS, Mimaki, Kodak) and run regular nozzle checks.

6. Is white DTF ink necessary?

Yes, white ink is required for printing on dark or colored garments. It acts as an underbase so CMYK colors appear vibrant and opaque.

7. How long do DTF inks last in storage?

Unopened DTF inks typically last 6–12 months. Always store them in a cool, dry place and shake white ink bottles before use to prevent sedimentation.

Final Thoughts

DTF printing continues to grow in popularity because it delivers versatility, vibrant results, and strong durability across fabrics. But the success of your prints depends heavily on choosing the right ink brand.

• Premium Brands (STS, Kodak, DuPont, Epson, Mimaki): Best for professional businesses prioritizing durability and print quality. 
• Mid-Range Options (Nazdar, SubliJet, Inktec): Great balance of cost and performance. 
• Budget-Friendly Choices (ProColor, Printers Jack): Perfect for beginners, hobbyists, or testing the market.
  

By considering factors like printer compatibility, wash resistance, and cost, you can confidently choose the right ink to match your business goals.