DTF Printers: A Complete Guide to Choosing Your Equipment in 2025
Direct-to-film (DTF) technology is emerging as one of the most versatile and cost-effective textile printing solutions in 2025. Compatible with cotton , polyester , silk , nylon and synthetic fibers , it meets the needs of both professional workshops and independent designers.
In this Must Technology guide, discover how to choose the DTF printer best suited to your production volume, budget, and objectives. You'll also see the differences between 2-head and 4-head models, as well as the advantages of a complete DTF printer + shaker set —our recommended configuration in all cases.
1. Essential criteria for choosing a DTF printer
Production volume
The starting point for choosing your DTF equipment is your production volume . At Must Technologie, we always recommend a DTF printer combined with a shaker .
- For normal to sustained production: opt for a DTF printer with 2 heads + shaker .
- Intensive production / high volumes / continuous production: choose a 4-head DTF printer + shaker .
Important: In a professional setup, the printer and the DTF shaker work together. The shaker is not an optional accessory, but a central component of the DTF chain.
Print width
Professional DTF models are generally 60 cm wide . This format allows for:
- printing large visuals ;
- DTF film roll production;
- optimal profitability for workshops with regular or high production rates.
The 60 cm is now the standard in modern DTF workshops .
Automation with a shaker
The DTF shaker is essential for automating and ensuring the reliability of your production:
- automatic application of TPU powder ;
- homogeneous infrared drying of the film;
- film winding ready to be cut or transferred;
- stability and repeatability of transfers from one draw to another.
It is this printer + shaker duo that transforms a simple print job into a professional DTF production line .
Compatible consumables
To fully exploit the potential of your equipment, it is essential to use suitable DTF consumables :
- Professional quality DTF inks ;
- DTF films in rolls adapted to your machines;
- TPU powders ensuring good adhesion and excellent wash resistance.
2. DTF 2-head + shaker solutions: for normal to sustained production
DTF 2-head + shaker solutions are ideal for workshops with regular daily production , wanting excellent print quality without going directly to a 4-head configuration.
STS XPD-924D DTF Printer – 2 printheads
The STS XPD-924D DTF printer by STS Inks and Mutoh is a professional 2-head machine offering excellent stability and fast printing speeds. It integrates perfectly into a line with a 60cm DTF shaker.
Complete set: XPD-924D + Shaker 60 cm
For a turnkey solution, the DTF XPD-924D set + 60cm shaker is the most recommended configuration for daily production:
- automation of TPU powder coating;
- uniform drying;
- ready-to-use rolled film;
- reduction of handling and labor time.
See the DTF XPD-924D printer set + 60cm shaker
60cm DTF printer – 2 printheads
The 60cm DTF printer – 2 heads is a high-performance solution for workshops wishing to start or structure a regular DTF production, to be systematically associated with a 60cm DTF shaker .
See the 60cm DTF printer – 2 print heads
See the DTF printer set with 2 print heads + 60cm shaker
3. DTF 4-head + shaker solutions: for intensive production
For workshops with intensive production , short lead times and large volumes, the DTF 4-head + shaker solutions are the benchmark.
60cm DTF Printer – 4 High-Speed Printheads
The 60cm DTF printer – 4 high-speed printheads – is designed for very high-volume production. Its speed can reach up to 26 m²/h (depending on the modes and settings).
See the high-speed 4-head DTF printer
DTF 60cm Set – 4 Heads + 800-L Shaker
The DTF 60cm set – 4 heads + 800-L shaker is the ideal pack for high-speed workshops requiring continuous production with high stability:
- automatic high-speed TPU powder handling;
- Optimized drying for long runs;
- smooth and continuous production flow.
See the DTF 4-head set + Shaker 800-L
4. DTF shakers compatible with our printers
All our shakers are designed to work in harmony with our 60cm DTF printers :
Find the entire range here:
Complete collection of DTF shakers
5. Essential consumables for professional DTF production
DTF Inks
DTF Films
TPU powders
6. Why always associate DTF printers and shakers?
Separating the DTF printer from the shaker means sacrificing some quality and productivity. By using them together, you benefit from:
- of a homogeneous application of the TPU powder;
- controlled drying across the entire width;
- of a continuous production flow ;
- of consistent quality on each transfer;
- saving time and reducing human error.
That is why Must Technologie always recommends a DTF printer configuration with 2 or 4 print heads + a suitable shaker .
7. Summary and Must Technology Recommendation
To simplify your choice:
- Starting in DTF / normal to sustained production: opt for a 2-head + shaker solution (for example XPD-924D + 60 cm shaker ).
- Intensive production / large volumes / continuous production: favour a 4-head + shaker solution ( 4-head set with shaker 800-L ).
For any questions or for personalized support in choosing your complete DTF line , our Must Technologie team is at your disposal.