A3 (13 inch) vs A4 (8.3 inch)
A4 covers left-chest logos and kids sizes. A3 covers a full adult t-shirt back. The price gap is smaller than the capability gap.
| A3 (13 inch) | A4 (8.3 inch) | |
|---|---|---|
| Max print width | 13 inch / 33 cm | 8.3 inch / 21 cm |
| Adult t-shirt back | Yes | No |
| Throughput | 15–30 shirts/day | 8–15 shirts/day |
| Price | $1,800–$4,000 | $900–$2,000 |
| Film cost per print | $0.60–$1.20 | $0.25–$0.50 |
| Best for | Real production work | Testing, logos, kids clothing |
Choose A3 (13 inch) if
You plan to sell full-back prints — which is most custom t-shirt work.
Choose A4 (8.3 inch) if
You only do left-chest logos or you are testing the market.
The short answer
Most people who buy A4 upgrade within 6 months. If you are serious, start at A3.
Machines in this category
DTF PrinterEraSmart A3 G6 DTF Printer with 1390 Printehead
- • CSD4293
- • CMYKW-250ml/bottle
Get QuoteIn Stock
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DTF PrinterEraSmart A4 DTF Printer L805 Head 8 Inch for Vibrant Color Starts
- • CSD3462
- • W-250ml/bottle，CMYK-100ml/bottle
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DTF PrinterEraSmart A3 XP600 DTF Printing Machine Single Head 13.8 Inch Prints
- • CSD3437
- • W-260ml，CMYK-120ml/bottle
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Details
Other comparisons
DTF vs Sublimation
Sublimation only bonds to polyester. DTF bonds to cotton, blends and dark fabrics — which is why most t-shirt shops start with DTF.
DTF vs HTV (heat transfer vinyl)
HTV is faster for one-color names and numbers. DTF wins on full-color photos, gradients and fabric range.
DTF vs DTG (direct to garment)
DTG prints directly onto the shirt and feels like nothing. DTF prints on film first, which makes it cheaper to start and more forgiving on blends.
DTF vs Screen printing
Screen printing is cheapest per unit above ~100 pieces. DTF is cheaper below that because there is no screen setup.
Still torn between the two?
Tell us what you print each week and we will tell you which one pays back faster for your order mix.