Discover the best print on demand solutions to grow your Shopify store and streamline your business

When it comes to running an online store, Shopify is one of the most popular platforms. One of the biggest advantages of using Shopify is its ability to integrate with a wide range of apps that can help automate and simplify various aspects of your business. For entrepreneurs who want to sell custom-designed products without the hassle of holding inventory, print on demand (POD) apps are a game-changer.

Print on demand apps allow you to create custom products like t-shirts, mugs, and posters and have them produced only when an order is made. This eliminates the need for upfront investment and reduces risk, making it an ideal solution for budding entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners alike.

In this article, we'll explore the best print on demand apps for Shopify, focusing on their features, pricing, and what sets them apart from the competition. If you’re looking to scale your business with ease, these apps will help you do just that.

1. Printful: The Most Popular POD App for Shopify

Printful is arguably the most popular print on demand app available for Shopify users. It is known for its high-quality products, ease of use, and seamless integration with Shopify. Whether you’re selling apparel, home goods, or accessories, Printful offers a vast catalog of products to customize with your designs.

One of the key features of Printful is its wide range of printing methods, including direct-to-garment (DTG), embroidery, and sublimation. The app also handles order fulfillment, packing, and shipping, so you don’t have to worry about logistics. Furthermore, Printful’s branding options, like custom packaging and branded packing slips, help you create a professional and personalized experience for your customers.

Pricing for Printful is competitive, and there are no upfront costs. You only pay for the products when an order is made, and the cost varies depending on the product and customization options. Printful offers a free plan, but you can also sign up for a premium plan for additional benefits like reduced product prices and priority support.

2. Printify: Affordable and Versatile POD Solution

Printify is another great print on demand app that integrates smoothly with Shopify. It’s known for its affordability and large selection of products. With over 250+ custom products to choose from, Printify gives you a broad range of options, from clothing to home decor to phone accessories.

One of the standout features of Printify is its network of printing partners. Printify works with a global network of print providers, allowing you to choose a manufacturer based on your location and the type of product you’re selling. This can help you reduce shipping times and costs, especially if you have customers in different parts of the world.

Printify’s pricing structure is straightforward. The app itself is free, and you only pay for the products when a customer places an order. They offer a premium subscription for $29 per month, which reduces the cost of products and provides access to additional tools and features, such as custom mockup generators and advanced product analytics.

3. Gooten: A Flexible POD Platform with Global Reach

Gooten is a powerful print on demand app that offers a flexible platform for Shopify store owners. Like Printify, Gooten partners with multiple printing providers, allowing you to source products from various locations and customize your orders to meet your needs. This flexibility is ideal for store owners looking to create a global brand.

Gooten offers a comprehensive range of products including apparel, drinkware, home decor, and even office supplies. One unique feature of Gooten is its automated production process, which makes it easy for store owners to manage orders without manually coordinating with suppliers. This can save a lot of time and ensure a smoother operation.

The app itself is free to use, and Gooten charges only when an order is placed. Pricing varies depending on the product and customization, but it is generally considered to be quite competitive. Gooten also provides integration with a wide range of other e-commerce platforms, making it a solid choice for businesses that sell on multiple channels.

4. Teespring (now Spring): Ideal for Creators and Influencers

Teespring, now rebranded as Spring, is an excellent choice for creators, influencers, and those with a strong online following. While it is particularly well-known for custom t-shirts, it offers a wide variety of products, including phone cases, mugs, and even face masks. Spring is a user-friendly platform that allows you to design, promote, and sell products directly from your store.

One of the unique features of Spring is its integration with social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, allowing you to easily sell products directly to your followers. This makes it a great option for those who have a built-in audience and want to monetize their following with custom designs.

Spring offers no upfront costs, and you only pay for the products when a customer places an order. The platform is free to use, and there are no monthly fees. The downside is that Spring’s product catalog is a bit more limited compared to some of the other options, but it’s an excellent choice for influencers and content creators who want to sell products with minimal effort.

Conclusion: Which POD App is Best for Your Shopify Store?

Choosing the right print on demand app for your Shopify store depends on your specific needs and business goals. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, high-quality solution with a wide range of products, Printful is an excellent option. Printify, on the other hand, offers great affordability and flexibility with its vast product selection and global print partners.

If you want a more personalized approach and have the time to experiment with different suppliers, Gooten’s flexibility and global reach make it an attractive choice. For influencers and creators looking for a simple way to sell custom products directly to their audience, Spring (Teespring) could be the best fit.

No matter which app you choose, the key to success with print on demand is creating unique and appealing designs that resonate with your target audience. With the right app and a little creativity, you can build a thriving Shopify store that runs smoothly and efficiently without the need for large upfront investments in inventory.