Discover the cheapest options for custom-printed t-shirts with our in-depth guide.

Print on demand (Print on demand) services have revolutionized the custom apparel industry, allowing businesses and individuals to design unique t-shirts without the need for upfront inventory. However, with so many Print on demand providers out there, it can be tricky to identify which ones offer the most affordable prices while still maintaining quality. In this article, we will dive deep into the world of print on demand t-shirts, highlighting the best and cheapest options available. Whether you're a small business owner or just someone looking to create a one-of-a-kind shirt, this guide will help you navigate the landscape of affordable Print on demand services.

1. What is Print on Demand (Print on demand)?

Print on demand is a business model where products like t-shirts, hoodies, and other apparel are printed only when an order is placed. This eliminates the need for maintaining inventory, as products are printed and shipped directly to customers on demand. Print on demand services are highly popular because they allow sellers to customize products without investing in large quantities or handling the logistics of shipping themselves.

When it comes to t-shirts, Print on demand companies partner with manufacturers to offer a wide range of shirt styles, colors, and sizes that can be customized with unique designs. This model allows for low-risk ventures, making it a great choice for small business owners or artists looking to sell custom designs without upfront costs.

2. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing the Cheapest Print on demand Service

While finding a cheap print on demand service is crucial, there are several factors beyond price that should influence your decision. Here are some essential considerations when looking for affordable Print on demand t-shirt providers:


Base Price of T-Shirts: The initial cost of the t-shirt is one of the most significant factors in determining the overall price of your custom product. A low base price ensures that you can offer competitive retail prices while still making a profit.
Printing Quality: Even if a service is inexpensive, the quality of the printing is essential. Low-quality prints can peel or fade quickly, leaving you with dissatisfied customers. Always read reviews and check samples before committing to a provider.
Shipping Costs: Some Print on demand services offer low product prices but have high shipping fees, which can significantly impact the final cost to the customer. Be sure to factor in shipping when calculating the total cost of your t-shirt.
Design Flexibility: Ensure the platform offers easy-to-use design tools or allows you to upload high-quality artwork to create the best possible product.


3. Best Cheap Print on Demand T-Shirt Providers

Now that we've established the important factors, let's take a look at some of the top affordable Print on demand services that offer great t-shirts at budget-friendly prices.


Printful: Printful is one of the most popular Print on demand platforms and offers a variety of shirt styles, including premium options. While their base prices are higher than some competitors, they provide excellent print quality and an easy-to-use interface for designing custom shirts. Their free design tool and integrations with eCommerce platforms like Shopify make it a great choice for businesses. Shipping costs, however, can be higher depending on the location.

Printify: Printify is known for its affordable base prices and a wide selection of t-shirt styles. They have an extensive network of print providers worldwide, allowing you to find competitive pricing based on your location. Printify's print quality is reliable, and they offer free access to their design tools. The only downside is that, like other Print on demand services, you must factor in the cost of shipping when determining your final price.

TeeSpring: TeeSpring, now known as Spring, is another affordable Print on demand service with no upfront costs. It offers a wide range of apparel, including t-shirts, with competitive base prices. The platform is straightforward, and they take care of everything, including printing, packing, and shipping. However, their shirt quality can vary depending on the style you choose, so it’s essential to test samples first.

AprintaPro: AprintaPro offers a solid collection of t-shirts at competitive prices, and they are known for good customer service. Their pricing model is transparent, with no hidden fees, making it a good choice for those starting out in the Print on demand business. They offer various shirt styles, and their print quality holds up well compared to other low-cost options.


4. How to Maximize Your Savings on Print on demand T-Shirts

Finding the cheapest print on demand t-shirts is just the first step; to further reduce your costs and increase your profit margin, consider the following tips:


Order in Bulk: Some Print on demand services offer discounts for bulk orders. Even though this may seem counterintuitive for a Print on demand service, ordering larger quantities of a specific design can lower the per-unit cost, especially if you plan on offering the same shirt in your store for an extended period.

Take Advantage of Sales and Promotions: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales, discounts, or special promotions offered by Print on demand platforms. Many services offer introductory rates or special deals for new users, which can help you save money in the beginning.

Optimize Your Design: Simpler designs that use fewer colors or are easier to print tend to cost less. Consider using designs that maximize the use of a single color or minimalist styles to save on printing costs.

Choose the Right Print Area: Some Print on demand platforms charge more for printing on specific areas of the t-shirt (like the sleeve or the back). By sticking to standard areas, like the front chest, you can save money without sacrificing the visual appeal of your design.


In conclusion, finding the cheapest print on demand t-shirts involves balancing cost, quality, and shipping fees. By comparing various services like Printful, Printify, TeeSpring, and AprintaPro, you can identify the best options that fit your budget and design needs. Remember to keep an eye on additional costs like shipping and always test sample products before committing to a large order. With the right provider, you can create custom t-shirts at affordable prices while still delivering high-quality products to your customers.