Printful vs Printify — A Fair Comparison

Olivia Thompson
11 min readMar 21, 2024

Print-on-demand (POD) services have revolutionized e-commerce by enabling businesses to offer customized products without the hassle of inventory management.

a photo of a lapto with analytics.
Photo by Myriam Jessier on Unsplash

Among the myriad of POD platforms available, Printify and Printful stand out as popular choices. This review aims to provide a detailed comparison between Printify and Printful, helping you make an informed decision for your business.

Table of contents

Understanding Print-on-Demand and Dropshipping
About Printify:
About Printful:
Watch a short video below:
Comparing Printify and Printful Cost Comparison:
Designs and Customization
Branding
Integrations
Cost Comparison
Customer Reviews and Reputation
Bottom Line
Average Shipping Time & Price (Tshirt)
What to Like about Printful:
What not to Like about Printful:
What to Like about Printify:
What not to Like about Printify:
Printify vs Printful: Pricing:
Printful Bestselling Products:
Printify Bestselling Products:
Product Example Comparison (Gildan 5000 T-shirt):
Printify vs Printful: Integrations:
Printful vs Printify: AI Features:
Printful vs Printify: Mobile Apps:
Printify vs Printful: Fulfillment and Shipping Costs:
Printify vs Printful: Customer Support:
Printify vs Printful: Overall Features:
Printify vs Printful: Product Designs and Quality:
Printful vs Printify for Etsy/Amazon/Shopify:
Printful vs. Printify vs. Print Aura/Sellfy/Teelaunch:
In conclusion
FAQ:

Understanding Print-on-Demand and Dropshipping

Print-on-demand (POD) services allow businesses to customize products only when they’re ordered, eliminating the need for inventory storage.

Similarly, dropshipping involves fulfilling orders directly from a third-party supplier. Both models offer flexibility and convenience for e-commerce businesses.

In both cases, Printful and Printify can be considered print-on-demand and dropshipping services in one.

About Printify:

a screenshot of the printify website

Features and Offerings Printify offers a vast array of products and works with multiple printing companies, providing diverse pricing and customization options.

With over 900 products in its catalog, Printify empowers businesses to create unique merchandise. It offers discounts for premium users and facilitates branding options such as neck labels and package inserts.

About Printful:

screenshot of the printful website

Features and Offerings Printful provides uniform printing services, ensuring consistency in quality. While its product catalog is comparatively smaller, with 341 items, Printful offers extensive customization options.

Businesses can leverage features like inside and outside neck labels, sleeve labels, and package insert customization to enhance brand identity.

Watch a short video below:

Comparing Printify and Printful Cost Comparison:

  • Pricing: Printify has a free plan and a premium option starting at $29 per month, while Printful offers a free plan with additional services available at varying costs.
  • Product Range: Printify boasts over 950 products, which surpasses Printful’s catalog of 341 items.
  • Customization Options: Both platforms offer robust customization tools, allowing businesses to personalize products according to their brand identity.
  • Order Fulfillment: Printify and Printful have similar fulfillment times, typically ranging from two to seven business days.
  • Integrations: While both platforms integrate with popular e-commerce services, Printful offers a broader range of integrations, including Amazon.
  • Customer Support: Both platforms offer email and live chat support. Printful provides services in multiple languages.
  • Product Range and Mockups:
    Printify offers a wider range of products, including eco-friendly options, and provides at least four mockup images for each product.
    Printful, on the other hand, offers fewer products but excels in providing customizable mockups, with over 330 items featuring mockup options.

Designs and Customization

Both Printify and Printful offer user-friendly design tools, enabling businesses to create custom product designs effortlessly. Printify accepts SVG file uploads and provides free royalty-free designs, while Printful offers a vast library of templates and fonts for customization.

Branding

Both platforms facilitate branding options such as labels and package inserts. Printify allows businesses to add branded neck labels and inserts, while Printful offers additional options like outside labels for clothing items and hats.

Integrations

Printful integrates with a broader range of e-commerce platforms and marketplaces, including Amazon, providing businesses with more selling opportunities. Printify, however, offers a direct integration with Walmart and features a “Pop-Up Store” option for creating online stores quickly.

Cost Comparison

Both Printify and Printful offer free plans, with additional services available at varying costs. Printful’s membership program provides discounts and additional support based on sales volume, while Printify offers a premium plan starting at $24.99 per month.

Customer Reviews and Reputation

Printify and Printful enjoy positive reputations among users, with high ratings on platforms like Trustpilot. While Printify is praised for its helpful support and resource offerings, Printful is commended for its ease of integration and navigation.

Bottom Line

Printify is ideal for businesses seeking a wide range of product options and control over printing services. It’s suitable for those looking to offer diverse merchandise and explore multiple printing options.

Printful, on the other hand, excels in customization and integration, making it the preferred choice for businesses aiming for enhanced brand identity and seamless e-commerce integration.

Printful is best for:

  • Businesses seeking seamless integration with popular e-commerce platforms.
  • Those prioritizing customization and branding options.
  • Businesses are hesitant to commit to monthly subscription fees.

Printify is best for:

  • Businesses looking to offer a diverse range of products to customers.
  • E-commerce businesses seeking control over printing services and options.
  • Those interested in creating online stores quickly with minimal investment.

Average Shipping Time & Price (Tshirt)

Comparison chart displaying average shipping times and prices for T-shirts.
Comparison chart displaying average shipping times and prices for T-shirts

What to Like about Printful:

Printful stands out for its extensive range of customizable products and seamless integration with various e-commerce platforms. Businesses appreciate its user-friendly interface, which simplifies the design and ordering process. Printful’s high-quality printing and reliable fulfillment services ensure customer satisfaction, while its diverse branding options allow businesses to showcase their brand identity effectively.

What not to Like about Printful:

Despite its many strengths, Printful has limitations, including relatively higher pricing compared to some competitors. Some users also find its customer support lacking at times, with occasional delays in response times. Additionally, while Printful offers a wide selection of products, it may not match the variety offered by other platforms.

What to Like about Printify:

Printify impresses users with its vast product catalog, offering over 950 customizable items to choose from. The platform’s competitive pricing, including a free plan option, makes it accessible to businesses of all sizes. Printify’s integration with multiple printing partners provides flexibility and ensures high-quality printing options for businesses, while its robust mockup tools help visualize designs effectively.

What not to Like about Printify:

Despite its strengths, Printify has drawbacks, such as limitations in branding options compared to some competitors. Some users also report occasional issues with print quality and fulfillment times, particularly during peak seasons.

While Printify offers a wide range of products, it may lack the customization options available on other platforms.

Printify vs Printful: Pricing:

When comparing pricing, Printify’s free plan and competitive premium options make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious businesses. Printful, while offering a free plan, may have higher overall costs, especially for additional services.

However, businesses should consider factors such as product variety and integration capabilities when evaluating pricing.

Printful Bestselling Products:

Printful’s bestselling products include a diverse range of apparel items, such as T-shirts, hoodies, and leggings, known for their high-quality printing and durability. These products cater to various niche markets and allow businesses to offer trendy and appealing merchandise to their customers.

Printify Bestselling Products:

Printify’s bestselling products span multiple categories, including apparel, accessories, and home decor items. With over 950 customizable products available, Printify offers a wide selection of bestselling items catering to different consumer preferences and market demands.

Product Example Comparison (Gildan 5000 T-shirt):

Comparing a popular product like the Gildan 5000 T-shirt on Printify and Printful reveals differences in pricing, customization options, and fulfillment times. Businesses can assess factors such as print quality, shipping costs, and integration capabilities to determine the most suitable platform for their needs.

Printify vs Printful: Integrations:

While both platforms integrate with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify and Etsy, Printful offers a broader range of integrations, including Amazon and eBay. Businesses should consider their preferred selling channels and platform compatibility when choosing between Printify and Printful.

Printful vs Printify: AI Features:

Both Printful and Printify offer AI-driven features to enhance the design process and streamline workflows. These include mockup generators, design templates, and product recommendation tools. Businesses can leverage these AI features to create engaging designs and improve overall efficiency.

Printful vs Printify: Mobile Apps:

Printful and Printify provide mobile apps for convenient on-the-go access to their platforms. These apps allow businesses to manage orders, track sales, and create designs directly from their mobile devices. However, differences in app functionality and user experience may influence platform preference for some users.

Printify vs Printful: Fulfillment and Shipping Costs:

When comparing fulfillment and shipping costs, businesses should consider factors such as product weight, destination, and shipping speed. Printify and Printful offer competitive shipping rates, but businesses may find variations in costs depending on their specific requirements and order volume.

Printify vs Printful: Customer Support:

Both Printify and Printful offer customer support via email, live chat, and knowledge base resources. While Printful provides services in multiple languages, Printify may have limitations in language support. Businesses should assess their support needs and preferences when choosing a POD platform.

Printify vs Printful: Overall Features:

In evaluating overall features, businesses should consider factors such as product variety, customization options, integrations, pricing, and customer support. Printify and Printful excel in different areas, and businesses should prioritize features aligned with their specific requirements and goals.

Printify vs Printful: Product Designs and Quality:

When comparing product designs and quality, businesses should assess factors such as print resolution, color accuracy, and material durability. Printify and Printful both offer high-quality printing services, but businesses may find differences in print consistency and product finishing.

Printful vs Printify for Etsy/Amazon/Shopify:

Printful and Printify are compatible with popular e-commerce platforms like Etsy, Amazon, and Shopify, offering seamless integration and fulfillment services. Businesses can leverage these platforms to reach a broader audience and expand their online presence effectively.

Printful vs. Printify vs. Print Aura/Sellfy/Teelaunch:

In comparing Printful, Printify, and other POD platforms like Print Aura, Sellfy, and Teelaunch, businesses should evaluate factors such as product variety, pricing, integrations, and customer support. Each platform offers unique features and benefits, catering to different business needs and preferences.

In conclusion

Both Printify and Printful offer unique features and benefits tailored to different business needs. By understanding their strengths and limitations, you can select the platform that aligns best with your business goals and requirements.

FAQ:

  1. Can I really make money with Printify and Printful?
    Yes, you can make money with both Printify and Printful. These platforms enable you to create and sell custom merchandise without the need for inventory or upfront costs. By leveraging their services and reaching your target audience, you can generate revenue through sales of personalized products.
  2. Is signing up for Printful free?
    Yes, signing up for Printful is free. You can create an account on their platform without any initial costs. However, additional services such as branding options and product photography may incur fees.
  3. Is Printify better than Printful?
    The superiority of Printify or Printful depends on your specific business needs and preferences. Printify offers a wider range of product options and printing partners, while Printful excels in customization and integration capabilities. Assessing factors such as product variety, pricing, and customer support will help determine which platform is better suited for your business.
  4. How do Printify and Printful compare in terms of profit margins?
    Printify and Printful both offer competitive profit margins, which vary depending on factors such as product pricing, printing costs, and shipping fees. Businesses can maximize their profit margins by setting appropriate pricing strategies and optimizing their operations.
  5. What are the key differences between Printful and Printify’s pricing structures?
    Printful and Printify have distinct pricing structures. Printify offers a free plan with optional premium features, while Printful provides a free plan with additional services available at varying costs. Additionally, their product pricing and shipping fees may differ, impacting overall profitability.
  6. How does the quality of products from Printful and Printify compare?
    Both Printful and Printify maintain high standards of product quality. However, the quality may vary depending on factors such as the chosen printing partner, material used, and design complexity. Businesses can request samples or review customer feedback to assess product quality.
  7. What types of products can I sell through Printful and Printify?
    Printful and Printify offer a wide range of customizable products, including apparel, accessories, home decor items, and more. From T-shirts and hoodies to mugs and phone cases, businesses have the flexibility to create diverse merchandise according to their target market’s preferences.
  8. How does fulfillment time differ between Printful and Printify?
    The fulfillment time for orders varies between Printful and Printify. Both platforms typically fulfill orders within a few business days, but specific processing times may depend on factors such as product type, printing partner, and order volume. Businesses should consider these factors when managing customer expectations.
  9. Can I integrate Printify and Printful with my existing e-commerce platform?
    Yes, both Printify and Printful offer integrations with popular e-commerce platforms such as Shopify, Etsy, and WooCommerce. This allows businesses to seamlessly connect their POD services with their existing online stores, streamlining order management and fulfillment processes.
  10. What customer support options are available with Printful and Printify?
    Printful and Printify provide customer support via email, live chat, and knowledge base resources. Printful offers support in multiple languages, while Printify primarily offers services in English. Businesses can contact their respective support teams for assistance with orders, technical issues, and general inquiries.
  11. Are there any hidden fees associated with using Printful or Printify?
    Both Printful and Printify are transparent about their pricing structures, and there are no hidden fees associated with using their services. Businesses should review the pricing details carefully and consider any additional services or upgrades that may incur additional costs.
  12. How customizable are products on Printful and Printify?
    Printful and Printify offer robust customization tools, allowing businesses to personalize products with their own designs, logos, and branding elements. From choosing garment colors to adding custom labels and packaging, businesses have extensive customization options to create unique merchandise.
  13. What shipping options do Printful and Printify offer?
    Printful and Printify offer various shipping options to accommodate different customer preferences and delivery requirements. These options may include standard shipping, expedited shipping, and international shipping services. Businesses can select the most suitable shipping method based on their customers’ needs and shipping destinations.
  14. How do Printful and Printify handle returns and exchanges?
    Printful and Printify have clear policies in place for handling returns and exchanges. In case of product defects or order errors, businesses can request replacements or refunds through their respective platforms. Both platforms prioritize customer satisfaction and strive to resolve any issues promptly.
  15. Can I use both Printful and Printify simultaneously on one platform?
    Yes, businesses can use both Printful and Printify simultaneously by integrating them with their e-commerce platform. This allows businesses to leverage the strengths of each platform and offer a wider range of products to their customers.
  16. What is the process for setting up a store with Printful or Printify?
    Setting up a store with Printful or Printify involves creating an account, selecting products, designing customizations, and integrating with your e-commerce platform. Both platforms offer step-by-step guidance and resources to help businesses launch their online stores efficiently.
  17. Do Printful and Printify offer any marketing or promotional tools?
    Yes, both Printful and Printify provide marketing and promotional tools to help businesses promote their products effectively. These tools may include mockup generators, design templates, and integration with social media platforms for seamless marketing campaigns.
  18. Are there any restrictions on where I can sell products from Printful or Printify?
    Printful and Printify do not impose restrictions on where businesses can sell their products. However, businesses should comply with the policies and guidelines of their chosen e-commerce platforms and marketplaces. This ensures compliance with terms of service and maximizes sales opportunities.

More resources:

Note: There are affiliate links in the links given above and if you buy something, I’ll get a commission at no extra cost to you.

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Olivia Thompson

Meet Olivia Thompson: mom of 2, blogger, and travel lover. Sharing adventures while navigating motherhood. Inspiring others with family-friendly tips!