top print-on-demand tools alternatives for Etsy sellers (2025 update)
August 21, 2025 · 8 min read
title: Top Print-On-Demand Tools Alternatives for Etsy Sellers (2025 Update)
date: 2025-01-15
excerpt: Discover the best print-on-demand tools for Etsy sellers in 2025. This comprehensive guide provides insights, comparisons, and expert recommendations for optimizing your side hustle.
tags: ["side-hustles"]
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Top Print-On-Demand Tools Alternatives for Etsy Sellers (2025 Update)
Overview
As the world of e-commerce continues to evolve, print-on-demand (POD) tools have become essential for Etsy sellers looking to create unique products without the hassle of inventory management. This guide aims to help you discover the top alternatives to traditional POD services, ensuring you can effectively cater to your target market while maximizing your profits.
With the rise of personalized products and custom designs, optimizing your Etsy shop with the right POD tools can set you apart from the competition. In this article, we will delve into the top print-on-demand tools available in 2025, highlighting their unique features, pricing, and pros and cons.
Top Picks
Name | Best For | Key Features | Price (USD) |
---|---|---|---|
Printful | Custom Apparel | Wide product range, easy integration, high-quality prints | Free |
Printify | Budget-Friendly Options | Competitive pricing, vast product selection, user-friendly | Free |
Gooten | Custom Home Decor | Automated order processing, various shipping options | Free |
TeeSpring (now known as Spring) | Social Media Integration | Seamless social media marketing tools, no upfront costs | Free |
Apliiq | Unique Apparel Designs | Custom labels, embroidery options, branding services | Free |
SPOD (Spreadshirt Print-On-Demand) | Fast Fulfillment | 48-hour shipping, customizable products, competitive pricing | Free |
Zazzle | Diverse Product Range | Extensive product options, community marketplace | Free |
Redbubble | Creative Artwork | Artist-friendly platform, global reach, easy to use | Free |
In-Depth Reviews
1. Printful
Best For: Custom Apparel
Key Features:
- Extensive product catalog including clothing, accessories, and home goods.
- Seamless integration with Etsy and other e-commerce platforms.
- High-quality printing techniques, including DTG and embroidery.
- Real-time shipping updates and order tracking.
Pros:
- No upfront costs or hidden fees.
- Reliable production and shipping times.
- Excellent customer service.
Cons:
- Limited customization for certain products.
- Higher shipping costs for international orders.
Current Price: Free
2. Printify
Best For: Budget-Friendly Options
Key Features:
- Over 250 products to choose from.
- Competitive pricing with various print providers.
- User-friendly design tool for easy product creation.
- Integrates well with Etsy and other platforms.
Pros:
- Affordable base costs and discounts on bulk orders.
- Multiple print providers to choose from for different pricing and quality.
- Great for beginners due to its intuitive interface.
Cons:
- Quality may vary between different print providers.
- Limited branding options compared to some competitors.
Current Price: Free
3. Gooten
Best For: Custom Home Decor
Key Features:
- Automated order processing and inventory management.
- Variety of home decor items like wall art and home textiles.
- Flexible shipping options and fulfillment locations.
Pros:
- Efficient order management system.
- Good customer support and resources for sellers.
- Comprehensive analytics for tracking sales performance.
Cons:
- Limited product options compared to larger competitors.
- May experience longer shipping times during peak seasons.
Current Price: Free
4. TeeSpring (Spring)
Best For: Social Media Integration
Key Features:
- Direct integration with social media platforms.
- Customizable storefronts for creators.
- No upfront costs or inventory risks.
Pros:
- Easy to promote products via social media.
- Tailored tools for creators and influencers.
- Engaging community features for customers.
Cons:
- Limited to primarily apparel and accessories.
- Potentially higher fees for some features.
Current Price: Free
5. Apliiq
Best For: Unique Apparel Designs
Key Features:
- Custom label and embroidery options.
- Focus on unique clothing designs and branding.
- Variety of apparel styles and materials.
Pros:
- Excellent for creating branded merchandise.
- High-quality printing and customization options.
- Great support for creators looking to build a brand.
Cons:
- Higher base costs than some competitors.
- Limited product range compared to larger POD services.
Current Price: Free
6. SPOD (Spreadshirt Print-On-Demand)
Best For: Fast Fulfillment
Key Features:
- 48-hour production and shipping times.
- Wide selection of customizable products.
- Easy to use design tool for product creation.
Pros:
- Fast turnaround times are ideal for quick sales.
- Competitive pricing and discounts for bulk orders.
- User-friendly interface for easy setup.
Cons:
- Limited product variety compared to other services.
- Quality may vary depending on the product.
Current Price: Free
7. Zazzle
Best For: Diverse Product Range
Key Features:
- Extensive range of customizable products beyond apparel.
- Community marketplace for sellers to reach a larger audience.
- Tools for creating unique designs easily.
Pros:
- Great for niche products and unique designs.
- Engaging platform with a large customer base.
- Flexible pricing options for sellers.
Cons:
- Higher fees on sales compared to traditional POD services.
- May face stiff competition from other sellers.
Current Price: Free
8. Redbubble
Best For: Creative Artwork
Key Features:
- Artist-friendly platform that promotes original artwork.
- Wide range of products including clothing, stickers, and home decor.
- Global reach with an established customer base.
Pros:
- Easy to set up and start selling.
- Great for artists looking to monetize their work.
- Built-in audience and marketing tools.
Cons:
- Lower profit margins due to platform fees.
- Limited control over pricing and product quality.
Current Price: Free
How We Picked
To curate this list of the best print-on-demand tools for Etsy sellers in 2025, we conducted extensive research, including:
- User Reviews: Analyzing feedback from Etsy sellers who have used these tools.
- Feature Comparison: Evaluating the key features and how they cater to different seller needs.
- Pricing Analysis: Considering both base costs and potential hidden fees.
- Market Trends: Looking at how these tools align with current e-commerce trends, particularly in the print-on-demand niche.
Alternatives
While the aforementioned POD tools are among the best for Etsy sellers, there are other options worth considering:
- TeeChip: Focuses on apparel and accessories with a strong social media integration.
- CustomCat: Offers a wide range of products and is known for its fast fulfillment.
- AOP+ (All Over Print): Specializes in all-over print products, ideal for unique apparel.
When to Choose an Alternative:
- Budget Constraints: If you’re looking for lower base prices, consider Printify or CustomCat.
- Specific Product Needs: If you want unique items like all-over print apparel, AOP+ may be your best choice.
- Community Support: Platforms like Redbubble offer a built-in audience for artists and designers.
FAQs
1. What is print-on-demand?
Print-on-demand (POD) is a business model that allows creators to sell custom products without holding inventory. Products are only printed after a customer places an order.
2. How do I integrate a POD service with Etsy?
Most POD services provide easy integration options with Etsy. Typically, you can connect your Etsy store through the POD service's dashboard, allowing for automatic order fulfillment.
3. Are there any fees associated with using POD services?
While most POD services do not charge upfront fees, they take a percentage of sales or charge for product base costs. Always check individual service pricing structures.
4. Can I customize my products with my own branding?
Many POD services, such as Apliiq and Printful, offer branding options like custom labels and packaging to help you establish your brand identity.
5. How do I handle shipping and fulfillment?
Most POD services manage shipping and fulfillment on your behalf. Upon receiving an order, they handle production, packaging, and shipping directly to your customers.
6. What types of products can I sell with POD services?
Depending on the POD service you choose, you can sell a variety of products, including apparel, home decor, accessories, and more. Always check the service’s product catalog.
Final Verdict
Choosing the right print-on-demand tool is crucial for Etsy sellers looking to streamline their business and enhance their brand. Each of the options presented in this guide offers unique features and advantages, catering to different needs and budgets.
Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific requirements—whether you prioritize speed, cost, or product diversity. By leveraging these tools effectively, you can build a successful Etsy shop that stands out in the competitive e-commerce landscape of 2025.