top 5 Print on demand (POD) apps for Shopify + A full Comparison
Print on demand (POD) has revolutionized the e-commerce industry by allowing merchants to create and sell custom products without managing inventory or handling fulfillment. Shopify, being a robust platform for e-commerce, offers numerous POD apps that seamlessly integrate with stores to help merchants design, list, and fulfill customized items like apparel, home decor, accessories, and more. If you’re looking to tap into the potential of custom products, choosing the right POD app can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explore the top POD apps for Shopify and provide a detailed comparison to help you find the perfect fit for your business.
1. Printful
Printful is one of the most widely used POD apps for Shopify, known for its quality products and ease of use. It allows merchants to create and sell custom apparel, accessories, and more while taking care of printing, packing, and shipping.
Key Features:
- Wide product catalog including clothing, home decor, and accessories
- High-quality printing with options like embroidery, sublimation, and DTG (Direct to Garment)
- Automatic order fulfillment and integration with Shopify
- Custom branding options including labels and pack-ins
- Warehousing and fulfillment services
PROS
- No upfront costs or minimum orders
- High product quality and reliable fulfillment
- Custom branding options to create a unique brand experience
CONS
- Higher base product prices compared to some competitors
- Shipping costs can add up, especially for international orders
Ideal for:
Merchants who prioritize product quality, customization, and brand consistency.
2. Printify
Printify is another popular POD app for Shopify that offers a wide range of customizable products through a network of print providers worldwide. Merchants can choose print partners based on quality, location, and pricing.
Key Features:
- Over 500 customizable products across different categories
- Choice of print providers for different regions
- Integration with Shopify for seamless order management
- Automatic order fulfillment and processing
- Custom mockup generation for product listings
PROS
- Competitive pricing due to multiple print providers
- Extensive product range
- Ability to choose print providers for faster fulfillment
CONS
- Product quality may vary depending on the chosen provider
- Limited branding options compared to other apps
Ideal for:
Merchants looking for flexibility and competitive pricing in their POD offerings.
3. Teelaunch
Teelaunch offers a range of unique products that set it apart from other POD providers. It’s known for its quick turnaround times and unique items like Bluetooth speakers, jewelry, and kitchenware.
Key Features:
- Diverse product catalog with unique offerings
- Automatic order fulfillment integrated with Shopify
- Customization options for various products
- Fast production and shipping times
- Mockup generation for product previews
PROS
- Quick order turnaround and fulfillment
- Unique product offerings not commonly found on other POD apps
- Affordable pricing
CONS
- Limited branding options
- Some products may have limited customization capabilities
Ideal for:
Merchants looking to differentiate their store with unique and innovative products.
4. SPOD – Print on Demand
SPOD, a POD solution from Spreadshirt, focuses on speed and cost-effectiveness. It claims one of the fastest production times in the industry, with 48-hour fulfillment for most orders.
Key Features:
- 48-hour order production for faster delivery
- Extensive library of customizable designs
- Over 100 product options
- Customization tool for customers to design products themselves
- Real-time shipping cost calculation
PROS
- Fast production and shipping times
- Cost-effective product pricing
- Easy-to-use customization tool for merchants and customers
CONS
- Limited product catalog compared to competitors
- Fewer branding options
Ideal for:
Merchants who prioritize fast shipping and cost-effective pricing.
5. AOP+ Easy Print on Demand
AOP+ (All Over Print) is a POD app that focuses on custom all-over-print apparel and accessories. It offers unique products and in-house printing, which can be a big plus for quality control.
Key Features:
- Custom all-over-print products (e.g., clothing, bags)
- In-house printing for better quality control
- Integration with Shopify for automatic order processing
- Branding options such as custom labels
- No minimum orders
PROS
- Great for creating custom, unique all-over-print designs
- Reliable quality with in-house printing
- Competitive pricing for all-over-print products
CONS
- Smaller product catalog compared to general POD providers
- Longer production times for all-over-print items
Ideal for:
Merchants who want to create standout all-over-print products.
Comparison Table
| Feature/Characteristic | Printful | Printify | Teelaunch | SPOD | AOP+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product Range | Wide | Very Wide | Moderate | Moderate | Limited (Focus on All-Over-Print) |
| Fulfillment Speed | Moderate | Moderate | Fast | Very Fast | Moderate |
| Customization Options | High | High | Moderate | Medium | High (All-Over-Print) |
| Branding Capabilities | High | Low-Moderate | Low | Low | Moderate |
| Pricing | Higher | Competitive | Affordable | Cost-Effective | Moderate |
| Ideal For | Quality & Branding | Flexibility & Pricing | Unique Products | Speed & Cost-Effective | Custom All-Over-Print |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Print on Demand app for your Shopify store depends on your business goals, budget, and the type of products you want to sell. Printful excels in quality and branding, making it a great choice for merchants who prioritize product consistency and customization. Printify offers flexibility with a wide product selection and competitive pricing. Teelaunch stands out with its unique products, perfect for merchants looking to offer something different. SPOD provides ultra-fast fulfillment, ideal for merchants prioritizing speed. AOP+ is perfect for all-over-print products, allowing merchants to create unique, eye-catching designs.
By understanding your store’s needs and exploring these options, you can create a customized and successful POD business, offering customers a wide array of personalized products while minimizing risk and maximizing convenience. Happy selling!
