Printify vs CustomCat: Print on Demand Comparison
Printify and CustomCat both serve the US print-on-demand market with different operational models. Printify is the marketplace of 100+ print providers competing on price. CustomCat is the vertically integrated US-based POD provider with deep apparel options and decoration techniques.
⚡ Quick Verdict
- →Pick Printify if you want the broadest catalogue via 100+ providers with lowest base costs through competition.
- →Pick CustomCat if you want US-based vertically integrated POD with specialty decoration techniques (DTG, embroidery, sublimation) at consistent quality.
Printify Overview
Printify connects your store to 100+ print providers worldwide. Provider competition drives base costs lower. Free + $29/mo Premium. For broader context, see best print on demand for Shopify.
CustomCat Overview
CustomCat is the US-based vertically integrated POD provider with apparel-focused production. Strong on direct-to-garment (DTG), embroidery, sublimation, and digital cut-and-sew. Pricing is competitive on apparel; the trade-off is narrower catalogue than Printify’s marketplace.
Pricing
Both free to join with no monthly base. CustomCat has a $30/month Lite plan for discounted pricing. Printify Premium $29/month unlocks ~20% discount across providers. Per-item base costs are similar; CustomCat’s US fulfillment can be faster for US customers.
Approach
Printify spreads orders across 100+ providers, optimising for variety and competitive pricing. CustomCat does in-house production with control over consistency and turnaround on US orders. For US apparel sellers prioritising consistency, CustomCat fits. For broader catalogue and provider choice, Printify wins.
| Feature | Printify | CustomCat |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | Free / $29 Premium | Free / $30 Lite |
| Business Model | Provider marketplace | Vertically integrated US |
| Catalogue Breadth | Broadest | Narrower (apparel-focused) |
| Decoration Methods | Varies by provider | DTG, embroidery, sublimation |
| US Fulfillment | Yes (US providers) | US-only |
| International | Yes (global providers) | Limited |
| Best For | Broad catalogue, global | US apparel, consistency |
Which Should You Choose?
Pick Printify for broadest catalogue and provider choice. Pick CustomCat for US-only apparel-focused operations needing consistent in-house production. For US apparel-focused sellers, CustomCat’s consistency pays off. For everyone else, Printify’s marketplace wins.
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Sign Up Free →FAQs
Is Printify or CustomCat better?
Printify for catalogue breadth. CustomCat for US apparel consistency.
Which is cheaper?
Comparable base costs. Printify Premium provides more breadth at similar price.
Where does CustomCat fulfill?
US-only (Michigan-based facility).
Which has better international shipping?
Printify, via global providers. CustomCat is US-focused.
Which has more product types?
Printify, via 100+ providers. CustomCat focuses on apparel + accessories.
Do both integrate with Shopify?
Yes, both have Shopify integrations.
Which is faster on US orders?
CustomCat for US, given vertically integrated US fulfillment. Printify depends on selected provider.
Can I use both?
Yes, some sellers use both: CustomCat for US apparel, Printify for international and broader catalogue.
Final Word
Printify for marketplace breadth. CustomCat for US apparel. See best print on demand for Etsy.
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