Prestige R2 PRO DTF Printer vs. Roland BN-20: A Comprehensive Comparison

Compering the Prestige R2 PRO High Speed DTF Printer vs. Roland BY-20 DTF Printer: A Detailed Comparison

When comparing the Prestige R2 PRO DTF Printer to the Roland BY-20 DTF Printer, it becomes evident that the Prestige R2 PRO offers superior benefits in terms of speed, versatility, and user support, making it the better choice for serious DTF printing businesses. Let’s dive into the key areas where these printers differ and why the Prestige R2 PRO stands out as the clear winner.

One of the major drawbacks of the Roland BY-20 is its small 220ml ink cartridges, which are particularly limiting for high-volume jobs. This is especially true for white ink, as its consumption is high in DTF printing, leading to frequent replacements after just a few prints. In contrast, the Prestige R2 PRO uses 1000ml Bulk ink tanks for each color, making it ideal for longer runs. Additionally, Roland only manufactures the printer, so finding matching third-party accessories (like shakers or ovens) can be challenging. The Prestige line offers a fully tested, integrated system where the printer, shaker, and oven are designed to work seamlessly together with proper sensors and synchronized speed, ensuring efficiency and reliability.

Key Advantages of the Prestige R2 PRO:

1. Dual Epson i1600 Print Heads
   One of the most significant differences between the Prestige R2 PRO and the Roland BY-20 is the print head configuration. The Prestige R2 PRO is equipped with dual Epson i1600 print heads, allowing for faster and more efficient printing. This results in higher productivity, which is essential for businesses needing to handle large orders. In contrast, the Roland BY-20's single print head is slower and limits its printing speed, making it less suitable for high-volume production.

2. Comprehensive Software and Support
   The Prestige R2 PRO comes with DigiRIP software, which is specifically designed for DTF printing. It provides advanced features and seamless integration with the printer, making it easier to operate and maximizing efficiency. Furthermore, the support system offered by the Prestige R2 PRO is far superior to that of the Roland BY-20. With North American-based technical support, free virtual training, and access to a user forum for real-time feedback and learning, Prestige users are well-equipped for long-term success. This stands in contrast to the Roland BY-20, which has fewer dedicated resources for user support, leaving many users to troubleshoot on their own.

3. Versatile Applications and Materials
   The Prestige R2 PRO is designed for high-quality direct-to-film (DTF) printing, which allows for excellent results on a wide range of materials, especially fabrics and textiles. This versatility gives users the ability to print on items like garments, bags, and promotional items. While the Roland BY-20 also prints on textiles, it lacks the overall versatility of the Prestige R2 PRO when it comes to handling different materials and textures, making it less suitable for businesses that need to print across multiple mediums.

4. Cost-Effectiveness and Long-Term Savings
   Another major advantage of the Prestige R2 PRO is its cost-efficiency. Thanks to its advanced dual print heads and lower consumable costs, the Prestige offers more affordable printing in the long run. The Roland BY-20, on the other hand, has higher operational costs due to its single print head, more frequent maintenance, and less efficient use of ink. For businesses on a budget, the Prestige R2 PRO is the more economical choice.

Drawbacks of the Roland BY-20:

1. Slower Printing Speed
   With its single print head, the Roland BY-20 falls behind the Prestige R2 PRO in terms of printing speed. This slower output can be a significant drawback for businesses that rely on quick turnaround times, especially during peak seasons or for high-demand orders.

2. Limited Software and Support
   While the Roland BY-20 does have some features for DTF printing, its software is not as comprehensive or specialized as the DigiRIP software included with the Prestige R2 PRO. Additionally, the lack of robust user support for Roland BY-20 users can create hurdles for businesses, especially for those unfamiliar with DTF technology or troubleshooting complex issues. In contrast, Prestige R2 PRO users benefit from live chat support, access to a video support library, and direct communication with technicians.

3. Higher Maintenance and Operational Costs
   The operating costs for the Roland BY-20 tend to be higher due to the frequent need for consumables and more maintenance compared to the Prestige R2 PRO. This can add up significantly over time, especially for businesses that require regular, large-scale production.

A Few Positives for the Roland BY-20:

1. Brand Recognition
   Roland is a well-known brand with a reputation for producing reliable printing equipment. The BY-20 benefits from this recognition, offering peace of mind for buyers who are loyal to the brand and familiar with its product lineup.

2. Basic DTF Capabilities
   While it may not excel in versatility, the Roland BY-20 is still capable of producing decent-quality DTF prints for smaller-scale operations. It can be a good entry-level option for businesses that don’t need the speed or advanced features of the Prestige R2 PRO.

Conclusion: Prestige R2 PRO Outshines the Roland BY-20

In the comparison between the Prestige R2 PRO DTF Printer and the Roland BY-20, the Prestige R2 PRO proves to be the superior choice for businesses focused on high-volume, high-quality DTF printing. With faster printing speeds, better software integration, extensive support, and cost-effectiveness, the Prestige R2 PRO stands out as the clear winner. While the Roland BY-20 has a few advantages, such as its compact size and basic DTF capabilities, it simply cannot compete with the overall performance and value offered by the Prestige R2 PRO.

For a closer look at the Prestige R2 PRO’s features and performance, check out this video review.