Kjell Karlsson
Our Procolored K13 Lite review covers real-world specs, pros & cons, workflow, costs, and setup tips—so you can decide if this 13″ (A3) DTF is the right entry path for your shop.
Procolored K13 Lite Review (A3 / 13″ Direct-to-Film Printer)
Official Product Page & Price: Procolored K13 Lite (A3 / 13″) — Shop now
Affiliate disclosure: If you purchase through this link, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
📋 Key Specifications — Procolored K13 Lite
| Manufacturer | Procolored |
| Print Accuracy | Up to 1440 × 1440 dpi |
| Max Media / Print Width | 13″ (330 mm) media; A3 roll & sheets |
| OS / Software | Windows OS; Procolored Studio Lite / Pro RIP (bundle-dependent) |
| Color Configuration | CMYK + W (some kits CMYK + WW) |
| White Ink Handling | Circulation (~every 30 min) + negative pressure platform |
| Auto Maintenance | Automatic printhead cleaning every 10 h |
| Safety / Uptime | Infrared Printhead SafeGuard debris/warp detection |
| Ink Estimate | Letter/A4 ≈ 3.75 ml (vendor guide) |
| Weight | ~40 lb (18 kg) |
The K13 Lite emphasizes plug-in ease and uptime: automated cleans, frequent white recirculation, and a safeguard sensor reduce common beginner pitfalls. You trade absolute speed for a smoother first DTF experience.
✅ Reasons to Buy
- Auto cleaning every 10 h and white circulation lower clog risk for new users.
- Infrared Printhead SafeGuard detects film warp/debris to prevent head strikes.
- Windows workflow with Procolored Studio Lite and beginner-oriented presets.
- 13″ roll support enables compact gang sheets vs. A4 desktop devices.
❌ Reasons to Avoid
- Not the fastest A3—step up to dual-head (F13 Pro) for more throughput.
- Windows-only workflow; Mac users need a PC.
- Some features vary by bundle (Studio Lite vs Pro RIP, accessories).
🔍 Performance Analysis — Procolored K13 Lite review
At up to 1440×1440 dpi, the K13 Lite achieves crisp text and logos on A3 film, but its appeal is stability more than raw speed. Recirculation (~30 min cadence) keeps white in motion, while the 10-hour auto-clean prevents dry-start banding after idle time. The infrared safeguard helps avoid costly head strikes on curled film.
🔗 Connectivity, RIP & Workflow — Procolored K13 Lite review
Windows integration is straightforward. Use Procolored Studio Lite/Pro RIP to lock film presets (passes, white order, heater targets) and create hot folders for repeat jobs. Track ink and film per SKU; the vendor’s A4 estimate is ~3.75 ml, but coverage varies—price accordingly.
💰 Running Costs & Uptime — Procolored K13 Lite review
White coverage drives DTF cost. The K13 Lite’s circulation + timed auto-cleans reduce purge waste for small shops. Keep RH 40–60%, perform a quick nozzle check before batches, and apply a “heavy white” surcharge for dense designs to protect margins.
🎯 Who Should Buy It? — Procolored K13 Lite review
Choose the K13 Lite if you’re entering DTF and want 13″ roll capability, automated upkeep, and a sensor-aided safeguard. If you need higher daily volume, consider the F13 Pro (dual head) or step up to 24–35″ platforms for bigger gang sheets.
📊 A3 DTF Comparison — Procolored K13 Lite vs F13 vs F13 Pro
| Model | Heads | Best For | Speed Tier | White Stability & Upkeep | Workflow |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| K13 Lite | Single | Beginners, light daily orders, portability | Entry | White recirculation (~30 min) + auto clean (10 h); IR SafeGuard reduces head strikes | Windows + Procolored Studio Lite / Pro RIP |
| F13 (Single-Head) | Single | Budget A3 roll/sheet, small gang sheets | Entry–Mid (slightly faster than K13 Lite depending on passes) | White-ink circulation + auto clean (10 h) | Windows + Procolored RIP |
| F13 Pro (Dual-Head) | Dual | Shops outgrowing single-head A3, denser whites | Mid–High (notably faster on gang sheets) | Siphon white-ink circulation + auto clean (10 h) | Windows + Procolored RIP (dongle) |
Notes: All three support 13″ (A3) media and Windows-only RIPs. Real throughput depends on passes, coverage, film, and curing workflow. Keep RH 40–60% to minimize purges.
❓ FAQs — Procolored K13 Lite review
How wide can it print?
Up to 13″ (330 mm) media width on A3 rolls/sheets.
Does it auto clean and circulate white?
Yes—scheduled cleaning runs every 10 hours and white recirculates roughly every 30 minutes to reduce sedimentation and clogs.
What software/OS does it use?
Windows OS with Procolored Studio Lite or Pro RIP depending on bundle.
What protects the printhead?
An Infrared Printhead SafeGuard helps detect warped film or debris to avoid collisions and reduce failure risk.
📌 Source
URL: Procolored — K13 Lite DTF Printer (A3/13″)
Affiliate: K13 Lite — Shop now
Accessed: 16 Oct 2025
