Kjell Karlsson
Our Roland VersaSTUDIO BY-20 review covers real-world specs, pros & cons, print width, inks, software, costs, and setup tips—so you can decide if this desktop DTF fits your shop.
Roland VersaSTUDIO BY-20 Review (Desktop DTF Printer/Cutter)
📋 Key Specifications — Roland VersaSTUDIO BY-20
| Manufacturer | Roland DG |
| Media Width | 5.91–20.2 in (150–515 mm) |
| Max Print/Cut Width | 18.89 in (480 mm) |
| Print Technology | Piezo ink-jet (DTF workflow) |
| Ink Type / Colors | S-PG2, 220 ml cartridges — CMYK + White |
| Max Resolution | Up to 1,440 dpi |
| Cutting | Integrated contour cutting; 10–150 mm/s; 30–500 gf |
| Heater/Dryer Setpoints | Print heater 30–35 °C; Dryer 30–38 °C |
| Connectivity | Ethernet (100/1000BASE-T) |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 42.1 × 24.3 × 24.5 in (1,069 × 617 × 622 mm) |
| Weight | 137 lb (62 kg) |
| Included Software | FlexiDESIGNER VersaSTUDIO Edition, VersaWorks 7, Roland DG Connect |
| Certifications | ECO PASSPORT by OEKO-TEX® (inks & powders) |
Compact, reliable, and easy to operate. S-PG2 inks boost white density and stability, while front-loading media and Ethernet streamline daily operation for predictable throughput.
🔍 Performance Analysis — Roland VersaSTUDIO BY-20 review
This Roland VersaSTUDIO BY-20 review finds the device strongest in consistency and ease of use. The 18.89″ width is wide enough for efficient gang-sheet layouts, while the heater/dryer pairing helps achieve smooth laydown and predictable curing on PET film. In practical testing, S-PG2 whites maintained good opacity on dark cotton and poly blends, and small text remained sharp thanks to the 1,440-dpi ceiling. If you run mixed-size logos and chest prints, the combination of print and integrated contour cutting can replace a separate cutter for heat-transfer vinyl jobs, adding flexibility without extra footprint.
🔗 Connectivity, RIP & Workflow — Roland VersaSTUDIO BY-20 review
Ships with FlexiDESIGNER VersaSTUDIO Edition for design/print-cut setup, VersaWorks 7 for output/color control, and Roland DG Connect for device monitoring—an approachable stack for first-time owners. Ethernet networking is more reliable than USB-only desktops for long prints and shared access. For repeat jobs, save presets per film/adhesive combo and standardize heater/dryer setpoints (e.g., 34/36 °C) to reduce variability between operators and shifts.
💰 Running Costs & Uptime — Roland VersaSTUDIO BY-20 review
Like most DTF, your per-print cost is dominated by white coverage and artwork area. S-PG2’s stable white layer reduced cleaning cycles in our workflows, which helps ink efficiency over time. Keep humidity at 40–60% and run quick nozzle checks before batches—simple habits that prevent wasted film. While consumables are vendor-specific, predictable performance and fewer reprints often offset unit-ink price in small shops.
🎯 Who Should Buy It? — Roland VersaSTUDIO BY-20 review
If you’re a new or growing shop, the BY-20 offers a low-stress start: compact size, integrated cutting, and an approachable software stack. If your business is already running 24–44″ DTF and needs heavy throughput, consider stepping up in width. For everyone else, this desktop class punches above its size—especially when paired with an automated shaker/dryer so one operator can prep, powder, and press efficiently.
Explore more models: see Roland DTF Printers and DTF Printers by Size for alternatives.
❓ FAQs — Roland VersaSTUDIO BY-20 review
What’s the maximum printable width?
Up to 18.89 inches (480 mm) printable/cut width on 20″ media.
Which inks does it use?
Roland S-PG2 cartridges (CMYK + White), 220 ml each.
Is the workflow certified safe for textiles?
Yes—Roland states BY-20 inks and powders are ECO PASSPORT by OEKO-TEX® certified.
