Print on Demand vs Dropshipping: Key Differences

If you are thinking about starting an online business in 2025, two models you will come across are print on demand and dropshipping. On the surface, they look similar because both let you sell products without holding inventory. But when you dig deeper, you will see that they work very differently and lead to very different types of businesses.

In this post, I will break down the key differences between print on demand vs dropshipping so you can decide which one makes more sense for your goals.

What is Print on Demand?

Print on demand (POD) is when you sell custom products that are only produced after someone orders them. You upload your designs to items like t-shirts, mugs, posters, or phone cases, and your POD supplier prints and ships them directly to the customer.

Pros of Print on Demand:

Cons of Print on Demand:

What is Dropshipping?

Dropshipping is when you partner with suppliers that already stock products. When a customer buys from your store, your supplier ships the product directly to them. Unlike POD, these are not custom-made products but existing items from authorized brands or manufacturers.

Pros of Dropshipping:

Cons of Dropshipping:

👉 Related: Best Dropshipping Niches for Beginners in 2025

Print on Demand vs Dropshipping: Key Differences

Here are the main differences between POD and dropshipping:

1. Customization

• POD: Every product is made to order with your design.
• Dropshipping: Products are pre-made and shipped as is.

2. Product Range

• POD: Limited to items suppliers can customize (shirts, mugs, etc.).
• Dropshipping: Can include almost anything, from furniture to fitness equipment.

3. Margins and Profitability

• POD: Margins are usually smaller because each product is custom printed.
• Dropshipping: Margins are higher with high-ticket products that sell for $500–$1,000 or more.

4. Scalability

• POD: Scaling is tied to how quickly your supplier can produce custom items.
• Dropshipping: Scaling comes from driving more buyer traffic and working with reliable suppliers.

5. Business Model Fit

• POD: Great if you are a designer, influencer, or creative who wants to sell branded merchandise.
• Dropshipping: Best if you want to build a long-term e-commerce business around high-ticket products.

👉 Related: Is Dropshipping Worth It in 2025?

Which One Should You Choose?

If your strength is in design and you want to create branded merchandise, print on demand could be the right path. Just keep in mind that margins are thin and fulfillment speed may not always match customer expectations.

If your goal is to build a scalable business that can generate real profit, especially with products that sell for $500 or more, dropshipping is the stronger option. You will have more product variety, higher potential profits, and the ability to build a sellable brand.

👉 Related: Common Dropshipping Mistakes Beginners Make

Final Thoughts

When comparing print on demand vs dropshipping, both models can work but they are not equal. Print on demand is better suited for creatives who want to monetize designs. Dropshipping, especially high-ticket dropshipping, is better for entrepreneurs who want to build long-term, profitable businesses with real assets.

If you are ready to learn the exact steps I use to build profitable dropshipping stores, join my free training at dropshiplifestyle.com/webinar.