Why Is My Epson L1800 Printing So Fast in Your Video Compared to Mine? Understanding Speed Differences in DTF Printing
- By Ellen Joy
- On Jun 26, 2025
- Comment 0
Why Your Epson L1800 May Be Printing Slower
To answer your question, the reason for the faster print time in the video is that I was using only the white ink channel to print the design. When you print using only white ink, the printer operates at full nozzle capacity for that single color, maximizing speed.
In contrast, when printing in full color (CMYK + White), the Epson L1800 typically splits the available nozzles. Half of the nozzles are used for CMYK, and the other half for white ink. As a result, this division naturally reduces the amount of ink each color can lay down per pass, doubling the time it takes to complete a print compared to using white ink alone.
Here’s a basic comparison for better clarity:
| Print Mode | Print Speed | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| White Ink Only | ~3 minutes | Full nozzle bandwidth dedicated to white ink |
| Full Color (CMYK + White) | ~7–8 minutes (or more) |
Nozzles split between colors, reducing output per channel |
Additional Considerations:
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Resolution Settings: Higher DPI (dots per inch) will increase print quality but significantly slow down print speed.
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Pass Count: More passes increase ink layering but also extend the print time.
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Software RIP Configuration: Some RIP software packages allow you to fine-tune print speeds, pass overlap, and ink density. Incorrect settings can either speed up or slow down your workflow.
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Media and Print Area: Larger or more complex prints typically require more time.
Suppose your goal is to speed up the process, and color isn’t necessary for a particular layer (e.g., just laying a white base). In that case, you may want to consider temporarily switching to white-only prints when possible.
About Our Repair and Support Options
Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis. So, it might take a few weeks before we can get your printer to drop it off. Our services are structured to repair either a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, we acknowledge that our rates aren't the most economical. Thus, we highly recommend that you resort to self-help via online research. You can start by checking out YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel's homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Look for specific videos using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of queries every day asking about videos for specific topics. Having created videos over the past nine years, it's challenging to remember every single one. Therefore, using YouTube's search function would be most efficient. Plus, YouTube might suggest relevant videos from other channels that could assist you.
Thanks again for your question. We value your input and hope this clarifies the speed discrepancy you're experiencing with your L1800. Happy printing!