Starting an online business is somehow difficult if you have no idea about the online world, especially for beginners in 2025. Now the question is what to choose. When it comes to dropshipping vs print on demand, both of them are the most famous and popular e-commerce businesses, but which one is great in 2025? Here are the ways to start an e-commerce business.
1. What is Dropshipping
Dropshipping is a business model in which you select your product and sell it without worrying about inventory. When the customer buys anything from your store, the supplier ships the product directly to the customer, so you don’t need to worry about inventory.
Pros of Dropshipping
- Wide product selection: Sell anything from electronics to home accessories
- Low Startup Costs, No need to worry about Inventory
- Scalability: Easily test for product without any risk
Cons of Dropshipping
- Low Profit Margins
- Delays in shipment
- Customer service challenge
Best for entrepreneurs who want to test multiple niches for fast growth!
2. What is Print on Demand
Print on demand (POD) is a business that helps you to sell custom-designed products and your designs if you are a designer ( like printed shirts, mugs, and posters ), and for all of this, you do not need to hold inventory or spend on stock. You just uploaded your designs for items like T-shirts, hoodies, mugs, phone cases, or anything you want to. When someone buys your product, the supplier prints the design, packs the items, and ships them directly to the purchaser. This makes a difference between dropshipping vs print on demand. You do not need to worry about inventory or shipment; the supplier ships them.
Pros of Print on Demand
- No Upfront inventory Cost. You just need to pay when the order is completed
- Higher Profit Margins. Unique designs have high demand
- Brand Loyalty Potential. Custom design attracts the buyers for repeated purchase
Cons of Print on Demand
- Slower Scaling
- Limited products
- Depends on trends
Key Difference
| Features | Dropshipping | Print on Demand |
| Startup Costs | low 100$ to 500$ | low 0$ to 200$ |
| Profit Margins | 10% to 30% | 35% to 50% |
| Customization | Limited | High custom demand |
| Shipping Times | 2-4 Weeks often | 5 to 10 days often |
| Competition | Very High | Moderate |
| Best Platforms | Spotify, AliExpress | Printify |
What is best in 2025
Dropshipping
Multiple products can be tested. If you are okay with low margins but higher sales volumes. You prefer a hands-on inventory system
Print on Demand
- If you have designs or skills, or can hire someone
- You want stronger branding and customer satisfaction
- You are okay with slower growth but better profit margins
If you want to make money by 2026, then check the underrated hobbies that actually pay you.
