When investing in professional print equipment, the temptation to save money with third-party suppliers can be strong. But in the long run, buying from an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) like Roland DG delivers far greater value, reliability, and peace of mind.
What is an OEM?
An Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is the company that designs, engineers, and manufactures the original product - along with its genuine parts and consumables.
In the print industry, that means Roland DG develops and manufactures not only its printers, cutters, printer/cutters, engraving machines, and 3D milling machines - but also the inks, components, firmware, and service standards that keep them running at peak performance.
Everything is designed to work together seamlessly. That’s the OEM advantage.
Why choose the OEM option?
While OEM products can sometimes come at a slightly higher upfront cost, the long-term benefits far outweigh the difference.
The TY-300i DTF Printer uses Roland DG’s S-PG2 inks and powder which are OEKO-TEX® ECO PASSPORT certified and REACH compliant
1. Guaranteed quality
OEM inks and parts are engineered specifically for your device. That means:
- Accurate colour reproduction
- Optimal adhesion and durability
- Consistent output across production runs
- Reduced risk of print defects
2. Proven performance
Roland DG printers are calibrated for Roland DG inks and components. Using genuine consumables ensures:
- Correct ink flow and curing performance
- Predictable results
- Maximum machine efficiency
3. Reliability you can count on
Third-party consumables may seem compatible, but even small formulation differences can cause:
- Clogged printheads
- Colour inconsistency
- Increased maintenance
- Unexpected downtime
OEM products are tested extensively to prevent these issues.
4. Full compatibility
From firmware to hardware to ink chemistry, everything is designed as a complete system. That system integrity protects:
- Printhead longevity
- Internal components
- Media compatibility
- Workflow stability
5. Stronger lifetime value
A slightly lower purchase price from a third party can quickly disappear if it results in:
- Repairs
- Replacement parts
- Lost production time
- Voided warranty coverage
OEM equipment and consumables protect your investment and help maximise resale value.
Roland DG offers industry-leading Warranty on all its products
Warranty Protection & Peace of Mind
Roland DG provides a 12-month manufacturer’s warranty from the date of purchase, with extended warranty options available on many products. However, using third-party consumables may void your Roland DG warranty which poses a significant risk in any production environment.
To maintain warranty coverage and ensure peak performance, it’s important to use premium Roland DG OEM inks, follow the maintenance schedules outlined in the Product User Manual, and have your equipment serviced by authorised Roland DG Service Technicians.
Roland DG Engage is Roland DG's dedicated installation and training service
The Importance of Authorised Installation & Service
Your printer is only as good as its installation and ongoing maintenance. Choosing installers from the Roland DG Engage Team, Authorised Dealers, and accredited Service Technicians ensures correct setup and calibration, proper workflow integration, professional operator training, and full compliance with manufacturer standards. This reduces operator error, protects hardware, and ensures your device performs exactly as intended over its lifetime.
The Pitfalls of Buying from Third Parties
Buying outside the OEM network can mean no guaranteed compatibility, questionable ink formulations, limited technical support, reduced warranty protection, difficulty sourcing genuine parts, a shorter machine lifespan, and lower resale value.
What looks like upfront savings can quickly turn into costly downtime - a risk avoidable by choosing an OEM like Roland DG.
Kustom Kraft’s second-hand Roland DG SG-540 printer cutter, purchased in 2020, is still producing quality work in 2026 thanks to proper use and regular maintenance
Even When Buying Second-Hand…
If you’re purchasing a pre-owned device, choosing an OEM-backed machine from Roland DG is still strongly recommended. You retain access to authorised servicing, genuine parts, firmware updates, and technical support, while protecting resale value and potential service agreement eligibility. An OEM-backed device holds its value and performance.
The Bottom Line
Professional print equipment is a business investment - protect it. By choosing an OEM like Roland DG, using genuine inks and parts, and relying on authorised installers and service technicians, you ensure premium print quality, consistent performance, reduced downtime, warranty protection, and maximum lifetime value. Maintain your system according to official service guidelines, and it will deliver years of dependable performance.
Keen to Learn More?
Explore Roland DG’s extensive range of printers, cutters, printer/cutters, engraving machines, and 3D milling machines, on our website or contact an Authorised Roland DG Dealer.