Epson SureColor SC-F2100 vs Brother GT-381
Technical comparison for TSHIRT printers
Epson SureColor SC-F2100
Brother GT-381
| Specifications | Epson SureColor SC-F2100 | Brother GT-381 |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | DTG (Direct to Garment) | DTG |
| Color Output | CMYK + White | CMYK + 4 White |
| Print Resolution | 1440 x 1440 dpi | 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| Black Print Speed (PPM) | 15 sec (Fast) | Fast |
| Color Print Speed (PPM) | 27 sec (Prod) | Standard |
| First Page Out Time | N/A | N/A |
| Auto Double-Sided | No | No |
| Input Paper Capacity | 1 Platen | 1 Platen |
| Output Tray Capacity | N/A | N/A |
| Supported Paper Sizes | Up to 406 x 508 mm | 14 x 16 inches |
| Paper Weight Support | Cotton/Blends | Cotton |
| Scanner Type | None | None |
| Scan Resolution | N/A | N/A |
| Auto Document Feeder | None | None |
| Copy Speed | No | No |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | No | No |
| Ethernet Support | Yes | Yes |
| USB Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Printing Support | No | No |
| Display Panel | N/A | N/A |
| Monthly Duty Cycle | N/A | N/A |
| Ink/Cartridge System | N/A | N/A |
| Borderless Printing | N/A | N/A |
| Width | N/A | N/A |
| Depth | N/A | N/A |
| Height | N/A | N/A |
| Machine Weight | N/A | N/A |
| Energy Efficiency | N/A | N/A |
| Noise Level (dB) | N/A | N/A |
| Processor Speed | N/A | N/A |
| Internal Memory | N/A | N/A |
| Cloud Print Support | N/A | N/A |
| Security Features | N/A | N/A |
| Compatible OS | N/A | N/A |
| Included in Box | N/A | N/A |
| Warranty Period | N/A | N/A |
| Recommended Use | N/A | N/A |
| Brand | Epson | Brother |
Epson SureColor SC-F2100 Review
✅ Pros: Industry leader for DTG quality, reliable white ink system.
❌ Cons: Expensive consumables and requires strict maintenance.
Brother GT-381 Review
✅ Pros: Modular print heads allow for easy upgrades.
❌ Cons: Older technology compared to GTX series.
Expert Verdict
The Brother GT-381 and the Epson SureColor SC-F2100 represent two different eras of professional direct-to-garment printing. The GT-381 relies on an older ink delivery system that requires frequent manual intervention to keep the white ink channels flowing. In contrast, the Epson SC-F2100 features an advanced automated maintenance system that includes a dedicated cleaning cartridge to keep the heads fresh. The Epson also delivers much higher resolution and better color gradients, thanks to its PrecisionCore printhead technology. While the Brother was once the king of durability, the Epson F2100 is widely praised for its consistency and ease of use in small-to-midsize print shops. The Epson also has a more intuitive software interface (Garment Creator), making the workflow from design to print much smoother for newer operators. For a modern shop looking for the best balance of print quality, ink cost, and reliability, the Epson is the clear winner. The GT-381 simply cannot compete with the modern automation and detail levels found in the SC-F2100.