Brother GT-381 vs Epson SureColour SC-F500

Detailed Technical Comparison & Buying Guide

Brother GT-381 Brother GT-381
VS
Epson SureColour SC-F500 Epson SureColour SC-F500

Brother GT-381

✅ Modular print heads allow for easy upgrades.
❌ Older technology compared to GTX series.

Epson SureColour SC-F500

✅ Professional sublimation in 24-inch format.
❌ Only for sublimation transfers (Needs heat press).
Feature Brother GT-381 Epson SureColour SC-F500
Print Technology DTG Dye-Sublimation
Colour Output CMYK + 4 White CMYK
Print Resolution 1200 x 1200 dpi 2400 x 1200 dpi
Black Print Speed (PPM) Fast N/A
Colour Print Speed (PPM) Standard Fast Mode
First Page Out Time N/A N/A
Auto Double-Sided No No
Input Paper Capacity 1 Platen Roll + Sheet
Output Tray Capacity N/A Basket
Supported Paper Sizes 14 x 16 inches 24 inch Rolls
Paper Weight Support Cotton Sublimation Roll
Scanner Type None None
Scan Resolution N/A N/A
Auto Document Feeder None None
Copy Speed No No
Wi-Fi Connectivity No Yes
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
Brother GT-381 Price Epson SureColour SC-F500 Price

⚖️ Expert Verdict

The Brother GT-381 is a dedicated Direct-to-Garment printer, while the Epson SC-F500 is a 24-inch Dye-Sublimation printer. The GT-381 excels at printing high-quality designs directly onto cotton apparel. The Epson SC-F500, on the other hand, is designed to print onto transfer paper for sublimating onto polyester fabrics, signage, and promotional items. The GT-381 is a specialized tool for a t-shirt shop, whereas the SC-F500 is a versatile tool for a full-scale personalization business. Because the SC-F500 can handle much larger formats (up to 24 inches wide) and a wider variety of substrates, it wins for overall business versatility, though the GT-381 remains king for cotton garments.

🏆 Final Choice 🏆 → → →

What Owners Are Saying?

Brother GT-381

OldSchool_Print ★★★☆☆
"A bit dated now compared to the GTX, but still a solid workhorse if you find one second-hand. The modular print heads are a good strategic design—you can start with CMYK and add white later. A bit slow by modern standards, but built like a tank."

Epson SureColour SC-F500

Grace ★★★★★
"Finally, a proper 24-inch sublimation printer that doesn't cost the earth. We use it for printing full-size beach towels and oversized apparel panels. The ink tanks are so much more frugal than the old cartridges. Strategic move for any signage or gift business looking to scale up from A4."

← PREVIOUS Brother GT-381
vs
Epson SureColour SC-F2100
Check Price & Availability 🔍 Epson SureColour SC-F500 on Amazon UK
NEXT → Epson SureColour SC-F500
vs
Epson SureColour SC-F2100

More Comparisons

Brother GT-381

vs
Epson SureColour SC-F2100Brother GTX ProRicoh Ri 100Roland VersaSTUDIO BT-12Sawgrass SG500

Epson SureColour SC-F500

vs
Epson SureColour SC-F2100Brother GTX ProRicoh Ri 100Roland VersaSTUDIO BT-12Sawgrass SG500