Brother GT-381 vs Epson SureColor SC-F500
Technical comparison for TSHIRT printers
Brother GT-381
Epson SureColor SC-F500
| Specifications | Brother GT-381 | Epson SureColor SC-F500 |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | DTG | Dye-Sublimation |
| Color Output | CMYK + 4 White | CMYK |
| Print Resolution | 1200 x 1200 dpi | 2400 x 1200 dpi |
| Black Print Speed (PPM) | Fast | N/A |
| Color 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 |
| Brand | Brother | Epson |
Brother GT-381 Review
✅ Pros: Modular print heads allow for easy upgrades.
❌ Cons: Older technology compared to GTX series.
Epson SureColor SC-F500 Review
✅ Pros: Professional sublimation in 24-inch format.
❌ Cons: Only for sublimation transfers (Needs heat press).
Expert Verdict
Comparing the Brother GT-381 to the Epson SC-F500 is like comparing a heavy-duty truck to a precision racing car; they are built for entirely different tracks. The Brother GT-381 is a DTG printer specifically for printing directly onto cotton fabric, while the Epson SC-F500 is a 24-inch dye-sublimation printer designed for transfer printing. The Epson allows you to create large-format items like banners, customized blankets, and full-coverage sports jerseys by printing onto paper first. The Brother is much more limited in scope, focusing on standard platen-based garment printing like t-shirts. The SC-F500 features a bulk ink tank system that keeps costs incredibly low for large runs, whereas the Brother’s cartridges can be expensive. Furthermore, the Epson's footprint is much more manageable for a multi-use studio, and its sublimation prints are virtually indestructible on polyester. Unless your business is strictly focused on 100% cotton apparel, the versatility of the Epson SC-F500 makes it a more lucrative investment. For a modern creative shop, the Epson SC-F500 is the winner for its range of possible products and low running costs.