Ricoh Ri 1000 vs Brother GT-381

Detailed Technical Comparison & Buying Guide

Ricoh Ri 1000 Ricoh Ri 1000
VS
Brother GT-381 Brother GT-381

Ricoh Ri 1000

✅ Fastest maintenance in its class, high durability prints.
❌ Requires a heat press for curing (not included).

Brother GT-381

✅ Modular print heads allow for easy upgrades.
❌ Older technology compared to GTX series.
Feature Ricoh Ri 1000 Brother GT-381
Print Technology Professional DTG DTG
Colour Output CMYK + White CMYK + 4 White
Print Resolution 1200 x 1200 dpi 1200 x 1200 dpi
Black Print Speed (PPM) 28 sec Fast
Colour Print Speed (PPM) 42 sec (Fine) Standard
First Page Out Time N/A N/A
Auto Double-Sided No No
Input Paper Capacity Interchangeable Platen 1 Platen
Output Tray Capacity N/A N/A
Supported Paper Sizes 16 x 19.6 inches 14 x 16 inches
Paper Weight Support Any Fabric 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

⚖️ Expert Verdict

The Ricoh Ri 1000 is a much newer machine compared to the Brother GT-381, and it shows in its automation. The Ri 1000 features a built-in interactive touchscreen with maintenance alerts and a much faster print head technology. One of the biggest advantages of the Ricoh is its quick-change platen system, which is faster than the Brother's setup. While the GT-381 is a reliable workhorse, the Ricoh Ri 1000 offers more modern features, including better ink circulation to prevent clogging and a more intuitive software interface. For a business looking to invest in a new machine today, the Ricoh Ri 1000 is the more advanced and efficient choice.

What Owners Are Saying?

Ricoh Ri 1000

Director_Admin
"A proper step up from the Ri 100. The automated maintenance sequences are a life-saver for a busy shop. We print on everything from t-shirts to canvas bags and the color depth is just brilliant. The touchscreen makes the workflow very intuitive. It’s a serious bit of kit for a growing business."

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."

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