Technical comparison for TSHIRT printers
Epson SureColor SC-F2100
Epson SureColor SC-F500
| Specifications | Epson SureColor SC-F2100 | Epson SureColor SC-F500 |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | DTG (Direct to Garment) | Dye-Sublimation |
| Color Output | CMYK + White | CMYK |
| Print Resolution | 1440 x 1440 dpi | 2400 x 1200 dpi |
| Black Print Speed (PPM) | 15 sec (Fast) | N/A |
| Color Print Speed (PPM) | 27 sec (Prod) | 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 | Up to 406 x 508 mm | 24 inch Rolls |
| Paper Weight Support | Cotton/Blends | 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 | Epson | Epson |
✅ Pros: Industry leader for DTG quality, reliable white ink system.
❌ Cons: Expensive consumables and requires strict maintenance.
✅ Pros: Professional sublimation in 24-inch format.
❌ Cons: Only for sublimation transfers (Needs heat press).
Choosing between the Epson SC-F2100 and the SC-F500 depends entirely on whether you are printing directly onto cotton garments or using sublimation for polyester and hard goods. The SC-F2100 is a pro-grade DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printer designed for high-quality printing on cotton t-shirts, including dark fabrics with white ink. The SC-F500 is a 24-inch wide-format sublimation printer built for high-volume transfer printing onto sportswear, blankets, and rigid items like photo panels. The SC-F500 features a bulk ink tank system that keeps running costs much lower than the SC-F2100’s proprietary cartridges. While the SC-F2100 is essential for a premium cotton t-shirt brand, the SC-F500 is a more versatile hub for a merchandise and gift shop. Sublimation prints on the F500 are also more durable on hard goods and polyester than DTG ink. Unless your business model is strictly built around high-end cotton apparel, the Epson SC-F500 provides more opportunities for growth and lower overhead. For a versatile merchandising business, the Epson SC-F500 is the smarter investment and our overall winner.