Technical comparison for TSHIRT printers
Epson SureColor SC-F2100
Roland VersaSTUDIO BT-12
| Specifications | Epson SureColor SC-F2100 | Roland VersaSTUDIO BT-12 |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | DTG (Direct to Garment) | Desktop DTG |
| Color Output | CMYK + White | CMYK |
| Print Resolution | 1440 x 1440 dpi | 1200 x 1200 dpi |
| Black Print Speed (PPM) | 15 sec (Fast) | N/A |
| 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 A4 Tray |
| Output Tray Capacity | N/A | N/A |
| Supported Paper Sizes | Up to 406 x 508 mm | A4 |
| Paper Weight Support | Cotton/Blends | 50-100% 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 | Roland |
✅ Pros: Industry leader for DTG quality, reliable white ink system.
❌ Cons: Expensive consumables and requires strict maintenance.
✅ Pros: Superb for small custom shops and kiosks.
❌ Cons: Limited to A4 size and light colors.
Comparing the professional Epson SC-F2100 to the entry-level Roland BT-12 highlights the difference between a high-end apparel business and a retail gift kiosk. The Epson is an industrial DTG printer capable of high-resolution graphics on both light and dark cotton garments at high speeds. The Roland BT-12 is a compact A4 desktop printer that can only print on light-colored cotton fabrics because it lacks white ink. For a custom shirt brand, the Roland is far too limited, but for a retail shop that wants to offer on-the-spot personalized tote bags or white t-shirts, the Roland is perfect. The Roland is incredibly safe and enclosed, whereas the Epson is a large machine with exposed parts that requires a separate heat press. However, the Epson's ability to print on dark garments and its much larger print area make it the only choice for a real apparel business. For high-volume professional shops, the Epson SC-F2100 is the undisputed winner. The Roland is a great niche tool, but it lacks the professional capabilities of the Epson flagship.