| Compatible Fabrics | 100% polyester or polymer-coated fabrics and substrates | Cotton, polyester, blends, and more |
| Fabric Color Limitations | Only for white or light-colored fabrics (no white ink) | Works on light and dark fabrics (uses white ink) |
| Substrate Requirements | Must be polyester-based or coated for proper dye bonding | No coating required; prints on various fabric types |
| Application Range | Apparel, mugs, metal, wood, signage (soft & hard), photo gifts | Primarily textiles; some rigid items with film or primer |
| Print Durability | Permanent dye - no cracking, peeling, or fading | Durable - withstands washing and stretching |
| Feel of Print | No hand feel - ink becomes part of the fabric | Slightly raised texture - ink layer on surface |
| Color Vibrancy | Vivid results on white/light polyester or coated items | Rich, bold prints on all fabric colors |
| White Ink | No - relies on white/light background color | Yes - enables printing on dark surfaces |
| Production Process | Print → Press | Print → Apply Powder → Cure → Press |
| Maintenance Needs | Low - minimal cleaning and simple operation | Moderate to high - requires white ink circulation & powder management |
| Setup Costs | Generally lower - basic printer and heat press setup | Slightly higher - includes curing and powder equipment |
| Environmental Factors | Clean - no powder, no fumes, low odor | Requires proper ventilation due to powder curing |
| Best Use Cases | Light polyester apparel, mugs, signage, gifts, photo panels | T-shirts (any color), cotton bags, hoodies, dark apparel |
