| Definition | Uses halftones and often reduces ink colors to create detailed, photorealistic images on garments.. | Combines traditional screen printing with digital printing, allowing for full color printing with sharp details. |
| Best For | Large production runs requiring vibrant ink colors and speed. | Production runs of 50 to a few hundred garments with full color artwork. |
| Color Accuracy | Pantone match any color | Unable to Pantone match and reduced color vibrancy compared to simulated process. |
| Detail | Capable of high detail using halftones and ideal for intricate designs on a variety of fabrics and colors. | Exceptionally high detail, capable of printing complex digital images and gradients with precision. |
| Fabric Type | Wide range of fabrics including 100% cotton and polyester, nylon, triblends, rayon, and more. | Only 100% cotton, 100% polyester, and blends of the two. |
| Print Durability | Equal | Equal |
| Affordability | In most situations this is best with at least 150 units. | Most affordable between 50 and 150 units on average. |
| Setup Costs | Setup costs are based on the number of colors in a design. | $100 regardless of the design. |
| Jumbo | Yes, you can print up to 17" wide by 23" tall. | No, the max print size is 14" wide by 17" tall. |
| Special Effects | Yes, incorporate puff screen printing, metallic ink, and more. | Yes, Pantone match any color by using a screen dedicated to it. |
