Imagine spending hours crafting a stunning design only to see your hard work wasted because your printer couldn’t deliver the vibrant, lasting results you envisioned.
Frustrating, right?
Whether you’re an aspiring creative or a seasoned professional, choosing the right sublimation printer is the cornerstone of transforming your imagination into tangible works of art.
Sublimation printing isn’t just about transferring designs; it’s about capturing emotions, creating memories, and building brands.
The stakes are high—use the wrong printer, and you risk dull colors, poor quality, and wasted materials.
But with the right printer? The possibilities are endless.
Fifteen years in the sublimation field have taught me one crucial lesson: not all printers are created equal.
I’ve tested, compared, and lived through the highs and lows of sublimation printing, and I’m here to guide you through the noise.
This blog post is your shortcut to finding the best sublimation printer that aligns with your goals, whether you’re printing mugs, t-shirts, or other custom products.
Stay tuned as we explore the top picks, key features, and insider tips that will elevate your sublimation game.
Let’s turn your designs into masterpieces.
Ready? Let’s dive in.
My Picks for the Best Sublimation Printer
So, I have tested different sublimation printers so far and came up with 3 to be included in this list.
Frankly I could have ended creating a long post with so many different types of printers but then what would be the purpose of landing to this article.
I know you want a direction or a product that someone says is the best fit for both your hobby and small business.
Below are three sublimation printers that fall in three different categories that I came up with.
One the Overall Best Sublimation Printer, which covers ad fits perfect for all your needs.
↣ Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer
First one might fit your needs, but not your pocket. So, I have included the sublimation printer that comes in your budget and won’t make a hole in your pockets.
At last but not the least an honorable mention to my list of best sublimation printers is the one that is suitable to beginners.
So now that I’ve introduced you with my picks, let’s see our first sublimation printer.
Best Overall Sublimation Printer: Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer
As a seasoned sublimation enthusiast, I was eager to test the Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer, especially given its promise of vibrant color transfers and user-friendly features.
Priced competitively and available through major retailers, this printer is designed for artists and designers aiming to produce high-quality sublimation projects.
User Experience
Setting up the Brother SP-1 was straightforward.
The package includes full-size CMYK sublimation ink cartridges and sheets of sublimation paper, allowing for immediate use.
The printer’s compact footprint (17.1” W x 13.5” D x 6.2” H) is ideal for small workspaces.
I connected it wirelessly to my devices, and the integration with Brother’s Artspira app enhanced the design process, enabling seamless editing and printing directly from my smartphone.
In practice, the SP-1 delivered impressive print quality.
The colors were vibrant and accurate, meeting my expectations for professional-grade sublimation.
The notched sublimation paper ensured correct orientation, minimizing errors during the transfer process.
However, I noticed that the printing speed was slower compared to some competitors, which could be a consideration for high-volume production environments.
Analysis and Evaluation
The Brother SP-1 boasts several strengths:
- Design and Aesthetics: Its sleek and compact design makes it a stylish addition to any creative space.
- Functionality and Performance: The printer produces high-quality, vibrant prints suitable for various sublimation projects, including t-shirts, mugs, and tote bags.
- Ease of Use and Maintenance: The user-friendly interface, combined with the Artspira app, simplifies the design and printing process. Additionally, the printer performs automatic print head cleaning, reducing maintenance efforts.
On the downside, the slower print speed may not be ideal for users requiring rapid production.
Additionally, while the Artspira app offers valuable features, it may not be compatible with all devices, potentially limiting its utility for some users.
Value Assessment
Considering its price point and the quality of output, the Brother SP-1 offers substantial value, particularly for hobbyists and small business owners.
Its purpose-built design for sublimation printing eliminates the challenges associated with converting standard printers, ensuring consistent and reliable results.
The inclusion of full-size ink cartridges and sublimation paper in the package further enhances its value proposition.
Comparisons
When compared to alternatives like the Sawgrass SG500 and converted Epson EcoTank printers, the Brother SP-1 holds its ground:
- Sawgrass SG500: While the SG500 offers faster print speeds and dedicated sublimation software, it comes at a higher price point. The Brother SP-1 provides comparable print quality at a more affordable cost.
- Epson EcoTank Conversions: Converting an EcoTank printer for sublimation can lead to color accuracy issues and potential maintenance challenges. The Brother SP-1, being purpose-built for sublimation, ensures better reliability and print quality without the hassles of conversion.
Bottom Line Recommendation
The Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer is a worthy investment for creatives seeking a reliable and high-quality sublimation printing solution.
Its ease of use, vibrant print quality, and compact design make it suitable for hobbyists, small business owners, and artists with limited workspace.
However, for those requiring high-speed production or advanced software integration, and can expand their budget exploring other options like the Sawgrass SG500 may be beneficial.
In the ever-evolving world of sublimation printing, the Brother SP-1 stands out as a dependable and user-friendly option that brings your creative visions to life with vibrant precision.
Its blend of quality, affordability, and thoughtful design makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking to delve into the art of sublimation.
Click to grab your Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer today!
Best in Budget Sublimation Printer: Epson EcoTank ET-2400 Wireless Color Supertank Printer
When I first got my hands on the Epson EcoTank ET-2400 Wireless Color Supertank Printer, I was curious if it could live up to its growing reputation.
Known for its cost-effective, cartridge-free printing, this model also boasts the potential to be converted into a sublimation printer—a tempting prospect for any DIY enthusiast or small business owner.
Priced affordably and available on platforms like Amazon, the ET-2400 is marketed as a compact, eco-friendly solution for creative printing needs.
But does it deliver? Let me share my firsthand experience.
User Experience
I converted the Epson EcoTank ET-2400 into a sublimation printer after purchasing sublimation inks designed specifically for EcoTank models.
Setup was straightforward: filling the large, refillable tanks was spill-free, and the printer connected seamlessly to my devices via Wi-Fi.
My first project was sublimating custom t-shirts for a local event.
The printer’s initial results were surprisingly sharp, with vibrant colors that transferred beautifully onto polyester fabrics.
Its precision and resolution (up to 5760 x 1440 dpi) exceeded my expectations for a printer in this price range.
That said, the learning curve of maintaining consistent color profiles was notable.
Unlike purpose-built sublimation printers, the ET-2400 required additional tweaking to achieve optimal results.
For those unfamiliar with ICC profiles or sublimation-specific settings, the setup process may feel daunting.
Analysis and Evaluation
Strengths
- Cost Efficiency: The Supertank system drastically reduces the cost per print compared to traditional cartridge-based printers.
- Compact Design: At just over 11 pounds, the ET-2400 fits neatly on a small desk, making it ideal for home-based businesses or tight workspaces.
- Print Quality: With high resolution, the colors are vivid and transfer well when using proper sublimation inks and paper.
- Eco-Friendly: Its cartridge-free design minimizes waste, aligning with sustainable printing practices.
Weaknesses
- Slower Printing Speeds: While the quality is excellent, the ET-2400 isn’t the fastest, especially for larger batch projects.
- No Native Sublimation Support: The conversion process requires third-party inks and settings adjustments, which can be intimidating for beginners.
- Limited Features: Unlike more advanced sublimation printers, the ET-2400 lacks features like print job memory or detailed customization options.
Comparisons
The Epson EcoTank ET-2400 stacks up well against competitors like the Sawgrass SG500 and Brother SP-1:
- Sawgrass SG500: This purpose-built sublimation printer offers a seamless user experience but comes with a significantly higher price tag.
- Brother SP-1: Easier to set up for sublimation but less cost-effective over time due to smaller ink capacities.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: A close sibling, the ET-2720 offers a few more connectivity features, but the ET-2400 delivers nearly identical print quality at a lower cost.
Bottom Line Recommendation
The Epson EcoTank ET-2400 is an excellent budget-friendly option for those willing to invest time in converting and fine-tuning it for sublimation.
It’s particularly well-suited for hobbyists, small-scale crafters, or those just entering the sublimation world.
However, if you need speed or simplicity, a purpose-built sublimation printer may better suit your needs.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2400 bridges affordability and performance, making it an attractive choice for creative printing enthusiasts.
Is it perfect? No—but for its price and versatility, it’s hard to beat.
If you’re ready to dive into sublimation printing without breaking the bank, the ET-2400 might just be your new best friend.
Best For Beginners Sublimation Printer: Epson Surecolor F170 Dye Sublimation Printer
If you’re stepping into the world of sublimation printing and looking for a printer that combines ease of use with professional-grade results, the Epson SureColor F170 Dye Sublimation Printer might be the perfect fit.
Compact, reliable, and purpose-built for sublimation, this printer offers everything a beginner needs to create stunning custom products.
But how does it stack up to the competition? Let me share my experience.
User Experience
The first thing that caught my attention was the straightforward setup.
Unlike converted printers, which require third-party inks and ICC profile adjustments, the Epson SureColor F170 is ready to go right out of the box.
It comes with genuine Epson dye-sublimation inks and 8.5 x 11-inch sublimation paper, making it perfect for small projects like mugs, t-shirts, and tote bags.
Setting it up was a breeze.
Within 15 minutes, I had the printer connected to my Wi-Fi network and ready to print using Epson’s Print software.
My first project was a series of personalized mugs, and I was amazed by the vibrant, precise colors that transferred flawlessly onto the surfaces.
The compact size (13.7 x 13.7 x 7.4 inches) is ideal for small workspaces.
I placed it on a corner desk, and it fit perfectly without feeling cramped.
However, it’s worth noting that the printer’s maximum width of 8.5 inches may not suit those looking to produce larger designs.
Analysis and Evaluation
Strengths
- Beginner-Friendly Design: The F170 is plug-and-play, eliminating the hassle of converting standard printers for sublimation. This makes it an excellent option for first-time users.
- Outstanding Print Quality: Epson’s dye-sublimation inks deliver vivid, consistent colors, and the printer’s resolution ensures sharp detail on every print.
- Compact and Lightweight: Its small footprint makes it suitable for home offices or studios with limited space.
- Reliability: Epson’s purpose-built design ensures consistent performance without the need for constant calibration.
Weaknesses
- Limited Print Size: The 8.5-inch width restricts the types of projects you can create, which might be a drawback for users who want to print larger items like oversized shirts or banners.
- Cost of Inks: While Epson’s genuine inks provide superior results, they’re more expensive than third-party alternatives. However, their reliability and color accuracy justify the cost.
Comparisons
Compared to alternatives, the Epson SureColor F170 holds its ground:
- Sawgrass SG500: While the SG500 offers more features and supports larger print sizes, it’s significantly more expensive. Beginners may find the F170 more accessible.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2400: The EcoTank series requires conversion for sublimation, which can be daunting for beginners. The F170 eliminates this extra step, providing a seamless experience.
Bottom Line Recommendation
The Epson SureColor F170 is a fantastic choice for beginners venturing into sublimation.
Its simplicity, vibrant output, and compact design make it an ideal starting point for hobbyists and small business owners.
While its print size may limit large-scale projects, it excels in delivering consistent, high-quality results for smaller items.
If you’re new to sublimation and want a printer that delivers professional-grade results without the steep learning curve, the Epson SureColor F170 is a no-brainer.
It’s reliable, user-friendly, and purpose-built to help you bring your creative ideas to life.
Don’t wait—kickstart your sublimation journey with the Epson SureColor F170 today and transform your creativity into reality!
Conclusion – Best Sublimation Printer
Sublimation printing is an exciting way to bring your creative ideas to life, but finding the right printer is key to unlocking its full potential.
In this post, we explored some of the best sublimation printers available, each with unique features designed to meet a variety of needs and budgets.
From beginner-friendly models like the Epson SureColor F170 to versatile options like the Epson EcoTank ET-2400, there’s something for every level of expertise and project scope.
We’ve covered essential factors like print quality, ease of use, size, and overall value, providing you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a hobbyist crafting custom mugs or a small business owner creating vibrant apparel, the right printer can elevate your creations and streamline your workflow.
Now that you know what to look for in a sublimation printer and have insight into the top options on the market, it’s time to take the next step.
Ready to turn your ideas into stunning reality?
Explore the options we’ve discussed, and choose the sublimation printer that best aligns with your vision. Your next creative project is waiting—make it unforgettable!
FAQs: Best Sublimation Printer
What is the best sublimation printer?
The best sublimation printer depends on your specific needs and budget. Some factors to consider include print quality, size capacity, ink costs, and whether you’re a beginner or a professional.
- For beginners, the Epson SureColor F170 Dye Sublimation Printer is a user-friendly and affordable option.
- For professional crafters who need high-quality prints, the Sawgrass UHD Virtuoso SG500 Sublimation Color Printer is a top choice.
- If you need to create large format prints, the Sawgrass SG1000 Sublimation Printer is the way to go.
- For crafters on a tight budget, the Epson EcoTank ET-2720 can be a good option for sublimation with some additional research and compatible ink.
What printer to use for sublimation?
There are two main types of printers used for sublimation:
- Dedicated sublimation printers: These printers are specifically designed for sublimation printing and use sublimation ink. They offer the best results in terms of print quality and consistency.
- Inkjet printers converted for sublimation: Some crafters use regular inkjet printers with compatible sublimation ink. This can be a more affordable option, but it requires finding compatible ink and experimenting with settings to achieve optimal results. There’s also a risk of voiding your printer’s warranty.
Which Epson is best for sublimation?
Several Epson printers can be used for sublimation with compatible ink, but some popular choices include:
- Epson SureColor F170 Dye Sublimation Printer: This is a great beginner-friendly option with easy setup and vibrant prints.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: This inkjet printer boasts refillable ink tanks, making it a budget-conscious option for sublimation with some extra setup research.
What is better than sublimation printing?
There isn’t necessarily anything “better” than sublimation printing, but it depends on your specific needs and project. Here are some alternative printing methods to consider:
- Screen printing: This is a good option for high-volume production runs of simple designs.
- Direct to garment printing (DTG): This method prints directly onto fabric and offers a wider range of printable materials than sublimation. However, DTG printers are typically more expensive.
- Vinyl printing: Vinyl decals are a good choice for creating weatherproof and durable prints.
Is sublimation printing high quality?
Yes, sublimation printing can produce high-quality prints with vibrant colors and sharp details. The quality depends on several factors, including the printer you use, the sublimation ink, the sublimation paper, and the heat press settings.
Can you sublimate with a Cricut?
Cricut machines are cutting machines, not printers. They cannot be used for sublimation printing. However, you can use a sublimation printer to create sublimation transfers that you can then apply to Cricut blanks with a heat press.
What ink do you use for sublimation printing?
You cannot use regular printer ink for sublimation. Sublimation printing requires special sublimation ink that transforms from a solid to a gas during the heat press process, bonding the ink with the material.
What temperature do you need for sublimation printing?
The ideal temperature for sublimation printing can vary depending on the specific sublimation ink and material you are using. Typically, the temperature range falls between 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit (177-204 degrees Celsius).
How long do you press for sublimation printing?
The pressing time for sublimation printing also depends on the material you are using. Generally, pressing times range from 30 to 60 seconds. Always consult the recommendations for your specific sublimation ink and blanks.
Can you sublimate on cotton?
Pure cotton is not suitable for sublimation printing because the fibers don’t absorb the ink properly. However, there are specially treated cotton blends that can be used for sublimation.