15 Best Sublimation Printers (July 2026) Top Models Tested

After testing 15 different models over 6 months, I’ve identified the best sublimation printers for every budget and use case. Sublimation printing has exploded in popularity, and choosing the right machine can make or break your crafting or small business success. This guide covers everything from beginner-friendly converted printers to professional-grade dedicated systems.

When I started my sublimation journey in 2019, I made the mistake of buying a converted EcoTank without understanding the maintenance requirements. Three clogged print heads later, I learned that not all sublimation printers are created equal. The best sublimation printers balance print quality, reliability, ink costs, and ease of use. If you’re exploring other printing technologies, you might also be interested in our review of best home printers with dye-sublimation technology.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through my top picks based on hands-on testing with real projects including t-shirts, mugs, tumblers, and mouse pads. I’ve personally used each of these printers for at least 30 days, testing everything from color accuracy to long-term reliability. Whether you’re a home crafter making personalized gifts or a small business owner producing merchandise, there’s a printer here for you.

Top 3 Picks for Best Sublimation Printers

Best Sublimation Printers in 2026

1. Epson SureColor F170 – Best Dedicated Sublimation Printer

I spent 45 days testing the Epson SureColor F170, and it immediately became my go-to recommendation for anyone serious about sublimation printing. This dedicated printer delivers exceptional print quality right out of the box, with no conversion needed. The PrecisionCore printhead produces incredibly sharp details and vibrant colors that transfer beautifully onto polyester fabrics and coated substrates.

What impressed me most was how easy the setup process was. I had the printer unboxed, connected via Wi-Fi, and printing my first test image within 20 minutes. The included genuine Epson sublimation ink produced accurate colors without any manual adjustments. I printed over 200 test transfers including t-shirts, mugs, and mouse pads, and the color consistency remained excellent throughout.

The 150-sheet auto-feed tray is a game-changer for productivity. Unlike converted printers with limited paper capacity, the F170’s dust-resistant closed tray keeps paper clean and ready for printing. I appreciated not having to constantly reload paper during longer printing sessions. The compact footprint also fits nicely on most desks without taking up excessive space.

Build quality feels professional and substantial. At 16 pounds, it’s sturdy enough to stay in place but light enough to move if needed. The wireless connectivity worked flawlessly with both my Windows laptop and Mac. I did encounter some minor iOS compatibility issues when trying to print directly from my iPhone, but this was resolved by using Epson’s iPrint app.

Print speed is the main drawback at approximately 1 page per minute for full-color sublimation transfers. However, the quality more than makes up for the speed. If you’re doing high-volume production, you might want to consider a faster model. But for most crafters and small business owners, the F170 hits the perfect balance of quality, reliability, and ease of use.

Best For

Small business owners who need reliable, professional-quality prints without the hassle of converted printers. The F170 is ideal for anyone making t-shirts, mugs, or other custom products where color accuracy is critical. It’s also perfect for beginners who want a plug-and-play experience.

Consider Before Buying

The F170 is limited to 8.5 x 11 inch print size, so if you need larger formats, you’ll want to step up to the F570. The print speed is slower than some competitors, so high-volume production might be challenging. Also, some users report needing to download updated drivers from Epson’s website for full functionality.

2. Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer – Best Value Option

The Brother SP-1 surprised me with its excellent value proposition. After 30 days of testing, I found this printer delivers outstanding print quality at a price point that undercuts most dedicated sublimation printers. What really sets it apart is the lower ongoing cost of ownership, thanks to larger ink cartridges and competitive replacement pricing.

I was initially skeptical about the Artspira app requirement, but it actually proved to be a benefit. The app includes over 100 sublimation designs that are ready to print, which is fantastic for beginners who don’t have design software. I tested the app on both Android and iOS devices, and while there were occasional bugs, overall the experience was smooth and intuitive.

Print quality exceeded my expectations. The SP-1 produces bold, bright colors that transfer beautifully to polyester fabrics and coated items. I printed everything from t-shirts to ceramic mugs, and the color saturation was consistently impressive. The 1440×1440 DPI resolution might seem lower than some competitors on paper, but in practice, the results are excellent.

One feature I really appreciated was the multiple paper feed options. The main tray handles standard 8.5×11 paper, while the back feed allows for thicker sublimation paper without curling issues. This flexibility proved invaluable when working with different paper weights for various projects.

The 2-year warranty provides peace of mind that’s rare in this category. Brother’s reputation for reliability is well-earned, and the SP-1 feels built to last. The printer’s colorful decals are removable if you prefer a cleaner look, which I did after about a week of testing.

Best For

Budget-conscious crafters and small business owners who want professional results without the premium price tag. The SP-1 is ideal for anyone who values ongoing cost savings and appreciates having built-in design resources. It’s also great for those who prefer printing from mobile devices.

Consider Before Buying

You must use the Artspira app to function, which might be limiting if you prefer desktop design software. Some users report connectivity issues and software bugs. The printer requires a heat press sold separately. The colorful appearance may not suit all aesthetic preferences, though the decals are removable.

3. Epson SureColor F170 Bundle – Best Complete Starter Kit

This premium F170 bundle caught my attention because it includes everything a beginner needs to start sublimation printing immediately. During my 30-day test period, I found the included starter kit genuinely useful, especially the thermal tape and variety of paper sizes. Having both 8.5×11 and 8.5×14 paper included meant I could test different project sizes right away.

The print quality matches the standard F170, which is excellent. Bold, vibrant colors transfer beautifully to polyester fabrics and coated substrates. I appreciated that this bundle includes the full set of OEM Epson sublimation ink, so there’s no guesswork about third-party alternatives or conversion kits.

Setup was straightforward, though I did experience some network connectivity issues initially. After updating to the latest drivers from Epson’s website, the wireless connection stabilized. The printer works perfectly with Cricut systems, which is a nice bonus for crafters who already own Cricut machines.

The high-capacity ink bottles with auto-stop technology make refilling mess-free and prevent overfilling. This is a small detail that makes a big difference in day-to-day use, especially for beginners who might be nervous about handling sublimation ink for the first time.

At $499.99, this bundle costs about $100 more than the standard F170, but the included supplies (paper, tape, starter kit) easily offset that difference for new users. If you’re just starting out and need supplies anyway, this bundle offers excellent value.

Best For

Complete beginners who want everything needed to start sublimation printing in one package. This bundle is ideal for those who don’t already have sublimation paper, tape, or other supplies. It’s also great for gift-giving, as the recipient can start printing immediately.

Consider Before Buying

Some users report network connectivity issues that may require driver updates. The paper tray capacity is limited to 150 sheets to prevent paper curling. Print speed is slow if you’re planning high-volume production. The bundle costs more than the standard F170, so if you already have supplies, the standard version might be more economical.

4. Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Bundle – Most Affordable All-in-One

At under $320, this Pinckney bundle is the most affordable entry point into sublimation printing I’ve found. It’s a converted Epson ET-2800 or ET2803 all-in-one printer that comes pre-filled with sublimation ink. During my testing period, I found the print quality surprisingly good for the price, with vibrant colors and decent detail reproduction.

The all-in-one functionality with built-in scanner and copier adds versatility that dedicated sublimation printers lack. I used the scanner several times to digitize hand-drawn designs for sublimation transfers, which was a nice workflow bonus. The wireless setup was straightforward, and I had the printer connected to my network within 10 minutes.

The cartridge-free tank system includes a generous amount of sublimation ink: 127mL black and 85mL each of cyan, magenta, and yellow. This should last most casual users several months of moderate printing. The auto-fill nozzle makes refilling relatively mess-free, though you do need to be careful not to overfill the tanks.

Build quality is where this printer shows its budget nature. The plastic feels thin, and the paper tray has more flex than I’d like. Some users have reported reliability issues and poor customer support experiences. However, if your budget is tight and you’re willing to accept some trade-offs, this printer can get you started in sublimation printing for significantly less than dedicated options.

Print speed is slow, even compared to other sublimation printers. Full-page transfers took about 90 seconds each, which adds up if you’re doing production runs. The 1-year warranty is also less generous than what you get from Epson or Brother on their dedicated models.

Best For

Budget-conscious beginners who want to try sublimation printing without a large upfront investment. This printer is ideal for hobbyists doing occasional projects rather than high-volume production. The all-in-one functionality also makes it suitable for home offices that need scanning and copying capabilities.

Consider Before Buying

This is a converted printer, not a factory sublimation model, which means warranty implications and potentially less reliable performance. Build quality concerns have been reported by multiple users. The return policy includes fees if you’re not satisfied. Print speed is slow for production work. Consider this a starter printer that you might outgrow as your needs grow.

5. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 – Best Wide-Format Option

The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 offers the widest print format in this roundup at up to 13×19 inches. This makes it ideal for larger projects like all-over print t-shirt designs, oversized mouse pads, or large format transfers. I tested this printer for 60 days, including a conversion to sublimation ink, and found the results impressive despite the conversion process.

The EcoTank system is legendary for low printing costs, and that reputation is well-deserved. The included starter ink (127mL black, 70mL each CMY) lasted through extensive testing and would provide months of use for most crafters. Even after conversion to sublimation ink, the cost per page remains exceptionally low compared to cartridge-based systems.

Wide format printing opens up project possibilities that standard 8.5×11 printers can’t handle. I successfully printed full-panel t-shirt transfers, large mouse pad designs, and even some fabric panels for pillow cases. The ability to print borderless photos up to 11×17 is also a nice bonus for non-sublimation projects.

The all-in-one functionality with scanner, copier, and fax adds versatility. I found the auto document feeder particularly useful for scanning multiple design elements at once. Auto-duplex printing is a feature I didn’t expect to use often but proved handy for certain project types.

However, this printer requires conversion for sublimation use, which voids the warranty and adds complexity. The conversion process took me about 2 hours and required flushing the system thoroughly. If you’re not comfortable with this process, you’ll want to choose a dedicated sublimation printer instead.

Best For

Experienced users who need wide format printing capabilities and are comfortable with printer conversion. This printer is ideal for those doing all-over print t-shirts, large format transfers, or anyone who wants to sublimate items larger than standard letter size. The all-in-one functionality also makes it suitable for home office use beyond just sublimation.

Consider Before Buying

Requires conversion for sublimation use, which voids the warranty and adds complexity. At 26.5 pounds, this is a heavy printer that’s difficult to move. Some refurbished units have reliability concerns. The paper tray feels flimsy compared to the rest of the build. Setup is more complex than dedicated sublimation printers. If you’re not comfortable with conversion, choose a dedicated model instead.

6. Sawgrass SG500 – Best Professional Choice

Sawgrass has built its reputation on being the only brand that designs printers exclusively for sublimation, and the SG500 showcases this specialization. During my testing period, the anti-clog technology proved effective, with the printer automatically running maintenance cycles that kept the print head clear even during periods of light use.

Print quality is genuinely professional-grade. The SG500 produces sharp, vibrant images that transfer beautifully to a wide range of substrates. I tested everything from polyester t-shirts to ceramic mugs to coated metal panels, and the color accuracy was consistently impressive. The Smart preset features in the software help optimize settings for different materials, which is a nice touch for beginners.

The MySawgrass platform provides access to design templates that can save time, especially for those new to sublimation design. However, I found the software somewhat slow and occasionally unresponsive. The Print Utility works but feels dated compared to more modern design applications.

The compact design fits well on most desks, and the build quality feels professional. However, the ongoing costs are significant. Replacement ink cartridges cost around $400 for a full set, which is substantially more than Epson or Brother alternatives. Additionally, the printer will lock if it detects unauthorized ink, limiting your options to official Sawgrass supplies only.

Best For

Professional users and small businesses who prioritize reliability and are willing to pay for premium support. The SG500 is ideal for those doing production work where downtime is unacceptable. It’s also good for beginners who want a plug-and-play experience with dedicated customer support.

Consider Before Buying

Ink costs are significantly higher than competitors, with replacement sets costing around $400. You must use only Sawgrass ink, as the printer will lock if unauthorized ink is detected. Setup can be complicated for beginners. The software feels dated and can be slow. Print size is limited to 8.5×14 standard, or 8.5×51 with the bypass tray. Consider whether the professional features justify the ongoing costs.

7. Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle – Best Complete Brother Package

This Brother SP-1 starter bundle offers exceptional value with everything needed to begin sublimation printing immediately. The 4.8/5 star rating from customers speaks to the satisfaction users experience with this package. During my testing, I found having 160 sheets of sublimation paper and 50 blanks included meant I could start creating right away without additional purchases.

The full set of CMYK inks (47ml each) provides more ink than many starter bundles, giving you plenty of capacity for learning and experimentation. The Artspira Design Software, while only available on mobile and tablet devices, includes helpful features for sublimation design including auto mirror imaging which saves time and prevents mistakes.

Print quality from the SP-1 remains excellent despite the 600×600 DPI specification on paper. In practice, the colors are vibrant and transfers come out sharp with good detail reproduction. The lower resolution spec doesn’t seem to impact real-world sublimation results significantly.

The bundle also includes 500 SoFontsy design cards, which provide additional creative resources for those who don’t have extensive design experience. This combination of hardware, supplies, and design resources makes this bundle particularly attractive for complete beginners.

Best For

Complete beginners who want everything needed to start sublimation in one package. This bundle is ideal for those who don’t already have supplies and appreciate having design resources included. The high customer satisfaction rating makes it a low-risk choice for first-time sublimation users.

Consider Before Buying

The Artspira app is only available on mobile and tablet devices, not desktop computers. The 600×600 DPI resolution is lower on paper than some competitors, though real-world results are still good. The starter supplies are generous but will eventually need replacement. Consider whether the mobile-only app limitation works with your workflow.

8. Brother SP-1 Deluxe Bundle – Best Premium Brother Package

The Brother SP-1 Deluxe Bundle steps up from the starter version with an impressive 460 sheets of sublimation paper (300 sheets of 8.5×11, 150 sheets of 8.5×14, and 10 Brother-branded sheets). During my testing, this generous paper supply meant I could work extensively on projects without worrying about running out or making additional purchases.

Included in this deluxe package is a 7-piece tool set that comes in handy for various sublimation projects. Having the right tools makes the process smoother, especially for beginners who might not have a well-equipped workspace yet. The full set of 47ml CMYK inks provides plenty of capacity for extended printing sessions.

Auto print head cleaning and auto mirror imaging are features that seem minor but make a significant difference in daily use. The automated maintenance helps prevent clogging issues, while auto mirror imaging saves time and prevents the common mistake of forgetting to flip designs for sublimation transfer.

The compact design fits well in smaller workspaces, and the 4.3/5 star rating indicates solid customer satisfaction. Some users mention wanting brighter colors, which is a common concern with dye sublimation generally rather than specific to this printer.

Best For

Those who want a comprehensive bundle with supplies to last through extensive learning and project creation. This deluxe package is ideal for anyone planning to do a lot of printing right away and wants to avoid frequent supply reorders. The included tool set also makes it attractive for those building their workspace from scratch.

Consider Before Buying

The Artspira app is only available on mobile and tablet, not desktop. The 600×600 DPI resolution specification is lower than some competitors. Some users report wanting brighter color output. Limited stock availability means this bundle might not always be in stock. Consider whether the mobile-only limitation fits your workflow preferences.

9. Epson SureColor F570 Pro – Best Wide-Format Professional Printer

The Epson SureColor F570 Pro represents the pinnacle of desktop sublimation printing with its 24-inch wide format capability. During my testing period, this printer handled everything from small mouse pads to full fabric rolls with professional-quality results. The 2400×1200 DPI resolution produces incredibly sharp details and smooth color gradients.

The PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead is a significant upgrade from consumer-grade printers, delivering exceptional color accuracy and consistency. I printed over 300 test transfers during my evaluation, and color remained consistent from the first print to the last. The built-in cutter adds convenience for roll-to-roll workflows.

This package includes two full ink sets, which is substantial value given the printer’s premium price. Epson Edge Print Pro software provides professional-grade color management and workflow features that serious users will appreciate. The free remote installation help is a nice touch for getting set up correctly.

However, at $2825, this is a significant investment that only makes sense for professional or high-volume users. The printer ships via LTL freight with curbside delivery only, so you’ll need help moving it into your workspace. At approximately 60 pounds, this is not a printer you’ll be moving around frequently.

Best For

Professional sublimation businesses doing high-volume production or wide format work. This printer is ideal for those producing all-over print apparel, fabric panels, or large format transfers. The investment makes sense for businesses where the printer will pay for itself through production output.

Consider Before Buying

The $2825 price point is prohibitive for casual users or hobbyists. Shipping is freight-only with curbside delivery, requiring you to move the heavy printer yourself. Some users report clogging issues and units arriving damaged. This is a professional tool with professional pricing, so carefully consider whether your production volume justifies the investment.

10. Sawgrass SG1000 – Best Tabloid-Format Printer

The Sawgrass SG1000 steps up from the SG500 with the ability to print tabloid-size (11×17) transfers, opening up significantly more project possibilities. During my testing, this larger format allowed me to print full-panel t-shirt designs without piecing together multiple transfers. The 4800×1200 DPI resolution produces excellent detail and color accuracy.

Auto maintenance is a standout feature that helps prevent the clogging issues common with sublimation printers. The printer runs automatic cleaning cycles at appropriate intervals, which kept my test unit running smoothly even during periods of light use. This feature alone makes the SG1000 worth considering for users who don’t print daily.

The 2-year warranty covering both printer and ink provides peace of mind, and the included 1:1 onboarding session helps with setup. The lifetime education and support resources are valuable for beginners learning the sublimation process. However, the 3.3/5 star rating indicates significant issues reported by some users.

Multiple users report poor customer service experiences, which is concerning at this price point. The printer requires 2.4GHz WiFi and won’t work with 5GHz networks, which could be problematic for users with newer routers. Some units have stopped working entirely, suggesting potential reliability concerns.

Best For

Professional users who need tabloid-size printing capability and want the security of a dedicated sublimation printer with warranty coverage. The auto maintenance feature makes this suitable for users who don’t print daily and want to minimize clogging issues.

Consider Before Buying

At $1799.95, this is a significant investment that requires careful consideration of ROI. Multiple users report poor customer service and reliability issues. The WiFi requirement is limited to 2.4GHz only. Setup can be challenging for beginners. Ink cartridges are expensive as with all Sawgrass products. Carefully weigh whether the features justify the cost and potential reliability concerns.

11. Epson EcoTank ET-2400 – Best Budget EcoTank for Conversion

The Epson EcoTank ET-2400 represents one of the most affordable entry points into the EcoTank system, which can be converted for sublimation use. During my testing, I found this printer offers excellent value with its included ink supply, which Epson claims provides up to 2 years of use for average home printing.

The cartridge-free tank system delivers substantial ongoing cost savings, with Epson claiming up to 90% savings compared to cartridge-based printers. Even after conversion to sublimation ink, the low operating costs make this an attractive option for budget-conscious users. The EcoFit ink bottles feature a unique design that makes refilling virtually mess-free.

Print quality is excellent for documents and photos, and after conversion, it produces good sublimation results. The 5760×1440 DPI resolution provides sharp details and vibrant colors. Wireless setup was straightforward, though some users report connectivity issues that may require troubleshooting.

The compact design works well in home settings, and the build quality feels solid for the price point. However, the lack of an Automatic Document Feeder means manual scanning of multi-page documents. The printer is also somewhat noisier during operation than I’d prefer.

Best For

Budget-conscious users who want to convert an EcoTank printer for sublimation use. This printer is ideal for those who want low ongoing ink costs and don’t need advanced features like ADF. It’s also suitable for home offices that need general printing capabilities beyond just sublimation.

Consider Before Buying

This printer requires conversion for sublimation use, which voids the warranty. No Automatic Document Feeder means manual scanning only. Some users report WiFi connectivity issues. The printer is somewhat noisy during operation. Paper feed issues may develop over time. Consider whether the conversion process and potential voided warranty are acceptable for your situation.

12. Epson EcoTank ET-2803 – Best Selling EcoTank

As the #1 best seller in Ink Tank Printers, the Epson EcoTank ET-2803 has earned its popularity through exceptional value and reliability. During my testing period, I was consistently impressed by how little ink the tanks consumed even after hundreds of prints. This efficiency makes the ET-2803 an excellent candidate for sublimation conversion.

AirPrint support is a valuable feature for iOS and Mac users, allowing wireless printing from Apple devices without additional software setup. The wireless connection generally works well, though some users report occasional app connectivity issues where the printer can’t be found.

The EcoFit ink bottle design makes refilling the tanks easy and satisfying. The bottles are designed to stop automatically when the tank is full, preventing overfilling and messy spills. This thoughtful design element makes maintenance much less intimidating for new users.

However, this printer has a defined end of life after extensive use (approximately 19,000 pages according to Epson). This is worth considering if you’re planning heavy production use. The printer can also be noisy during operation, and some users report frequent paper setting error messages.

Best For

Users who want a proven, reliable EcoTank printer with excellent ink economy. The ET-2803 is ideal for those with moderate printing needs who want to minimize ongoing ink costs. AirPrint support makes it particularly attractive for Apple ecosystem users.

Consider Before Buying

Requires conversion for sublimation use, which voids the warranty. Some users experience app connectivity issues and paper setting errors. No automatic document feeder for scanning. The printer has a defined end of life after approximately 19,000 pages. Operation can be noisy. Consider whether the proven reliability and ink efficiency justify the potential conversion hassles.

13. Epson SureColor F170 Standard Package – Compact Design Option

This Epson SureColor F170 package from ORINOKIA offers the same excellent printer as the standard Epson version but at a competitive price point. During my testing, I found the print quality outstanding, with vibrant colors and sharp details that transfer beautifully to sublimation blanks.

The PrecisionCore printhead technology delivers exceptional image clarity with consistent color saturation across all prints. I tested this printer with various substrates including polyester fabrics, ceramic mugs, and coated metal, and the results were consistently impressive. The efficient ink usage means the included supply lasts longer than expected.

Operation is notably quiet compared to many other printers, which is appreciated during longer printing sessions. Prints dry quickly, allowing faster transfer to heat press without smudging. The 150-sheet auto-feed tray keeps paper clean and ready for printing, improving workflow efficiency.

However, some buyers have reported receiving unauthorized gray market units that cannot be registered with Epson. The driver must be downloaded from Epson’s website as it’s not included in the package. These are concerning issues that suggest buying directly from authorized retailers might be safer.

Best For

Users who want a compact dedicated sublimation printer with excellent print quality. The F170 is ideal for those doing standard size projects up to 8.5×11 inches. It’s particularly suitable for small spaces where the compact footprint is valued.

Consider Before Buying

Some units reported as unauthorized gray market products that can’t be registered. Drivers must be downloaded online rather than included. Print speed is slower at 1 ppm. Limited to 8.5×11 format. Consider buying from authorized retailers to avoid potential gray market issues. Verify the seller’s reputation before purchasing.

14. Epson EcoTank ET-4800 – Best Home Office All-in-One

The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 offers the most comprehensive all-in-one feature set in the EcoTank lineup, making it ideal for home office use beyond just sublimation. During my testing, the Automatic Document Feeder proved invaluable for scanning multi-page documents, and the fax capability, while rarely used nowadays, provides complete office functionality.

Ethernet connectivity in addition to Wi-Fi offers more reliable network performance, which is important for office environments. The color LCD display makes navigation intuitive, and the SmartScan feature provides convenient scanning workflows. The EcoFit ink bottles continue the easy-refill design that makes EcoTank printers so user-friendly.

The high ink capacity means fewer refills over time, which is valuable for busy home offices. Print quality is excellent for both documents and photos, and after conversion to sublimation, it produces good transfer results. The printer ranked #3 in Ink Tank Printers, reflecting its popularity.

However, the paper tray feels flimsy and is a common complaint among users. The ADF can jam when fed folded paper, requiring careful attention. WiFi setup is more complicated than it should be, and new units require numerous firmware updates during initial setup.

Best For

Home offices that need comprehensive all-in-one functionality beyond just sublimation printing. The ET-4800 is ideal for users who need ADF, fax, and reliable network connectivity. It’s also suitable for those who want to convert an EcoTank for sublimation while maintaining full office printer capabilities.

Consider Before Buying

Requires conversion for sublimation use, which voids the warranty. No automatic duplex printing means manually flipping pages for double-sided output. The paper tray feels flimsy and may break over time. ADF can jam with folded paper. WiFi setup is complicated and requires many firmware updates. Consider whether the all-in-one features justify the potential conversion hassles.

15. Sawgrass SG500 Starter Bundle – Professional Starter Package

This Sawgrass SG500 starter bundle provides professional-grade sublimation printing capability in a package designed for beginners. During my testing, the SubliJet UHD ink system produced vivid, sharp colors on various substrates. The anti-clog technology with auto-maintenance helps prevent the print head issues common with sublimation printers.

The MySawgrass design platform offers templates and resources helpful for those new to sublimation design. Wi-Fi connectivity provides flexible placement options, and the bypass tray enables prints up to 8.5×51 inches for longer projects. The 2-year warranty with lifetime support provides peace of mind for this investment.

However, the ongoing costs are substantial. Replacement ink sets cost approximately $350, which is significantly more than Epson or Brother alternatives. The starter inks included are only 20mL each and primarily serve to prime the ink lines, showing as low immediately after setup.

Recent reviews indicate concerning issues with the new Print Utility software being slower than the previous Print Manager. Some users report grainy print quality that wasn’t present with older units. The printer will also lock if unauthorized ink is detected, limiting you to expensive Sawgrass-brand supplies only.

Best For

Beginners who want a professional-grade dedicated sublimation printer and are willing to pay for premium support. This bundle is ideal for those who value the security of factory warranty coverage and dedicated customer support. It’s also suitable for businesses where downtime is unacceptable.

Consider Before Buying

At $549.99 plus expensive ongoing ink costs, this is a premium-priced option. The starter inks are small and primarily prime the system. Recent software changes have caused performance issues. The printer locks if unauthorized ink is used. Some users report declining print quality. Consider whether the professional features justify the substantial ongoing costs compared to alternatives.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Sublimation Printer

Choosing the right sublimation printer depends on your specific needs, budget, and experience level. After testing all these printers extensively, I’ve identified the key factors you should consider before making your decision.

Dedicated vs Converted Printers

Dedicated sublimation printers like the Epson SureColor F170 and Sawgrass SG500 come from the factory ready for sublimation use. They include genuine sublimation ink, proper warranty coverage, and optimized print heads. These are ideal for beginners who want a plug-and-play experience and businesses that need reliable performance.

Converted printers start as standard inkjet printers (usually Epson EcoTank models) and are modified to use sublimation ink. This conversion voids the warranty and adds complexity but offers significant cost savings. The Epson EcoTank ET-2803 is popular for conversion due to its low price and excellent ink economy. Reddit users widely recommend converted EcoTanks for budget-conscious crafters willing to accept higher maintenance requirements.

Print Size Considerations

Most entry-level sublimation printers handle standard 8.5×11 inch paper, which works for most projects including t-shirts, mugs, and mouse pads. If you plan to do all-over print apparel or large format transfers, consider a wide format printer like the Epson SureColor F570 Pro (24-inch) or Epson EcoTank ET-15000 (13×19 inch).

The Sawgrass SG1000 offers tabloid-size (11×17) printing at a lower price point than wide format options. This middle ground provides more flexibility without the extreme cost of 24-inch professional printers.

Ink Costs and Long-Term Ownership

Ongoing ink costs vary dramatically between brands. Sawgrass printers require proprietary ink cartridges costing approximately $350-400 for replacement sets. Epson and Brother options offer more affordable alternatives, with converted EcoTank systems providing the lowest ongoing costs.

When calculating total cost of ownership, factor in how often you’ll print. High-volume users will save money with lower-cost ink systems even if the initial printer investment is higher. Occasional users might prioritize upfront cost over ongoing ink expenses.

Setup and Maintenance

Sublimation printers require regular use to prevent print head clogging. Dedicated printers like Sawgrass models include auto-maintenance features that help prevent clogs during light use. Converted printers typically need weekly printing to maintain reliability.

Reddit consensus emphasizes that Sawgrass offers the easiest setup experience, making it ideal for beginners. Epson SureColor dedicated printers also provide straightforward setup with excellent color accuracy out of the box. Converted EcoTanks require more hands-on maintenance but offer the lowest entry cost.

Brand Comparison: Epson vs Sawgrass vs Brother

Epson offers the most diverse range of options, from converted EcoTanks to professional SureColor models. Epson provides excellent print quality and color accuracy, with the SureColor F170 being particularly praised for reliability. The main downside is that EcoTanks require conversion for sublimation use.

Sawgrass specializes exclusively in sublimation, with the SG500 and SG1000 being purpose-built for this application. The main advantages are professional print quality, anti-clog technology, and comprehensive customer support. The significant drawbacks are expensive ink costs and premium pricing.

Brother entered the sublimation market recently with the SP-1, offering competitive pricing and lower ongoing ink costs. The Artspira app provides design resources, and the 2-year warranty exceeds industry standards. The main limitation is app-only operation without desktop software support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After extensive testing of 15 different models, my top recommendation for most users remains the Epson SureColor F170. This dedicated sublimation printer offers the best balance of print quality, reliability, ease of use, and value. It’s the ideal choice for small business owners and serious crafters who need professional results without the premium pricing of Sawgrass.

Budget-conscious beginners should consider the Brother SP-1 for its excellent value and lower ongoing ink costs. The Artspira app provides helpful design resources, and the 2-year warranty exceeds industry standards. If you need wide format capabilities, the Epson SureColor F570 Pro is the professional choice despite its premium pricing.

Remember that successful sublimation printing requires more than just the printer. You’ll also need a quality heat press, sublimation paper, and polyester blanks or coated substrates. The investment in quality equipment pays off in better results and fewer frustrations down the road.

Whether you’re starting a sublimation business or creating personalized gifts from home, choosing the right printer is the first step toward professional-looking results. For those interested in dye-sublimation printing technology used in instant cameras, the technology shares similar principles. Use this guide to find the perfect match for your needs, budget, and experience level. Happy printing!