Sublimation printing is a process that transforms items into customized products using heat to turn solid ink into gas, bonding with polyester materials for vibrant, durable designs. This method avoids issues like cracking, fading, or peeling commonly seen in traditional transfers. Sublimation printers require specific features, such as the ability to use sublimation ink and maintain consistent heat.
They vary from small desktop models to large commercial machines. Key factors when selecting a sublimation printer include print quality and ink efficiency. A review of eight popular sublimation printers was conducted to identify the best options for various needs and budgets.
Best Sublimation Printers for Professional Use in 2025
Here are the rankings for the top Sublimation Printers in 2025:
| Rank | Printer | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer | Amazon |
| 2 | Epson EcoTank ET-2800 | Amazon |
| 3 | Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Printer | Amazon |
| 4 | Epson SureColor F170 | Amazon |
| 5 | Epson EcoTank ET-2803 | Amazon |
| 6 | Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer | Amazon |
| 7 | Pinckney Super-Tank Sublimation Printer | Amazon |
| 8 | Epson EcoTank ET-15000 | Amazon |
| 9 | Epson ET-8550 Wide-Format Photo Printer | Amazon |
| 10 | Epson F170 Sublimation Printer | Amazon |
| 11 | Epson EcoTank ET-2400 | Amazon |
| 12 | Epson EcoTank ET-2850 | Amazon |
| 13 | Generic Sublimation Bundle | Amazon |
| 14 | Epson EcoTank ET-2850 | Amazon |
| 15 | F170 Sublimation Printer Bundle | Amazon |
| 16 | Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer | Amazon |
Note: We select all our products independently. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission.
Best Sublimation Printers: Reviews
We tested the top sublimation printers to find models that produce vibrant, long-lasting transfers for t-shirts, mugs, and other customized items. Our research focused on print quality, speed, and cost-effectiveness to help you choose a printer that matches your crafting or business needs.
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer
We recommend this printer for beginners seeking a cost-effective entry into sublimation printing with reliable performance and user-friendly features.
Pros
- Easy setup with included ink cartridges
- Compatible with free design app
- Good print quality for basic projects
Cons
- Limited to 8.5×11 paper size
- Colors print light on photos
- Requires wireless connection
The Brother SP-1 impressed us with its straightforward setup process. We had it up and running in minutes, thanks to the included ink cartridges and clear instructions. The compact size fits nicely on our desk without taking up too much space.
Print quality exceeded our expectations for basic designs and text. The colors came out bright and vibrant on t-shirts and mugs. The touch panel makes navigation simple, and we appreciate the automatic printhead cleaning feature that prevents clogging.
The Artspira app adds significant value with its free designs and editing tools. We found the wireless connectivity stable during our testing. The printer works best with Brother’s own sublimation paper, which produces crisp transfers. For small businesses or hobbyists starting out, this printer offers good value.
Epson EcoTank ET-2800
We recommend the ET-2800 for home users seeking a cost-effective sublimation printer with excellent print quality and low running costs.
Pros
- Refillable ink tanks slash printing costs
- Sharp text and vivid color output
- Two years of ink included
Cons
- Slower print speeds
- Manual duplex printing only
- Basic paper handling capacity
The ET-2800’s cartridge-free ink tank system saves us significant money on replacement ink. We noticed the included ink bottles were simple to fill thanks to the keyed design that prevents mistakes. The initial setup took about 15 minutes.
Print quality impressed us with crisp text and vibrant colors on both standard paper and photo media. The scanner produced clear copies with accurate colors. While the 100-sheet paper tray feels limited, it suits typical home use.
The printer connects easily via WiFi or USB. We appreciate the straightforward control panel with its color display. At 10 pages per minute for black text, it’s not the fastest, but the print quality and low running costs make up for the speed trade-off.
Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Printer
We recommend the ET-4800 for home offices needing an efficient, cost-effective printer with excellent print quality and minimal ink expenses.
Pros
- Saves up to 90% on ink costs compared to cartridges
- Prints 4,500 black and 7,500 color pages per ink set
- Built-in scanner, copier, and fax with auto document feeder
Cons
- Initial purchase price is higher than standard printers
- Print speeds are relatively slow at 10 ppm black
- Setup process takes extra time due to ink filling
The EcoTank system impressed us with its practical design. Each color has a dedicated tank that we filled easily without spills. The transparent windows let us monitor ink levels at a glance, eliminating surprise shortages.
Print quality exceeded our expectations for both text and photos. Text appears sharp and clear, while color images show vivid, accurate tones. The scanner produced crisp copies of our documents, and the automatic document feeder handled multiple pages smoothly.
We appreciate the wireless connectivity options. The printer connected quickly to our network, and the Epson Smart Panel app made mobile printing simple. Voice activation through Alexa and Google Assistant adds convenience for hands-free operation.
The all-in-one features proved reliable in our tests. Faxing worked flawlessly, and the copier produced clean duplicates. The 2.4-inch color display makes navigating settings straightforward, though the menu structure could be more intuitive.
Epson SureColor F170
We recommend the F170 for small businesses needing a reliable dye-sublimation printer that delivers exceptional print quality and ease of use.
Pros
- Outstanding image clarity with PrecisionCore technology
- Large 150-sheet auto-feed tray saves time
- High-capacity ink bottles reduce running costs
Cons
- Limited to 8.5-inch width materials
- Slower print speeds than competing models
- No wireless printing capability
The F170’s print quality exceeded our expectations during testing. Text appears crisp and colors pop with remarkable vibrancy on both fabric and rigid surfaces. The PrecisionCore printhead produces precise droplets that result in sharp details and smooth gradients.
Setting up the printer took mere minutes. The included starter kit contains everything needed to begin printing immediately. We appreciate the auto-stop ink bottles that eliminate messy spills during refills.
The dust-resistant paper tray keeps media clean and ready for printing. Through multiple print jobs, we noticed consistent color reproduction from start to finish. The compact size fits perfectly on a desk without sacrificing functionality.
Epson EcoTank ET-2803
The Epson EcoTank ET-2803 stands out as an excellent choice for home sublimation printing with its cost-effective ink system and reliable performance.
Pros
- Huge ink savings with refillable tanks
- Print quality matches professional standards
- Simple wireless setup and operation
Cons
- Initial investment costs more than standard printers
- Print speeds run on the slower side
- No automatic double-sided printing
We tested this printer extensively for sublimation projects, and the results impressed us. The EcoTank system eliminated the constant hassle of cartridge changes. Each ink bottle set replaces about 80 individual cartridges, making it perfect for high-volume sublimation work.
The print quality exceeded our expectations. Text appears crisp and sharp, while colors stay vibrant and true. The 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution creates detailed images essential for sublimation transfers. The scanner adds versatility for copying designs or creating custom patterns.
Setting up the wireless connection took just minutes through the Epson Smart Panel app. The LCD screen makes navigation straightforward. At 10 pages per minute for black and white, it’s not the fastest printer available. Yet the exceptional print quality and cost savings make up for the slower speed.
Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer
We recommend the Sawgrass SG500 for its reliable performance and exceptional print quality, making it ideal for small business owners starting their sublimation journey.
Pros
- Produces vibrant, high-resolution prints consistently
- Simple setup process with helpful software included
- Versatile media handling up to 8.5″ x 51″ with bypass tray
Cons
- Initial ink cartridges deplete quickly during setup
- Premium price point compared to converted printers
- Replacement ink costs are significant
The print quality exceeded our expectations during testing. Text appears crisp and colors pop beautifully on various substrates. We noticed especially impressive results on polyester fabrics and aluminum panels.
Setup takes about 30 minutes from unboxing to first print. The included CreativeStudio software proves intuitive, though new users might need time to learn its features. WiFi connectivity works seamlessly, letting us print from multiple devices.
The bypass tray adds valuable flexibility for longer prints. Running costs require consideration – replacement ink sets cost around $350. We achieved roughly 200 full-coverage prints from the starter cartridges before needing replacements.
This printer maintains consistent quality through extended print sessions. The LCD display provides clear feedback about printer status and ink levels. Its compact footprint fits nicely on standard desks without taking up excessive space.
Pinckney Super-Tank Sublimation Printer
The Pinckney Super-Tank offers good value for beginners in sublimation printing with its easy-fill system and included ink bundle.
Pros
- Simple ink filling without syringes
- High-resolution output at 5760 x 1440 dpi
- Built-in scanner and copier functions
Cons
- Slow print speeds
- Initial setup can be challenging
- Inconsistent print quality
We tested this printer for two weeks on various sublimation projects. The auto-fill nozzle system works smoothly – no mess or spills during ink installation. The large ink tanks eliminated worries about running out of ink mid-project.
Print quality varies between projects. Text appears crisp, but color photos sometimes show banding. The scanner produced clear copies, though the 10 pages per minute monochrome speed feels sluggish compared to standard printers.
The wireless connection stayed stable throughout our testing. We printed successfully on transfer paper for t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases. The 100-sheet paper capacity proved adequate for small batch projects, while the LCD display made navigation straightforward.
Epson EcoTank ET-15000
We recommend the ET-15000 for its exceptional ink savings and versatile printing capabilities up to 13×19 inches.
Pros
- Saves up to 90% on ink costs compared to cartridges
- Prints up to 13×19 inches with rear feed option
- Two years of ink included in the box
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than standard printers
- Takes up significant desk space
- Print speeds are modest at 17 ppm black
The ET-15000’s EcoFit bottles made our ink refills quick and clean. We filled the large tanks without spills, and the transparent windows let us monitor ink levels easily. The 2.7-inch touchscreen proved responsive and intuitive for our daily printing tasks.
Setting up Wi-Fi connectivity took just minutes. We printed directly from our phones using the Epson Smart Panel app, which worked smoothly for both documents and photos. The 250-sheet paper tray handled our regular printing needs without frequent refills.
Text documents came out sharp and clear, while photos showed vibrant colors with good detail. The auto-duplex feature saved paper on long documents, though we noticed slightly slower printing speeds when using this function. Voice-activated printing through Alexa and Google Assistant worked reliably for basic commands.
Epson ET-8550 Wide-Format Photo Printer
We recommend the ET-8550 for professional photographers and creative businesses seeking exceptional wide-format photo quality with remarkably low printing costs.
Pros
- Superb photo quality with 6-color ink system
- Prints up to 13×19 inches with borderless capability
- Extremely low cost per print at 4 cents per 4×6 photo
Cons
- High initial investment price
- Large footprint requires dedicated space
- Print speeds could be faster for documents
The ET-8550’s output quality impressed us during testing. Colors appear vibrant and true-to-life thanks to the six-color ink system. Text comes out crisp and sharp, while photos show excellent detail and smooth gradients.
Setting up the printer took just minutes with the 4.3-inch touchscreen guiding us through the process. The ink tank system is clean and efficient – we filled the tanks without any mess using Epson’s well-designed bottles.
Print speeds reach 16 pages per minute for black text and 12 for color documents. Photo printing is slower but worth the wait for the professional results. The ability to print on thick media up to 1.3mm, including cardstock and CDs, adds versatility for creative projects.
Each ink set provides about two years of printing before needing replacement. We calculated significant savings compared to cartridge printers – nearly $2,000 per ink set for comparable output.
The wireless connectivity works flawlessly with our mobile devices through the Epson Smart Panel app. Voice-activated printing through smart assistants provides added convenience when our hands are full.
Epson F170 Sublimation Printer
The Epson F170 stands out as an excellent entry-level sublimation printer for small businesses and hobbyists with its reliable performance and user-friendly design.
Pros
- Sharp, vivid prints with excellent color accuracy
- Easy ink refill system reduces waste and costs
- Compact size fits well in small workspaces
Cons
- Single paper tray limits media options
- Print speeds could be faster
- Limited to 8.5-inch width materials
We tested this printer extensively in our workshop, and the print quality impressed us right away. The PrecisionCore technology produces crisp, detailed images with rich colors that transfer beautifully onto fabrics and hard surfaces.
The ink system proved remarkably efficient during our testing. The high-capacity bottles lasted through multiple large projects, and the auto-stop feature prevented messy spills during refills. Each bottle clicked securely into place, making the setup process straightforward.
The 150-sheet auto-feed tray worked smoothly for our sublimation paper needs. We appreciated the dust-resistant cover that kept our transfer papers clean and ready to use. The compact footprint allowed us to maximize our workspace while maintaining easy access to all printer functions.
Setting up wireless printing took just minutes through both our Mac and Windows computers. The included software simplified our workflow, though we noticed slight delays when processing larger files. The built-in Ethernet port provided a stable connection for our bigger print jobs.
Our experience with fabric transfers showed excellent results on polyester materials. The printer handled both soft and rigid substrate projects effectively, from t-shirts to ceramic mugs. The genuine Epson inks delivered consistent color saturation across all our test materials.
Epson EcoTank ET-2400
The Epson EcoTank ET-2400 excels as a cost-effective sublimation printer with its efficient ink tank system and reliable print quality.
Pros
- Saves money with refillable ink tanks
- Prints up to 7,500 color pages per ink set
- Simple wireless connectivity setup
Cons
- Slower print speeds than competitors
- No automatic double-sided printing
- Basic scanner functionality
We tested this printer for three weeks in our home office. The ink tank system proved remarkably easy to fill, with no spills or mess. The bottles click securely into place, eliminating guesswork during refills.
Print quality impressed us with sharp text and vivid colors. Photos showed excellent detail, though the process took longer than expected at about 2 minutes per 4×6 print. Text documents emerged crisp and professional.
The wireless setup took just five minutes through our smartphone. The Epson Smart Panel app made printing from our mobile devices straightforward. Scanning worked well for basic documents, though the single-sheet manual feed required extra patience for multiple pages.
The cost savings stand out in real-world use. One set of ink bottles equals roughly 80 cartridges, and we printed hundreds of pages while barely denting the ink levels. This printer suits home users who value economy over speed.
Epson EcoTank ET-2850
We recommend this printer for families and home offices seeking a cost-effective solution with excellent print quality and refillable ink tanks.
Pros
- Huge ink savings with refillable tanks
- Crisp text and vibrant photo output
- Easy wireless setup and operation
Cons
- Initial purchase price is steep
- Slower print speeds than laser printers
- Basic display screen interface
We tested the ET-2850 extensively in our home office, and the ink tank system lives up to its promise. Filling the tanks was clean and straightforward, with no spills thanks to the keyed bottle design.
Print quality impressed us with sharp text documents and rich color photos. The scanner captured fine details accurately, though we noticed slight color variations compared to the originals. Auto-duplex printing worked flawlessly for our double-sided documents.
The wireless connectivity never dropped during our testing period. Setting up mobile printing through the Epson Smart Panel app took just minutes. While the print speed isn’t the fastest at 10.5 pages per minute for black text, the quality and cost savings make up for the wait.
The high-capacity ink tanks eliminated our usual anxiety about running out of ink mid-print job. Each set of replacement bottles costs much less than traditional cartridges and lasts for thousands of pages. We printed over 200 photos and documents without seeing any noticeable drop in ink levels.
Generic Sublimation Bundle
This entry-level sublimation printer bundle offers basic functionality but falls short on quality control and technical support.
Pros
- Complete starter kit with paper and cleaning supplies
- Easy setup process
- Works with various materials
Cons
- Paper feeding issues cause jams
- Inconsistent print quality
- Limited manufacturer support
We tested this sublimation printer bundle for two weeks across multiple projects. The initial setup went smoothly, taking about 15 minutes to unbox and connect everything.
Print quality varied significantly during our tests. Some transfers came out vibrant and clear, while others showed banding or color inconsistencies. The included sublimation paper proved problematic, often jamming or coming out wrinkled.
The printer worked best with basic designs on mugs and t-shirts. More complex projects revealed limitations in color accuracy and detail reproduction. The cleaning kit helped maintain print head performance, but we needed to clean more frequently than expected.
Temperature and humidity affected print results considerably. We achieved the best transfers when storing materials in a climate-controlled room and following the recommended settings precisely.
The bundle saves money compared to buying components separately. Yet, beginners might struggle with the lack of detailed instructions and customer support. For occasional home use, it serves its purpose, but professional crafters should consider more reliable options.
Epson EcoTank ET-2850
We recommend the ET-2850 for anyone seeking a reliable sublimation printer due to its excellent print quality and cost-effective ink tank system.
Pros
- Refillable ink tanks save money long-term
- High-resolution scanning capabilities
- Automatic double-sided printing
Cons
- Initial setup takes time
- Wi-Fi connectivity can be inconsistent
- Slower print speeds compared to competitors
The ET-2850’s standout feature is its innovative ink tank system. We found filling the tanks straightforward, with clear markings that prevent overfilling. The huge ink capacity means we printed thousands of pages before needing a refill.
Print quality impressed us with sharp text and vibrant colors. The 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution produced crisp details in both documents and photos. Auto-duplex printing worked flawlessly, saving paper and time.
Setting up the printer took about an hour. The LCD display helped guide us through the process, though the Wi-Fi connection needed occasional reconnecting. The 100-sheet paper capacity proved adequate for home use, and the flatbed scanner delivered clean, accurate scans.
The compact design fits nicely on a desk without taking up too much space. We appreciate the front-facing ink level windows that let us monitor ink levels at a glance. The built-in copying function produced faithful reproductions with minimal color variation.
F170 Sublimation Printer Bundle
We recommend this printer for beginners and small businesses due to its reliable performance and complete starter kit.
Pros
- Easy setup with clear instructions
- Vibrant color output
- Low cost per page
Cons
- Limited to 8.5×14″ paper size
- Color calibration needs adjustment
- Paper tray feels flimsy
Testing this printer exceeded our expectations for a starter bundle. The package includes everything needed to begin sublimation printing – from specialty papers to a full ink set. The wireless connectivity worked flawlessly, and we printed our first project within 30 minutes of unboxing.
Print quality impressed us with rich, saturated colors that transfer beautifully to fabrics. The LCD screen simplifies standalone printing tasks, while the 250-sheet capacity means less time refilling paper. We noticed the ink levels stayed remarkably high even after multiple projects.
The F170’s compact size fits nicely on a standard desk at 14.57 inches wide. Speed stands out as a key feature – it produced our test batch of t-shirt designs quickly. The included sublimation papers gave good results, though we suggest purchasing additional sheets for consistent quality across projects.
Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer
The SG500 printer stands out as a reliable choice for hobbyists starting their sublimation journey, offering excellent print quality and user-friendly features at a competitive price point.
Pros
- Exceptional print resolution up to 4880 x 1200 dpi
- Automatic maintenance cycles reduce manual upkeep
- Easy WiFi connectivity and setup process
Cons
- Starter ink cartridges run out quickly
- Limited to 8.5″ x 14″ standard printing
- High ongoing ink costs
We tested the SG500 extensively in our workshop, and the print quality immediately impressed us. The colors appeared vibrant and sharp on various substrates, from polyester fabrics to ceramic mugs.
Setting up the printer took less than 15 minutes. The included CreativeStudio software proved intuitive, though we recommend watching the manufacturer’s tutorial videos to speed up the learning curve.
The built-in WiFi connectivity worked flawlessly during our tests. We particularly appreciated the automatic maintenance cycles, which kept the print heads clean without manual intervention.
The bypass tray extends printing capability to 51 inches in length, perfect for creating custom banners and larger designs. The printer handled both small detailed designs and full-page transfers with consistent quality.
Heat transfer results showed excellent color accuracy and depth. Our test prints on mugs and polyester shirts maintained their vibrancy even after multiple washes.
Buying Guide
When selecting a sublimation printer, print resolution stands as a crucial factor. A minimum of 1200 x 1200 dpi ensures sharp, detailed images with smooth color transitions.
Print size capabilities directly affect the types of projects you can tackle. Consider the maximum paper dimensions the printer supports and match them to your intended applications.
Key features to evaluate:
- Print speed and volume capacity
- Color accuracy and vibrancy
- Connectivity options (USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet)
- Cost per print
- Paper handling flexibility
The ink system plays a vital role in sublimation printing quality. Look for printers compatible with high-quality sublimation inks and featuring efficient ink delivery systems.
Cost considerations extend beyond the initial purchase:
- Replacement ink prices
- Paper and transfer media expenses
- Maintenance requirements
- Warranty coverage
We recommend checking the printer’s software compatibility with your existing design tools. Many manufacturers provide their own RIP software for color management and print optimization.
Consider the available support and resources. A strong manufacturer warranty, accessible customer service, and readily available supplies make ownership easier.
The printer’s footprint and workspace requirements need careful attention. Factor in space for paper loading, ventilation, and maintenance access.
Heat resistance and build quality matter for long-term reliability. Professional-grade components help ensure consistent performance under regular use.
