Sublimation printing is a special printing type that helps you print creative gifts, unique logos, and many other things. For this printing, one must have a printer, a specific type of paper, and the most important thing is the sublimation ink used in the printer.
To have the best quality print, we must use the best sublimation ink for our printer.
Since a wrongly selected sublimation ink will not provide vibrant output colors, the result will fade with incompatible and low-quality sublimation inks. So choosing the right sublimation ink for your business is equally important as much as a sublimation printer is.
I have selected these sublimation inks from my experience; hence these inks will provide you with vivid colors; with these inks. You can sublimate your gorgeous designs on many different kinds of sublimation blanks, including mugs, phone cases, T-shirts, crockery items and, many more, Even though you can make attractive stickers.
1. Printers Jack 400ML Sublimation Ink for Epson Inkjet Printers (best for Epson)
Are you tired of using inks that fade quickly even before heat press? Then, use Printer Jack 400ML sublimation ink that is good for EPSON. This is also the best method to prove a worthwhile investment for your desired prints.
The printer jack is the best sublimation ink has four colour combinations. This makes it the best for making HD prints. Further, it can be used with multiple heat press machines. Moreover, it’s used to make colorful prints on various products like glass, polyester, ceramics, plastic, and many others. You can also use it to create desired designs for the gifts.
Additionally, it is compatible with many press machines because of its customized ICC profile. You can easily download this ICC profile from its official website. That’s why we can easily change and set our desired settings and make attractive and colourful designs on various materials. We used it to make simple, colorful, or complex pics on different products.
Key Features:
- Makes HD prints on the products.
- It can’t be clogged easily.
- Print flawless designs
Pros:
- Water-resistant and Fade-resistant
- Perfect for making designs on polyester material.
Cons:
- Not compatible with direct sublimation printing.
2. INKXPRO 4 X 100ml Professional True Color Sublimation Ink (best for Epson models)
If you are new to the sublimation printing business and want customized products with ideally blendable sublimation ink, you must go with the “INKXPRO 4 X 100ml Professional”. We tested it on multiple products with various designs and found it perfect for light sublimation blank prints. Additionally, we found it perfect for beginners as its installation and refilling are pretty easy.
Moreover, using their official site, “inkXpro,” one can benefit from it by directly downloading the ICC profiles. It provides pretty fine printing results for mugs, mobile phone cases, shirts, etc.
This high-quality sublimation ink flawlessly blends and produces elegant printing results when heat is pressed on different objects. The vibrant, high-quality colors contribute significantly to the ultimate printing results.
Without a doubt, clogging is the most common issue of printer inks preventing users from using them until the next day. But we found this sublimation astounding that it won’t clog up even for the whole month. That’s what makes it prominent among hundreds of other sublimation inks.
Furthermore, that is the dye sublimation ink that allows your Epson printer to be used for dye sublimation! Increasing its usability. Specifically for Epson models, it’s pretty affordable and user-friendly, high-quality sublimation ink.
Key Features:
- Clogging-free printing ink
- Compatible with a wide range of eco tank printers
Pros:
- Installation and refilling are super easy
- Affordable price
- Rich, bright, high-quality colors
Cons:
- Not made for all printer types
3.6 X 100ml Sublimation Ink, High-Density Professional (best Dye-Sublimation)
Do you want to buy a high-density dye universal sublimation ink compatible with all inkjet printers? Then this “6 X 100ml Sublimation Ink” is there for you. With its 6 vibrant colors, this Korean-made Ink provided top-quality printing when used on multiple textures and surfaces.
We found it best when we used it for sublimation transfer on paper. Yes, because of its quick drying time, it set in less time than other inks used for printers. Furthermore, its 6 vivid, intense colors give a unique look to our custom-designed shirts. Its economical price makes it greater for all users.
Indeed it’s another top-notch ink we tested so far by “Inktec,” a well-reputed company known for its quality products. This Ink is called universal sublimation ink due to its usability on multiple objects such as shot glasses, mugs, shirts, phone cases, mouse pads, and much more.
In addition to its compatibility for all inkjet printer types is known as universal Ink, ideal for direct and transfer printing. Additionally, it works very well for refillable ink cartridges and continuous supply systems, saving time and resources.
Key Features:
- Sharp, vibrant colors
- Ideal for both printing and heat transfer.’
Pros:
- compatible with all inkjet printers
- Environment and user friendly ink
- Dries quickly on transfer paper
Cons:
- It may be a little faded on some surfaces.
4. Printers Jack Sublimation Ink (best overall)
Are you in need of a permanent solution for your faded printing results and want fade-resistant sublimation ink? Then give a try to our tested “Printers Jack Sublimation Ink.” This Ink includes all ideal features that a perfect sublimation ink must-have for heat press printing. We listed it in the best sublimation ink after testing.
Firstly, we love its compatibility for Epson piezoelectric printers and almost all EcoTank models including ET2720 ET2760 ET4700 ET2750 ET15000 ET4760 ET3760 ET2650 ET3710 ET16600 WorkForce WF3540 WF7010 WF7110 WF7210 Stylus C68 C88 C88+ Printer. Therefore, as its water-based dye ink is used for heat transfer printing, it gives excellent results. The ink is ideal for waterproofing, lightfastness, user-friendliness, anti-fading quality, clog-free operation, and anti UV protection.
Secondly, its professional anti- UV protection adds to its stability and makes it water-resistant. Moreover, its 3 layered, filtered ink technology not only maximizes its storage time but also keeps it safe from fading both indoor and outdoor. Thus this durability and anti-fadedness make it durable sublimation ink for printing.
Last but not least, the ICC profile of this sublimation ink allows users to free download using the printer jack. It can make your life more colorful by printing on a wide range of items such as mugs, shoes, ceramic, banners, cross-stitch, shirts, caps, and other items made of polyester. With its free ICC printing, you can now DIY different objects and gifts.
Key Features:
- 3 layered, filtered ink technology
- Professional Anti UV protection
- Fade-resistant printing
Pros:
- Free custom ICC profile
- Easy installation and use
- Non Toxic clear printing results
Cons:
- Not suitable for fabrics with more than 30% cotton
5. Xcinkjet Sublimation Ink Cartridge Compatible for Sawgrass (Most affordable)
If you want to go with non-toxic, nongas, and environmentally friendly sublimation ink for printing, then “Xcinkjet Sublimation Ink Cartridge Compatible for Sawgrass” for you. We used its yellow and magenta colors for our brand’s T-shirt, mug, watches, mouse mat, and shoe printing purposes. Without a doubt, we found it amazing due to its non-faded colors after the heat transfer process.
Furthermore, its compatibility with Ricoh and sawgrass printers makes sublimation ink more demanded, printing multiple objects. The leak-proof packaging with tight sealing of this Ink contributes to its user-friendliness. Also, it doesn’t clog or dry quickly like other inks at the same price. If safety concerns bother you, then no worries, as this ink bottle is non-toxic and can be used freely.
Moreover, we found it great when used in our old printer, and it recognized it without showing any alert. Using this Ink, Sublimation colors can create contrasts and give new life to traditional printing on pillows, mugs, T-shirts, and much more. A boost in business requires eye-catching, vibrant color prints that reflect your brand. Its vibrant color kit is the perfect choice for this purpose. Lastly, the free ICC profile offered enhances the user’s ability to work with this Ink for printing.
Key Features:
- Less energy consumption & non-toxic Ink
- Wide application with the color kit
- Fully compatible Ink for SG400 and SG800 printers
Pros:
- Pretty affordable price
- Excellent customer support
- leak proof tight sealing
Cons:
- colors faded by time
6. SUBLIJET HD Ink Cartridges for Sawgrass Virtuoso SG400/SG800 (best for HD graphics)
Another top ink cartridge for Sawgrass lovers who want HD printing results must try this “SUBLIJET HD ink cartridges for sawgrass virtuoso.” This complete set of CMYK color kits perfectly prints on sublimation papers. It’s what we tested ourselves and found the best one.
Firstly this Ink comes with a bundle of sublimax sublimation paper certified by SAWGRASS after testing on SG400 and then SG800 printers. We loved the instant dry, non-bleeding, and smudge-proof nature of this sublimation paper that comes with this ink deal.
Secondly, these 5 available different color cartridges give a vibrant color look when used on soft and hard surfaces. The combination of soft and hard polyester substrates allowed Ink to set well with vinyl and sublimation transfer. With 6% less consumption while printing, this Ink saves money with prominent sublimation. Furthermore, it aided the overall performance of Sawgrass printers and increased their durability.
Lastly, the available colors won’t fade even after washing. Another useful feature is its easy installation to your sawgrass printer. Although this Ink has all these useful features, it is a little more expensive than the other top sublimation inks on our list, but it is still less expensive than most.
Key Features:
- HD print graphics
- Certified by Sawgrass.
Pros:
- Easy installation on the printer
- 110 sublimation paper sheets
- Smooth and efficient results
Cons:
- Little pricey
7.CoYlBod Compatible Sublimation Ink Refilled Ink Bottle (best for smooth printing)
Are you planning to give your friends a custom printed coffee cup and need the best sublimation ink that ensures smooth printing? Then “CoYlBod Compatible Sublimation Ink Refilled Ink” is an exact match here. When I tested this Ink personally, I found it a perfect match for printing done on polyester stuff.
Furthermore, these 6 vivid colors add spice to its performance by ensuring smooth and bright printing. Without a doubt, most of the inks refilling, installation badly mess up the printer, and all processings suffer.
Therefore, most users look for a sublimation ink that doesn’t create a mess and keeps the printer safe from blocking and corroding. Now no worries regarding the cleanliness of the printer when using CoYlBod for sublimation printings.
This Ink particularly does well for less than 30% cotton fabrics when discussing printing objects. Plates, T-shirts, phone cases, mugs, and many more objects give an elegant look after printing with this Ink.
Another admirable thing is its outstanding stability: fast drying, nonfading, and waterproof printing. In addition, it is certified by MSDS and by ISO 9001. ICC profiles can be downloaded as part of the color calibration process to achieve vibrant results. Lastly, it’s pretty easy to install and refill with the prior assistance of the syringe given.
Key Features:
- Excellent stability
- Free ICC profile for both Windows and Mac
- Best for CISS System
Pros:
- Easy refilling and installation
- Non-fading, water-resistant results
- Smooth printing without damage
Cons:
- Not suitable for all fabric types
8. Printers Jack 400ml Sublimation Ink Compatible with SAWGRASS Virtuoso (budget-friendly)
Here is another sublimation ink formulated for the sawgrass virtuoso, and it also works well with RICOH inkjet printers. This “Printers Jack 400ml Sublimation Ink” can be used for polyester clothes, hats, pillows, mugs, phone cases, and many more.
Another feature of this one is that it offers true color sublimation. Further, It works well through micron-3 stage filtration to reduce printhead clogging. THE PJ 400ml Sublimation ink can be used with refillable cartridges CISS ink system.
Furthermore, it gives natural and vibrant colors because of its smooth texture. It comes in four colors, i.e, black, yellow, magenta and cyan. Particularly, this sublimation ink is scratch-resistant, waterproof, and has anti-UV properties. When stored indoors, this link won’t fade in any way for many years.
Key Features:
- It can be used For the CISS ink system.
- Nonfading
- High stability
Pros:
- Affordable with same features
- Scratch-resistant
- Waterproof Quality
Cons:
- Does Not have an ICC profile for MAC users.
9.TBTeek Sublimation Ink for WF7710 WF7720 ( best for low viscous materials)
Are you looking for the best Ink that can perfectly draw on mugs and polyester shirts? So, in that case, this “TBTeek Sublimation Ink for WF7710 WF7720” will prove to be the best one so far. It works nicely with WF7710, WF7720, WF2540, WF2660, and some other models.
This sublimation ink has very low viscosity, so the chances of getting clogged in the printer’s head are very low, just make sure to properly prime lines if you are using this with CISS or refillable cartridges.
Moreover, from an economic point of view, TBTeek sublimation ink is adopted with premium raw materials and doesn’t hurt the printer even after many color debugging and testing times.
One other thing, It comes with the needle too, so you don’t need to buy extra syringes. The TBTeek sublimation ink has Anti-UV properties, which provide strong stability, durability, and compatibility. It can be widely used on T-shirts, pillowcases, Ceramics boxes, Banners, flags, which means you can put your imaginations or ideas on anything you like.
One more point to ponder is that this Ink can only be used on fabrics containing less than 30% cotton, ceramics, plastics, and metal products that have thermal sublimation coating around themselves.
Last but not least, it is easy to refill, simple, and precise to operate. It gives vivid colors and has a smooth texture. The TBTeek sublimation ink works very clearly and provides a natural look to your prints.
Key Features:
- Comes in 4 colors
- Free ICC profile for windows and Mac
- Fade-resistant
Pros:
- Less viscous, prevent clogging
- Prints smoothly
- Fast drying
Cons:
- Not recommended for fabrics having more than 30% cotton
How to refill sublimation cartridges?
To refill your sublimation ink cartridges, you have to follow some steps to ensure bright and clear prints
What you’ll need to get started:
- Ink Cartridges That Can Be Refilled ( the main thing)
- The syringe (should be included with your ink cartridges)
- Gloves
- Towels in a Roll
- Tabletop with no pores
Step 1: Firstly, read the instructions on your printer’s ink cartridges first. Depending on the sort of ink cartridges you are using, you may need to follow some instructions from the manufacturer. Apart from them, the general rules or steps of filling sublimation cartridges are following:
Step 2: You’ll need gloves to avoid stains on your hands at the second step. Moreover, make sure your paper towels are laid up before you begin!
Step 3: In the third step, decide on the background color first; people usually go with black. Most people remove the other items from easy reach and put the black sublimation ink bottle, cartridge, and syringe in their place.
Step 4: At the fourth step, remove the plugs that are no longer needed. Using your precise ink cartridges, but removing the necessary plugs, is the only way to do this. Fill the syringe with the sublimation cartridge ink. For that purpose, open the Sublimation Ink container and fill your needle with the Ink. The Ink should enter the syringe without air bubbles, so try to fill it with the care that no air enters the syringe. Your cartridges will malfunction and give poor results if they contain air bubbles.
Step 5: Now, place the syringe in the cartridge at the fifth step. Use the fill hole to insert the needle directly into the cartridge for that purpose.
Step 6: Now, fill the cartridges slowly with the syringe at the sixth step. To prevent overfilling or shattering the cartridge, slowly press down on the syringe’s top. It would help to fill the cartridge 7/8ths of the way. Filling it any higher than that will only lead to issues. If you use a refillable cartridge, you’ll have to replenish it sooner than you would if you used a genuine Epson Cartridge.
Step 7: Finally, put the bottle back together and push the cap back in place. Now put the sublimation ink’s cover back on and tighten the screw. Put the ink cartridge tab back in and put it away. Suppose you want to insert any other color ink, repeat steps 3to 7 with different ink colors. Do this for every one of your toner cartridges.
Step 8: Insert the document into the scanner at the last step. You have finished your job successfully (if you follow all the above steps accurately). Make sure to double-check that you’re inserting and removing the cartridges with the correct plugs!
Remember that it is important to use only one brand of sublimation ink, and it is not good to switch between brands (multiple available in the market). If you combine various brands of sublimation inks, then print heads might get clogged.
As a last tip: it is better to perform all the above steps while staying in the bathroom To avoid any problem or stains, and directly above the sink, where any syringes that leak end up in the sink. However, if you aren’t working near a sink, the paper towel is what you’d use in case of leakage.
Things to consider when buying the best sublimation ink:
The choice of sublimation ink is essential, and you must keep in mind certain things while going for any brand of sublimation cartridge ink. So, Is there a standard for sublimation inks? No, you must find and search for the right Ink that can suit your printer. If you’re going to utilize a printer or sublimation ink, do your homework beforehand.
If you’re going to use sublimation printing, you’ll want to be sure that your Ink can produce high-quality items and clear patterns. So, keep in mind the following points before making any purchase decisions:
- Compatibility with the printer
Not all kinds of sublimation inks suit every printer. Each printer has its functionality, and Ink varies from printer model. Before purchasing, check whether the sublimation ink is compatible with the specific printer model.
- Avoid switching between brands and use one brand at a time
It is important to buy only one brand of sublimation ink. Your color corrections might be ruined, as well as your printer, since you shouldn’t combine various ink brands without performing a purge cycle or using a cleaning kit, as previously explained.
- The Ink that does not fade by heat press
The high-quality Ink always transfers the patterns and designs clearly on the subject and does not fade away with a heat press. But if we talk about the real scenario, most of the Ink fades at the time of heat press and gives a faded print. The brilliance of your sublimation product might be diminished if there is too much fading. So, make sure to buy that brand of Ink that has real positive reviews from the present and previous customers.
- Anti-clogging technology
Most inks have anti-clogging technology, but it’s still worth keeping in mind while purchasing. This thing will help to give a fine quality and clear print.
- Choose the right type of sublimation ink.
Sublimation inks are made up of two primary dyes. For desktop and large-format printing, sublimation dyes are employed. Sublimation ink dyes of the solvent kind are utilized in printers with broadheads.
- ISO certified sublimation ink
It is better to go for brands that sell inks that are also ISO certified. This information means they are following proper standards in manufacturing the Ink and must be high quality.
All the above points help you make a good decision about the right type or brand of sublimation ink. However, it is not just the game of good Ink; rather, If you want to achieve the most excellent print results, you’ll need to tweak the ICC profile of your printer. Ink should provide a downloaded ICC profile, or there should be a YouTube video to assist you in doing so.
FAQs:
Q1: What is sublimation ink?
Ans: Sublimation ink is a special dye pressed Ink used in the sublimation printing process. In this process, specific heat and pressure are given to the Ink that directly converts the Ink into a gaseous state and makes different designs on the products.
Q2: Can you use regular Ink instead of sublimation ink for sublimation?
Ans: No, you cannot use regular Ink for sublimation. It produces strains on the product or sometimes adheres to the paper.
Q3: What kind of Ink do you use for the sublimation process?
Ans: Special types of inks are used for the sublimation process. Specific temperature and pressure are given to each Ink. High-temperature changes ink directly into gas that will form designs on the products.
Q4: What should be in the best sublimation Ink?
Ans: Following features must be present in the best Ink:
- Fade-resistant.
- ICC profile: that is available on the company website.
- Water-resistant.
- Easy-to-use.
Q5: Are all sublimation inks the same?
Ans: No, all are not the same. Each sublimation Ink has different properties and nature.
Q6: Can you use different sublimation inks at a time?
Ans: No, you cannot use different inks together because it will cause blockage in the printers.
Conclusion:
As a result of our review of 9 best sublimation inks, we found that sublimation inks have become a mainstream option nowadays. A refill and an installation are not necessary there, but durability, cleanliness, leak-proof packaging, stability, quick-drying, and compatibility with your printer matter.
It’s hard to find an ink that perfectly matches your printer without an alert that is universal and best. After testing several sublimation inks in 2022, we have made a list of the top 9 best sublimation inks and reviewed them here. After going through this article thoroughly, if you are still undecided about which Ink to go with, then pick any from our top two inks listed below:
- Printers Jack 400ML Sublimation Ink for Epson Inkjet Printers
- INKXPRO 4 X 100ml Professional True Color Sublimation Ink
These are recommended sublimation inks that will satisfy your needs and be compatible with your printer.
