When you want to sell custom apparel and accessories, sublimation printers are your best option. These the best sublimation printers produce long-lasting prints. The purpose of this guide is to discuss the top ten sublimation printers available today.
In addition to being fast, powerful, and cost-effective, sublimation printers are also very efficient. These printers tend to provide better quality results than dye sublimation printers. They are suitable for customized products.
The following are some of the best sublimation printers currently on the market. Whether you’re interested in a sublimation printer for a hobby or a side hustle, you’ll find what you’re looking for.
You can also read my detailed guide to buying a sublimation printer to find out what to look for. There will be a model to fit your budget and your requirements.
Best Sublimation Printer Reviews
Top 3 Sublimation Printers: A Quick Comparison
Are you wondering which sublimation printer is the best for you? Your budget and priorities will determine which printer is best for you.
If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider the Brother HL-L2320D printer. On this list, it is also the cheapest sublimation printer, but it cannot print color. That will severely limit what you can create, despite it being very affordable. It’s a good place to start for sublimation printing, however.
Alternatively, you may consider the Epson EcoTank ET-2720. Even though it’s expensive, it’s still more affordable than the Brother printer. There are very few ongoing costs and it comes with two years of ink! In addition, it offers excellent print quality and is easy to connect to most devices. You can also choose from several different paper formats, which gives you more options for your design.
You can also check out the Sawgrass SG1000 if you’re seeking the best. This printer is not cheap, so you may wince when you see the price. Despite its cost, it produces the finest sublimation prints on the market.
There are no other dye sublimation printers as good as Sawgrass. You should definitely invest in this one. You should go for it if you are comfortable with a lot of capital investment.
| Product | Epson EcoTank ET-2720 – Best Affordable Sublimation Printer | Sawgrass SG1000 – Best Premium Sublimation Printer | Brother HL-L2320D Mono Printer – Best Black & White Sublimation Printer |
| Brand | Epson | Sawgrass | Brother |
| Printing Technology | Color Inkjet Printer | Dye Sublimation | Laser |
| Connectivity | WiFi Direct, WiFi, USB, Ethernet | WiFi, Ethernet, USB | USB |
| Warranty | Registration with Epson extends the warranty to two years | Product support for two years & a two-year warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
Epson EcoTank ET-15000
Best Sublimation Printer for Long-term Value for Money
You should check out the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 if you’re looking for a durable desktop sublimation printer. It is durable, economical, and environmentally friendly at the same time.
There is a supertank of ink on the EcoTank ET-15000 that can last for up to two years. So, ink cartridges on printers can be purchased at a much lower price. The ink cartridges for this printer cost an average of one cent per page. Refillable cartridges will not only save you money, but they are also kind to the environment and eliminate unnecessary waste.
It is very easy to replace the ink in case it runs out, and the cost is very reasonable. Therefore, it is a very low-cost printer to run. Whatever your volume of sublimation printing, it won’t break the bank.
Although printing and operation costs are low, image quality is not compromised. You can get exceptional print accuracy and detail with this printer’s high-density print chip. The results will be sharp, clear, and true-to-life.
This printer provides superb performance thanks to PrecisionCore technology. Because of this, it is ideal for printing large quantities.
The printer also includes all the features you would expect from a regular printer. Duplex printing saves paper, as does faxing, copying, and scanning. Paper trays for 250 sheets of paper, a media tray for large or high-quality prints, and a tray for media are all located within the document feeder.
This printer is very versatile when it comes to supporting sublimation paper formats. Depending on the design, you can create larger designs up to 13 x 19 inches. We can also produce borderless prints up to 11 x 17 inches.
It is simple to use with touchscreen technology. Printing without a computer or router is possible with WiFi Direct. You can easily print from your phone or tablet.
T-shirts are printed excellently with the Epson EcoTank EP-15000 using sublimation technology.
You won’t be able to save money by buying this printer, but you’ll save a lot of money in the long run. Consequently, printing quality and operating costs are worth investing in a bit more up front.
- Brand: Epson
- Printing Technology: Inkjet
- Connectivity: WiFi, WiFi Direct, Ethernet
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty (2-year warranty if Epson registers your product)
- A 13 x 19-inch design can be printed accurately and crisply
- This machine can handle both sublimation and regular printing
- With this printer, you’ll get 2 years’ supply of ink and extremely low ongoing costs
- A printer like this costs a lot to buy upfront
- Getting used to it may be tough at first
Epson EcoTank ET-2720
Best Affordable Sublimation Printer
(Image credit: Epson)
Despite the fact that it’s an affordable printer, you may still find that this printer is a bit expensive.
Ink cartridges can be expensive, so keep in mind that you’ll have to replace them periodically.
Then, the EcoTank ET-2720 becomes a very attractive option.
Ink for this printer should last for two years since it comes with enough. With this clever, environmentally friendly printer, you will save 90 percent on ink cartridges.
EcoTank ET-2720 is also less expensive than ET-15000. As such, it would be perfect for anyone looking for a supertank printer without the steep price tag. As you can see, this model won’t set you back too much, making sublimation more accessible.
A good print quality can be achieved with the ET-2720. Pictures can be printed clearly and accurately without pixelation. However, it may be less precise or crisp than other sublimation printers.
Nevertheless, it is easy to connect to a computer or smartphone. Setting it up is easy, and refilling the ink is also straightforward. That means no messy hands required! It also comes with a 2-year warranty and can print on a variety of media formats.
You can start sublimation printing on a budget with the EcoTank printer!
- Brand: Epson
- Printing Technology: Inkjet
- Connectivity: WiFi Direct, WiFi, USB, Ethernet
- Warranty: Limited 2-year warranty when registered with Epson
- For beginner sublimation printers, this is a great budget printer
- Various paper formats are available for printing
- Prints are of good quality
- Ink lasts for a very long time, so there are no ongoing costs
- Models with a lower print resolution
Sawgrass SG1000
Best Premium Sublimation Printing Machine
(Image credit: Sawgrass)
Listen up, if you’ve never heard of Sawgrass. Sublimation printing is a very well-known business, and for good reason. Founded over 50 years ago, Sawgrass is one of the oldest printing companies in the nation. Sawgrass is also one of the best manufacturers of sublimation printers. Its SG1000 printer does not disappoint either.
It’s a compact desktop printer specially designed for sublimation printing. Working on various polymers in a surprisingly short period of time, it performs flawlessly. You can print on T-shirts, mugs, wood, and more with the SG1000.
With the Sawgrass SG1000, you get incredible results using high-quality sublimation inks. Your designs will be stunning and vibrant thanks to the super-high print resolution.
Also, it can handle large print runs without a problem. As a result, you can make as many T-shirts as you like. The earnings potential of your new business is limitless as well!
Moreover, there is amazing software included with this printer. You can create your own designs. In addition, this printer offers lifetime technical support. It is covered by a two-year warranty. A lot of advantages are provided by sublimation printers.
Although the model has some shortcomings, it does have some advantages. The price is one of them. I’m not saying that the price isn’t worth it, but it isn’t for everyone.
Sublimation dyes from Sawgrass are also very expensive. Therefore, this printer will cost more in the long run.
When you need to create product after product, this is the printer for you!
It is highly recommended for anyone who is serious about starting a business. Buying this printer will first require you to invest some money, but it’s definitely worth it.
- Brand: Sawgrass
- Printing Technology: Dye sublimation
- Connectivity: Wifi, USB, Ethernet
- Warranty: Two-year warranty & lifetime support
- Printers that are best suited to small and medium businesses
- The high print resolution allows it to print large runs with superior quality
- It prints accurately and quickly
- A powerful image-designing software is also included
- The warranty is great and it has ongoing support for 2 years
- Inks and the SG1000 are both very expensive
Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer
Top Sublimation Printer
(Image credit: Sawgrass)
Our next model is somewhat less expensive, the Sawgrass SG500. However, it is by no means a budget sublimation printer, even though it is more affordable than the SG1000.
Nevertheless, you should pay attention to it. This printer has excellent customer service, just like the SG1000.
Additionally, it uses the same Sublimation Inks as the SG1000. With its easy-to-use interface, you can print in a matter of minutes. It also gives you free access to Creative Studio Online Designer.
The warranty is generous at two years. You can therefore expect this printer to be durable and reliable. It should be repaired or replaced by Sawgrass if not. Having peace of mind is very important when purchasing a more expensive printer.
With the SG1000, the paper capacity is smaller than with the SG500. Up to 8.5 x 14 inches can be printed on the SG500. Therefore, it is most useful for printing smaller designs onto clothing or accessories.
It is a good option for those who are not planning on printing very large prints. Sublimation printer that meets all your needs and is very affordable.
- Brand: Sawgrass
- Printing Technology: Dye sublimation
- Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, WiFi
- Warranty: Two-year warranty and ongoing customization assistance
- Heat transfer printer that is one of the best
- The best sublimation inks produce superb image quality
- Powerful, durable, and easy to use
- The warranty lasts for two years, and the customer service is lifetime
- Although it isn’t cheap, it’s still a good printer
Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000
Best Epson Printer for Sublimation
(Image credit: Epson)
The Epson Expression XP-15000 offers high-quality photo printing. It also offers excellent sublimation printing capabilities.
This printer is highly suitable for printing large format materials up to 13 x 19 inches. It can handle materials up to 23 mm thick. Various materials can be printed on it.
If you want to print on thicker materials like hoodies or create big, bold designs, this is the printer for you. With this printer, you can do anything!
A variety of fabrics and polyester fabrics can also be used with the Epson Expression XP-15000.
Although it is a great printer with a number of great features, the printer is one of the cheapest on the market. Furthermore, the images are gorgeous, true-to-life and have excellent print quality. Your products will look amazing with this level of detail and vibrant colors.
Epson Expression printers can handle all your needs. Wireless connectivity and compatibility with most devices are available along with borderless printing. As an added bonus, it can be controlled via Alexa and set up to automatically replenish ink so you never run out.
Thanks to the 2.4-inch color LCD, you can navigate and select your printing options with ease. Instead of having to use the buttons, a touchscreen would be even more user-friendly.
Despite its large print format, it’s still quite compact. Your home or office won’t have to take up much space with this unit.
There are faster printers out there, but this one is not one of them. This will be a problem if you do a lot of printing. Choosing the fastest option on this list may be your most important consideration.
A little pricey on an ongoing basis, this printer. While Epson ink cartridges are recommended, they are expensive and the printer consumes a lot of ink. Despite the high price, the printer is very affordable. Whether or not you are interested in long-term affordability is up to you.
It could be a good printer for you if you can get past the slow printing speed and expensive ink cartridges. With its excellent features and great image quality, this printer offers great value at a low cost.
- Brand: Epson
- Printing Technology: Inkjet
- Connectivity: Wireless, Ethernet
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
- Bright, vivid, and accurate images are produced by the six-ink system
- The wireless connectivity options are good
- The company offers a range of large formats, including 13 x 19 inches and borderless printing
- You can’t use third-party inks with these cartridges, and they’re quite expensive to buy
- Memory cards cannot be inserted into this camera
- Printing takes a long time
Brother HL-L2320D Mono Laser Printer
Best Black & White Printer for Sublimation
(Image credit: Brother)
The Brother HL-L2320D might be just what you need if you’re just starting to print using sublimation.
In addition, it is suitable for those who want to create custom clothing on a tight budget.
This printer can print as many as 30 pages per minute. It comes with a low initial price, which makes it very gentle on your pocketbook. Also, toner cartridges have a long shelf life compared to regular ink cartridges. Hence, it could end up being more affordable, as well.
Sublimation printing is not likely to require duplex printing. This printer delivers excellent print quality thanks to its 2400 x 600 dpi resolution.
Brother’s printer is only capable of printing in black and white. You can reconsider your dreams of creating bright, colorful designs. Take a look at these other printers!
The Brother HL-L2320D is an excellent sublimation printer for basic needs. This device only connects via USB, and it has a limited set of features. At this price, you would expect that.
- Brand: Brother
- Printing Technology: Laser
- Connectivity: USB
- Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
- With 2400 x 600 dpi resolution, images come out sharp and accurate
- There is a maximum printing speed of 30 pages per minute
- Only black and white can be printed
- It does not have wireless connectivity – it requires a USB cable
The Best Sublimation Printer for Beginners: A Buying Guide
Find out why buying a sublimation printer is so important! In this article, I’ll explain why sublimation T-shirts are so special.
I’ll also share the most important features to look for in a great sublimation printer.
High-quality sublimation printers offer fast output speeds and excellent print quality. A printer’s price and ongoing costs are just as important. The lower your budget, the more important it is.
Consider these things when choosing a sublimation printer, and you’ll be able to find the one you need.
Is a sublimation printer necessary?
In order to use a sublimation printer, you’ll need a specially designed one. Ink of this kind differs a lot from regular ink. For the ink to print correctly and look good, there are specific requirements.
It is not possible to print sublimation on any printer on this list. Take a look and find one that suits your needs!
Print Quality
Image quality is probably your top concern, regardless of whether you’re printing items to sell. Bright, clean, and eye-catching items are what you need.
The image resolution of the prints is one thing you’ll need to find out. High resolution prints are best. A sharp image won’t look pixelated as a result.
You should also consider the color accuracy. Does the image look realistic or muted? Bright, vivid colors are what you want for your designs . Your customers will be delighted with your products if you do that.
Printer Method – How Does It Print?
The first thing you should determine is how each printer prints. Ink may be applied directly to the material in some printers. A heat transfer technique is used in others.
Choosing between the two methods may require you to weigh the pros and cons.
Materials Compatibility
Additionally, you should consider which materials a particular printer can print on. Different printers are compatible with different materials.
So, you want to make sure that it is what you are looking for. Don’t wait until you’ve bought the printer to realize that it’s incompatible with your products!
Dark colors are hard for many sublimation printers to print, so keep this in mind. While it may not be impossible to print dark colors, it is challenging. You can learn how to print dark colors here.
Ink Cartridge – Price and Longevity
Ink cartridges are an important consideration when buying any printer. Despite the fact that sublimation printers use special ink, the principles remain the same.
Ask about the cost and the lifespan of the cartridges. Ask how many cartridges are used by each printer as well.
Your ongoing costs can then be estimated. Your product’s manufacturing cost will be determined by that. This information is especially important if you want to sell them for a profit.
Connectivity
Consider your printer connection when you are transferring your designs. These days, you can choose from several options. But not every printer is compatible with every option.
With most printers, you can use USB to connect your laptop to print. Your smartphone may be your preferred method for transferring them. Another option is to draw directly on your tablet and then print. It’s more convenient that way. You can also avoid using USB sticks.
Wireless printing is available on most modern sublimation printers. Therefore, you can connect to any device via a network using any of your devices.
It is even better if your printer is compatible with WiFi Direct. By doing so, you won’t need a router at all. Printing becomes simple, fast, and hassle-free.
FAQ
What are sublimation printers?
Ink is transferred directly to fabric using heat and pressure in sublimation printing. Your prints can be ready in minutes thanks to our quick and easy process. Print heads are not required, unlike other methods. The finished print can then be applied anywhere.
Can sublimation be done with what kind of printer?
A special printer is required for sublimation. Regular printers will not work.
In most sublimation printers, the dyes are viscous and insoluble in water. Normal printers are unable to use these sublimation dyes.
Heat is used to change these solid inks into gases in a sublimation printer. Your material is then dyed permanently to produce a bright, clean design.
However, sublimation inks must be processed and heated at certain temperatures. Their consistency also differs from printer to printer. An ink sublimation printer will replace any other printer.
Sublimation printers can also produce prints that cover the entire surface. Fashionable and eye-catching clothes are best made from them.
Are Epson sublimation printers compatible with Epson ink?
Your printer type will determine whether it is compatible with the computer.
You need ink that can absorb heat from your sublimator instead of simply being heated by it. Any heat press or similar device should work as long as you are using a regular heat press. Such inks are designed to work with such tools, so you should choose inks that are designed for these uses.
A dye-based ink is made of dyes, a pigment-based ink is made with pigments, and a metallic ink is made of pigments. Despite their fading speed, dye-based inks have some advantages, as well as disadvantages. In general, they don’t run and they don’t react to light.
Final Thoughts
You should have a very good idea of what you need after reading this guide to sublimation printers. Now you know why sublimation printers are the best for heat transfers.
Check out your options and compare them with confidence. The printers reviewed above will save you some time!
Let me know how you like your new sublimation printing machine by leaving a comment below. Be sure to follow me on Pinterest for additional tips and reviews.
