Best Sublimation Printers of 2024 [TOP 13]

Sublimation printing is a process that involves transferring ink onto a material using heat. It's a popular method for printing on fabrics, ceramics, and other items that require high-quality, long-lasting prints. If you're in the market for a sublimation printer, there are a few things you should consider before making a purchase.

First and foremost, you'll want to think about the type of material you'll be printing on. Different sublimation printers are designed to work with specific types of materials, so it's essential to choose one that's compatible with the items you'll be printing on. You'll also want to consider the size of the printer, as well as its resolution and print speed.

When it comes to finding the best sublimation printer, there are a lot of options on the market. Some printers are designed for home use, while others are intended for commercial applications. There are also different types of printers, including those that use dye-sublimation and those that use ink-sublimation.

Ultimately, the best sublimation printer for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. In the next section, we'll take a closer look at some of the top sublimation printers on the market and help you determine which one is right for you.

Best Sublimation Printers

If you're looking to print high-quality images on various surfaces such as mugs, t-shirts, or phone cases, a sublimation printer is the way to go. These printers use heat to transfer dye onto a substrate, resulting in vibrant and long-lasting prints. In this article, we've rounded up the best sublimation printers on Amazon, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.

Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan and Copy - White

If you're looking for an affordable printer that's easy to use and can handle basic home printing tasks, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is an excellent option that you should consider.

Pros

• Innovative Cartridge-Free Printing - This printer uses high-capacity ink tanks, which means you won't have to worry about running out of ink as often, and you'll save a lot of money on replacement ink.
• Dramatic Savings on Replacement Ink - With replacement ink bottles, you can save up to 90% compared to ink cartridges, which means you can print up to 4,500 pages black/7,500 color, equivalent to about 90 individual ink cartridges.
• Stress-Free Printing - With up to 2 years of ink in the box and every replacement ink set, you'll have fewer out of ink frustrations.

Cons

• Annoying Setup - The setup process can be a bit of a hassle and take some time.
• Paper Tray Setup - The paper tray setup can be frustrating for some users.
• Limited Features - This printer is designed for basic home printing tasks and may not be suitable for more advanced printing needs.

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is an excellent option for those who need a basic home printer that's easy to use and affordable. With its innovative cartridge-free printing system, you'll save a lot of money on replacement ink, and you'll have fewer out of ink frustrations. However, the setup process can be a bit annoying, and the paper tray setup may not be ideal for some users. Additionally, this printer is designed for basic home printing tasks and may not be suitable for more advanced printing needs.

Brother Sublimation Printer

If you're in the market for a sublimation printer, the Brother Sublimation Printer is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The Brother Sublimation Printer is compatible with Artspira, an app that allows you to easily import and save up to 20 printing images. With access to printing patterns and designs, plus the ability to convert images into poster-style drawings, Artspira will have you creating on the go.
• To start using the Brother Sublimation Printer, you must first download the Artspira app. Once in Artspira, you can access over 100 sublimation designs, stylistic photo authentic images, and more!
• With fast printing speeds, you can quickly show off your custom project in vibrant color.

Cons

• Heat press is required, which is an additional purchase necessary.
• The Brother Sublimation Printer is pricier than some other sublimation printers on the market.
• Some users have reported issues with smudging and having to place one paper at a time when printing on a large scale.

If you're looking for a reliable sublimation printer, the Brother Sublimation Printer is definitely worth considering. With its compatibility with the Artspira app and fast printing speeds, you'll be able to create custom designs with ease. Just keep in mind that a heat press is required and it is pricier than some other options.

Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer

Looking for a sublimation printer that can produce vibrant prints up to 13" x 19"? The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Save up to 90% on ink with low-cost replacement bottles
• Cartridge-free printing with easy-to-fill supersized ink tanks
• Versatile paper handling with a 250-sheet paper capacity and rear specialty-paper feed

Cons

• Expensive upfront cost
• Some users have reported issues with the printer not recognizing ink bottles
• Limited to printing on certain types of paper

This all-in-one printer is designed to save you money on ink with its low-cost replacement bottles, which can save you up to 90% compared to traditional ink cartridges. Plus, the cartridge-free printing system means there's zero cartridge waste.

With its versatile paper handling capabilities, you can print up to 13" x 19" through the rear feed and copy and scan up to 8.5" x 11" via the scan bed or 8.5" x 14" via the ADF. The 250-sheet paper capacity and rear specialty-paper feed make it easy to handle a variety of paper types and sizes.

However, the upfront cost of the printer is quite high, and some users have reported issues with the printer not recognizing ink bottles. Additionally, the printer is limited to printing on certain types of paper.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality sublimation printer with low ink costs and versatile paper handling capabilities, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is worth considering.

Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500 HD Product Decorating System

If you're looking for a high-quality sublimation printer, the Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500 HD Product Decorating System is a great option.

Pros

• The SG500 is a fully integrated desktop solution designed specifically for sublimation, making it easy to use and perfect for hobbyists and moonlighters.
• The printer is backwards-compatible with all SG400 accessories, which means you can use it with all your existing tools.
• The SG500 performs its own automatic maintenance cycle for trouble-free printing, making it a reliable and efficient choice.

Cons

• The SG500 can only print on polyester fabrics or polymer-coated rigid media, which means it's not suitable for printing on cotton or dark fabrics.
• The printer requires a heat press for application, which is an additional expense.
• The starter inks included with the printer are used to fill the lines, so you may get a low ink warning even though the inks should provide over 200+ full coverage prints.

The Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500 HD Product Decorating System is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient sublimation printer. With its fully integrated desktop solution and automatic maintenance cycle, it's easy to use and perfect for hobbyists and moonlighters. However, it's important to note that the printer can only print on polyester fabrics or polymer-coated rigid media, and requires a heat press for application. Additionally, the starter inks included with the printer are used to fill the lines, so you may get a low ink warning even though the inks should provide over 200+ full coverage prints. Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality sublimation printer, the Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500 HD Product Decorating System is a great choice.

Epson EcoTank ET-2400 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan and Copy – Easy, Everyday Home Printing, Black

If you're looking for an easy-to-use Supertank printer that will get the job done, the Epson EcoTank ET-2400 is a good choice. With its high-capacity, easily refillable ink tanks, you'll worry less about running out of ink and save a lot on replacement ink. The ET-2400 features genuine Epson print quality and a high-resolution flatbed scanner, making it a convenient choice for essential, everyday home printing.

Pros

• Innovative Cartridge-Free Printing ― High-capacity ink tanks mean no more tiny, expensive ink cartridges; Epson’s exclusive EcoFit ink bottles make filling easy and worry-free.
• Dramatic Savings on Replacement Ink ― Save up to 90% with replacement ink bottles vs. ink cartridges – that’s enough to print up to 4,500 pages black/7,500 color, equivalent to about 90 individual ink cartridges.
• Stress-Free Printing — Up to 2 years of ink in the box – and with every replacement ink set – for fewer out of ink frustrations.

Cons

• Individual cartridges estimate based on print yields of a replacement set of black and color ink bottles as compared to Epson standard-capacity ink cartridges for similarly featured printers as of March 2022.
• Requires Epson Smart Panel App download. Data usage fees may apply.
• Most features require an Internet connection to the printer, as well as an Internet- and/or email-enabled device.

The Epson EcoTank ET-2400 is a great choice for those who are looking for a reliable and cost-effective printer. With its innovative cartridge-free printing technology, you can save up to 90% on replacement ink and enjoy stress-free printing for up to two years. However, some features require an Internet connection and the use of the Epson Smart Panel App, which may result in data usage fees.

Epson EcoTank ET-2850 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan, Copy and Auto 2-Sided Printing - White, Medium White ET-2850 (White) Print/Copy/Scan

If you're looking for a reliable and eco-friendly sublimation printer, the Epson EcoTank ET-2850 is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The innovative cartridge-free printing system ensures that you don't have to worry about replacing tiny, expensive ink cartridges. Instead, you can easily fill the high-capacity ink tanks with Epson's exclusive EcoFit ink bottles, which are designed to save you money and reduce waste.
• With up to 2 years of ink in the box, you can enjoy stress-free printing and fewer out-of-ink frustrations. Plus, every replacement ink set comes with enough ink to print up to 7,500 pages in black and 6,000 pages in color, which is equivalent to about 90 individual ink cartridges.
• The EcoTank ET-2850 offers impressive print quality, thanks to its unique Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology and pigment black ink. You can expect extremely sharp text and impressive color photos and graphics on virtually any paper type.

Cons

• The initial cost of the printer may be higher than some other sublimation printers on the market.
• While the EcoTank system is designed to save you money in the long run, you may need to spend more upfront to purchase replacement ink bottles.
• The printer's print speed may not be as fast as some other sublimation printers, with a maximum print speed of 10.5 pages per minute in black and 5 pages per minute in color.

Overall, the Epson EcoTank ET-2850 is a reliable and eco-conscious choice for anyone looking for a sublimation printer. Its innovative cartridge-free printing system, impressive print quality, and stress-free printing make it an excellent investment for anyone who values sustainability and convenience.

Epson EcoTank ET-2720 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer

Looking for a printer that is fast, affordable, and easy to use? The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 wireless all-in-one supertank printer may be the solution you need. With its cartridge-free printing and easy-to-fill ink tanks, you can get up to two years of ink with each included or replacement ink set. You can also save up to 90% with low-cost replacement ink bottles versus ink cartridges.

Pros

• Innovative Cartridge-Free Printing
• Dramatic Savings on Replacement Ink
• Stress-Free Printing

Cons

• Print heads may get clogged
• Ink yields may vary considerably
• Limited warranty

The EcoTank ET-2720 offers exclusive, uniquely keyed EcoFit bottles that make it easy to fill each color tank. Plus, this sleek white printer also offers convenient wireless printing from tablets and smartphones, as well as a 2-year limited warranty with registration.

The printer features genuine Epson print quality, a high-resolution flatbed scanner, and a convenient color display, making it the ideal basic home printer. You can print up to 4,500 pages black/7,500 color, which is equivalent to about 90 individual ink cartridges.

While the printer is designed for reliability, the print heads may get clogged, and ink yields may vary considerably for reasons such as images printed, print settings, temperature, and humidity. Additionally, the warranty is limited, and the included ink bottle yields are based on the ISO/IEC 24712 pattern with Epson's methodology.

In summary, the Epson EcoTank ET-2720 wireless all-in-one supertank printer is an innovative solution that offers cartridge-free printing, easy-to-fill ink tanks, and dramatic savings on replacement ink. If you're looking for a printer that is fast, affordable, and easy to use, this may be the perfect solution for you.

Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scanner, Copier, Fax, ADF and Ethernet – Ideal-for Your Home Office, White ET-4800 White FAX/ADF/Print/Copy/Scan

If you're looking for a reliable and cost-effective printer for your home office, the Epson EcoTank ET-4800 is a great option.

Pros

• With its high-capacity ink tanks, you can save up to 90% on replacement ink costs compared to traditional ink cartridges.
• The EcoTank ET-4800 comes with up to 2 years of ink in the box, so you won't have to worry about running out of ink anytime soon.
• This printer is designed for reliability, with a worry-free 2-year limited warranty with registration, including full unit replacement.

Cons

• The software side of this printer leaves a lot to be desired, particularly for scanning.
• The printer may not be the most user-friendly, especially for those who are not tech-savvy.
• The printer can be a bit noisy when printing.

The EcoTank ET-4800 is an innovative cartridge-free solution that uses high-capacity, easily refillable ink tanks. This feature alone can save you a lot of money in the long run. Plus, the printer comes with up to 2 years of ink in the box, which means you won't have to worry about running out of ink anytime soon.

With its impressive print quality and unique Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology, the EcoTank ET-4800 produces sharp text, impressive color photos, and graphics on virtually any paper type. The printer also features a built-in scanner and copier, making it a versatile all-in-one option for your home office.

However, the software side of this printer leaves a lot to be desired, particularly for scanning. Additionally, the printer can be a bit noisy when printing, which may be a drawback for some users. Nonetheless, with its cost-effective and reliable features, the Epson EcoTank ET-4800 is a great choice for anyone looking for a printer for their home office.

HP Smart-Tank 5000 Wireless All-in-One Ink-Tank Printer

If you're looking for a reliable and cost-effective printer for your home, the HP Smart-Tank 5000 is an excellent choice.

Pros

• With up to 2 years of ink included, you won't need to worry about running out of ink anytime soon.
• The printer is easy to use and comes with smart-guided buttons that illuminate to guide you through everyday print, scan, and copy tasks.
• The HP Smart app allows you to print, scan, and copy from your phone, making it convenient and hassle-free.

Cons

• The printer is a bit slow, with a maximum print speed of 10 pages per minute for monochrome and 5 pages per minute for color.
• The printer is a bit bulky and may take up more space than you'd like.
• The printer can only scan one page at a time, which may be time-consuming if you have multiple pages to scan.

The HP Smart-Tank 5000 is a smart, connected, and refillable tank printer that makes printing seamless for the whole family. With up to 2 years of Original HP Ink included in the box, you can create everyday color documents at a low cost. The printer is fully loaded with savings and is best for low-cost, high-volume printing, with up to 6,000 black or color pages right out of the box.

The printer is packed with key features, including print, copy, and scan capabilities, as well as borderless, mobile, and wireless capabilities. You can print up to 10 pages per minute black and 5 pages per minute color, making it efficient and reliable. The printer delivers color graphics and crisp text for your everyday prints, ensuring that your documents look professional and high-quality.

The HP Smart app allows you to print, scan, and copy from your phone, making it convenient and hassle-free. You can print from anywhere, at any time, without having to connect to a computer. The printer also has reliable connectivity, with self-healing Wi-Fi that automatically detects and resolves connection issues.

The printer is easy to use, with smart-guided buttons that illuminate to guide you through everyday print, scan, and copy tasks. The printer also has a simple, spill-free refill system, making it easy to replenish ink without any squeezing or spilling.

Overall, the HP Smart-Tank 5000 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and cost-effective printer for their home. With its high capacity and wireless connectivity, it makes printing seamless for the whole family.

Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer

If you're in the market for a reliable and efficient sublimation printer, the Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer is worth considering.

Pros

• Print from anywhere with wireless connectivity
• Large ink tanks for up to 6,000 pages of black and 7,700 pages of color
• Intuitive and easy-to-use 1.35” square LCD screen

Cons

• Slow printing speeds of 11 ipm for black and 6 ipm for color
• No automatic duplex printing
• Limited paper handling with only a 100-sheet rear tray

This printer is perfect for home use and small businesses that don't require high-volume printing. With wireless connectivity, you can easily print from your mobile devices using the free Canon PRINT app, Apple AirPrint, and Mopria Print Service. The integrated ink tanks are also a standout feature, as they allow for up to 6,000 pages of black and 7,700 pages of color, reducing the need for frequent ink replacements.

However, the printing speeds are relatively slow at 11 ipm for black and 6 ipm for color. Additionally, there is no automatic duplex printing, which can be a deal-breaker for some users. The paper handling is also limited to a 100-sheet rear tray, which may be insufficient for businesses with higher printing needs.

In summary, if you're looking for a reliable and cost-effective sublimation printer for your home or small business, the Canon MegaTank G3270 All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer is a solid choice.

Hiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles with Heat Tape Refill for ET2400 XP4105 XP4100 ET2720 ET2760 ET2750 ET4800 ET-2800 ET-2803 ET-2850 Inkjet Printers Heat Press Transfer on Mugs T-Shirts Multicolor 4 Packs

If you're looking for a high-quality sublimation ink that offers vibrant and long-lasting colors, Hiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles with Heat Tape Refill for ET2400 XP4105 XP4100 ET2720 ET2760 ET2750 ET4800 ET-2800 ET-2803 ET-2850 Inkjet Printers Heat Press Transfer on Mugs T-Shirts Multicolor 4 Packs is the product for you.

Pros

• Compatible with a wide range of printer models
• Great for DIY and on-demand printing
• Offers colorfully vibrant and intense colors

Cons

• Can only be used in fabrics containing less than 30% cotton
• Some users may find the ink difficult to install
• Quality may vary depending on the type of paper used

This sublimation ink is ideal for printing on a variety of surfaces, including mugs, T-shirts, cloth, pillowcases, shoes, caps, ceramics, boxes, bags, quilts, cross-stitched items, decorative clothes, flags, banners, and more. The product also comes with everything you need to refill your printer, making it user and eco-friendly.

The Hiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles with Heat Tape Refill for ET2400 XP4105 XP4100 ET2720 ET2760 ET2750 ET4800 ET-2800 ET-2803 ET-2850 Inkjet Printers Heat Press Transfer on Mugs T-Shirts Multicolor 4 Packs is professionally certified, offering the highest quality standard in sublimation ink. It holds the following certifications: ISO-9001 and MSDS. This ensures that you get the most potent, high-quality, stable, durable, and vibrant colors on the market today.

However, it's important to note that this ink can only be used in fabrics containing less than 30% cotton. Some users may also find the ink difficult to install. Additionally, the quality of the prints may vary depending on the type of paper used.

Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality sublimation ink that offers vibrant and long-lasting colors, the Hiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles with Heat Tape Refill for ET2400 XP4105 XP4100 ET2720 ET2760 ET2750 ET4800 ET-2800 ET-2803 ET-2850 Inkjet Printers Heat Press Transfer on Mugs T-Shirts Multicolor 4 Packs is definitely worth considering.

A-SUB Sublimation Paper

If you're in the market for sublimation paper, A-SUB is a solid choice.

Pros

• No fracturing, fast dry
• Transfer rate≥98%
• Suitable for DIY your holiday gift

Cons

• Only work with sublimation ink, regular ink doesn't work
• Only compatible with sublimation printer
• May get stuck on tumblers and mugs

This sublimation paper is coated and comes in a pack of 110 sheets, each measuring 8.5" x 11". It's suitable for use with white or light-colored high-quality polyester, material with cotton content ≤30%, premium ceramic & tile, phone case & metal plate, tumblers, and mugs (must be coated).

One of the biggest pros of this product is that it dries quickly and doesn't fracture during the transfer process. Additionally, the transfer rate is ≥98%, so you can be sure that your designs will come out looking great. Lastly, it's perfect for DIY holiday gifts, so you can create personalized items for your loved ones.

On the downside, this sublimation paper only works with sublimation ink and a sublimation printer. Regular ink won't work, so make sure you have the right equipment before purchasing. Additionally, it may get stuck on tumblers and mugs, so be careful when using it on those items.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable sublimation paper that dries quickly and transfers well, A-SUB is a great choice. Just make sure you have the right equipment and be careful when using it on certain items.

Fosgoit Printhead Cleaning Kit

If you're looking for a reliable and effective printhead cleaning solution, the Fosgoit Printhead Cleaning Kit is worth considering.

Pros

• The kit is compatible with a wide range of inkjet printers, including models from Epson, HP, Brother, and Canon.
• It comes with complete instructions and all the tools you need to clean your printer's printhead, including a syringe, silicone hose, large and small rubber stoppers, gloves, and 100mL of printhead cleaning solution.
• The cleaning solution is specially formulated to dissolve hard blockages and other impurities left behind by ink, helping to extend the life of your printer and improve print quality.

Cons

• Some users may find the cleaning process time-consuming and messy.
• While the kit is designed to work with a variety of ink types, it may not be effective for all types of clogs or blockages.
• There is a risk of damaging your printer if you do not follow the instructions carefully.

If you're struggling with clogged printheads or poor print quality, the Fosgoit Printhead Cleaning Kit is a cost-effective solution that can help you get your printer back up and running smoothly. The kit is easy to use and comes with everything you need to clean your printer's printhead, including detailed instructions. While the cleaning process can be messy and time-consuming, the results are often worth it, as you'll be able to enjoy improved print quality and a longer-lasting printer.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best sublimation printer, there are a few key features to consider. By understanding what to look for, you can make an informed decision and choose a printer that meets your needs.

Print Quality

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a sublimation printer is print quality. Look for a printer with high resolution and color accuracy to ensure that your prints come out looking sharp and vibrant. A printer with a wide color gamut will also help to ensure that your prints accurately represent the colors in your designs.

Size and Capacity

Consider the size and capacity of the printer when making your decision. If you plan on printing large designs or quantities of prints, you'll need a printer with a larger capacity. However, if you have limited space, a smaller printer may be a better option.

Connectivity

Make sure to choose a printer that offers the connectivity options you need. Many sublimation printers offer USB and Wi-Fi connectivity, but some models may also offer Ethernet or Bluetooth connectivity. Consider which connectivity options will work best for your needs.

Cost

Finally, consider the cost of the printer. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, keep in mind that a higher-priced printer may offer better print quality, larger capacity, or more connectivity options. Make sure to choose a printer that fits within your budget while still meeting your needs.

By considering these factors when choosing a sublimation printer, you can select a high-quality printer that will meet your needs and produce beautiful prints.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors should be considered when choosing a sublimation printer for t-shirt printing?

When choosing a sublimation printer for t-shirt printing, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the size of the printer is important, as it should be able to handle the size of the t-shirts you plan to print on. Additionally, the print quality and speed should be taken into account, as well as the cost of replacement ink and maintenance. It's also important to choose a printer that is compatible with your computer system and design software.

Which sublimation printers are recommended for beginners just starting out?

For beginners just starting out with sublimation printing, some recommended options include the Epson SureColor P400, the Sawgrass Virtuoso SG400, and the Canon Selphy CP1300. These printers are all relatively easy to use and offer good print quality for their price range.

How does the Sawgrass printer compare to Epson models in sublimation printing?

The Sawgrass Virtuoso SG400 is a popular choice for sublimation printing, but how does it compare to Epson models? While Epson printers are generally more expensive, they offer higher print quality and faster printing speeds. The Sawgrass printer, on the other hand, is more affordable and easier to use, making it a good choice for beginners or those on a budget.

What are the most cost-effective sublimation printers suitable for mug printing?

Mug printing requires a printer with a small footprint that can handle the curved surface of a mug. Some cost-effective options include the Epson Stylus C88+ and the Sawgrass Virtuoso SG400, both of which offer good print quality and are compatible with mug printing attachments.

Can any printer be converted to a sublimation printer, and if so, which are the cheapest options?

Not all printers can be converted to sublimation printers, but some can with the addition of a sublimation ink system. The cheapest options for conversion include the Epson Workforce WF-7210, the Canon PIXMA TS9520, and the HP OfficeJet Pro 7740. However, it's important to note that converting a printer to sublimation may void the warranty and could potentially damage the printer.

Are there any printing methods superior to sublimation for heat transfer applications?

While sublimation printing is a popular choice for heat transfer applications, there are other methods that may be superior depending on the specific project. For example, vinyl heat transfer may be a better option for designs that require multiple colors or intricate details. Screen printing may also be a good choice for larger orders with simple designs. Ultimately, the best method will depend on the specific needs of the project.