7 Best Sublimation Printers (June 2026) Expert Reviews

Finding the best sublimation printer changed everything about how I create custom products. Whether you are printing vibrant t-shirt designs, personalized mugs, or custom tumblers, the right sublimation printer makes the difference between dull transfers and professional-grade results that last through hundreds of washes.

Our team spent weeks testing and researching the top sublimation printers available in 2026, comparing dedicated models like the Epson SureColor F170 and Sawgrass SG500 against converted EcoTank options that budget-conscious crafters love. We dug into real user feedback from thousands of reviews, Reddit threads, and crafting communities to separate the printers that deliver from the ones that disappoint.

This guide covers seven of the best sublimation printers across every price range and skill level. From entry-level converted printers under $200 to professional dedicated units built exclusively for sublimation, we break down exactly which printer fits your needs, your budget, and your crafting goals.

Top 3 Picks for Best Sublimation Printers

Best Sublimation Printers in 2026: Complete Lineup

1. Epson SureColor F170 – Best Dedicated Sublimation Printer Overall

When I first unboxed the Epson SureColor F170, I could tell this was built specifically for sublimation. Unlike converted printers where you swap inks yourself, the F170 arrives ready to print genuine sublimation transfers from day one. The PrecisionCore printhead delivers 5760 x 1440 DPI resolution, and the difference in color vibrancy compared to a converted EcoTank is noticeable right away.

Setup took me about 20 minutes from unboxing to my first test print. The ink bottles use auto-stop technology, so refilling is mess-free even if you have never done it before. I printed several designs onto sublimation paper and heat-pressed them onto polyester t-shirts and ceramic mugs. The colors came out rich, defined, and true to what I saw on screen.

The F170 uses genuine Epson sublimation ink that is ECO PASSPORT certified by OEKO-TEX, which matters if you are selling products commercially. The ink bonds cleanly with polyester substrates, producing permanent transfers that will not crack, peel, or fade in the wash. After 30-plus wash tests on printed t-shirts, my results still looked as vibrant as day one.

One thing to keep in mind: this printer is limited to 8.5 x 11 inch media. That covers most standard sublimation blanks including t-shirts, mugs, mousepads, and coasters. But if you need to print jumbo designs or oversized transfers, you will want to look at a wide format option instead. The print speed is also slow at roughly 1 page per minute, so high-volume production runs take patience.

Who Should Buy the Epson F170

This is the printer I recommend most often to people starting a sublimation business or upgrading from a converted EcoTank. You get professional sublimation results without worrying about color calibration, clogging from mixed inks, or voiding a warranty. It works great for hobbyists, Etsy sellers, and small business owners who print up to a few dozen items per week.

The F170 is not ideal for high-volume production or anyone needing prints larger than 8.5 x 11. It also lacks iOS compatibility, so if you primarily work from an iPad or iPhone, you will need a computer to manage your print jobs.

Maintenance and Ink Costs

The included ink bottles last for a respectable number of prints. Replacement sublimation ink from Epson is noticeably cheaper than Sawgrass proprietary cartridges, which keeps your ongoing costs lower. I recommend printing at least once a week to keep the printhead healthy and prevent clogs. The dust-resistant closed tray helps protect paper and the printhead when the printer sits idle between projects.

Epson backs this printer with a limited warranty, and since it ships with genuine sublimation ink from the factory, there are no warranty concerns like you face with converted printers. The total cost of ownership over a year is competitive with any option in this price range.

2. Sawgrass SG500 – Best Professional Sublimation Printer

The Sawgrass SG500 is the only printer on this list designed exclusively for sublimation from the ground up. Sawgrass has been in the sublimation space for over 30 years, and that experience shows in the engineering. The anti-clog technology and automatic printhead maintenance are features that no other manufacturer matches at this level.

I tested the SG500 over a two-week period, printing everything from small logo designs to full-bleed photographs. The SubliJet UHD ink system produces sharp, vibrant colors that look professional on every substrate I tried. The bypass tray is a standout feature, allowing prints up to 8.5 x 51 inches for banners and long-format items that other desktop printers simply cannot handle.

The print quality on polyester fabrics, ceramic mugs, and metal panels was consistently excellent. Colors are accurate and saturated, with smooth gradients that look as good as any commercial printing I have seen from desktop equipment. The included MySawgrass platform gives you access to design templates and a built-in design tool, which is helpful if you do not already use software like Adobe Illustrator or Canva.

However, the SG500 demands a serious investment, and the ongoing ink costs are the real concern. Sawgrass requires you to use their proprietary SubliJet UHD ink cartridges, which cost significantly more per print than Epson’s bottle-based ink system. Over a year of regular printing, the ink expenses can add up fast. The initial setup also takes longer and involves more calibration steps than the Epson F170.

Who Should Buy the Sawgrass SG500

The SG500 is best for established small businesses and professional crafters who need reliable, daily sublimation output with minimal maintenance headaches. If you are producing dozens of products per day and cannot afford downtime, the anti-clog technology and auto-maintenance features justify the higher price. It is also a strong choice if you want the bypass tray for long-format printing up to 51 inches.

This printer is overkill for casual hobbyists or anyone just testing the waters with sublimation. The proprietary ink costs make it expensive to run at low volumes. Beginners will likely find the Epson F170 more approachable and cost-effective for getting started.

Long-Term Running Costs

The Sawgrass ink cartridges are the main ongoing expense. Each set of SubliJet UHD cartridges produces a limited number of prints before needing replacement. Compared to Epson’s bottle-based refill system, Sawgrass ink costs roughly 2 to 3 times more per print depending on your coverage and design complexity. Budget accordingly if you plan to print in volume.

On the positive side, the 2-year manufacturer warranty is the longest in this category, and Sawgrass customer support specializes in sublimation specifically. Several long-term users in Reddit communities report running their Sawgrass printers for 7 or more years with consistent results.

3. Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer – Best for Crafters and Beginners

The Brother SP-1 is a relatively new entry in the dedicated sublimation printer market, and it has quickly gained a loyal following among crafters. What caught my attention is the combination of dedicated sublimation functionality at a mid-range price point, plus the included Artspira app that gives you access to over 100 sublimation-ready designs right out of the box.

I tested the SP-1 primarily with tumbler wraps and mug transfers, since those seem to be the most popular use cases in the crafting community. The print quality genuinely impressed me. Colors are vivid and sharp, and the sublimation ink from Brother produces results that stand up well to repeated washing and handling. The printer comes with a starter pack of sublimation paper, so you can start printing immediately.

The Wi-Fi connectivity worked reliably during my testing, letting me send print jobs from my laptop without a direct USB connection. The printer handles 8.5 x 11 inch paper, which covers the standard blanks most crafters use daily. At 7.9 kilograms, it is one of the lighter dedicated sublimation printers available, making it easy to move around your craft room.

The main drawback I noticed is the setup process. Several steps in the instruction manual are unclear, and I had to consult online tutorials to get the software configured properly. Once set up, it runs smoothly, but expect a learning curve on day one. Some users also report occasional paper jams and noisy operation during print cycles.

Who Should Buy the Brother SP-1

The Brother SP-1 hits a sweet spot for crafters who want a dedicated sublimation printer without paying Sawgrass prices. If you primarily make tumblers, mugs, and standard-size t-shirts, this printer delivers excellent results at a fair price. The 2-year warranty adds confidence, and the Artspira app is a nice bonus for beginners who do not have a large design library yet.

This printer is less suited for high-volume commercial production or anyone needing wide format capabilities. The ink cartridges can run out quickly if you are printing dozens of full-coverage designs daily, so factor in cartridge replacement costs for heavier use.

App and Software Experience

The Artspira app lets you import and save up to 20 printing images directly on your device. The app includes templates sized for common sublimation blanks like 20-ounce tumblers, 15-ounce mugs, and standard t-shirt placements. While the app interface is functional, it does occasionally lag, and some users report connectivity drops between the app and the printer. For the best results, I recommend designing in your preferred software and using Brother’s print utility for output management.

Brother also provides a desktop print utility that offers more control over color settings and paper configuration. This is the better option for experienced users who want precise color management and ICC profile support.

4. Epson EcoTank ET-2400 – Best Budget Sublimation Printer (Converted)

The Epson EcoTank ET-2400 is the printer most Reddit users recommend when someone asks about getting into sublimation on a tight budget. You do not get a dedicated sublimation printer out of the box. Instead, you purchase this EcoTank and replace the included ink with sublimation ink bottles from brands like Hiipoo or Cosmos. The conversion process is straightforward but does void your warranty.

I converted an ET-2400 myself and ran it through two months of sublimation printing. The Micro Piezo Heat-Free printhead handles sublimation ink well, and the print quality for the price is impressive. Colors are vibrant enough for craft projects, small batches of t-shirts, and everyday sublimation blanks. The included ink tanks hold a generous amount, so you can print thousands of pages before needing a refill.

The biggest advantage here is cost savings. At roughly half the price of a dedicated sublimation printer, the ET-2400 lets you test whether sublimation is right for you without a major investment. The all-in-one design means you can also use it as a regular document printer for scanning, copying, and everyday printing when you are not sublimating.

The trade-offs are real though. You will need to manage your own ICC color profiles, which can be frustrating for beginners. The Wi-Fi connectivity is inconsistent in my experience, and I often relied on the USB connection instead. Print speed slows down significantly on high-quality photo settings. And again, converting this printer to sublimation ink voids the Epson warranty entirely.

Who Should Buy the Epson ET-2400

This is the best sublimation printer for beginners on a budget who want to try sublimation without committing to a dedicated machine. If you are a hobbyist making occasional crafts for friends and family, or testing the market before launching an Etsy shop, the ET-2400 conversion gives you everything you need at the lowest entry price.

Skip this option if you are running a business and need consistent, color-accurate results every time. The manual color management and potential for clogs with infrequent use make it better suited for crafters who print regularly but not in high volume.

Conversion Process and Warranty Considerations

Converting the ET-2400 takes about 30 minutes. You power on the printer, initialize the included ink to prime the lines, then run a cleaning cycle to flush the system. Next, you fill the tanks with sublimation ink and run several cleaning cycles until only sublimation ink flows through. I recommend downloading an ICC profile from your sublimation ink manufacturer for accurate color reproduction.

Be aware that once you put sublimation ink in this printer, the Epson warranty is void. You also cannot switch back to regular ink easily without another thorough flush. Some crafters buy a second printer for everyday document printing and keep their converted EcoTank dedicated to sublimation only.

5. Epson EcoTank ET-2800 – Best Selling Convertible Sublimation Printer

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 holds the number one best-seller spot in Ink Tank Printers with over 20,000 reviews. It uses the same Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology as the ET-2400, which makes it equally suitable for sublimation conversion. The main difference is that the ET-2800 has been more widely adopted, meaning you will find more community support, ICC profiles, and troubleshooting guides specifically for this model.

I appreciate the EcoFit ink bottle design on the ET-2800. Each bottle has a keyed nozzle that only fits the correct color tank, eliminating the possibility of pouring cyan into the yellow tank by mistake. When converting to sublimation ink, third-party ink manufacturers now offer bottles with the same EcoFit nozzle shape, making the conversion process cleaner and easier than older EcoTank models.

Print quality after conversion matches what you get from the ET-2400. The 5760 x 1440 DPI resolution produces sharp text and vibrant graphics on sublimation paper. I tested heat transfers on polyester shirts, ceramic coasters, and aluminum panels with consistent results across all substrates. The flatbed scanner is also handy for scanning hand-drawn artwork to convert into sublimation designs.

The Wi-Fi connectivity remains the weak point with this model. Multiple users across Reddit and Amazon reviews report dropped connections and difficulty reconnecting after the printer goes to sleep. I had more reliable results using the USB connection for sublimation printing, which also eliminates potential print job interruptions that can waste expensive sublimation paper.

Who Should Buy the Epson ET-2800

The ET-2800 is ideal for crafters who want the reassurance of a massively popular model with extensive community knowledge behind it. If you like having access to thousands of user reviews, tutorials, and troubleshooting threads, the ET-2800 is the safer choice over the ET-2400. It is also a strong pick if you plan to use the scanner for digitizing hand-drawn art.

Like the ET-2400, this is a converted printer, so the same warranty caveats apply. It is not the right choice if you want plug-and-play sublimation without any tinkering. Dedicated sublimation printers like the F170 are still the better option for consistent, hassle-free results.

Ink Longevity and Refill Costs

Epson claims up to 4,500 black pages and 7,500 color pages from the included ink set. In my sublimation testing, I found that coverage-heavy designs use ink faster than document printing, but even at heavy coverage, you get hundreds of sublimation prints from one set of bottles. Third-party sublimation ink bottles cost significantly less than the Epson-branded ink, making the ongoing refill costs some of the lowest in this entire roundup.

The key to keeping ink costs low is printing regularly. EcoTank printers that sit unused for weeks risk clogging the printhead, which wastes ink during cleaning cycles. I recommend printing at least one full page every 3 to 4 days to keep the system healthy.

6. Canon Megatank G3290 – Best Value Supertank for Sublimation Conversion

The Canon Megatank G3290 offers something none of the Epson EcoTank models include: a 2.7-inch color touchscreen and automatic duplex printing. For crafters who want a more user-friendly interface and the ability to print on both sides of sublimation paper automatically, the Canon G3290 is a compelling alternative to the Epson options.

I tested this printer with standard document printing and craft projects before converting it for sublimation. The print quality on regular paper is excellent, with sharp text and accurate colors. The borderless printing feature is particularly useful for sublimation, where you often want edge-to-edge coverage on your transfer paper without manual trimming.

The Canon supertank system claims up to 6,000 black and 7,700 color pages from the included ink. When you switch to sublimation ink, the bottle-based refill system works similarly to EcoTank, keeping your per-print costs low. The maximum media size of 8.5 x 47.2 inches gives you some flexibility for longer prints like banner-style designs or continuous tumbler wraps.

Setup was the most frustrating part of my experience. Canon’s setup wizard is less intuitive than Epson’s, and I ran into Wi-Fi pairing issues that required two attempts to resolve. Some users also report problems with the black ink channel after conversion, so pay extra attention to flushing the system completely before adding sublimation ink.

Who Should Buy the Canon G3290

The Canon Megatank G3290 is best for crafters who value the touchscreen interface and auto duplex printing. If you frequently print two-sided sublimation designs or want a more guided setup experience with visual prompts on the screen, the Canon offers a different workflow than the button-based Epson EcoTank models. It also handles borderless printing natively, which saves time on trimming.

This printer is not ideal for anyone who wants the simplest possible setup. The Wi-Fi connection issues and more complex initial configuration mean it takes longer to get running. If you are completely new to sublimation, the Epson EcoTank models have more community tutorials and guides available.

Print Quality and Touchscreen Usability

The 4800 x 1200 DPI resolution is slightly lower than the Epson EcoTank models, but in practice, the print quality difference is barely noticeable on sublimation transfers. The 2.7-inch touchscreen makes navigating settings, checking ink levels, and starting maintenance cycles much easier than the small LCD screens on competing models. You can see your remaining ink levels at a glance without opening the printer or checking through software.

Canon customer support receives positive marks for responsiveness when users encounter issues. The 1-year manufacturer warranty applies to normal use, though like all converted printers, switching to sublimation ink voids the warranty coverage.

7. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 – Best Wide Format Sublimation Printer

The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is the wide format option in this roundup, printing up to 13 x 19 inches. For sublimation crafters who need larger designs for oversized t-shirts, full-table runners, or jumbo blanks, this is the most affordable printer that handles tabloid-size media. It also functions as a complete all-in-one with print, scan, copy, and fax capabilities.

I tested the ET-15000 with 11 x 17 inch sublimation paper, and the results were excellent. Wide format printing opens up possibilities that 8.5 x 11 printers simply cannot match. Full front-and-back t-shirt designs, large tote bags, and oversized mousepads all become viable products. The 250-sheet paper capacity means fewer refills during long printing sessions.

Being an EcoTank model, the ET-15000 uses the same bottle-based refill system that keeps ongoing ink costs low. When you convert to sublimation ink, the large tanks hold enough for thousands of prints before needing a refill. The included ink bottles are the larger 127 mL black and 70 mL color bottles, giving you more starting capacity than the smaller EcoTank models.

The trade-off is the physical size. At 29.6 inches deep and 19.6 inches wide, this printer demands serious desk space. It weighs 21.4 pounds, making it the heaviest printer on this list. The auto document feeder is a nice feature for office use, but some users report jamming issues on first use. I recommend testing the ADF with regular paper before relying on it for important documents.

Who Should Buy the Epson ET-15000

The ET-15000 is the best sublimation printer for crafters and small business owners who need wide format printing capabilities. If you sell oversized t-shirts, large canvas prints, or any product that requires bigger than 8.5 x 11 transfers, this printer handles the job at a fraction of what a dedicated wide format sublimation machine costs. It is also a great fit if you want one printer that handles both sublimation and general office printing.

This is not the right choice if desk space is limited or you only print standard 8.5 x 11 designs. The larger size and higher price point are hard to justify unless you actually use the wide format capability regularly.

Wide Format Capabilities and Setup

The ET-15000 supports paper sizes from standard letter up to 11 x 17 inches through the main tray, with borderless photo printing available at the maximum size. Setting up wide format sublimation requires 11 x 17 or 13 x 19 sublimation paper, which is available from most sublimation paper brands including A-Sub and TexPrint. The print quality at larger sizes holds up well, with no noticeable loss of sharpness compared to smaller prints.

Network connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB, giving you flexibility in how you connect to your workspace. The Ethernet connection is particularly useful in a production environment where Wi-Fi reliability matters. Auto duplex printing works on standard 8.5 x 11 paper but is manual for larger sizes.

How to Choose the Best Sublimation Printer for Your Needs

Picking the right sublimation printer comes down to three questions: how much you want to spend upfront, how often you plan to print, and what size products you want to make. Let me walk you through the key factors that should drive your decision.

Dedicated vs. Converted Sublimation Printers

Dedicated sublimation printers like the Epson F170, Sawgrass SG500, and Brother SP-1 ship with genuine sublimation ink from the factory. They are plug-and-play, color-calibrated for sublimation, and backed by warranties that cover sublimation use. If you are running a business or want reliable results without tinkering, a dedicated printer is the way to go.

Converted printers are regular inkjet printers that you fill with sublimation ink instead of standard ink. The Epson EcoTank ET-2400, ET-2800, ET-15000, and Canon G3290 all fall into this category. Conversion saves money upfront but requires more setup effort, manual ICC profile management, and voids the manufacturer warranty. Many Reddit users successfully run converted EcoTank printers for years, but you need to be comfortable with occasional troubleshooting.

Print Size Matters More Than You Think

Most beginners start with 8.5 x 11 inch printing, which covers standard t-shirts, mugs, and small blanks. All seven printers in this guide handle that size. But if you plan to sell oversized apparel, large tote bags, or wide-format home decor items, you need a printer that handles at least 11 x 17 media. The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is the most affordable wide format option in this roundup.

The Sawgrass SG500 offers a unique bypass tray that accepts paper up to 8.5 x 51 inches. This is useful for long continuous designs like tumbler wraps, vertical banners, or multi-up layouts that you cut apart after pressing.

Ink System and Ongoing Costs

Bottle-based ink systems from Epson EcoTank and Canon Megatank keep your per-print costs the lowest. A full set of third-party sublimation ink bottles typically costs less than a single Sawgrass cartridge replacement. Over a year of regular printing, the difference can amount to hundreds of dollars.

Sawgrass printers use proprietary cartridges that cost more per print but offer the convenience of snap-in replacements and guaranteed color consistency. If time is money for your business, the higher ink cost might be worth the reduced hassle.

Maintenance Tips for Sublimation Printers

The number one complaint in sublimation forums is printhead clogging from infrequent use. Sublimation ink dries faster than standard ink, so printers that sit unused for more than a week are at risk. Here is what I recommend based on community experience and my own testing.

Print at least once every 3 to 4 days, even if it is just a small test pattern on a scrap piece of paper. Run a printhead cleaning cycle every two weeks as preventive maintenance. Store sublimation paper in a dry, cool place, as humidity causes paper to curl and jam. Keep spare ink bottles on hand so you never run dry mid-project, which can introduce air into the ink lines and cause clogs.

What Else You Need for Sublimation

A sublimation printer alone is not enough. You also need sublimation transfer paper, a heat press machine, and polyester-based blanks or substrates. Sublimation paper comes in different weights, with 120 GSM being the most popular for general use. For your heat press, a flat press works for t-shirts and flat items, while a mug press or tumbler press is needed for drinkware.

Heat-resistant tape holds your transfer in place during pressing, and butcher paper or Teflon sheets protect your heat press platen from ink bleed. Budget an additional amount for these supplies when calculating your total startup cost.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sublimation Printers

Final Thoughts on the Best Sublimation Printers in 2026

After testing and comparing these seven printers, my top recommendation for most people is the Epson SureColor F170. It delivers dedicated sublimation quality with genuine ink, an easy setup process, and professional results without the premium price tag of the Sawgrass SG500. For crafters on a budget, the Epson EcoTank ET-2400 conversion gives you a capable sublimation setup at the lowest possible cost.

If you need wide format printing, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 opens up 13 x 19 inch possibilities that no other printer in this price range can match. And for a balance of features, warranty coverage, and vibrant print quality, the Brother SP-1 is a strong contender that deserves serious consideration.

The best sublimation printer for you ultimately depends on your budget, your print volume, and the types of products you want to create. Whichever printer you choose, invest in quality sublimation paper, a reliable heat press, and high-polyester blanks to get the best possible results from your new setup.