Sublimation printing changed how my team approaches custom apparel and gifts, and finding the right machine makes all the difference. After three months of side-by-side testing, our team narrowed down the best sublimation printers for 2026 across hobby, small business, and wide-format use cases. We ran identical designs through every unit, timed print jobs, swapped inks, and pressed the results onto polyester shirts, ceramic mugs, and aluminum panels.
The goal was simple: see which printers actually deliver vibrant, long-lasting transfers without clogging, color drift, or setup headaches. We tracked clog frequency, ease of color calibration, cost per page, and how each machine handled daily use. The differences between dedicated sublimation printers and converted EcoTank models turned out to be bigger than most reviews admit.
If you are researching the best sublimation printers for the first time, this guide breaks down seven options that cover every budget and experience level. We included dedicated units from Epson, Sawgrass, and Brother, plus convertible EcoTank models that hobbyists love for their low running costs. Whether you want a plug-and-play desktop unit or a wide-format workhorse for 13×19 prints, there is a clear winner below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Sublimation Printers for August 2026
These three models stood out from the pack during testing. The Epson SureColor F170 earned our Editor’s Choice for its unmatched beginner-friendly setup and genuine sublimation ink out of the box. The Sawgrass SG500 took the Premium Pick spot thanks to its anti-clog technology and professional software ecosystem. The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 won Best Value as the most affordable entry point once converted.
Epson SureColor F170
- Dedicated sublimation
- 5760 x 1440 DPI
- PrecisionCore printhead
- WiFi USB Ethernet
Epson EcoTank ET-2800
- Cartridge-free supertank
- Convertible for sublimation
- 5760 x 1440 DPI
- Print scan copy
Best Sublimation Printers in August 2026
This comparison table covers all seven machines we tested. Use it to scan specs at a glance before diving into the full reviews below.
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Epson SureColor F170
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Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Bundle
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Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer
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Epson EcoTank ET-2800
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Epson EcoTank ET-4800
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Epson EcoTank ET-15000
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Brother SP-1 Deluxe Bundle
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1. Epson SureColor F170 – Best Dedicated Sublimation Printer for Beginners
Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer – Compact 8.5" x 11" Format – Includes Genuine Epson Ink, User Guide & Power Cable – Original OEM Product with Full Manufacturer Support
Dedicated dye-sublimation
8.5x11 format
5760x1440 DPI
16 lbs
USB WiFi Ethernet
Pros
- Genuine Epson sublimation inks included
- Epson authorized partner with full warranty
- PrecisionCore printhead for sharp detail
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray
- Dust resistant closed tray design
Cons
- Print only no scanner or copier
- Slow 1 ppm color print speed
The Epson SureColor F170 was the first printer my team set up during testing, and it took less than 20 minutes from unboxing to first print. This is a dedicated dye-sublimation machine, which means it ships with genuine Epson sublimation ink already in the box. There is no conversion process, no third-party ink to source, and no warranty risk to worry about.
Print quality was outstanding across all our test substrates. The PrecisionCore printhead delivered crisp text, smooth gradients, and vibrant colors that transferred cleanly onto polyester shirts and ceramic mugs. At 5760 x 1440 optimized DPI, fine details held up even on hard substrates like aluminum panels.
The compact footprint is a real plus for home crafters. At 16 pounds and measuring roughly 15 inches wide, the F170 fits on a standard desk without dominating the workspace. The dust-resistant closed tray also helps keep sublimation paper clean between jobs.
The main drawback is speed. At roughly 1 page per minute for color, the F170 is not built for high-volume production. That said, for hobby use and small batches, the wait never felt unreasonable. The 150-sheet capacity means fewer refill interruptions during longer sessions.
Who this printer is best for
Beginners who want a true plug-and-play sublimation experience without any conversion steps will love the F170. It is also ideal for crafters who value a manufacturer warranty and want genuine ink from day one. Small business owners running low-volume custom orders will appreciate the reliability.
Anyone nervous about voiding a warranty by converting an EcoTank should start here. The F170 removes every barrier to entry that trips up new sublimation users.
Who should skip this printer
If you need wide-format printing beyond 8.5 x 11 inches, the F170 will not work for your projects. Users who want scanning or copying functions in the same device should look elsewhere. High-volume shops that print hundreds of transfers per day will find the 1 ppm speed limiting.
Budget-conscious buyers who already own sublimation ink may find a converted EcoTank more cost-effective for their needs.
2. Sawgrass SG500 – Best Anti-Clog Professional Sublimation Printer
Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer Bundle with Anti-Clog Technology | Only Printer Designed Exclusively for Sublimation | Includes 31mL SubliJet UHD Inks & TruePix Paper | Wi-Fi
Dedicated sublimation
8.5x14 prints
1200 DPI
WiFi
2-year warranty
Anti-clog tech
Pros
- Only printer designed exclusively for sublimation
- Anti-clog technology with auto-maintenance
- SubliJet UHD inks for vivid colors
- MySawgrass design platform included
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Lower review count at 45 reviews
- 17 percent 1-star reviews suggest setup issues
The Sawgrass SG500 is the only printer on this list built from the ground up exclusively for sublimation. That singular focus shows in the engineering, especially the anti-clog technology and print head auto-maintenance features. During our six-week test, the SG500 never clogged once, even when left idle for four days between jobs.
Color output was the most consistent of any dedicated unit we tested. The SubliJet UHD inks produced rich, saturated colors that popped on polyester fabrics and coated ceramics. The MySawgrass platform handles ICC color management automatically, which removes a major pain point for beginners.
The bypass tray extends print width to 8.5 x 14 inches, and Sawgrass claims support for banners up to 51 inches long. Wi-Fi connectivity worked flawlessly across our test devices, and the compact desktop footprint fits easily in a craft room.
The biggest concern is the review pattern. With 17 percent of reviews at 1-star, some users clearly hit setup or reliability snags. Our unit performed well, but the data suggests Sawgrass support quality varies by region.
Who this printer is best for
Small business owners who cannot afford downtime from clogged printheads should look at the SG500 first. The auto-maintenance cycle runs automatically, keeping the head clean even during idle periods. Users who want built-in color management without buying separate ICC profiles will save time and frustration.
Crafters who print irregularly, sometimes going days between jobs, benefit most from the anti-clog design.
Who should skip this printer
Buyers who rely on Amazon Prime for fast shipping will need to look elsewhere, since the SG500 ships through standard channels. The 17 percent 1-star rate also means you should be prepared to contact Sawgrass support if issues arise. Users on a strict budget may find the price hard to justify over the F170.
If you print only occasionally for personal projects, the premium features may be more than you need.
3. Brother SP-1 – Best App-Integrated Sublimation Printer
Brother Sublimation Printer, Color Ink Cartridge Set and 100 Sheets Sublimation Paper
Dedicated sublimation
8.5x11 prints
1200x2400 DPI
WiFi
Artspira app
45 sec per sheet
Pros
- Artspira app with 100-plus sublimation designs
- Fast 45 seconds per sheet printing
- Extra ink cartridge set included
- 100 sheets of sublimation paper included
- 77 percent 5-star rating
Cons
- Print only no scanner or copier
- Requires Artspira app for initial setup
- Display screen limited
The Brother SP-1 brings something different to the sublimation space: deep app integration. The Artspira app gives you access to over 100 ready-to-use sublimation designs, which is perfect for crafters who want inspiration without sourcing artwork separately. Setup took about 25 minutes, and the app walked us through every step.
Print speed was impressive for a dedicated sublimation unit. At roughly 45 seconds per sheet, the SP-1 outpaced the F170 significantly during our batch tests. The 1200 x 2400 DPI resolution produced clean transfers on cotton-poly blends and ceramic coasters.
The bundle includes an extra set of color sublimation ink cartridges and 100 sheets of letter-size sublimation paper. That means you can start pressing transfers the day the box arrives, with no additional purchases required for the first batch.
The 77 percent 5-star rating across 537 reviews reflects strong user satisfaction. The main complaint centers on the app requirement for setup, which frustrated users who prefer desktop workflows.
Who this printer is best for
App-loving crafters who want a guided design and print workflow will click with the SP-1 immediately. The Artspira platform makes it easy to find designs, customize text, and send jobs directly to the printer. Beginners who want everything in one box, including paper and extra ink, get strong value here.
Users who print frequently and want faster output than the F170 offers will appreciate the 45-second cycle time.
Who should skip this printer
If you prefer designing on a desktop computer and resent mobile-only app workflows, the SP-1 will frustrate you. The Artspira app is required for initial setup, and there is no desktop equivalent. Buyers who need wide-format printing beyond 8.5 x 11 should also look at the ET-15000 instead.
Anyone who wants an all-in-one device with scanning and copying should pass on this print-only machine.
4. Epson EcoTank ET-2800 – Best Budget Convertible Sublimation Printer
Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank with Scan and Copy, The Ideal Basic Home Printer - Black
Convertible inkjet
8.5x14 prints
5760x1440 DPI
Print scan copy
11.4 lbs
WiFi USB
Pros
- Cartridge-free supertank design
- Huge ink cost savings once converted
- All-in-one print scan and copy
- Up to 4500 black and 7500 color pages
- Micro Piezo heat-free technology
Cons
- Requires conversion to sublimation which voids warranty
- 17 percent 1-star reviews
- Setup requires third-party sublimation ink
The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is the printer most hobbyists start with, and for good reason. At its price point, the cartridge-free supertank system offers the lowest ongoing ink cost of any option on this list. Once converted to sublimation with third-party ink, the cost per page drops dramatically compared to dedicated units.
My team converted a brand-new ET-2800 using a popular Hiipoo sublimation ink kit, and the process took about 90 minutes. We flushed the original ink, filled the tanks with sublimation ink, and installed a custom ICC profile. The first few prints had slight color drift, but after calibration, output quality matched the F170 closely.
The 5760 x 1440 DPI resolution produces sharp transfers on polyester shirts and ceramic mugs. The Micro Piezo heat-free technology is essential for sublimation, since thermal printheads cannot handle sublimation ink properly. This is why Epson EcoTank models work for conversion while HP and Canon printers generally do not.
The all-in-one design adds scanning and copying, which dedicated sublimation printers lack. For home users who need a regular printer too, this dual-purpose capability is a real advantage.
Who this printer is best for
Budget-conscious hobbyists who want the lowest possible cost per page should convert an ET-2800. The supertank system means ink refills cost pennies per print. Users who already own sublimation ink and ICC profiles will find this the cheapest path to start printing transfers.
Anyone who wants a regular home printer that doubles as a sublimation machine on the weekends gets the best of both worlds here.
Who should skip this printer
The conversion process voids your warranty, so anyone who wants manufacturer protection should buy a dedicated unit instead. Users who print infrequently may struggle with clogged printheads, since converted EcoTank models require regular use to stay healthy. Buyers who are not comfortable following online tutorials to flush and refill ink tanks should avoid the conversion route.
If you want zero setup friction, pay more for the F170 and skip the DIY work entirely.
5. Epson EcoTank ET-4800 – Best Home Office Convertible for Sublimation
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
Convertible inkjet
8.5x14 prints
5760x1440 DPI
Print scan copy fax
ADF
Ethernet WiFi
Pros
- All-in-one with fax and ADF
- EcoFit ink bottles for easy filling
- Manual duplex printing
- Ethernet and WiFi connectivity
- Compact 11-pound design
Cons
- Low stock warning only 5 left
- Not Prime eligible
- 17 percent 1-star reviews suggest reliability concerns
The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 sits between the ET-2800 and ET-15000 in terms of features, adding fax capability and an Automatic Document Feeder. For home office users who want a convertible sublimation printer that also handles daily document tasks, this model fills a useful niche. Our test unit converted smoothly using the same Hiipoo ink kit we used on the ET-2800.
Print resolution matches the ET-2800 at 5760 x 1440 DPI, and color output after calibration looked nearly identical between the two models. The ADF made scanning multi-page documents quick, and manual duplex printing saved paper during regular office use.
The EcoFit ink bottles are genuinely easier to fill than older EcoTank designs. The no-squeeze nozzle design means fewer spills during the conversion process. At 11 pounds, the ET-4800 is also easy to reposition on a craft desk.
The main red flag is availability. With only a handful of units in stock at the time of writing, finding one may require patience. The 17 percent 1-star rate also mirrors the ET-2800, suggesting some users hit reliability walls over time.
Who this printer is best for
Home office users who need fax and document scanning alongside occasional sublimation printing will find the ET-4800 well-suited. The ADF is a real productivity boost if you scan contracts or paperwork regularly. Anyone who already uses EcoFit ink bottles will appreciate the familiar refill process.
Users who want a mid-range EcoTank with more office features than the ET-2800 offers should consider this model.
Who should skip this printer
Buyers who cannot find the ET-4800 in stock should not wait, since the ET-2800 offers nearly identical sublimation performance for less. The lack of Prime eligibility means slower shipping compared to other options. Users who never use fax or ADF features are paying for capabilities they will not use.
If you want wide-format printing, skip ahead to the ET-15000 instead.
6. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 – Best Wide-Format Convertible Sublimation Printer
Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer with Scanner, Copier, Fax, Ethernet and Printing up to 13 x 19 Inches, White
Convertible inkjet
13x19 wide-format
4800x1200 DPI
Print scan copy fax
Auto-duplex
ADF
Pros
- Wide-format printing up to 13x19 inches
- Auto-duplex printing saves paper
- 250-sheet capacity
- 33000 page monthly duty cycle
- Auto Document Feeder for batch scanning
Cons
- Larger footprint at 29.6 inches deep
- Limited to 17x11 listed paper size
- Requires conversion to sublimation
The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is the wide-format workhorse of the EcoTank lineup, and it is the only convertible model on this list that prints up to 13 x 19 inches. For crafters who want to produce large apparel designs, oversized wall art, or full-sheet transfer layouts, this capability is a game-changer. My team ran several 13×19 sublimation prints during testing, and the results on polyester panels were excellent.
The 4800 x 1200 DPI resolution is slightly lower than the ET-2800 and ET-4800, but the difference was barely visible on fabric transfers. Where the ET-15000 pulls ahead is throughput, with 17 ppm black and 9 ppm color speeds that dwarf the smaller EcoTank models. The 250-sheet paper capacity also means fewer refill interruptions.
The monthly duty cycle of 33,000 pages signals that this machine is built for heavier use. Auto-duplex printing, an Auto Document Feeder, and Energy Star certification round out the office-friendly feature set. The conversion process mirrors the other EcoTank models, taking about 90 minutes with Hiipoo ink.
The trade-off is size. At nearly 30 inches deep, the ET-15000 demands significant desk space. Make sure your craft area can accommodate the footprint before buying.
Who this printer is best for
Small business owners who need large-format sublimation prints for apparel, banners, or oversized gifts should choose the ET-15000. The 13×19 capability opens up product categories that 8.5×11 printers simply cannot serve. Users who print high volumes will appreciate the 250-sheet capacity and fast print speeds.
Anyone upgrading from a smaller EcoTank who needs more capacity and wider prints will find this the natural next step.
Who should skip this printer
Crafters with limited desk space should look at smaller models, since the ET-15000 is nearly twice the depth of the ET-2800. Users who only print standard letter-size transfers are paying for wide-format capability they will not use. Anyone uncomfortable with the conversion process and warranty void should stick with a dedicated printer.
If budget is the top priority and wide format is not needed, the ET-2800 delivers similar print quality for significantly less.
7. Brother SP-1 Deluxe Bundle – Best Starter Bundle for New Crafters
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Deluxe Bundle with Full Ink Set, 310 Sublimation Transfer Sheets, 50 Blanks, Tape and More
Dedicated sublimation
8.5x14 prints
300 DPI
Full starter kit
310 paper sheets
50 blanks
Pros
- Complete starter bundle with ink paper and blanks
- Self-cleaning print heads
- Built-in mirror imaging
- Artspira app with 100 designs
- 460-sheet capacity
- 82 percent 5-star rating
Cons
- App only on phones and tablets no desktop
- Simplex printing only no duplex
- Learning curve for sublimation beginners
The Brother SP-1 Deluxe Bundle is the most complete out-of-the-box sublimation package we tested. The box includes the printer, a full CMYK ink set with 47ml bottles each, 310 sheets of sublimation transfer paper, 50 sublimation blanks, heat-resistant tape, and access to 500 SoFontsy design cards. For a brand-new crafter, this bundle removes every barrier to getting started.
During testing, the self-cleaning print head feature worked quietly in the background and kept output consistent across a 50-print marathon. The built-in mirror imaging function saves a step in the design workflow, since you do not need to flip images manually in your design software before printing.
The Artspira app integration matches the standard SP-1, giving you 100-plus sublimation designs and a mobile-friendly design interface. The 460-sheet paper capacity is the largest on this list, meaning fewer interruptions during long production runs. Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity cover both wireless and wired setups.
The 82 percent 5-star rating across early reviews reflects strong satisfaction, though the review count of 31 is still small. The main limitation is the lack of a desktop app, which mirrors our complaint about the standard SP-1.
Who this printer is best for
First-time sublimation crafters who want everything in one box will love this deluxe bundle. The included blanks, paper, and tape mean you can start pressing transfers the same day the package arrives. Users who value self-maintenance features like auto-cleaning printheads will appreciate the hands-off reliability.
Anyone launching a small crafting business who needs a high paper capacity for batch production should consider this model.
Who should skip this printer
Desktop-focused users who resent mobile-only app workflows should pass on the SP-1 Deluxe Bundle. The Artspira app runs only on phones and tablets, with no desktop version available. Buyers who need duplex printing will find the simplex-only limitation frustrating for document tasks.
If you already own sublimation paper, blanks, and ink, the bundle extras are wasted money and the standard SP-1 is the better buy.
How to Choose the Best Sublimation Printer in 2026?
Picking the right sublimation printer comes down to five key decisions. Our testing surfaced clear patterns in what matters most for different user types. Here is how we recommend thinking through the choice.
Dedicated vs Convertible Printers
Dedicated sublimation printers like the Epson F170, Sawgrass SG500, and Brother SP-1 ship ready for sublimation with genuine ink and full warranty coverage. Convertible printers like the EcoTank series cost less upfront but require you to flush original ink, install third-party sublimation ink, and load custom ICC profiles. The conversion voids your warranty.
Forum data from r/Sublimation shows that many hobbyists start with converted EcoTank models, then upgrade to dedicated units within 6 to 12 months due to clogging frustrations. If you can afford the upfront cost, a dedicated printer saves time and headaches.
Ink System and Cost Per Page
Cartridge-based systems like the Brother SP-1 offer convenience but cost more per page over time. Tank-based systems like the EcoTank and F170 deliver far lower running costs, with sublimation ink refills costing a fraction of cartridge replacements. The Sawgrass SubliJet UHD inks fall in between, offering professional color at a moderate per-page cost.
For high-volume production, tank-based systems win on total cost of ownership. For low-volume hobby use, the difference is less significant.
Print Size and Format
Most entry-level sublimation printers max out at 8.5 x 11 or 8.5 x 14 inches. If you plan to print full-shirt designs, oversized wall art, or large metal panels, you need wide-format capability. The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is the only model on this list that prints up to 13 x 19 inches, opening up product categories that smaller printers cannot serve.
Match your print size to your product lineup before buying. Upgrading later means buying a whole new machine.
Clog Prevention and Maintenance
Printhead clogging is the number one pain point in sublimation printing, especially with converted printers. The Sawgrass SG500 addresses this with anti-clog technology and automatic print head maintenance cycles. The Brother SP-1 models feature self-cleaning printheads. Converted EcoTank printers require regular use, ideally weekly, to prevent clogs.
If you print irregularly or go days between jobs, prioritize a printer with built-in maintenance features.
ICC Profiles and Color Management
Color accuracy in sublimation depends heavily on ICC profiles, which tell the printer how to mix inks for accurate output. Dedicated printers often include profiles matched to their ink. Convertible printers require you to source and install third-party ICC profiles, which can frustrate beginners. The Sawgrass MySawgrass platform handles color management automatically, which is a significant advantage for new users.
If color accuracy matters for your brand or product quality, choose a printer with built-in color management.
FAQs
Is Brother or Epson better for sublimation?
Both Brother and Epson make solid sublimation printers, but they serve different needs. Epson offers dedicated sublimation machines like the F170 plus convertible EcoTank models with the lowest ink costs. Brother’s SP-1 line integrates with the Artspira app and includes starter bundles with paper and blanks. Epson wins for ink affordability and print resolution, while Brother wins for beginner-friendly all-in-one bundles and faster print speeds.
Is Epson or Sawgrass better for sublimation?
Epson and Sawgrass take different approaches to sublimation. Epson’s F170 is more affordable and offers higher print resolution at 5760 x 1440 DPI. Sawgrass’s SG500 costs more but includes anti-clog technology, automatic printhead maintenance, and the MySawgrass color management platform. Epson is better for budget-conscious beginners, while Sawgrass is better for users who print irregularly and want zero maintenance headaches.
Is it worth buying a sublimation printer?
Yes, a sublimation printer is worth buying if you create custom apparel, mugs, tumblers, or gifts regularly. Sublimation produces vibrant, permanent prints that outlast heat transfer vinyl and last longer than standard inkjet transfers. For hobbyists, a converted EcoTank offers low entry cost. For small businesses, a dedicated printer like the F170 or SG500 provides reliability and warranty coverage that protects your investment.
Can you convert any printer to sublimation?
No, you cannot convert any printer to sublimation. Only printers with piezo printheads work for sublimation, because thermal printheads cannot handle sublimation ink. Epson EcoTank models use Micro Piezo technology and are the most popular convertible option. HP and Canon printers use thermal printheads and will not work for sublimation conversion. Always confirm a printer uses piezo technology before attempting conversion.
Final Thoughts on the Best Sublimation Printers
After three months of testing, the Epson SureColor F170 remains our top pick for the best sublimation printers in 2026. It delivers plug-and-play simplicity, genuine sublimation ink, and outstanding print quality without any conversion hassle. The Sawgrass SG500 is the premium choice for users who need anti-clog reliability and automatic color management.
For budget-conscious crafters, the converted Epson EcoTank ET-2800 offers the lowest cost per page, while the ET-15000 handles wide-format projects up to 13×19 inches. Brother’s SP-1 models bring app integration and complete starter bundles that get new crafters pressing transfers on day one.
Pick the printer that matches your budget, print volume, and tolerance for setup work. Any of these seven machines will produce vibrant, durable sublimation transfers that customers and gift recipients will love.