Best Printer for Sublimation: Top Choices for High-Quality Prints

Sublimation printing is a popular method of transferring designs onto various materials such as fabrics, ceramics, and metals. The process uses heat to turn solid ink into a gas that permeates the surface of the material, resulting in vibrant and long-lasting prints. However, not all printers are created equal when it comes to sublimation printing.

When it comes to finding the best printer for sublimation, there are several factors to consider. The first and most important is the type of ink used. Sublimation printers use special dye-based inks that are formulated to turn into gas when exposed to heat. These inks are different from traditional inks used in standard printers, and it’s essential to use the correct type to achieve the desired results.

Another critical factor to consider is the size of the printer. Sublimation printing is often used for creating large designs, such as banners and signs, so a printer with a wide format is ideal. Additionally, the printer’s resolution and color accuracy are crucial for producing high-quality prints.

After researching and testing several sublimation printers, we have identified the top options in the market. In the following sections, we will provide an in-depth review of each printer and highlight their key features and benefits. Whether you’re a small business owner or a hobbyist, we have a printer that will meet your sublimation printing needs.

Best Sublimation Printers

We understand the importance of having the right tools to bring your creative ideas to life. When it comes to printing designs on various materials, sublimation printers are the go-to choice for many professionals and DIY enthusiasts. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various sublimation printers to bring you a comprehensive list of the best products available. Our roundup includes printers that offer high-quality prints, are easy to use, and come with a range of features to suit your requirements. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’re confident that our list will help you find the best sublimation printer for your projects.

1) Brother Sublimation Printer

If you’re looking for a printer that can produce vibrant color designs for your sublimation projects with exceptional print quality, then the Brother Sublimation Printer is worth considering.

Pros

• Compatible with Artspira: Import and save up to 20 printing images easily with the Artspira app*. 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.
• Create in Artspira: 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!
• Make readymade clothes all yours: Use the Brother Sublimation Printer for your next DIY Project! It’s as easy as creating your design on Artspira*, transferring it, printing, heat pressing, and finishing! Heat press required-additional purchase necessary.

Cons

• Limited print size: The Brother Sublimation Printer has a maximum sheet size of 8.5×11, which may not be sufficient for larger sublimation projects.
• Slow printing speed: While the Brother Sublimation Printer produces high-quality prints, it may not be the best option for those who need to print large volumes of designs quickly.
• App compatibility issues: The Artspira app* may not be compatible with all devices and operating systems, which could limit its use for some users.

We found that the Brother Sublimation Printer is easy to set up and use, and the Artspira app* offers a great selection of designs and patterns to choose from. The printer produces high-quality, vibrant color designs that are perfect for a variety of sublimation projects, including t-shirts, mugs, and coasters. However, the limited print size and slow printing speed may not be suitable for everyone’s needs.

If you’re looking for a reliable sublimation printer that produces high-quality prints, the Brother Sublimation Printer is definitely worth considering. Just keep in mind the limited print size and slower printing speed when deciding if it’s the right choice for you.

2) Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless All-in-One Printer

If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable printer for your sublimation needs, we highly recommend the Epson EcoTank ET-2800.

Pros

• The high-capacity ink tanks eliminate the need for expensive cartridges, saving you up to 90% on replacement ink.
• The Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology produces sharp text and impressive color photos on virtually any paper type.
• The built-in scanner and copier make document copying and navigation a breeze.

Cons

• The paper tray setup can be frustrating, but the back feed accommodates thicker paper stock that won’t go through other printers.
• The setup process can be difficult for those unfamiliar with wireless printers.
• The actual savings and costs will vary considerably based on print tasks, print volumes, and usage conditions.

We were impressed with the EcoTank ET-2800’s innovative cartridge-free printing system that uses high-capacity, easily refillable ink tanks. This feature saves you money on replacement ink and reduces cartridge waste ending up in landfills.

The print quality was exceptional, thanks to the unique Micro Piezo Heat-Free Technology that produces sharp text and impressive color photos on virtually any paper type. The built-in scanner and copier made document copying and navigation a breeze.

Although the paper tray setup was frustrating, the back feed accommodated thicker paper stock that wouldn’t go through other printers. The setup process can be difficult for those unfamiliar with wireless printers. Additionally, the actual savings and costs will vary considerably based on print tasks, print volumes, and usage conditions.

Overall, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is an excellent basic home printer that offers an efficient and cost-effective solution for your printing needs.

3) Pinckney Sublimation Printer

If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use sublimation printer, the Pinckney Sublimation Printer is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The wireless feature makes it easy to print from anywhere in the room
• The high-capacity ink tanks mean no more ink cartridges to deal with
• The sublimation ink set produces vibrant and long-lasting colors on various surfaces

Cons

• It’s a bit bulky and heavy, making it difficult to move around
• The print speed is not the fastest, so it may not be ideal for high-volume printing
• It’s a bit pricey compared to other sublimation printers on the market

We recently tried out the Pinckney Sublimation Printer and were impressed with its overall performance. The wireless feature was incredibly convenient, allowing us to print from anywhere in the room without having to worry about cords or cables. The high-capacity ink tanks were also a great feature, as we didn’t have to worry about constantly replacing ink cartridges.

The sublimation ink set produced vibrant and long-lasting colors on various surfaces, including t-shirts, mugs, and phone cases. The auto-fill nozzle made it easy to fill the ink without any mess or ink leakage.

One downside of the printer is its bulkiness and weight, making it difficult to move around. Additionally, the print speed is not the fastest, so it may not be ideal for high-volume printing. Lastly, the price is a bit steep compared to other sublimation printers on the market.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use sublimation printer with vibrant and long-lasting colors, the Pinckney Sublimation Printer is definitely worth considering.

4) 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 Printer ET-15000

If you’re looking for a sublimation printer that can deliver vibrant prints up to 13″ x 19″, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is a great option. This all-in-one printer offers Cartridge-Free Printing with easy-to-fill supersized ink tanks. Here are the pros and cons of this printer based on our real-world experience:

Pros

• The EcoTank ET-15000 offers low-cost replacement bottles that can save you up to 90% on ink costs compared to traditional ink cartridges. You can print for up to 2 years with each included or replacement ink bottle set, which includes enough ink to print up to 6,000 pages.
• This printer is versatile in terms of paper handling, with a 250-sheet front tray paper capacity and rear specialty-paper feed. 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 ET-15000 features a 2.7″ color touchscreen and hands-free voice-activated printing, making it easy to use.

Cons

• One potential downside of the EcoTank ET-15000 is that it’s a bit bulky and heavy, weighing in at 26.5 pounds.
• While the printer is designed to be used exclusively with Epson Genuine Cartridges, the use of non-genuine ink could cause damage not covered under the printer’s limited warranty.
• Some users have reported issues with communication and print quality, so it’s important to do your research and make sure this printer is the right fit for your needs.

In our experience, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is a reliable and cost-effective option for sublimation printing. The low-cost replacement bottles and high-yield ink bottles mean you can print for longer periods of time without having to constantly replace cartridges. The versatile paper handling and hands-free printing features also make this printer easy to use. However, it’s important to keep in mind the potential downsides, such as the weight and the need to use Epson Genuine Cartridges. Overall, we recommend the EcoTank ET-15000 for anyone looking for a sublimation printer that can handle a variety of paper sizes and deliver vibrant, high-quality prints.

5) HP Smart-Tank 7602 Wireless Printer

If you are looking for an all-in-one printer that is perfect for low-cost, high-volume printing, the HP Smart-Tank 7602 Wireless Printer is a great option.

Pros

• The efficient ink tank system allows you to print up to 8,000 color or 6,000 black pages right out of the box.
• The touch panel makes it easy to complete everyday print, scan, and copy tasks with app-like, intuitive navigation.
• The HP wireless printer provides outstanding color graphics, photos, and crisp text for all your prints.

Cons

• The printer does not have automatic double-sided scanning.
• The initial setup process can be time-consuming.
• The printer is slightly bulkier than other models.

In our experience, the HP Smart-Tank 7602 Wireless Printer is a reliable all-in-one printer solution that is perfect for small businesses and home use. The refillable ink tank system is an excellent feature that saves you money in the long run, and the touch panel makes it easy to navigate the printer’s features.

One downside of this printer is that it does not have automatic double-sided scanning, which can be a hassle for some users. Additionally, the initial setup process can be time-consuming, but once the printer is up and running, it is easy to use.

Overall, if you are looking for an affordable, high-quality printer that can handle high-volume printing, the HP Smart-Tank 7602 Wireless Printer is an excellent choice.

6) Sawgrass UHD Virtuoso SG500 Sublimation Color Printer Starter Bundle with Paper, Inks, Tape, Blanks, Designs

If you’re looking for a high-quality sublimation printer, the Sawgrass UHD Virtuoso SG500 Sublimation Color Printer Starter Bundle is a great option. With its improved technology and compatibility with all SG400 accessories, it’s a great choice for hobbyists and professionals alike.

Pros

• The printer is easy to set up and use, making it a great choice for beginners.
• The included starter ink set provides enough ink for over 200 full coverage prints, giving you plenty of time to get started without having to purchase additional ink.
• The SG500 is compatible with a wide range of products, including polyester fabrics, acrylic, glass, and more.

Cons

• The starter ink set may not provide enough ink for those who plan to use the printer frequently or for large projects.
• Sublimation only works on polyester fabrics and polymer-coated rigid media, so it may not be suitable for all projects.
• The printer is on the expensive side, so it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget.

Overall, the Sawgrass UHD Virtuoso SG500 Sublimation Color Printer Starter Bundle is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality sublimation printer. Its ease of use, wide range of compatible products, and starter ink set make it a great choice for beginners, while its advanced technology and compatibility with SG400 accessories make it a great choice for professionals.

7) Brother HL-L3220CDW Wireless Printer

If you’re looking for a reliable home office printer that produces high-quality, smudge-free color documents, the Brother HL-L3220CDW is a great option. With its compact footprint and laser-focused functionality, it’s an affordable choice that won’t disappoint.

Pros

• The HL-L3220CDW produces laser-quality, smudge-free prints at speeds up to 19 pages per minute, making it a quick and efficient option for home offices.
• With its 250-sheet capacity paper tray, you won’t have to refill the printer as frequently, saving you time and hassle.
• The HL-L3220CDW is environmentally friendly, with features like Eco Mode, Toner Save Mode, and automatic duplex printing.

Cons

• The printer’s size may be a bit larger than some other home office printers, so it may not fit in smaller workspaces.
• Some users have reported issues with the printer’s wireless connectivity, so it may be best to connect via USB if you experience any problems.
• The printer’s toner cartridges can be expensive to replace, so it may be worth considering Brother’s Refresh EZ Print Subscription Service to save money.

We’ve found that the Brother HL-L3220CDW is a reliable and efficient printer that produces high-quality prints. Its wireless connectivity and mobile device compatibility make it easy to print from almost any device, and its advanced security features give you peace of mind when handling confidential documents. Overall, we highly recommend the Brother HL-L3220CDW for anyone in need of a dependable home office printer.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best printer for sublimation, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend paying close attention to the following factors:

Print Quality

The most important factor to consider when choosing a sublimation printer is the print quality. Look for a printer that produces high-resolution images with vibrant colors and sharp details. A printer with a high DPI (dots per inch) will generally produce better quality prints.

Ink System

Sublimation printing requires special ink that is designed to transfer onto a variety of materials. Look for a printer with a reliable ink system that can produce consistent results. Some printers use individual cartridges for each color, while others use a continuous ink system. Consider your printing needs and choose a printer with an ink system that suits your requirements.

Size and Capacity

Consider the size and capacity of the printer when making your choice. If you plan to print large quantities or large-sized prints, look for a printer with a larger capacity. However, larger printers may be more expensive and take up more space. Consider your budget and available space when choosing a printer.

Connectivity

Choose a printer that offers connectivity options that suit your needs. Most sublimation printers offer USB connectivity, but some also offer Wi-Fi or Ethernet connectivity. Consider your printing needs and choose a printer with the connectivity options that suit your requirements.

Price

Finally, consider the price of the printer when making your choice. Sublimation printers can range in price from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. Consider your budget and choose a printer that offers the features you need at a price you can afford.

In summary, when choosing the best printer for sublimation, consider the print quality, ink system, size and capacity, connectivity, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a printer that suits your printing needs and produces high-quality results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated printers for sublimation on t-shirts?

When it comes to sublimation printing on t-shirts, some of the top-rated printers include the Epson SureColor P600, Sawgrass Virtuoso SG400, and Ricoh SG-3110DN. These printers are known for their high-quality prints, reliability, and versatility.

Which sublimation printers are most suitable for beginners?

For beginners, we recommend starting with an affordable and easy-to-use sublimation printer such as the Epson EcoTank ET-2720 or the Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500. These printers are user-friendly and come with everything you need to get started with sublimation printing.

How do Epson printers compare to Sawgrass printers for sublimation tasks?

Both Epson and Sawgrass printers are popular choices for sublimation printing. Epson printers are known for their high-quality prints and versatility, while Sawgrass printers are designed specifically for sublimation printing and offer excellent color accuracy and consistency.

Can an inkjet printer be used for sublimation, or is a laser printer required?

Inkjet printers are the most commonly used printers for sublimation printing, as they are more affordable and offer better color accuracy than laser printers. However, it’s important to note that not all inkjet printers are suitable for sublimation printing, and you will need to use sublimation ink and paper to achieve the best results.

What features should I look for in a printer for both sublimation and heat transfer processes?

When choosing a printer for sublimation and heat transfer processes, look for a printer with a high resolution, good color accuracy, and the ability to handle various paper sizes and types. It’s also important to choose a printer that is compatible with sublimation ink and paper.

Are Brother printers compatible with sublimation techniques?

While Brother printers are not specifically designed for sublimation printing, some models can be used for this purpose with the right sublimation ink and paper. However, we recommend using a printer that is specifically designed for sublimation printing for the best results.