The 7 Best Sublimation Printers for Beginners in 2024

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Since customized products became a year’s trend, sublimation printing technologies have been advancing at a neck-breaking pace. Now, a new sublimation printer emerges in the market every day, carrying more surprises for customers. While this is good news for many businesses, it might put you in a pickle trying to find the best sublimation printer among unlimited choices.

Lucky for you, we’ve made a list of the best printers for sublimation on the market today, along with a buying guide to help you reach a decision. So without further ado, let’s jump in!

Table of Contents

Comparison Table for The Top 7 Rated Sublimation Printers

Printer ModelPricePrinting TechnologyPrint ResolutionPrint SpeedPaper Size
Epson EcoTank ET-2720Check Price4-color MicroPiezoUp to 5760 x 1440 dpiUp to 10.5 ppm black, 5 ppm colorUp to 8.5″ x 14″
WorkForce WF-7210Check PricePrecisionCoreUp to 4800 x 2400 dpiUp to 18 ppm black, 10 ppm colorUp to 13″ x 19″
Sawgrass Virtuoso SG1000Check PriceSublimationUp to 1200 x 1200 dpiUp to 6 ppm colorUp to 13″ x 19″
The Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500Check PriceDye-SublimationUp to 4800 x 1200 dpiApproximately 4 pages per minuteUp to 8.5″ x 51″
Sawgrass Virtuoso SG400Check PriceSublimationUp to 1200 x 1200 dpiUp to 13 ppm colorUp to 8.5″ x 14″
SureColor F570Check PricePrecisionCoreUp to 4400 x 2400 dpiNot specifiedUp to 24″ wide”
Brother HL-L2320DCheck PriceLaserUp to 2400 x 600 dpiUp to 30 ppmUp to 8.5″ x 14″

The 7 Best Sublimation Printers in 2024

Here are our brief reviews of the seven best printers for sublimation printing on the market.

1. Epson EcoTank ET-2720 – Best Epson Printer for Sublimation

Epson EcoTank ET-2720

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The EcoTank ET-2720 comes close second on our list with its speed, ease of use, and affordability. It’s one of the few Epson printers that won’t break your bank, which is ideal for people starting a new business.

It utilizes easy-to-fill and high-capacity ink tanks and features an excellent-resolution flatbed scanner and copier. You’ll also save replacement ink money by up to 90% and won’t have any cartridge waste.

The Epson printer features excellent print quality with unique heat-free technology and vibrant colors on all paper types. As for connectivity, you can use your ET-2720 over USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi. As a bonus point, you can use the Epson Smart Panel application to print any image from your smart device. It also comes with voice-activated printing.

Epson provides a two-year warranty with this EcoTank printer, including replacement if the product arrives faulty. Finally, the ink that comes with this printer isn’t suitable for sublimation. So before working on your sublimation printing business, you’ll need to buy specific sublimation ink.

Pros:

  • Excellent connectivity
  • Affordable
  • Voice-activated printing
  • Two-year warranty

Cons:

  • No touchscreen display

Final Verdict

If you want a reliable printer for sublimation but don’t want to dent your wallet, look no further than the Epson EcoTank ET-2720.

2. WorkForce WF-7210 – Best for Two-Sided Printing

Epson WorkForce WF-7210

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The WorkForce WF-7210 takes a proud stance among printers because of its staggering features. It delivers high-quality printings with high-resolution graphics and vivid colors. This is because of the PrecisionCore technology that many Epson sublimation printers offer.

On top of that, the WF-7210 features a shocking 500-sheet capacity, which means you won’t have to supply it with sublimation papers every other day. The inkjet printer also has a rear feed for specialty paper and two paper trays that can take up to 250 sheets each. As a result, it highly resembles the Epson Workforce WF-7720 in many features.

Unlike many choices on our list, this Epson Workforce model allows two-sided printing. It also comes with an LCD for smooth navigation and easy setup. As for connectivity, it offers wireless printing through Wi-Fi direct connectivity. You can also use it to print images from your smart device, whether a phone or a tablet.

Finally, the WorkForce sublimation printer uses high-capacity ink cartridges that allow for high-volume printing without an issue, like all WorkForce printers.

Pros:

  • Wireless connectivity
  • 500-sheet capacity
  • Two-sided printing
  • LCD for smooth navigation

Cons:

  • Works with only Epson ink cartridges

Final Verdict

The Epson WorkForce WF-7210 is one of the best dye-sublimation printers on our list for business use because of its high-quality printings, astonishing sheet capacity, and two-sided printing feature.

3. Sawgrass Virtuoso SG400 – Best for Limited Space

Sawgrass Virtuoso SG400

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The Sawgrass Virtuoso SG400 is a great sublimation printer option for beginners who are just starting to venture into sublimation printing. It has exceptional features that are useful for producing high-quality prints that will satisfy any customer.

The SG400 can print stunning graphics with vibrant and accurate colors on a variety of materials, including ceramic, metal, and textiles. The printer’s speed and efficiency allow you to produce prints quickly without sacrificing quality, making it an optimal choice for those starting in the sublimation industry.

The Sawgrass Virtuoso SG400 is also an excellent option for professionals looking for a reliable and easy-to-use printing solution. If you are looking for a budget-friendly sublimation printer with incredible features, the SG400 is worth considering. In combination with the other sublimation printers such as the Epson Workforce 7720 or 7840 and the Epson EcoTank 2720, any beginner or professional can choose the best sublimation printer that meets their requirements.

Overall, the Sawgrass Virtuoso SG400 is a top-notch dye-sublimation printer that delivers exceptional print quality and versatility. While it may be on the pricier side, it is well worth the investment for anyone looking to produce high-quality, custom prints. With its easy-to-use interface and reliable performance, the SG400 is a great choice for both beginners and experienced print professionals alike.

Pros:

  • Designed specifically for sublimation
  • Easy-to-use interface for artists
  • Dazzling HD photo-quality prints up to 8.5″ x 14″
  • Optimized head jetting pressures and advanced algorithms for superior image quality
  • A fully integrated sublimation printing system
  • The bundle includes a complete set of Sawgrass Sublijet HD inks and 110 sheets of sublimation paper
  • Can print up to 1200 x 1200 dpi for high-quality reproduction
  • Comes with an installation kit
  • A ready-to-start system with a brand-new sealed box

Cons:

  • Limited to sublimation printing only
  • May require additional maintenance and troubleshooting for optimal performance
  • Relatively expensive compared to other inkjet printers
  • May not be suitable for high-volume printing needs

Final Verdict

The Sawgrass Virtuoso SG400 is a high-quality dye-sublimation printer that delivers consistent and reliable results with true-to-life colors. Its versatility, ease of use, and exceptional print quality make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to produce custom prints.

4. SureColor F570 – Best Affordable Printer

SureColor F570

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If you don’t mind paying a large amount of money and getting outstanding features in exchange, you’ll fall in love with the SureColor F570. It delivers high-quality printings with its Nozzle Verification Technology, PrecisionCore printhead, and Precision Droplet Control.

Moreover, it comes with a pack of sublimation transfer paper to ensure maximum clarity and vivid colors on all materials, whether hard or soft. That’s why the F570 rules in terms of versatility and will help your sublimation printing business rise to the top of the market. It also takes sheets up to 24 inches in width and comes with a built-in rotary cutter and an auto-feed tray that can take up to 50 sheets.

If you purchase the SureColor F570, you don’t need to worry about your workspace. It has a compact design that’ll fit on your desk easily.

While the F570 works with both Windows and Mac printing software, it doesn’t come with a specified design software of its own as other models do.

Pros:

  • High-quality printings
  • Versatile
  • Built-in rotary cutter and 50-sheet auto-feed tray
  • Works with both Windows and Mac printing software

Cons:

  • Pricier than other options on our list

Final Verdict

If you prioritize high-quality products over affordability, you should opt for the SureColor F570 for its exceptional features.

5. Sawgrass Virtuoso SG1000 – Best Premium Sublimation Printing Machine

Sawgrass Virtuoso SG1000

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The Sawgrass Virtuoso SG1000 offers luxury as no other sublimation printer does. It’ll take your sublimation printing business a mile away from mediocrity with its high-quality results and impressive resolution. In addition, it comes with an Ultra-Fine photo mode that allows printing at 4800 x 1200 dpi.

To help beginners start their sublimation journey, this printer comes with many guides to sublimation, along with a complete set of ink cartridges. You can use the SG1000 to print many products, ranging from glass and metal to fabrics and polyester.

We’re all familiar with the usual color fading that happens to customized, printed products. However, you can forget about this inconvenience with the SubliJet-UHD inks that come with this printer and most Sawgrass printers.

If you leave the Sawgrass printer for a long while without using it, you don’t need to worry about bringing it to speed again. It comes with an innovative self-maintenance mood that ensures the printer runs perfectly even after a long time.

Finally, the SG1000 features an online sublimation-specific design tool. It comes with many ready-to-use templates and designs that you can incorporate into your work. This way, you won’t need to exhaust your mind trying to brainstorm new ideas.

Pros:

  • Ultra-Fine photo mode
  • Sublijet-UHD inks
  • Self-maintenance mood
  • Online sublimation-specific design tool

Cons:

  • On the pricey side of the market

Final Verdict

If you want a luxurious printer that offers remarkable features and high-quality results and don’t mind denting your wallet a bit, go for the Sawgrass Virtuoso SG1000.

6. The Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500 – An Innovative Leap in Sublimation Printing

Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500

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The Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500 is a superb addition to the sublimation printing market, perfect for both hobbyists and professionals. Building on the success of its predecessor, the SG400, the SG500 offers enhanced features and capabilities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking high-quality and versatile printing solutions.

Key Features:

  • Compact and Efficient: The SG500’s design is ideal for desktop use, occupying minimal space while delivering outstanding performance. Its ability to print on media up to 8.5˝ x 14˝ makes it versatile for various projects.
  • Advanced Technology: This printer boasts significant upgrades like improved energy efficiency, higher resolution printing, and convenient WiFi connectivity, ensuring a user-friendly experience.
  • Flexible Ink Options: The SG500 offers a choice between Starter Install Kits (20ml cartridges) and Standard Install Kits (31ml cartridges), catering to different user needs.
  • Inclusive Package: It comes with TexPrint DT Heavy Sublimation Paper, a SubliCraft Sublimation Blank Sample Pack, and various online resources like HPN Sublimation Masterclass and CreativeStudio Online Design Software.
  • Exceptional Print Quality: With its Ultra Fine Photo Mode, the SG500 produces stunning high-resolution prints, ideal for detailed images and photographs.
  • Durability and Versatility: Sublimated images are permanent, offering superior durability on a wide range of substrates, including metal, ceramic, and polyester fabrics.

Pros:

  • User-Friendly Interface: The SG500 is designed for ease of use, making it accessible for beginners and convenient for professionals.
  • High-Quality Prints: Capable of printing up to 4800 x 1200 dpi, it ensures sharp, vibrant, and detailed images.
  • Comprehensive Support: Comes with a 2-year warranty, unlimited tech support, and a backward compatibility feature for SG400 accessories.
  • Innovative Features: WiFi connectivity, backlit display, and self-maintenance mode enhance the overall user experience.

Cons:

  • Specialized Usage: Primarily limited to sublimation printing, it may not cater to all printing needs.
  • Ink Usage: The initial feed process consumes a significant amount of ink, which could be a concern for some users.
  • Price Point: It is relatively more expensive than some other printers in the market, making it a considered investment.

Final Verdict:

The Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500 stands out as a top-tier sublimation printer. Its combination of advanced features, user-friendly design, and high-quality output make it a valuable investment for those dedicated to producing top-notch sublimated products. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, the SG500 promises to deliver consistent and impressive results, making it a commendable choice in the sublimation printing industry.

7. Brother HL-L2320D – Best Black & White Printer for Sublimation

Brother HL-L2320D

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If your business is expanding fast and you need a printer to accommodate your needs at a quick speed, then the Brother HL-L2320D is the one for you. Since laser printers are much faster than inkjet ones, you’ll enjoy a maximum print speed of 30 ppm. As a result, you can print high volumes in such a short time.

Also, this printer allows for two-sided printing, also known as automatic duplex printing. This means that you can print many designs at once without wasting paper.

As for the sheet capacity, it comes with a tray that takes up to 250 sheets at once. In addition, the Brother printer produces high-quality prints with a maximum resolution of 2400 x 600 dpi. Not to mention, it features a Toner Save mode that’ll drastically decrease your printing cost.

If you’re on a tight budget, you don’t need to worry about the future of your sublimation printing business, as this printer comes at a pretty reasonable price.

Pros:

  • 30ppm printing speed
  • Automatic duplexing
  • 250-sheet capacity
  • Budget-friendly

Cons:

  • It doesn’t come with a USB cable

Final Verdict

If you want an affordable and good sublimation printer that’ll perform well in both sublimation and photo printing, look no further than the Brother HL-L2320D.

How to Choose The Right Sublimation Printer That Will Suit Your Needs?

There are a few key factors that you should consider when buying a sublimation printing machine. Here’s a brief roundup of all of them.

1. Understand What Sublimation Printing Is

Sublimation printing is a digital printing technology that involves the use of heat to transfer dye onto various materials such as plastic, card, paper, or fabric. The term ‘sublimation’ refers to the chemical process where a substance changes from a solid state directly to a gas, bypassing the liquid state.

During sublimation printing, special sublimation ink is heated until it disintegrates into a gas. This gas then permeates the fibers or polymer coating of the material, creating a permanent, high-resolution, full-color print that won’t peel or fade. Understanding this process is crucial because it helps you understand the capabilities and limitations of sublimation printers and informs your decision when choosing the right one.

2. Identify Your Needs

Before you start shopping for a sublimation printer, it’s crucial to identify what you’ll be using it for. Are you a hobbyist looking to print on mugs, mouse pads, or small apparel items, or are you a business owner needing to print on a large scale? Maybe you’re an artist who wants to reproduce artwork in a variety of mediums.

Your intended use will significantly influence the type of printer you need. For example, if you’re planning to print on small items like phone cases or coasters, a small-format printer may be adequate. However, if you want to print on larger items like T-shirts or banners, you’ll need a larger printer that can handle these dimensions.

3. Choose the Right Size

Sublimation printers come in a variety of sizes, from compact desktop models to large format printers suitable for industrial use. The size you choose will depend on the products you plan to produce and the space you have available. For example, if you’re running a small business from home, a desktop model may be the most practical option.

However, if you’re planning to produce large-scale items like banners or flags, or if you’re printing in large quantities, a large-format printer may be a better fit. Always measure your workspace and consider the printer’s dimensions before purchasing to ensure it will fit comfortably.

4. Consider Print Quality

One of the most important aspects to consider when buying a sublimation printer is the print quality. This directly impacts the final appearance of your product, making it a key factor in customer satisfaction. Print quality is usually measured in DPI (dots per inch), and a higher DPI means a more detailed and sharper image.

However, keep in mind that high DPI values are not always necessary. If you’re printing small items with simple designs, a lower DPI might be sufficient. But if you’re printing large items or designs with a lot of detail, a printer with a higher DPI would be a better choice.

5. Look at the Printer’s Color Performance

Another vital aspect of print quality is color performance. A printer’s color performance can greatly affect the final product, especially when printing images with a wide range of colors.

A good sublimation printer should offer a wide color gamut (the range of colors a printer can reproduce), excellent color accuracy (how closely the printed colors match the original colors), and smooth color transitions. This will ensure your printed products look vibrant, realistic, and professional.

6. Evaluate the Speed

The speed of a sublimation printer is another important consideration, especially if you plan to print in high volumes. Printer speed is usually measured in pages per minute (PPM), and a higher PPM means a faster printer. Fast printers can help increase productivity, reduce downtime, and meet tight deadlines. However, keep in mind that speed can sometimes come at the expense of print quality, so it’s essential to strike a balance# Let’s continue with the remaining points.

7. Check the Ink Type

In sublimation printing, the type of ink used is crucial. There are mainly two types of inks used in this process: sublimation inks and heat transfer inks. Sublimation inks are specially formulated to convert from a solid to a gas under heat and pressure, which is what allows them to bond with the material’s fibers or coating. This feature makes them ideal for sublimation printing, where the goal is to create prints that are resistant to fading and peeling.

On the other hand, heat transfer inks are used to print the design onto a special heat transfer paper, which is then pressed onto the material to transfer the design. The quality of the print using heat transfer inks depends largely on the quality of the transfer paper used. Each type of ink has its pros and cons, and they are used for different applications, so it’s essential to ensure the printer you choose is compatible with the type of ink you plan to use.

8. Consider the Cost

Sublimation printers can vary widely in price, ranging from a few hundred dollars for entry-level models to several thousand for professional-grade ones. When considering the cost, it’s important to take into account not just the upfront cost of the printer, but also the ongoing costs. These include the cost of ink, replacement parts, maintenance, and electricity.

Higher-end printers often have more efficient ink usage and longer-lasting parts, which can save you money in the long run. However, they also have a higher upfront cost, so you’ll need to consider your budget and how much you’re willing to invest upfront versus over time. Remember, the most expensive printer isn’t necessarily the best for your needs, and there may be more affordable options that can deliver the quality and performance you need.

9. Check the Printer’s Durability

The durability of a sublimation printer is another critical factor to consider. A good sublimation printer should be well-built and able to withstand heavy use, especially if you’re planning to use it for a business. To assess a printer’s durability, you can look at its build quality, the materials it’s made of, and any reviews or ratings from users who have used it for a similar purpose as you.

Keep in mind that while more durable printers tend to be more expensive, they can also last longer and give you a better return on your investment. It’s often more cost-effective in the long run to invest in a high-quality, durable printer that won’t require frequent repairs or replacements.

10. Review the Warranty and Support

Finally, don’t forget to check what kind of warranty and customer support is offered with the printer. A good warranty can give you peace of mind knowing that if anything goes wrong with the printer, you’ll be covered. It’s also a reflection of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.

Customer support is also crucial, as it can help you resolve any issues or answer any questions you might have. Look for a company that offers good after-sales service and has a reputation for responding promptly and helpfully to customer inquiries. Additionally, consider whether the company provides resources for troubleshooting and learning how to use the printer, as this can be a major advantage if you’re new to sublimation printing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What printers are best used for sublimation?

The best printers for sublimation are those that are compatible with sublimation ink and have a high print quality. Some popular printers for sublimation include the Sawgrass SG500, the Epson SureColor F570, and the Brother Sublimation Printer.

What is the best cheapest printer for sublimation?

The best cheapest printer for sublimation is the Epson EcoTank ET-2720. It is a reliable printer that is compatible with sublimation ink and is relatively affordable.

Can you do sublimation with Cricut?

Yes, you can do sublimation with Cricut. Cricut machines can be used to cut sublimation blanks, such as heat transfer vinyl, and then you can use a sublimation printer to print your designs onto the blanks.

What do I need for sublimation printing?

To sublimate, you will need a sublimation printer, sublimation ink, sublimation blanks, and a heat press. You will also need a computer to design your sublimation projects.

What is the easiest printer to convert to sublimation?

The easiest printer to convert to sublimation is the Epson EcoTank ET-2720. It is a reliable printer that is compatible with sublimation ink and can be easily converted using a few simple steps.

Which EcoTank is best for sublimation?

The best EcoTank for sublimation is the Epson EcoTank ET-2720. It is a reliable printer that is compatible with sublimation ink and is relatively affordable.

Do you need a Cricut for sublimation?

No, you do not need a Cricut for sublimation. You can use a variety of other cutting machines, such as the Silhouette Cameo, to cut sublimation blanks.

Do you need a Cricut for sublimation printing?

No, you do not need a Cricut for sublimation printing. You can use a variety of other printers, such as the Epson EcoTank ET-2720, to print your sublimation designs.

Do you have to buy a special printer for sublimation?

No, you do not have to buy a special printer for sublimation. You can use a variety of printers, as long as they are compatible with sublimation ink.

Is sublimation cheaper than heat transfer?

Sublimation can be cheaper than heat transfer, depending on the materials you are using. Sublimation ink is typically more expensive than heat transfer vinyl, but sublimation blanks are typically less expensive than heat transfer blanks.

Which is better a Cricut or a sublimation printer?

Which is better for you depends on your needs. If you need to cut sublimation blanks, then you will need a cutting machine, such as a Cricut or Silhouette Cameo. If you only need to print sublimation designs, then you can use a sublimation printer.

To Wrap Up

If you’ve been looking for the best sublimation printer on the market, we have good news for you. The SureColor F570 is ideal for most people because of its exceptional features and practicality. Meanwhile, the Sawgrass Virtuoso SG400 will come to the rescue if you have a small workspace and can’t fit most sublimation printers on your desk.

All in all, you can start your sublimation journey with any great sublimation printer from our list.

1 thought on “The 7 Best Sublimation Printers for Beginners in 2024”

  1. We have an Epson ET-2800. It is supposed to do sublimation printing but has a design flaw in the ribbon cable attached to the print head getting bound up in the mechanism to move the head. After two months, ours did that.

    Epson voided the warrantee because sublimation ink was used irrespective of actual cause. If you are going to buy an Epson printer for this function, expect them to refuse to honor their warrantee should there be a problem.

    Reply

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