Best Printer for Sublimation: Compete & Easy Beginner’s Guide
If you’re looking for the best printer for sublimation, you’ve come to the right place.
My team and I spent 100’s of hours learning, researching and testing sublimation printers from all the top brands.
99% of them were a waste — nothing but sublimation printers that were hard to use, produced whack quality images and had sky-high prices — I wouldn’t even recommend them to experts.
But out of all of the sublimation printers we tested – a few of them were perfect — especially for beginners!
I’ve put together this guide to help you:
- save a ton of time
- save even more money
- save yourself from a ton of headaches
- pick the best sublimation printer to start you on your journey
SO, let’s get going and dive right in!
What Is the best sublimation printer?
My Top Picks
If you’re looking to start with a solid sublimation printer, these are my top 3 sublimation printers you’ll want to consider.
They’re all easy to use and produce high-quality results. So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sublimation printer, you’ll be able to create beautiful prints with these machines.
I’m a huge fan of the Sawgrass brand because Sawgrass devices take all the guesswork out of the sublimation process.
Sawgrass sublimation printers are designed specifically for sublimation printing! Plus each sublimation printer comes with a 2 year warranty, unlimited tech support, free access to their CreativeStudio software.
NOTE: Epson Printers require Sublimation Ink. Uses these printers solely for Sublimation Printing. Do not use regular ink in the printer if you EVER plan to use it for sublimation.
Full List for best sublimation printers:
- Sawgrass SG500 (BEST sublimation printer for Beginners)
- Sawgrass SG1000 (BEST SUBLIMATION PRINTER KIT for Beginners)
- Epson EcoTank ET – 4760 (BEST BUDGET SUBLIMATION PRINTER for Beginners)
- Epson WorkForce WF – 7720
- Epson EcoTank ET 2750
- Epson EcoTank ET 2760
Sawgrass SG500
BEST sublimation printer for Beginners
Overview
Take all the guesswork out of the sublimation process!
The Sawgrass SG500 sublimation printer is the best beginner-friendly sublimation printer on the market.
This powerful machine offers exceptional printing quality and color vibrancy with up to 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution.
This makes it a great choice for small businesses or anyone who wants to start printing high-quality graphics for sublimation.
Top Features
- Sawgrass Print Manager
- CreativeStudio Online Designer
- Designed to reduce ink and power utilization while amplifying quality and productivity.
- Includes a single roll-bar, more energy-efficiency, prints with higher resolution, and offers WiFi connectivity
- Backwards-compatible with SG400 accessories (which may be less expensive than newer model accessories
- 2-Year Product Warranty and unlimited tech support for the life of the product
- Print on media up to 8.5″ x 51″
Pricing
The Sawgrass SG500 sublimation printer is available starting at $680 — a great investment if you’re just starting out with sublimation. Check here for up-to-date pricing.
My Take
The Sawgrass SG500 is an excellent starter sublimation printer. It’s easy to use, produces high-quality prints with minimal ink waste, and is backed by an extensive warranty. Plus, it’s compatible with accessories from the older SG400 model — so you can save money while still maintaining high quality!
Sawgrass SG1000
BEST SUBLIMATION PRINTER KIT for Beginners
Overview
The Sawgrass SG100 sublimation printer is an excellent starter kit for anyone looking to begin sublimation printing. It features everything in the Sawgrass SG500 plus much more!
It comes with everything you need – the sublimation printer, inks, software, and more – to get started quickly.
This sublimation printer and kit completely removes the guesswork you will have when it comes to the printing process.
Highlights/Top Features/Benefits
- Prints 11′ x 17 with standard tray
- Can print up to 13″ x 51′
- Sawgrass Print Manager
- CreativeStudio Online Designer
- 2 Year Manufacturer Warranty
- 100 Sheets of 11″ x 17″ Premium Sublimation Paper designed for Sawgrass sublimation printers
- 4 Rolls of Swing Branded Heat Resistant Transfer Tape
- This whole section should be around 50-100 words depending on the product.
Pricing
Sawgrass SG1000 sublimation printers can be purchased for $1650 and includes a 2-year product warranty and unlimited tech support. Check here for up-to-date pricing.
My Take
The Sawgrass SG1000 sublimation printer is best for people who want to print high-quality graphics for sublimation and want everything needed to get started — EVERYTHING.
It’s a heck of a deal if you’re just getting started and want to dive in head first with sublimation printing.
Epson EcoTank ET – 4760
BEST BUDGET sublimation printer for Beginners
Overview
The Epson EcoTank 4760 is the perfect budget sublimation printer for beginners. It features a compact, ink saving design, high volume paper tray and great price (without trading value)!
Highlights/Top Features/Benefits
- Sharp colors fast⚡ — powered by PrecisionCore — the next generation of printing technology
- Save up to 90 percent with replacement ink bottles vs. ink cartridges
- Prints up to 7,500 pages black/6,000 color per ink set
- Get more done in less time — 250-sheet paper tray
- Auto Document Feeder, auto 2-sided printing, scanning, copying, and borderless printing
- Print wirelessly with WiFi and from tablets and smartphones
- Hands-free, voice-activated printing
Pricing
The Epson EcoTank printer is a great budget sublimation printer for beginners, with a price tag landing right at $595! Check here for up-to-date pricing.
My Take
The Epson EcoTank 4760 is the best budget sublimation printer for anyone just getting started with sublimation printing. It’s fast, efficient, and produces great prints with minimal ink waste. Plus, it’s compact and comes with a high volume paper tray — perfect for anyone just getting started!
Epson WorkForce WF – 7720
Overview
The Epson WorkForce WF-7720 is the ideal sublimation printer — and it works great for both beginners and experts alike. It offers superior printing quality and a wide range of features, such as auto document feeder and double-sided printing.
Highlights/Top Features/Benefits
- Requires Sublimation Conversion Kit for sublimation printing
- Experience superior performance beyond the capabilities of laser technology. — the workforce WF-7720, powered by PrecisionCore
- Professional-grade printing quality — borderless prints up to 13″ X 19″
- Economical — uses up to 80% less power compared to most Color laser printers
- Mass high-volume printing — 500-sheet capacity, dual trays
- Large Scan and print sublimation: scan up to 11″ X 17″
Pricing
The Epson WorkForce WF-7720 can be purchased starting at $1427. Check here for up-to-date pricing.
My Take
This Epson sublimation printer is best for people who want to print high-quality graphics for sublimation and want everything needed to get started. It is a great choice for anyone who wants to go with a professional-grade printer for their sublimation projects.
Just remember, the WorkForce WF-7720 requires a Sublimation Conversion Kit, making it easy to get started right away!
Epson EcoTank ET 2750
Overview
This Epson EcoTank printer is an excellent choice for those looking to buy an amazing printer to convert their printer for sublimation printing.
It features a unique EcoTank ink refilling system, which allows you to save up to 70% on your ink costs. Epson states a single ink set can last up to 2 years!
NOTE: This printer requires Sublimation Ink. Use this printer solely for Sublimation Printing. Do not use regular ink in the printer if you EVER plan to use it for sublimation.
Highlights/Top Features/Benefits
- Beautiful vivid color prints
- Cartridge-free printing — sublimation ink sets can last up to 2 years!
- Ink prints up to 6,500 pages black/5,200 color
- Easy wireless — Easily print from iPad, iPhone, Android tablets and smartphones
Pricing
The Epson EcoTank 2750 is priced starting at $450. Check here for up-to-date pricing.
My Take
This is a great printer for people who want to print high-quality graphics.
This printer is also excellent for people who want to save money on ink and don’t mind the extra time it takes to refill the tanks — which should only be needed every 2 YEARS!
The EcoTank system is an affordable and efficient choice for anyone looking for a budget-friendly sublimation printer.
Epson EcoTank ET 2760
Overview
The Epson EcoTank 2760 is the perfect sublimation printer for anyone looking to print beautiful vibrant prints using a reliable, efficient and cost-effective solution. This printer features an up to 70% reduction in ink costs thanks to its EcoTank refilling system and can produce borderless prints up to 4″ x 6″.
NOTE: This printer requires Sublimation Ink. Use this printer solely for Sublimation Printing. Do not use regular ink in the printer if you EVER plan to use it for sublimation.
Highlights/Top Features/Benefits
- 1.44″ color LCD Scan Bed Display
- Easily print borderless 4″ x 6″ photos
- Features 100-sheet paper capacity
- WiFi and Standard USB connectivity
- Up to 2 years of ink with each ink set
- Print up to 4,500 pages with one ink set (equivalent to about 80 individual cartridges)
Pricing
The Epson EcoTank 2750 is priced starting at $450. Check here for up-to-date pricing.
My Take
This printer is best for people who want to print high-quality graphics for sublimation and want everything needed to get started. It is a great choice for anyone who wants to go with a professional-grade printer for their sublimation projects.
Frequently Asked Questions about sublimation printing
Can I use a canon printer for sublimation?
Yes, you can. Canon printers are compatible with sublimation inks, so they can be used to print designs onto transfer paper for sublimation products. However, it is important to note that not all Canon models are ideal for this purpose – the best printer to use (especially for beginners) are Sawgrass SG500 (BEST sublimation printer for Beginners), Sawgrass SG1000 (BEST sublimation printer KIT for Beginners), and the Epson EcoTank ET – 4760 (BEST BUDGET sublimation printer for Beginners).
Can you use any printer for sublimation?
No, not all printers are compatible with sublimation inks. You can’t just use your inkjet printer as it is not designed to use these specialized inks.
The best printers for sublimation are those that have been specifically designed and tested to work with the inks.
Some of the best dye sublimation printers include the Sawgrass SG500 (BEST sublimation printer for Beginners), Sawgrass SG1000 (BEST sublimation printer KITI find it best to use the Sawgrass line of sublimation printers because they are designed specifically for sublimation work.
However, if you are on a budget and don’t have access to a Sawgrass printer, the Epson EcoTank 4760 is also a great option.
Can I use my printer for sublimation?
If you are not sure, it is best to check with the manufacturer first. Some printers can be converted for use with sublimation inks, but this may require additional accessories or modifications. Additionally, if you plan on using your printer for sublimation, make sure you buy genuine sublimation ink – as regular ink will not work properly.
What’s the best Epson printer for sublimation?
The Epson EcoTank 4760 is the best Epson device for sublimation. With the proper sublimation ink, the ET-4760 can handle sublimation ink and can produce high-quality prints with sharp, vibrant colors. Additionally, this model features an up to 70% reduction in ink costs thanks to its EcoTank refilling system and can produce borderless prints — win-win-win!
Do you need a special printer for sublimation?
Yes and no. Regular inkjet printers are not capable of handling sublimation compatible ink, as the ink needs to be heated up to certain temperatures in order to transfer onto polyester fabric or other polyester materials.
Many printers can be “converted” to handle sublimation ink, but it is best to check with the manufacturer first.
What is the best sublimation printer for Cricut?
The Sawgrass line of sublimation printers are best to use for Cricut. This includes the Sawgrass SG500 sublimation printer and the Sawgrass SG1000 sublimation printer. However, if you are on a budget the Epson EcoTank 4760 is also a great option.
And if you’re looking for printers outside of sublimation machines, here is my list of best printers for Cricut print and cut projects.
What is the best Epson printer for sublimation printing?
The Epson EcoTank 4760 is the best Epson machine for sublimation printing. With the proper sublimation ink, this model can produce high-quality prints with sharp, vibrant colors and features an up to 70% reduction in ink costs thanks to its EcoTank refilling system.
What type of Epson printer is best for sublimation?
The EcoTank line of Epson machines are best for sublimation. They are excellent on ink life and easy on the budget.
NOTE: Epson Printers require Sublimation Ink. Use this printer solely for Sublimation Printing. Do not use regular ink in the printer if you EVER plan to use it for sublimation.
Which Brother printer is best for sublimation?
The Brother MFC-J995DW is the best Brother printer for sublimation. This model can handle sublimation compatible ink and can produce high-quality prints with sharp, vibrant colors. Click here to check prices and availability.
Which Epson workforce printer is best for sublimation?
The Epson Workforce Pro WF-7720 is the best Epson Workforce printer for sublimation.
For sublimation projects, this printer is your ideal solution.
Regardless of your experience level, this machine will work wonders for you.
It offers superior printing quality and a wide range of features, such as auto document feeder and double-sided printing.
What is the best sublimation ink for Epson printer?
The best sublimation ink for Epson printers is the Hiipoo Sublimation Ink — specifically for EcoTank Supertank Inkjet Printers.
The water-based dye sublimation Ink provides high quality high-heat transfer printing, and produces bright and vivid colors.
With these you’ll get:
• Outstanding breathability
• Achieve quick results with fast-drying ink – perfect for busy schedules and last minute projects!
• Dive into your favorite photos with our durable waterproof prints that keep you safe from the elements.
• and absolutely no discoloration or fading
Our ink ensures a hassle-free printing experience, designed to effortlessly pass through the printer heads without any blockage or harm.
What is the best printer for sublimation printing?
My colleagues and I dedicated hundreds of hours to researching, testing and mastering the sublimation printing technology from all the leading brands.
The vast majority of these sublimation printers were practically a waste – they were hard to use, the printed images had terrible quality and came at exorbitant prices.
From our research we find the Sawgrass sublimation printers to be the best for sublimation printing. Here’s our top picks:
- Sawgrass SG500 (BEST sublimation printer for Beginners)
- Sawgrass SG1000 (BEST SUBLIMATION PRINTER KIT for Beginners)
- Epson EcoTank 4760 (BEST BUDGET sublimation printer for Beginners)
What is the best Epson printer for sublimation ink?
The Epson EcoTank 4760 is the best Epson printer for sublimation ink. It is extremely great for anyone looking for an affordable sublimation printer, but still wants a reliable printer for sublimation. This model can handle the special inks and produces high quality prints with sharp, vibrant colors at a fraction of the cost of other printers.
It also features an up to 70% reduction in ink costs thanks to its EcoTank refilling system, making it a great option for those looking to save even more money on printer supplies.
Overall, the ET-4760 is one of the best Epson options when it comes to dye sublimation printing.
What printer is the best for sublimation?
The best are Sawgrass SG500 sublimation printers. This printer offers a comprehensive range of features and outputs far superior quality prints than other models on the market. It also has an impressive ink efficiency, with up to 70% less waste compared to traditional cartridges.
Finally, SG500 sublimation printers are designed with ease-of-use in mind, making it ideal for both experienced and novice users alike.
Whether you’re looking to start a new business or just want to try out sublimation printing at home, this printer is the perfect choice.
What type of printer is best for sublimation?
The best type of printer for sublimation is an inkjet printer that is specifically designed to handle special sublimation compatible inks.
Examples include the popular Sawgrass SG500 sublimation printer and Epson EcoTank 4760 models, both of which offer superior printing quality with sharp, vibrant colors.
The Sawgrass SG500 sublimation printer and SG1000 sublimation printer are especially suitable for those who are just starting out – they are designed solely for sublimation printing and come with complete sublimation kits that include everything you need to get started.
This makes them the perfect choice for anyone looking for a fast, easy and cost-effective way to begin their journey into the world of sublimation printing.
What sublimation printer is best?
The best sublimation printer is the Sawgrass SG500.
This sublimation printer provides a comprehensive range of features, from its user-friendly design to its remarkable ink efficiency and outputs far superior prints than other models on the market.
It also comes with complete start-up kits that include everything you need – including software, inks and more – to get you up and running.
Overall, the SG500 sublimation printer is an excellent choice for those who are just starting out or even experienced users looking for a reliable printer at an affordable price.
What is the best sublimation printer for home use?
Hands down, the Sawgrass SG500 sublimation printer and SG1000 sublimation printer are the best sublimation printers for home use.
These models are specifically designed to handle special sublimation grade inks and produce ultra-high-quality prints with sharp, vibrant colors. They also come with complete start-up kits that include everything you need to get started – from software, inks and more.
Being designed for sublimation printing also provides the advantage of being most economical with ink usage and power consumption.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been printing for years, these two models are the perfect choices for anyone looking for easy to use and cost-effective sublimation printers.
Which Epson printer is best for sublimation conversion?
The best Epson printer for sublimation conversion is the EcoTank ET-4760. This model can handle the special inks used for sublimation and produces high quality prints with sharp, vibrant colors.
It also features an up to 70% reduction in ink costs thanks to its EcoTank refilling system, making it a great option for those looking to save even more money on printer supplies.
Overall, the ET-4760 is one of the best Epson options when it comes to sublimation printing.
Summary
Sublimation printing is a great way to create high quality prints with vibrant colors, and the best sublimation printers for this type of printing are those that are specifically designed for sublimation grade inks.
The Sawgrass SG500 and SG1000 sublimation printers are two such models that come with complete start-up kits, making them perfect for anyone just starting out in this exciting field of printing.
Also the Epson EcoTank 4760 is a great choice for those looking to save on ink costs and produce high quality prints.
No matter which model you choose, these printers make sublimation printing easy, cost-effective and fun.