Top 10 Best Sublimation Printers for Crafting and Business in 2024

The world of sublimation printing is vast and full of possibilities, allowing you to create stunning designs on a variety of materials. From crafting personalized gifts to starting a thriving sublimation printing business, the best sublimation printer is the key to unlocking your creative potential. But with so many options on the market, choosing the perfect printer can be overwhelming.

Worry not! We’ve got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 10 best sublimation printers for crafting and business in 2024. We’ll dive into their unique features, pros and cons, and help you make the right choice for your needs. So, let’s embark on this exciting journey and discover the perfect sublimation printer for you!

Introduction

Sublimation printing, also known as dye sublimation printing, is an interesting process. It uses a heat press, along with heat and pressure, to transfer vivid dye sublimation inks onto different materials, like fabrics, ceramics, metals, and sublimation paper.

This technique provides vibrant, long-lasting, and professional-looking prints, making it a favorite among crafters and business owners alike. One essential component of this process is the use of sublimation transfer paper.

But to harness the full potential of this powerful printing method, you need a top-notch sublimation printer. In this guide, we’ll delve into the best sublimation printers available in 2024, each excelling in specific areas to cater to diverse needs.

Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy-to-use option or a seasoned pro seeking the highest-quality prints, we’ve got you covered.

So, let’s dive in and find the best sublimation printer for beginners for your creative adventures!

Quick Overview: Top Sublimation Printers of 2024

Before we examine the detailed reviews, here’s a brief overview of the top sublimation printers of 2024 and their unique selling points. These printers offer a range of features and capabilities to suit various needs, from crafting enthusiasts to small business owners.

• Best Overall: Sawgrass SG500
• Best for Versatility in Printing Sizes: Sawgrass SG1000
• Best for Wide-Format Printing: Epson EcoTank ET-15000
• Best for Quality Sublimation Prints: Epson SureColor F170
• Best Affordable Sublimation Printer: Epson EcoTank ET-2400
• Best for High-Quality Prints: Epson EcoTank 2800
• Best for Excellent Print Quality and Low Running Costs: Epson EcoTank ET-3760
• Best for Ultra-Low-Cost Printing: Epson ET 2620
• Best for Fast and High-Performance Dye-Sub Printing: Epson SureColor F570 Pro

With the overview of the top contenders in hand, we will now explore the features, pros, and cons of each printer, guiding you towards an informed decision.

1. Sawgrass SG500 – The Best Overall Sublimation Printer

Most Popular Dedicated Sublimation Printer

When purchasing a printer, the Print Resolution is a significant factor to look into. The Sawgrass SG500, for instance, offers a maximum Print Resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi, ensuring that your prints are clear and detailed.

For me, the Sawgrass SG500 is the best sublimation printer for beginners. This is a dedicated sublimation printer, so you don't need to convert it for sublimation like most Epson printers.

• Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi

Pros:

• High-resolution printing capability
• Large printing area
• Low cost of operation. Not only is the setup process straightforward, but its operation is even simpler.

Cons:

• Relatively high price (as it's a dedicated sublimation printer)
• Limited printing size

If you’re looking for the best sublimation printer, the Sawgrass SG500 is a top choice. Here are some reasons why:

• Designed specifically for the sublimation printing process
• Offers high-quality prints and vibrant colors
• User-friendly screen interface
• High-resolution printing capability for sharp and detailed designs
• Large printing area for a variety of projects

However, it’s worth noting that the Sawgrass SG500 carries a relatively high price tag and offers a smaller printing size compared to some of its competitors. You also have to buy dedicated sublimation inks (Sublijet-UHD, EasySubli, or ChromaBlast) to use with your Sawgrass SG500.

Despite these drawbacks, the SG500’s performance, ease of use, and low cost of operation make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced sublimation enthusiasts.

2. Sawgrass SG1000 – The Best for Versatility in Printing Sizes

Dedicated Sublimation Printer

One key factor to consider when purchasing a printer is the Print Resolution. For this printer, the Sawgrass SG1000, the highest possible Print Resolution is 4800 x 1200 dpi. The SG1000 is the best sublimation printer for serious business owners.

• Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi

Pros:

• Versatility in printing sizes
• Automatic maintenance cycle
• Compact and easy to use
• Intelligent color processing

Cons:

• Relatively high price
• Need to purchase dedicated sublimation ink (Sublijet-UHD, EasySubli, or ChromaBlast)

The Sawgrass SG1000 stands out for its versatility in printing sizes, making it perfect for those who work with a range of projects. This printer offers impressive capabilities, such as:

• The capacity to handle larger print sizes
• Improved print head technology for dependable and accurate color reproduction
• Automatic maintenance cycle for trouble-free printing
• Compact design for easy fitting into any workspace.

Even though the SG1000 is pricier than some alternatives, its remarkable performance and high-quality prints justify the investment. If you’re in need of a sublimation printer that can handle a variety of print sizes, the Sawgrass SG1000 is an excellent choice.

3. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 – The Best for Wide-Format Printing

When purchasing a printer, it's essential to take note of the Print Resolution. For this particular printer, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000, the highest Print Resolution achievable is 4800 x 1200 dpi.

• Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wireless

Pros:

• Wide range of print sizes
• Superb color accuracy
• Convenient wireless connectivity
• Low running costs

Cons:

• Limited media compatibility

The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is the top pick for wide-format printing, offering the following features:

• Ability to print on supertabloid-sized paper
• Low running costs
• Compact design and lightweight construction
• High-resolution print head for excellent color accuracy
• Convenient wireless connectivity for easy setup and use

This printer is perfect for offices that need to print on large paper sizes without sacrificing too much workspace.

Nonetheless, the ET-15000 does have certain limitations, including its restricted media compatibility. However, its wide range of print sizes and superb print quality make it an ideal option for those in need of a wide-format sublimation printer.

4. Epson SureColor F170 – The Best for Quality Sublimation Prints

Specifications: The maximum print resolution is 1200 x 600 dpi. This makes printing highly detailed images much easier.

• Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi

Pros:

• Specifically engineered for sublimation printing
• High-resolution print head
• Wide color gamut
• Excellent color accuracy

Cons:

• Not a wide-format printer (max print width: 8.50 in)
• No borderless printing

The Epson SureColor F170 is a high-quality dye-sublimation printer designed specifically for creating vibrant and professional-looking prints.

With its high-resolution print head, wide color gamut, and excellent color accuracy, this printer ensures your designs come out just as you envision them. It’s perfect for printing on various sublimation blanks, such as mugs, mousepads, and more.

Keep in mind that the F170 is not a wide-format printer and lacks borderless printing, which may be restrictive for some users. Despite these drawbacks, the Epson SureColor F170’s exceptional print quality and dedicated sublimation design make it the best choice for those seeking top-notch sublimation prints.

5. Epson EcoTank ET-2400 – The Best Affordable Sublimation Printer

Important Features: When selecting a printer, print resolution is a vital factor. For this particular model, the Epson EcoTank ET-2400, it offers a top Print Resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi.

• Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi

Pros:

• High-quality prints with vibrant colors
• Wide color range
• Produces very fine details in photos
• Wired and wireless connectivity

Cons:

• Some photos may look grainy
• No automatic document feeder

The Epson EcoTank ET-2400 is one of the best affordable sublimation printers on the market, offering high-quality prints and a wide color range at a budget-friendly price.

This all-in-one printer is compatible with Epson’s 522 ink, providing excellent print quality and a wide color range. With both wired and wireless connectivity options, you can easily print from your computer or mobile device.

On the downside, the ET-2400 may sometimes produce grainy photo prints and lacks an automatic document feeder. The Epson EcoTank ET-2400 is an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable sublimation printer with great performance.

6. Epson EcoTank 2800 – The Best for High-Quality Prints

Specifications:

• Maximum Print Resolution: 5760 x 1440 dpi
• Connectivity: wifi, USB

Pros:

• High-quality prints
• Low running costs
• Thousands of pages worth of ink included

Cons:

• Slow printing process

The Epson EcoTank 2800 is an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality prints at a low cost. This Epson printer has a sleek design and comes with thousands of pages worth of ink, making it perfect for small businesses or home offices in need of reliable Epson printers.

The EcoTank 2800 offers impressive print quality and low running costs, making it a great value for those in need of a reliable sublimation printer.

Therefore, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800’s high-quality prints and low running costs make it a solid choice for anyone seeking excellent performance at an affordable price.

7. Epson EcoTank ET-3760 – The Best for Excellent Print Quality and Low Running Costs

Key Details: When shopping for a printer, a pivotal detail to consider is the Print Resolution. This printer, the Epson EcoTank ET-3760, boasts a maximum Print Resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi. This high resolution ensures that your prints will be sharp and detailed, producing professional-quality results every time.

The Epson EcoTank ET-3760 uses advanced technology to achieve this impressive resolution, which is particularly beneficial for intricate designs or high-definition images. Whether you're printing photos, graphics, or text, the high resolution will make each print stand out with clarity and precision.

So, if you're looking for a printer that can deliver high-quality prints, the Epson EcoTank ET-3760 with its maximum Print Resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi is a fantastic choice.

• Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct

Pros:

• Excellent print quality
• Low running costs
• Thousands of pages worth of ink included
• Wireless connectivity

Cons:

• Potential damage to the print heads when using low-quality ink
• If there's a problem, you can't simply remove the ink like you would with standard inkjet printers.
• Using third-party supplies may potentially nullify your warranty.

The Epson EcoTank ET-3760 is a fantastic all-in-one sublimation printer that offers:

• Excellent print quality
• Low running costs
• Compact design
• Comes with thousands of pages worth of ink in the box
• Perfect for small offices or home use
• Uses PrecisionCore technology for high-quality prints
• Offers excellent wireless connectivity options for added convenience.

Although no major drawbacks have been reported, the Epson EcoTank ET-3760 might not be the ideal choice for those on a budget. However, its exceptional print quality, low running costs, and wireless connectivity make it an excellent choice for those in need of a reliable sublimation printer.

8. Epson EcoTank ET-4760

When you're in the market for a printer, the Print Resolution is a critical consideration. This printer, the Epson EcoTank ET-4760, provides a top Print Resolution of 4800 x 1200 dpi, guaranteeing detailed and clear prints.

• Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wireless

Pros:

• Excellent print quality
• Very low running costs
• Compact and lightweight design
• Mobile connectivity options

Cons:

• Relatively low duty cycle and recommended volume ratings
• Lacks support for flash memory devices

The Epson EcoTank ET-4760 is an outstanding Epson EcoTank printer that offers excellent print quality, very low running costs, and excellent mobile connectivity options.

Its compact and lightweight design makes it suitable for small office spaces, and it comes with thousands of pages worth of ink included. The printer has a rated speed of 6.8 ppm for color printing and 13 ppm for monochrome printing, ensuring you get the best results fast every time.

On the downside, the ET-4760 has a relatively low duty cycle and recommended volume ratings. Additionally, it lacks support for flash memory devices, which may be a drawback for some users.

Despite these limitations, the Epson EcoTank ET-4760 remains an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality sublimation printer with low running costs.

9. Epson ET 2720 – The Best for Ultra-Low-Cost Printing

The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 is a stellar sublimation printer that stands out for its ultra-low-cost printing capabilities. Perfect for those seeking high-quality prints without breaking the bank, this printer offers a top Print Resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi, ensuring your designs are detailed and vibrant.

With its impressive wireless connectivity and thousands of pages worth of ink included, the Epson ET 2720 is a top choice for both beginners and experienced sublimation enthusiasts.

Specifications:

• Maximum Print Resolution: 5760 x 1440 dpi
• Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi Direct, Wi-Fi

Pros:

• Ultra-low-cost printing
• Comes with enough ink for thousands of pages
• Easy ink tank refilling
• Wireless printing from smartphone or tablet

Cons:

• Printing speed may be considered slow: 10.5 pages per minute (ppm) for black and white and 5ppm for color

The Epson ET 2720 is an ultra-low-cost sublimation printer that offers incredible wireless connectivity and thousands of pages worth of ink included. This printer is perfect for those seeking a high-quality sublimation printer at an unbeatable price. The printer has a maximum print resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi, ensuring your designs come out sharp and detailed.

With no significant drawbacks apart from its printing speed, the Epson ET 2720 stands as an excellent choice for those seeking a top-performing sublimation printer at an ultra-low cost.

10. Epson SureColor F570 Pro – The Best for Fast and High-Performance Dye-Sub Printing

Specifications:

• Maximum Print Resolution: 2400 x 1200 dpi
• Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet

Pros:

• Fast and high-performance dye-sub printing
• Wide color gamut
• Compact design

Cons:

• Expensive (almost $3K)
• Limited media compatibility

The Epson SureColor F570 Pro is a 24” desktop sublimation printer that offers fast and high-performance dye-sub printing for those who need professional results. This printer excels at personalizing items such as cups, trophies, mouse mats, and beyond.

It's equipped with Epson's top-notch RIP software, Edge Print Pro, which offers advanced layout, pattern repetition, and sophisticated color adjustments for a polished outcome.

However, the F570 Pro does come with certain limitations, like limited media compatibility. Despite this drawback, its fast performance, wide color gamut, and low running costs make it an excellent choice for those seeking a high-performance sublimation printer.

Choosing the Right Sublimation Printer: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the ideal sublimation printer necessitates careful evaluation of aspects like print quality, size, and cost. Additionally, you should decide whether to purchase a printer specifically made for sublimation or to convert a regular inkjet printer to sublimation. While converting a regular printer may be cost-effective, it can also void the warranty and limit future usage.

Consider the type of projects you’ll be working on and the materials you’ll be printing on to determine which printer best suits your needs. Remember, some printers are more suitable for specific materials or applications.

Take the time to research and compare the top sublimation printers available to ensure you make the right choice for your crafting or business needs.

Conclusion

In summary, the leading sublimation printers of 2024 provide a plethora of features and capabilities to meet a range of crafting and business requirements. Some of the top sublimation printers include:

• Sawgrass SG500: the best overall sublimation printer.
• Epson SureColor SC-F170: the best for quality and versatility in printing sizes.
• Epson EcoTank ET-2400: the best affordable inkjet printer using Epson's 522 ink.

With these options, there’s a printer for everyone.

We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you gain a better understanding of the top sublimation printers available in 2024 and the factors to consider when choosing the perfect printer for your needs.

Armed with this knowledge, you’re ready to embark on your sublimation printing journey and create stunning, professional-quality prints!

Summary

To sum up, the best sublimation printers of 2024 offer choices for diverse requirements and budgets, guaranteeing a fit for everyone.

By evaluating aspects like print resolution, dimensions, and price, you can make a knowledgeable choice and select the ideal sublimation printer for your artistic or business needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which printer is the best for sublimation printing?

For sublimation printing, the Epson Ecotank printers (ET-2803, ET-2760, ET-4760, and ET-15000) are the best, as they can be manually refilled with sublimation inks.

Other brands such as Sawgrass and Roland are also viable options. Indeed, investing in Sawgrass sublimation printers, such as the SG500 and SG1000, is well worth it. As native sublimation printers, these models are specifically designed to handle the unique demands of sublimation printing. They deliver superior print quality, vibrant colors, and exceptional detail, making them ideal for both personal and professional use. My top choice of the best sublimation printer is the SG500.

In addition, Sawgrass printers come with specialized software for optimal color management, ensuring your designs come out exactly as you envision them. Therefore, for a seamless and high-quality sublimation printing experience, Sawgrass printers are a fantastic choice.

When it comes to non-native sublimation printers, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is a favored choice. This printer can be adapted for sublimation printing and consistently delivers high-quality results.

Is a sublimation printer better than a Cricut?

Overall, a Sublimation Printer provides a much higher degree of freedom in terms of designs and is more cost-effective long-term than a Cricut.

What is the best sublimation printer for beginners?

For those just starting out in the world of sublimation printing, the Sawgrass SG500 sublimation printer is a fantastic option. Designed specifically with sublimation printing in mind, it delivers prints of exceptional quality, boasting vibrant colors and intricate details. Read our guide to the best sublimation printers for beginners to learn more.

Should I use special sublimation ink?

Yes, for sublimation printing, it's highly recommended to use special sublimation ink. This type of ink is designed to convert from a solid to a gas without going through a liquid phase, which is a crucial aspect of the sublimation process. Using regular ink won't yield the same vibrant, durable results that sublimation inks provide. Furthermore, using non-sublimation ink could potentially cause damage to your sublimation printer over time. The Sawgrass sublimation printers use SubliJet sublimation ink in standard.

What kind of printer do I need for sublimation tumblers?

For the best sublimation printing results, inkjet printers such as the Epson SureColor, the Sawgrass SG500, and the HP Stitch S500 are the most reliable options. Epson Ecotank ET-2800, ET-2760, ET-3760, and ET-15000 are also great choices for converting inkjet printers to dye-sublimation printing.

What materials can I print on using a sublimation printer?

With a sublimation printer, you can print on fabrics, ceramics, metals, and plastics – giving you lots of options for printing projects!

Do I need a heat press for sublimation printing?

Yes, you do need a heat press for sublimation printing in order to transfer the design from the sublimation paper onto the substrate using heat and pressure.

About The Author

Ecombridges

Sebastian is the founder of Ecombridges and an expert in online business and blogging. After getting his Master's in Business Engineering, he worked in IT and sales for Big Tech. Since then, he's managed a diverse portfolio of SaaS software, blogging businesses, e-commerce stores while also doing freelance consulting for small businesses.

On Ecombridges, he shares in-depth tutorials and insightful product reviews based on his firsthand experience. He recommends tools and strategies he trusts and uses in his online businesses, ensuring you receive genuine and actionable advice.

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