Best Sublimation Printers For Small Business
For small business owners, especially those in custom apparel, home décor, or promotional merchandise, having the right equipment is the key to standing out in a competitive market. In 2025, sublimation printing remains one of the most affordable and professional ways to create vibrant, durable designs on a wide range of products—from t-shirts and mugs to phone cases, hats to hoodies and many many more. But to get consistent, high-quality results, you need more than just a heat press—you need the best sublimation printers for your business.
Best Sublimation Printers 2025
This guide is designed specifically for entrepreneurs and startups looking to invest in reliable, cost-effective equipment. We’ll break down the best printers for sublimation printing in 2025 based on output quality, ease of use, ink cost, and scalability. Whether you’re launching an Etsy store, fulfilling wholesale orders, or expanding your print-on-demand lineup, these printers can help you deliver sharp results and grow your brand with confidence.
Our Top Picks
- Built specifically for sublimation (no conversion needed)
- Includes premium inks and paper in the bundle
- Excellent color accuracy with ICC profile support
- Wireless printing and user-friendly setup
- Compatible with Windows and macOS
- Backed by dedicated Sawgrass tech support and warranty
- Higher upfront cost compared to converted Epson models
- Smaller print size (max 8.5″ x 14″) may limit some applications
- Requires Sawgrass inks, which are more expensive than third-party options
The Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer is ideal for small business owners, Etsy sellers, or crafters who want a reliable, high-quality sublimation printer without the hassle of converting an inkjet model. If you’re looking for a printer that’s built specifically for sublimation and comes with top-tier color management tools, this is the perfect fit. It’s especially suitable for beginners who want professional results without a steep learning curve, as well as for more advanced users who prioritize consistency, warranty support, and long-term durability.
What makes the Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer worth buying is its all-in-one design tailored specifically for sublimation printing. Unlike converted printers, the Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer requires no aftermarket ink swaps or special tweaks. It arrives preconfigured with powerful software tools like Sawgrass Print Manager and CreativeStudio, allowing you to start producing vivid, fade-resistant prints immediately. The included SubliJet UHD inks and TruePix sublimation paper 8.5″ X 14″ are optimized to work seamlessly with the printer, producing vibrant colors and detailed imagery with exceptional durability.
Additionally, built in Wi-Fi USB and Ethernet conectivity make it more relible to hassle free printing. Also Sawgrass offers full customer support and warranty coverage, giving peace of mind that many converted printers simply can’t match.
- Designed exclusively for sublimation printing
- Supports media sizes up to 8.5″ x 14″
- Uses SubliJet UHD inks for vivid, long-lasting prints
- Includes TruePix sublimation paper optimized for color transfer
- Built-in Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet connectivity
- Compatible with Sawgrass CreativeStudio for design and layout
- Offers ICC profile support for precise color management
- Energy-efficient and compact design for home or studio setups
- Backed by Sawgrass warranty and customer support
- Extremely affordable and widely available
- EcoTank refill system keeps ink costs low
- Great print quality for basic sublimation projects
- Ideal for small-batch or hobby printing
- Compact and quiet — fits easily into home offices
- Requires conversion to use sublimation ink
- Converting voids the manufacturer’s warranty
- No built-in ICC profile support — requires manual setup
- Slower than dedicated sublimation printers
The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is an excellent choice for beginners or hobbyists looking to enter the world of sublimation printing without a big investment. It’s ideal for home-based entrepreneurs, craft sellers, and DIY users who are comfortable with a bit of setup and want a budget-friendly way to produce custom t-shirts, mugs, tumblers, and more. If you’re just starting a small Etsy shop or testing sublimation as a side hustle, this model offers low risk and solid results—making it perfect for first-time users.
The Epson ET-2800 is one of the most affordable and widely used printers for sublimation conversion. While it wasn’t designed for sublimation out of the box, its piezoelectric print head makes it compatible with sublimation ink after a simple conversion process. Once converted, it delivers sharp, colorful prints and performs reliably for low to moderate production needs. Its EcoTank system allows easy ink refills and significantly lowers the cost per print over time. While it lacks built-in ICC profiles and advanced color tools, it’s a fantastic entry point for those willing to do a little extra setup.
- High-resolution printing up to 5760 x 1440 dpi
- Supports sublimation ink conversion with compatible ink brands
- EcoTank system for mess-free, low-cost refilling
- Wireless, USB, and mobile printing options
- Supports standard 8.5″ x 11″ and 8.5″ x 14″ media
- Compact footprint ideal for small workspaces
- Includes scanner and copier functionality for multipurpose use
- Works with Windows and macOS (driver installation required)
- Ready for sublimation out of the box (no conversion needed)
- Includes Epson’s official dye-sublimation inks
- High-resolution output with excellent color fidelity
- Compact and easy to set up
- Great compatibility with sublimation blanks and heat presses
- Limited to standard-size prints (8.5″ x 14″ max)
- No roll-fed or wide-format support
- Ink refills are more expensive than third-party options
- No scanning or copying functions (print-only device)
The Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer is designed for small business owners, home-based creators, and production teams who want a dedicated sublimation printer that doesn’t require any conversion or modification. It’s especially well-suited for users who need consistent print quality on soft goods like t-shirts, socks, and caps, mousepads as well as hard substrates such as mugs and metal panels. If you want a true turnkey solution with brand-backed reliability and don’t need large-format printing, the Epson SureColor F170 is a fantastic fit.
The Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer is Epson’s entry-level sublimation printer built specifically for dye-sublimation use. Unlike the EcoTank series, it comes pre-configured for sublimation, using Epson’s proprietary dye-sublimation ink for optimal color output and fade resistance. The Epson SureColor F170 combines reliability, simplicity, and quality in one streamlined package. Its 1200 x 600 dpi high print resolution delivers rich colors and crisp details, while Epson’s PrecisionCore technology ensures long-term performance. For users who prioritize quality and want to avoid the risks of DIY conversion, the Epson SureColor F170 offers outstanding value and peace of mind.
- Built specifically for dye-sublimation printing
- Powered by PrecisionCore technology for fast and accurate output
- High-resolution printing up to 1200 x 600 dpi
- Uses genuine Epson dye-sublimation ink for long-lasting results
- Supports media sizes up to 8.5″ x 14″
- Compact desktop design for space-saving operation
- USB and Wi-Fi connectivity for easy integration
- Compatible with both Windows and macOS
- Ideal for mugs, soft goods, promotional items, and small-format apparel
- Built specifically for sublimation — no conversion required
- Compatible with Innobella sublimation inks for excellent print quality
- Wireless and mobile-friendly for convenient operation
- Integrated with Brother’s Artspira design platform
- Compact, desktop-sized for space-saving setups
- Trusted Brother brand with U.S.-based support
- Print size is limited (maximum 8.5″ x 14″)
- Only compatible with proprietary Innobella inks
- Lacks scanning or multifunction capabilities
- Smaller community support compared to Epson or Sawgrass
The Brother SP-1 sublimation Printer is designed for entrepreneurs and creative professionals who want a no-hassle sublimation solution backed by a trusted brand. It’s an excellent choice for small businesses involved in personalized gifts, promotional products, and apparel printing, particularly those who value color accuracy, ease of use, and minimal maintenance. If you’re looking for a dedicated sublimation printer that offers consistent output without requiring technical conversion or third-party ink, the Brother SP-1 sublimation Printer is ideal. It’s especially appealing for first-time users who want plug-and-play functionality with reliable results.
What sets the Brother SP-1 sublimation Printer apart is its integration with Brother’s Innobella Sublimation Ink system, which is specifically engineered for vibrant, fade-resistant output. The printer supports standard sublimation blanks like polyester garments, mugs, coasters, and metal plates, and is ready to go out of the box without any aftermarket modification. With intuitive Wi-Fi connectivity, bundled design software (Artspira), and support for wireless printing from desktop or mobile, the Brother SP-1 sublimation Printer streamlines the process of turning digital designs into high-quality, heat-transferred products. It’s also compact enough for small workspaces and delivers dependable print quality across a wide variety of materials.
- Dedicated sublimation printer with no need for conversion
- Supports up to 8.5″ x 14″ media sizes
- Uses Brother Innobella Sublimation Inks for durable, full-color prints
- Wireless and USB connectivity
- Mobile integration with the Brother Artspira app
- Built-in LCD display for simple navigation and setup
- Fast heat-up and efficient transfer-ready print output
- Ideal for sublimating polyester fabric, mugs, coasters, phone cases, and more
- Compact footprint suitable for home offices or craft studios
- Backed by Brother’s technical support and warranty
Supports roll or sheet media up to 24″ wide without conversion
High-resolution output (2400×1200 dpi) with precise color rendering
Built-in cutter and auto-feed reduce manual labor and paper waste
High-capacity 140 mL ink bottles mean fewer refills
Included professional RIP software (Edge Print Pro) for efficient layout
Reliable brand support and maintenance from Epson
Compact and quiet enough for small studios.
- Requires higher capital outlay compared to desktop models
- Not compatible with third-party inks—Epson bottles only
- Requires desktop computer (no print from mobile devices)
- Designed only for sublimation—not intended for general office use
The Epson SureColor F570 Pro is built for serious creators, small business owners, and design studios that demand high-output and professional results. It’s especially suited for entrepreneurs who print wide-format items—such as full-size t-shirts, banners, textile panels, promotional signage, and photo gifts—and want a reliable, plug-and-play machine that scales with their growth.
This model offers a true professional-grade sublimation printing straight out of the box. The Epson SureColor F570 Pro delivers stunning print quality thanks to Epson’s PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead, capable of resolutions up to 2400×1200 dpi with Precision Droplet Control and Nozzle Verification Technology for consistent performance. It supports both roll-fed and sheet media up to 24″ wide, includes a 50-sheet auto-feed tray and built-in cutter for streamlined workflow, and comes preloaded with high-capacity ink bottles and transfer paper for immediate productivity. Additionally, its compact design saves space while offering flexible connectivity via USB, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi. Included Epson Edge Print Pro software adds Pro‑level layout features: Adobe PS3/PDF print engine, nesting, tiling, transparency support, and advanced color control—minimizing waste and maximizing precision. Backed by Epson’s world-class service and a one-year warranty, the F570 Pro delivers unmatched reliability and support for growing businesses.
- Max Print Width: 24″ (610 mm) roll or sheets up to 24.4″ wide.
- Print Resolution: Up to 2400 × 1200 dpi for sharp, vibrant images.
- Printhead Tech: PrecisionCore MicroTFP with Precision Droplet Control and Nozzle Verification Technology.
- Ink System: Epson Genuine 140 mL dye‑sublimation ink bottles (CMYK).
- Media Support: Both roll-fed and sheet-fed transfer paper; includes built-in rotary cutter and 50-sheet tray.
- Software Bundle: Epson Edge Print Pro with Adobe PS3 and PDF engines, plus advanced layout and color tools.
- Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi‑Fi (no mobile direct printing).
- User Interface: 4.3″ full-color LCD touchscreen for intuitive control.
- Form Factor: Compact desktop design (~38″ × 32″ × 10″, ~64–84 lb), optional stand available.
- Warranty & Support: Standard one-year limited warranty, Epson and retailer-based support options.
Sublimation Printer Comparison Table (2025)
| Feature | Sawgrass SG500 | Epson ET-2800 (Converted) | Epson SureColor F170 | Brother SP-1 | Epson SureColor F570 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Print Size | Up to 8.5″ x 14″ | Up to 8.5″ x 14″ | Up to 8.5″ x 14″ | Up to 8.5″ x 14″ | Up to 24″ wide |
| Sublimation Ready | Yes (out of the box) | No (requires conversion) | Yes (out of the box) | Yes (out of the box) | Yes (out of the box) |
| Included Ink | SubliJet UHD | None (buy separately) | Epson Sublimation Ink | None (Innobella sold separate) | Epson 140ml CMYK bottles |
| Wireless Printing | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Max Resolution (DPI) | Not specified | 5760 x 1440 | 1200 x 600 | Not specified | 2400 x 1200 |
| Built-in Cutter | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Software Included | Sawgrass Print Manager | None | Epson Print Driver | Artspira App | Epson Edge Print Pro |
| Media Support | Sheets only | Sheets only | Sheets only | Sheets only | Roll & Sheet up to 24″ |
| Best For | Turnkey pro starter setup | Beginners & hobbyists | Entry-level sublimation | Simple mobile-friendly setup | High-volume & wide-format work |
What is Sublimation Printing?
Sublimation printing is a digital printing process that uses heat to transfer dye directly into materials like polyester fabric, Shirts, Hats, Hoodies, ceramic, metal, or coated surfaces. Unlike traditional inkjet or screen printing, sublimation doesn’t lay ink on top of the surface. Instead, it turns solid dye into gas using high temperatures, bonding it permanently to the substrate at a molecular level. The result is a vivid, full-color image that won’t crack, peel, or fade over time.
To get started with sublimation, you’ll need a sublimation printer, special sublimation inks, transfer paper, and a compatible heat press. This method is especially popular for producing high-quality custom t-shirts, mugs, mouse pads, photo slates, and promotional items. Because of its durability and professional finish, sublimation printing has become a top choice for small businesses looking to deliver long-lasting, vibrant products their customers will love.
Whether you’re printing in small batches or scaling your production, choosing the best printer for sublimation printing is crucial to getting the detail, color accuracy, and reliability your business demands.
Things to Consider Before Buying Sublimation Printer
Before investing in the best sublimation printer for your business, it’s important to evaluate several key factors that impact both print quality and operational efficiency. First, consider the print size you need. While many entry-level sublimation printers support A4 or letter-sized transfers, businesses that print on t-shirts, banners, or signage may benefit from A3 or wide-format printers that allow for larger, more versatile designs.
Print Size (A4, A3, Wide-Format)
The size of prints your business needs should guide your choice of printer. While entry-level models handle A4 or letter-size transfers, larger A3 or wide-format printers are better suited for apparel printing, banners, or full-bleed designs. If you plan to expand product offerings, investing in a larger format printer may future-proof your setup.
Ink Type (Sublimation-Ready or Conversion Required)
Some printers, like Sawgrass models, are designed for sublimation out of the box. Others, such as Epson EcoTank printers, need to be converted using third-party sublimation ink. Converted printers are often more affordable, but may void the manufacturer warranty and require extra setup knowledge.
Ease of Setup and Maintenance
A user-friendly printer will save you time and frustration. Look for models that offer easy tank refills, automatic nozzle cleaning, and clear error messaging. Simpler setup also reduces the risk of clogging and minimizes downtime during busy production days.
Print Resolution and Color Quality
If you’re producing high-detail prints like photos or graphic-heavy designs, aim for a printer with high DPI (dots per inch). Better print resolution means smoother gradients, sharper lines, and more accurate color reproduction, which is essential for premium-quality printers.
Connectivity (Wi-Fi, USB, Mobile Printing)
Modern printers offer a variety of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, USB, and even mobile app integration. Wireless printing allows for more flexible workspace layouts and can increase your team’s productivity by supporting multiple devices.
Software Compatibility
Check that your printer supports popular design software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, CorelDRAW, or Silhouette Studio. Having ICC profile support is also essential for accurate color matching between screen and print.
Ink Availability and Cost
Finally, consider the cost of sublimation ink refills and the availability of third-party or bulk ink options. Over time, ink expenses can affect your profit margins significantly. Choose a printer with easy access to affordable ink to keep your per-print costs low.
Sublimation Printer Setup Tips for Beginners
Getting started with sublimation printing might feel overwhelming at first, but following a few key setup tips can help you avoid common mistakes and get consistent, professional results right from the beginning. Whether you’re using a converted inkjet model or a dedicated sublimation printer, proper preparation is essential.
Use Sublimation Ink Only
Always use ink specifically designed for sublimation printing. Regular dye or pigment-based inks won’t sublimate and can damage your equipment. If you’re converting a printer like the Epson EcoTank, make sure to fully flush out any existing ink before adding sublimation ink.
Choose Compatible Paper and Heat Press
Sublimation printing requires specialized transfer paper that holds dye until it’s heat-pressed onto the final surface. Generic or multipurpose paper won’t yield the same vibrant results. Pair your printer with a reliable heat press that maintains consistent temperature and pressure—this is critical for ensuring proper ink transfer onto substrates like polyester, ceramics, or metal.
Set Up ICC Profiles Correctly
To achieve accurate color output, install and configure the correct ICC profile provided by your ink manufacturer. ICC profiles calibrate your printer’s output to match what you see on screen, preventing color shifts or dull results. Without this, your reds may appear orange or blacks may print as washed-out gray.
Maintain Print Heads and Run Regular Cleaning Cycles
Sublimation inks are prone to drying out if not used regularly, so it’s important to run periodic nozzle checks and cleaning cycles. Leaving the printer idle for extended periods can cause clogs, which affect print quality and waste ink. Wipe the print head area gently if necessary, and print a small color swatch weekly to keep ink flowing.
By following these simple setup and maintenance practices, even beginners can get clean, colorful, and long-lasting results from their sublimation printer without unnecessary trial and error.
Must-Have Accessories for Sublimation Printing
To get the most out of your sublimation printer, it’s essential to pair it with the right accessories. These tools not only help ensure vibrant, professional-quality results but also protect your equipment and streamline your production workflow. Whether you’re a beginner or scaling up your business, here are the must-have accessories you need in your sublimation printing setup:
1. Heat Press Machine
A heat press Machine is critical for applying the design onto your product. It uses high temperatures and consistent pressure to transfer the ink from sublimation paper into the material. There are several types of heat presses available, including clamshell, swing-away, and multifunction presses. Clamshell models are compact and perfect for flat items like t-shirts and mousepads, while swing-away presses provide more even pressure, especially for thicker items. If you plan to print on mugs, hats, shirts or curved surfaces, you’ll need a mug or cap press attachment.
2. High-Quality Sublimation Paper
Sublimation paper is specially designed to hold dye sublimation ink until it is heat-pressed onto the final surface. Choosing the right sublimation paper can make a noticeable difference in image clarity and color saturation. Papers like A-Sub, Koala, and TexPrint are known for their high release rates and are widely recommended in the sublimation community. Avoid using general-purpose or multipurpose paper, as it won’t deliver the same professional finish.
3. Teflon Sheets or Heat-Resistant Sheets
A Teflon or heat-resistant sheet acts as a protective barrier between your heat press and the item you’re pressing. It prevents ink bleed-through, protects the surface of your press, and ensures consistent pressure across the entire design. These sheets are reusable and easy to clean, making them a smart investment for anyone doing frequent sublimation work.
4. Lint Roller
Before pressing any polyester fabric, it’s important to use a lint roller to remove dust, fibers, or loose threads. These particles can interfere with the transfer process, leading to blemishes or faded areas in your final print. A quick lint roll right before pressing ensures a clean surface and helps produce sharper, more vibrant results.
5. Heat-Resistant Tape
Heat-resistant tape is used to secure your sublimation paper in place during the transfer process. Without it, the paper can shift, causing ghosting or blurry edges. This tape is designed to withstand high temperatures without melting or leaving a residue on your items. It’s especially helpful when working with irregular shapes like mugs or keychains where alignment is critical.
6. ICC Color Profile
While not a physical accessory, an ICC color profile is essential for accurate color reproduction. It tells your printer how to interpret and output colors based on the specific ink and paper you’re using. Without it, you might find that reds print as orange or blacks appear dull. Most reputable ink manufacturers provide ICC profiles tailored to their sublimation inks, and installing them in your design software or print manager can greatly improve print consistency.
7. Blowout Paper or Butcher Paper
Blowout paper, also known as protective or barrier paper, is placed above and below your substrate during pressing. Its main job is to catch any excess ink that may bleed out during the transfer. This protects your heat press and prevents the ink from transferring onto future projects. Regular printer paper can work in a pinch, but uncoated butcher paper is a better, safer choice.
8. Printer Cleaning Supplies
To keep your sublimation printer running smoothly, routine maintenance is essential. Cleaning kits typically include nozzle cleaning solution, swabs, and cloths that help remove dried ink or buildup from print heads and surrounding areas. Running nozzle checks and test prints weekly will reduce the chances of clogging and help maintain consistent print quality.
9. Sublimation Ink Refills
If you’re using a converted printer like the Epson EcoTank series, having a reliable supply of sublimation ink is crucial. Choose ink brands that are compatible with your model and offer good color fidelity, fast drying times, and ICC profile support. High-quality inks prevent nozzle blockages and ensure your designs are bright, durable, and wash-resistant. Bulk ink systems are also available and can help lower your cost per print over time.
Final Thoughts:
When choosing a sublimation printer in 2025, focus on your product range, volume, and available workspace. A small Etsy shop may do well with a converted Epson ET-2800 or F170, while a scaling business handling bulk apparel orders might need the precision and capacity of a SureColor F570 Pro. Prioritize support, print size, and ongoing ink costs to make an informed decision that supports your long-term goals.
