10 Best Sublimation Printers for Crafts, Apparel, and Small Businesses in 2026

The best sublimation printers make it easier to create vibrant, durable designs for shirts, mugs, tumblers, signs, and other coated blanks. The right choice depends on your project size, print volume, transfer format, and comfort with setup and maintenance.

This roundup compares compact dedicated models, converted-style tank printers, starter bundles, and wide-format options so you can match your budget and workflow to a practical printer.

Best 10 Sublimation Printers Picks for 2026

Best Overall – Epson SureColor F170

The Epson SureColor F170 is a purpose-built option for shoppers comparing sublimation printers for home crafting, apparel, mugs, mousepads, and small-business transfers. Its compact design, included genuine Epson ink, PrecisionCore printhead, and closed 150-sheet tray make it a practical choice when print quality and dependable paper handling matter.

Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small-business owners who want a compact, dedicated sublimation printer with Epson support.

Pros:

• Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks with auto-stop bottles for cleaner refills.
• PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control supports detailed, clear image output.
• Closed 150-sheet auto-feed tray helps reduce dust exposure and paper preparation.
• Supports USB, Ethernet, and wireless connectivity with Windows and macOS.

Cons:

• Maximum media width is 8.5 inches, limiting larger-format projects.
• Mobile-device connections are not supported.
• Designed for printing only, without scanning or copying functions.

Choose the F170 if you want a straightforward, compact sublimation setup backed by Epson’s manufacturer support. Its 8.5-inch format is best suited to standard craft and transfer projects rather than oversized designs.

Best for App-Based Crafting – Brother SP-1

The Brother SP-1 is a user-friendly choice among sublimation printers for creators who prefer designing from a phone or tablet. Its Artspira integration provides ready-made designs and image tools, while the included Brother CMYK ink and starter sublimation paper help get DIY projects underway.

Best For: Beginners and mobile-first crafters making custom shirts, bags, hats, mugs, tumblers, and similar projects.

Pros:

• Artspira supports importing and saving designs, with more than 100 sublimation designs available.
• Includes Brother genuine black, cyan, magenta, and yellow sublimation ink.
• Wi-Fi connectivity and a touch display support a convenient workflow.
• Brother describes the finished transfers as suitable for repeated washing and wear when properly applied.

Cons:

• A heat press is required and must be purchased separately.
• Artspira is required to begin using the printer for DIY crafts; the desktop version was noted as forthcoming.
• Intended for sale only in the United States at 120 volts, according to the supplied notes.

The SP-1 makes sense if convenience and mobile design tools are more important than advanced desktop workflow options. Remember to budget for a compatible heat press and suitable coated blanks.

Best Wide-Format All-in-One – Epson EcoTank ET-15000

The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 stands apart from dedicated sublimation printers because it is a wide-format all-in-one inkjet with printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. It supports media up to 11 x 17 inches and is listed for standard or sublimation ink use, making it worth considering for shoppers who also need a general office printer.

Best For: Users who need wide-format capability and multifunction office features alongside potential sublimation use.

Pros:

• Prints up to 11 x 17 inches, providing more format flexibility than 8.5-inch models.
• Combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing in one device.
• EcoTank refillable tanks are designed around Epson Genuine Ink and EcoFit bottles.
• Offers auto-duplex printing, a document feeder, Wi-Fi, USB, and LAN connectivity.

Cons:

• It is an inkjet all-in-one rather than a dedicated dye-sublimation printer.
• The supplied notes do not specify that sublimation ink is included.
• Its larger 26.5-pound body requires more workspace than compact craft printers.

The ET-15000 is a practical compromise for a home office that also handles occasional sublimation work, especially when wide media and scanning are priorities. Dedicated sublimation users may prefer a purpose-built model with a more clearly defined transfer workflow.

Best Starter Bundle – Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle

The Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle is one of the more complete sublimation printers packages for new creators because it combines the printer with ink, transfer paper, blanks, heat-resistant tape, and design resources. That collection can reduce the number of separate purchases needed to begin making shirts, mugs, tumblers, bags, and other projects.

Best For: New hobbyists, gift makers, and small-business beginners who want supplies included with a dedicated sublimation printer.

Pros:

• Includes the Brother SP-1 printer and a full 47 ml CMYK ink set.
• Provides 160 total sublimation transfer sheets, including Brother and ProSub paper.
• Includes 50 sublimation blanks, four rolls of heat-resistant tape, and design resources.
• Supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet and is described as compatible with Windows, Mac, and the Artspira app.

Cons:

• The bundle does not list a heat press, so one is still required for transfers.
• Its 600 x 600 dpi resolution is lower than the Epson F170’s listed resolution.
• Included blanks and supplies may not match every project or preferred material.

For beginners, the bundle’s main advantage is convenience: the printer arrives with consumables and sample blanks for immediate experimentation. It is particularly appealing if you value a ready-to-start package over choosing every supply individually.

Best Everyday EcoTank Value – ET-2803 Wireless All-in-One

For shoppers comparing sublimation printers, the Epson EcoTank ET-2803 is best viewed as a refillable color inkjet platform rather than a purpose-built sublimation setup. It combines wireless printing with scanning and copying, making it a practical choice for general home, school, or office use.

Best For: Home users who want a low-maintenance wireless printer for everyday documents, graphics, scanning, and copying.

Pros:

• Refillable tanks reduce reliance on disposable cartridges.
• Includes up to two years of ink based on the stated usage estimate.
• Supports Wi-Fi, AirPrint, voice-activated printing, and the Epson Smart Panel app.
• Includes a flatbed scanner and copier in a compact all-in-one design.

Cons:

• It is supplied as a standard color inkjet, not with sublimation ink.
• Color printing is listed at up to 5 pages per minute.
• Its maximum media size is 8.5 x 14 inches.

The ET-2803 makes the most sense when economical everyday printing matters more than a ready-to-use sublimation workflow. Its refillable design and broad wireless compatibility are useful, but buyers pursuing heat-transfer projects would need to verify compatibility and account for the required ink and setup separately.

Best Ready-to-Use Sublimation Bundle – Pinckney Super-Tank Printer

Among these sublimation printers, the Pinckney Super-Tank Printer is the most directly aligned with heat-transfer projects because it is supplied with Pinckney sublimation ink. Its refillable tanks, wireless connection, scanner, and copier give crafters an all-in-one starting point.

Best For: Beginners and small home makers who want a bundled sublimation setup for heat-transfer projects.

Pros:

• Includes sublimation ink in black, cyan, magenta, and yellow.
• High-capacity tanks use an easy-fill nozzle without a syringe.
• Supports wireless printing plus scanning and copying.
• Offers up to 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution and supports several common paper sizes.

Cons:

• The included ink may ship separately.
• Printed sublimation transfers can look dull on paper before heat transfer.
• Nozzle checks and print-head alignment may be needed if quality issues occur.

This bundle is the clearest fit for buyers specifically searching for sublimation printers because the conversion and sublimation ink are included. It still requires routine maintenance and proper heat-transfer handling, but the easy-fill system and bundled supplies simplify the initial setup.

Best Wide-Format Creative Printing – EcoTank Photo ET-8550

The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 is a strong option for shoppers researching sublimation printers who also need high-quality photo and craft output. Its six-color Claria ET Premium ink system, wide-format support, and refillable tanks are designed for creative projects, though the supplied configuration is a photo inkjet rather than a sublimation printer.

Best For: Creative users who prioritize wide-format photos, graphics, and craft projects with economical refillable ink.

Pros:

• Prints media up to 13 x 19 inches for larger creative projects.
• Uses six-color Claria ET Premium inks for vibrant photos and sharp text.
• Includes printing, scanning, and copying in one wireless-capable unit.
• Provides up to two years of ink in the box under the stated conditions.

Cons:

• It uses Claria ET Premium photo inks, not sublimation ink.
• Its larger 24.5-pound body takes more space than compact models.
• It is positioned for photo and creative printing rather than a dedicated heat-transfer workflow.

The ET-8550 is compelling when wide-format versatility and photo quality are more important than a turnkey sublimation setup. Buyers should choose it for its six-color creative printing system and large media support, not assume it is ready for sublimation without confirming the ink and conversion requirements.

Best with Extra Features – Epson SureColor F170 Starter Bundle

The Epson SureColor F170 is a well-rounded choice among sublimation printers for hobbyists, crafters, and small businesses. This bundle includes genuine Epson ink, sublimation paper in two sizes, thermal tape, and starter blanks, so it offers a practical path to creating transfers for textiles, mugs, mousepads, and other compatible items.

Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small businesses wanting a ready-to-use desktop sublimation setup.

Pros:

• Includes a full set of OEM Epson sublimation inks with auto-stop bottles for cleaner refills.
• PrecisionCore printhead and Precision Droplet Control support detailed, clear output.
• 150-sheet enclosed auto-feed tray helps reduce paper preparation and dust exposure.
• Bundle includes paper, thermal tape, and sublimation starter blanks.

Cons:

• Maximum media width is 8.5 inches.
• Not compatible with mobile devices.
• Designed for simplex printing rather than duplex work.

Its factory-sealed Epson packaging, full manufacturer warranty, and included supplies make this a particularly convenient package for getting started. Choose it if you value an extensive starter bundle and broad desktop connectivity, including USB, Ethernet, and wireless options.

Best Compact Option – Epson SureColor F170 with Ink

The Epson SureColor F170 is a compact sublimation printer for home studios and small workspaces. It comes with a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks, a maintenance tank, power cable, and user guide, making it a straightforward option for personalized gifts, apparel, mugs, tumblers, and similar projects.

Best For: Home users and small businesses that need a compact, ready-to-use sublimation printer.

Pros:

• Genuine Epson sublimation ink is included, with auto-stop bottles for cleaner refilling.
• PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead provides precise droplet control and professional-quality color output.
• Dust-resistant 150-sheet auto-feed tray supports consistent batch printing.
• Compact desktop design fits home studios and other limited workspaces.

Cons:

• USB is the listed hardware interface, so connectivity is less extensive than some F170 bundles.
• Not compatible with mobile devices.
• Includes a maintenance tank but does not list sublimation paper or starter blanks.

This version focuses on the core printer and essential consumables rather than a larger accessories bundle. It is a sensible pick when clean, repeatable output and a small footprint matter more than having paper and blanks included.

Best for Large-Format Work – Epson SureColor F570 Bundle

The Epson SureColor F570 is the large-format choice among these sublimation printers, supporting rolls and sheets up to 24 inches wide. With a 50-sheet auto-feed tray, built-in cutter, professional software, and included genuine OEM ink, it is designed for more demanding transfer workflows and larger-format production.

Best For: Businesses and experienced users producing wide-format sublimation transfers on rolls or sheets.

Pros:

• Handles media up to 24 inches wide and up to 100 feet long.
• Supports both roll and sheet workflows, with a built-in cutter for added efficiency.
• PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead, nozzle verification, and Precision Droplet Control support reliable detail.
• Epson Edge Print Pro includes layout, nesting, pattern-repeat, and advanced color-control tools.

Cons:

• At 151 pounds, it is substantially less portable than the F170 models.
• The large 32-by-38-by-10-inch footprint requires dedicated workspace.
• The 50-sheet tray is smaller than the 150-sheet trays on the F170 models.

This is the strongest fit for users who need wide media support and production-oriented software rather than a compact desktop machine. Its size and weight make it a significant workspace commitment, but the roll handling, cutter, and professional workflow features provide capabilities the smaller F170 printers do not offer.

How We Picked the Best Sublimation Printers

We focused on printers and bundles that support dye-sublimation workflows, including dedicated sublimation models and tank-based options sold with sublimation ink. We considered maximum paper size, included supplies, wireless connectivity, ease of filling or maintenance, suitability for heat-transfer projects, and the type of user each printer serves.

Because sublimation requires polyester or specially coated blanks and a separate heat press, the printer is only one part of the setup. Starter bundles received attention for convenience, while larger-format models were evaluated for businesses producing oversized graphics or higher volumes.

Quick Comparison

Best For	Printer Type	Standout Consideration
Beginners and small crafts	Compact or entry-level tank printer	Lower cost and simpler home setup
Ready-to-use projects	Starter bundle	Includes ink, blanks, paper, or accessories
Shirts, mugs, and regular transfers	Dedicated desktop sublimation printer	Designed specifically for sublimation ink
Larger apparel and signage	Wide-format printer	Handles larger transfer sheets and production jobs
Mixed home-office use	All-in-one tank printer	May include scanning, copying, and wireless printing

Key Buying Factors for Sublimation Printers

Print Size and Project Type

Check the maximum supported paper size before buying. Letter-size models suit mugs, small apparel graphics, ornaments, and home crafts. Wide-format printers are better for larger shirts, banners, signs, and multi-item layouts, but they generally require more workspace and higher supply costs.

Dedicated Ink Versus Conversion

A dedicated sublimation printer is usually the more predictable choice because its ink system is designed for the process. Some EcoTank-style models are sold with sublimation ink or are intended for conversion. Do not mix regular and sublimation inks, and confirm the seller’s instructions before filling a new tank.

Included Supplies and Running Costs

Bundles can include transfer paper, heat-resistant tape, blanks, spare ink, or a maintenance tank. These extras may provide better immediate value, but compare the cost and availability of replacement ink, paper, and maintenance components. Genuine ink can improve consistency and reduce compatibility concerns.

Connectivity, Maintenance, and Workspace

Wireless printing is convenient for design files, while USB connections can be useful for a dedicated workstation. Tank printers need regular use and proper maintenance to help prevent clogged printheads. Also measure the printer, paper path, and ventilation area rather than relying only on the product’s headline dimensions.

Who Should Buy Which Sublimation Printers?

Choose a Compact Dedicated Model for Occasional Projects

Those making small batches of shirts, mugs, gifts, or craft items should prioritize a compact dedicated printer with straightforward controls and modest supply requirements.

Choose a Starter Bundle for the Fastest Setup

A bundle is a practical option for beginners who want transfer sheets, blanks, tape, and ink included. Verify that the included blanks match the projects you plan to make and that a heat press is either available separately or already owned.

Choose a Tank All-In-One for Versatility

If you also need scanning, copying, or general color printing, an all-in-one tank model can make better use of home-office space. Confirm its sublimation compatibility and ink configuration before purchase.

Choose Wide Format for Growing Production

Businesses producing larger apparel graphics, signage, or frequent orders should consider a wide-format model with an appropriate maintenance plan. The higher initial cost can be worthwhile when larger sheets and faster workflows reduce design limitations.