Are you in search of the best sublimation printer for your specific requirements? Our guide cuts through the clutter to highlight leading models for various applications—from printing novices to bulk jobs and enterprise solutions. With an emphasis on value and performance, you’re about to discover your ideal printer that aligns with your printing goals and budget.
Snapshot of the Top Sublimation Printers
Let’s cut to the chase – in my opinion, the best sublimation printer overall is the Sawgrass SG500, which can be found here. I began with a quick round-up of the best sublimation printers 2024 has on offer in the table above. Its now time for a more detailed review of each.
Each of these printers shines in their respective fields, offering unique features tailored to distinct user requirements. But what makes them stand out? Let’s discuss each in detail.
Sawgrass SG500: The Premium Pick
The first printer up here on my list is the Sawgrass SG500, which you can find here.
The Sawgrass UHD Virtuoso SG500 Sublimation Color Printer boasts a high-definition printing capability with a maximum resolution of 4880 x 1200 dpi, ensuring crisp and vibrant color output. It also offers convenient connectivity options including Wi-Fi and USB, making it easily accessible for both beginners and experienced users.
Lets explore some of the pros and cons of the printer.
Pros:
- The SG500 is a genuine sublimation printer, which means it does not need to be converted for sublimation. You will therefore avoid issues related to conversion such as the warranty being voided on conversion
- Beautiful and vibrant results produced on sublimation blanks which are near professional grade
- The printer boasts a compact design, making it a good choice for smaller spaces
- User-friendly set-up
- Color profiles and dedicated sublimation software are built in. You can read more about an explanation of the sublimation color chart here.
- Faster speed compared to Brother SP-1
Cons:
- Might not be suitable for large format needs (max print size is 8.5″ x 14″ and can be increased to 8.5″ x 51″ by purchasing optional tray)
- High initial investment and expensive ink replacement costs
Having explored some of the pros and cons above, you might be wondering – is this printer the best option for you? If you are on a budget and are willing to go through the conversion process, are looking for a lower-cost genuine sublimation printer or a wide format printer, the SG500 might not be the best choice. If that is the case, make sure to read on and explore some of the other models.
However, if you have the budget, have some experience with sublimation and are looking for a dedicated sublimation printer that produces near professional grade results, the Sawgrass SG500 is a great choice for you!
Quantitative analysis based on key factors:
- Affordability: 4/5
- Premium, professional-grade quality prints: 5/5:
- Large format capabilities: 3.9/5
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer: Affordable Dedicated Sublimation Printer
Next up on my list is the Brother sublimation printer, which you can find here.
The Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer is a great introduction to the world of sublimation printing, delivering vibrant color outputs with efficiency. It stands out with its convenient Artspira app integration, allowing for seamless design transfer and creative expression. Sublimation ink for Brother printers is readily available. Lets dive into a discussion of the pros and cons of the printer.
Pros:
- Very affordable genuine sublimation printer – you do not need to go through the process of converting a printer to sublimation
- Vibrant, high quality results – high number of success stories
- Convenient Artspira app integration
Cons:
- The printer is on the slower side – not a great choice for high volume production
- Does not have a software tailor made to sublimation unlike the Sawgrass model
Now its time to take a step back and look at the printer from a bird eye’s view. Is this printer the best choice for you? If you are looking for a faster speed for high volume production or a printer with a software tailored to sublimation, have large format needs or are looking for a very low budget printer to convert, this printer is not your pick. Keep reading on to explore the other options.
However, if you are starting out into the world of sublimation, do not have high volume needs and are looking for an affordable dedicated sublimation printer that does need to be converted, which produces beautiful and vibrant results, the Brother SP-1 Desktop Sublimation Printer is your go-to choice!
Quantitative ratings assessed against key factors:
- Affordability: 4.8/5
- High-quality prints: 4.5/5
- Large format capability: 3/5
- Speed: 3.5/5
EcoTank ET-15000: Best Large Format Choice
Next up on the list is the Epson EcoTank ET-15000, which can be found here.
The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer boasts impressive large format printing capabilities, accommodating prints up to 13″ x 19″. Additionally, the ET-15000 offers a range of connectivity options, including wireless and Ethernet, making it a versatile choice for various printing needs.
Lets take a deep dive and discover the pros and cons of the model:
Pros:
- It features cartridge-free printing with easy-to-fill, supersized ink tanks for a user-friendly experience and significant savings on ink.
- Great choice for large format needs at an affordable cost, supporting borderless printing up to 13″ x 19″.
- High quality prints, boasts several success stories with sublimation
- Ink bottles are high capacity, can print up to two years – results in significant operational cost savings
- Offers a high sheet capacity of 250 sheets
Cons:
- This model is not a dedicated sublimation printer, and needs to be converted to sublimation. This will void the manufacturer warranty upon conversion.
- More expensive than some other small format EcoTank models that can be converted to sublimation
Now that we’ve explored the pros and cons, its time for an overall sum up. Should you buy the ET-15000? If you have small format needs, are looking for a dedicated sublimation printer or are starting out on a low budget, this model is not the best option for you. I would encourage you to explore other options on my list.
However, if you are looking for an affordable wide format printer for your sublimation needs, that produces high quality results and ongoing cost savings, this printer is your go-to pick.
Quantitative analysis and ratings:
- Affordability: 4.5/5
- Print Quality: 4.5/5
- Large formal capability: 4.7/5
EcoTank Et-2800: Best Budget-Friendly Option For Conversion
Lets move on to the next item on the list, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800, which can be found here.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer offers hassle-free printing with high-capacity ink tanks that can save you up to 90% on ink with low-cost replacement bottles. It features wireless connectivity, voice-activated printing, and a high-resolution flatbed scanner, making it a versatile and convenient choice for everyday home printing needs.
Pros:
- Most affordable choice on my list
- Works great for sublimation printing – great choice among Epson printers for conversion
- Great value for your money
Cons:
- Needs to be converted to sublimation – this will void the manufacturer warranty
- Does not support large format needs
- Lower quality than purpose built sublimation printers
Is the Epson ET-2800 the best choice for you? If you are looking for a purpose built sublimation printer, stunning and high quality prints or large format capabilities, I would encourage you to explore the other options on my list.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is the go-to for those on a budget who are looking for Epson EcoTank printers, who are willing to go through the conversion process. With a competitive initial price and great choice for converting to sublimation, it provides excellent value for your money.
Quantitative Ratings:
- Affordability: 5/5
- Print Quality: 4/5
- Large format capability: 3/5
Overall Conclusion: The Ultimate Choice?
Now that we’ve completed a detailed review of my best picks, its time to take a step back and sum up our findings. If you are looking for a large format printer to convert to sublimation, I recommend the Epson ET-15000 as a great choice. If you are looking for the most budget-friendly choice and are willing to convert a regular printer, go for the Epson ET-2800. For those of you in the search for a purpose built yet affordable sublimation printer producing beautiful results, the Brother Sublimation Printer is the recommended choice for you. Overall, in my opinion, the best sublimation printer is the Sawgrass SG500, which can be found here. This printer is my best pick given the professional grade results it produces, its ease of use and its reputation as a great dedicated sublimation printer.
Decoding Sublimation Printers: A Comprehensive Buying Guide
Now that we’ve examined the top printers, let’s delve deeper into the world of sublimation printing. Understanding the process, the key features to look for in a printer, and how to evaluate your needs can greatly influence your purchasing decision.
Understanding Sublimation Printing
Sublimation printing, also known as dye sublimation, is a fascinating printing process where designs are printed onto sublimation paper and then transferred to compatible sublimation blanks via heat application. The process involves the application of heat to solid dye sublimation inks, causing them to sublimate into a gaseous state and then solidify again on the substrate, creating permanent sublimation prints. The prints can last a lifetime when quality sublimation ink is used on appropriate materials.
Key Features to Look for in a Sublimation Printer
When shopping for a sublimation printer, there are several key features to consider:
- Print speed: especially for high-volume outputs
- Ink sets: can enhance graphics and color matching, increasing productivity
- Color accuracy: vital for precise color profiles and matching
- Raster image processor (RIP) software: for color management, check if it’s included or needs to be acquired separately
- Compatibility with design software and connectivity features: for a smooth user experience
Evaluating Your Needs
Before investing in a sublimation printer, it’s crucial to evaluate your specific needs. Consider the following factors:
- The types of products you intend to create
- The expected volume of printing
- The size of the printing field you need
- Whether you need a printer that handles roll media for continuous printing or pre-cut sheets for individual items
By considering these factors, you can choose the right dye sublimation printer for your needs.
Assess your market goals and whether the printer supports your long-term growth and business objectives. Lastly, don’t forget to review ongoing costs such as ink, paper, and replacement parts to ensure they align with your budget.
Summary
In conclusion, choosing the right sublimation printer for your needs is a crucial step in your creative journey. Whether you’re a beginner, running a small business, or looking for a budget-friendly option, the printers we’ve reviewed offer a range of options that cater to different needs. Remember, understanding your needs, the features of the printer, and the process of sublimation printing can greatly influence your purchasing decision. Happy printing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What printer is best for sublimation?
The best printer for sublimation is the Sawgrass SG500, known for its overall performance and quality. It’s a great choice for creating custom products at home or in the office, without relying on a third party.
What is better than sublimation printing?
Direct-to-garment printing, also known as DTG, is better than sublimation printing. It allows you to print on 100% cotton shirts in any color, giving you more options for what you can sell.
Do I need a special printer for sublimation?
No, you will need a special sublimation printer or a converted inkjet printer, along with special ink and sublimation transfer paper to do sublimation printing. Regular inkjet printer and paper won’t work for sublimation.
What is sublimation printing?
Sublimation printing is a process where designs are printed onto special paper and then transferred to compatible materials via heat application. It’s a method commonly used for producing high-quality, durable prints on fabrics and other materials.
What are the key features to look for in a sublimation printer?
When choosing a sublimation printer, make sure to prioritize features like print speed, ink sets, print specially formulated inks, color accuracy, high-quality prints and software compatibility for the best results. These factors can significantly impact the quality of your sublimation prints.
