So you are looking for the best sublimation printer for shirts that doesn’t compromise on quality or break the bank? Our concise reviews dive into top performers in the field, guiding you to a smart choice whether you print in a closet-sized studio or a bustling shop. Discover the printers that excel in ease, efficiency, and consistency in delivering vibrant shirt designs, all while keeping an eye on your bottom line.
Quick Overview of the Best Sublimation Printers for Shirts
In a world full of sublimation printers, let’s take a quick glance at the crème de la crème. I began by providing a summary of my best picks in the table above. In my opinion, the best sublimation printer for shirts is the Sawgrass SG500, which can be found here. Read on for more details! Its now time to take a deep dive into each of the top picks!
In-depth Review: Sawgrass SG500 – Best for Premium Quality
No discussion on sublimation printers can be complete without the Sawgrass SG500. You can view the item here.
With the purchase, you get an entire bundle of items, including ink, paper and other relevant supplies. Let us explore the benefits and downsides of this printer.
Pros:
- Compact design suitable for small workspaces
- Renowned for simplicity of setup and ease of use
- A dedicated sublimation printer (unlike the Epson EcoTank Series)
- The SawGrass SG500 has already built in color profiles, and comes with its own dedicated sublimation software
- Results on sublimation blanks are almost professional-grade – beautiful and vibrant
Cons:
- The Sawgrass printer is limited to smaller print sizes. For larger prints, you might need to make use of the Sawgrass SG1000 (see below).
- Price is towards the higher end of the range
Sawgrass is a respected name in the sublimation world, and their sawgrass sublimation printers, like the SG500, are a testament to their expertise. I highly recommend this printer, not only for its consistent and vibrant results, but also its user-friendly qualities. You do not have to go through the troubles and issues of conversion from a regular printer, and all the other potential problems associated with it.
However, the SG500 is not without its drawbacks, and for an honest and complete review, it is pertinent to highlight them. Firstly, the price-tag is quite high for those on a budget. To add to this, you might be faced with potentially expensive ink replacements once the ink runs out, which you should keep in mind when accounting for the costs of your project. Nevertheless, for those with the budget, the Sawgrass SG500 is a fantastic sublimation printer for those with a budget.
An important note: The Sawgrass SG500 and SG1000 both have three different types of inks available. The SubliJet UHD is the most versatile, and is designed to work on blanks with polymer coatings and soft substrates (such as fabrics with high polyester content). You can view the black cartridge here., the Cyan cartridge here, and the yellow cartridge here. Complete package can be found here.
The EasySubli Ink is for use on Siser EasySubli Vinyl, and can also be used on polymer coated blank if used along with sublimation paper. If used along with EasySubli Vinyl, you can achieve excellent results on cotton and dark colors. You can view the ink here.
The ChromaBlast ink on the other hand is formulated to be used with ChromaBlast paper for pressing on cotton fabric (lights, brights and whites).
Now its time for my quantitative analysis based on key factors:
- Premium, professional-grade quality prints: 5/5
- Ease of use: 4.8/5
- Ease of sourcing: 5/5
- Affordability: 3.8/5
In-depth Review: Sawgrass SG1000 – Best for Large Format Printing
The next item on my list is the Sawgrass SG1000, which is another of my top picks. You can view the item here.
An entire package comes with the Sawgrass SG1000 printer, including some supplies such as paper, samples and ink. It comes with color management software and a 2-year warranty on the product. Let us explore some of the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Large format printing capabilities – suitable for those who require a larger printable area
- A great number of success stories
- This model also produces vibrant, high-quality results
- Set up is easy and user-friendly
Cons:
- This model is the more expensive one
- Although CreativeStudio software is part of the package, to use all the features you might need to sign up for a subscription with CreativeStudio
In the world of large format printing, the Sawgrass SG1000 definitely leaves its mark. With a standard tray that can handle media up to 11” x 17”, it caters to your large format needs. Not only that, if you want to go even bigger, Sawgrass offers an adjustable tray , which can be purchased separately for printing up to 13” x 51”, which is a great option for plus-size t-shirts.
However, one significant downside of the SG1000 is the cost of the ink for the printer, which can add up over time. Therefore, be sure to keep in mind when budgeting for your sublimation printing project.
Despite this, the Sawgrass SG1000 is a reliable choice for large format printing, offering flexibility with the optional upgrade and producing vibrant results that make it worth the investment.
Let’s now dive into the quantitative ratings:
- Affordability: 3.5/5
- Versatility: 4.9/5
- High-quality sublimation print: 5/5
- Ease of sourcing: 5/5
In-depth Review: Epson EcoTank Series – Best for Beginners
Now let us talk about the Epson EcoTank Series. You can find the various models of the Series available below:
In terms of whether these models is a good pick for sublimation on t-shirts, let us explore some of the pros and cons:
Pros:
- An Epson printer is a great option for those who are on a budget
- Affordable price makes them a good option for those starting out
- The ink costs for these models is affordable
Cons:
- You will lose the manufacture warranty on conversion, which can complicate maintenance related issues
- Unlike the Sawgrass models, this is not a dedicated printer for sublimation. Therefore, you might have to deal with frustrations related to the conversion
- Results are not as vibrant as those from dedicated sublimation printers such as the SawGrass models
The Epson EcoTank Series is a recommended option for those who are on a budget and willing to go through the conversion process. While you will likely not achieve the same results as with a high-end printer, you have a good chance of achieving great results you are looking for. But before we end, a word of caution: do make sure to print weekly at all costs to avoid the risk of clogs.
Note: If you are looking for a wide format printer for larger prints, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is a great option (although a more expensive one). It can be found here.
Now its time for my quantitative assessment against key factors:
- Cost effective: 5/5
- Quality of prints: 4.3/5
- Ease of use: 4/5
In-depth Review: Epson SureColor F170 – The Master of Detail
The next item here on my list is the Epson SureColor F170 printer. You can find more information on sourcing this product on the manufacturer’s website here.
Let us discuss some of the important features: 150-sheet auto-feed tray, is compliant with RoHS guidelines (relates to hazardous material restrictions), and is suitable to recycling. Let us now get into the pros and cons of the Epson SureColor F170.
Pros:
- The primary advantage is that the SureColor F170 possesses genuine dye-sublimation ink technology. Basically, it is a true printer dedicated for sublimation
- Great color contrast with beautiful results
- Avoid the hassle of converting regular printers
Cons:
- One of the main issues SureColor F170 is that it is not easily available, creating the need to look for authorized retailers offering this item. For more information sourcing, see the manufacturer’s website here.
- A higher initial investment is required compared to the EcoTank series.
It is pertinent to discuss some of the other positives of the printer here:
- Offers a user-friendly set up
- The printer supports higher ink capacity, reducing the need for quicker replacements
My overall conclusion is that if you have the budget and are able to go through the process of sourcing it, the Epson F170 is a great choice. Despite the higher investment, I believe the investment pays off in the long run with the beautiful results you achieve.
As always, I discuss my quantitative assessment based on essential factors:
- Quality of results: 5/5
- Ease of Use: 5/5
- Cost-effective: 4/5
- Sourcing: 3/5
My Overall Conclusion: The Crème de la Crème
So I’m sure some of you are wondering – which is the best choice from the above printers and why? As always, you need to take into account a number of factors, such as your specific needs. If you need a large or wide format printer, go for the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 or the more expensive Sawgrass SG1000. For those of you on a budget, you can consider one of the following models: Epson EcoTank ET-2800, Epson EcoTank ET-4800, Epson EcoTank ET-2400 or Epson EcoTank ET-2850. According to me, the best sublimation printer for shirts is the Sawgrass SG 500 found here, for those of you who have the budget. The reason being it is a dedicated printer for sublimation, offering high-quality prints and at a relatively affordable price compared to the SG1000 model.
Choosing the Right Sublimation Printer for Your Needs
Choosing the right sublimation printer for your needs is not a one-size-fits-all process. Your choice will depend on a variety of factors. Firstly, you need to consider the type of printer. There are two main types of printers for sublimation: printers specifically made for sublimation and printers that need to be converted for sublimation use.
Another crucial factor is the print size capability. If your projects involve large-format printing, you’ll need a printer that can accommodate this. The physical dimensions of the printer are also worth considering, especially if you have limited workspace.
Maintenance is another key point of consideration. Printers with functions like auto-clean can help reduce the likelihood of clogged print heads, ensuring consistent quality and reducing the need for frequent manual maintenance.
Lastly, the total cost of ownership should be kept in mind. This includes long-term running costs such as the price of replacement ink cartridges and any additional equipment necessary for printing. If you want to learn more about the actual process of sublimation on sweatshirts, we got you covered!
Understanding Sublimation Ink and Paper Requirements
High-quality sublimation inks and papers are crucial for achieving detailed and vibrant sublimation print on t-shirts. The ink becomes a permanent part of the garment that does not fade over time, ensuring lasting vibrancy. Sublimation ink is designed to be used with dye sublimation printers and is compatible with these special ink cartridges and their inkjet printing technology, ensuring optimal performance during the sublimation process. When using third party sublimation ink, it’s essential to ensure compatibility with your printer for the best results.
Selecting the right sublimation transfer paper is just as important as choosing high-quality ink for printing on cotton shirts. The paper affects the transfer quality and vibrancy of the final printed t-shirt. Brands like A-Sub and Printer’s Jack are recognized for their quality. However, papers without clear indications of the front and back sides can lead to mistakes during the printing process.
Conducting a comparison test of different sublimation papers can reveal subtle differences in print quality and help determine the best option for specific projects. Additionally, the material’s ability to absorb sublimation ink affects the maximum effective resolution. If the ink absorption is not ideal, higher resolutions can lead to ink dots blending together, impairing the print effect.
Decoding Printer Specifications: What Really Matters?
When choosing a sublimation printer, certain specifications really matter. One of these is color accuracy. The accuracy of colors and dynamic range is crucial for producing professional-grade sublimated t-shirts, as color profiles and color management are essential for precise color reproduction. However, the color accuracy of some printers may not meet the standards required by professionals, particularly when printing colors like greens and blues.
Print resolution is another crucial specification, influencing the clarity and detail of printed images. While higher resolution results in greater sharpness and detail, resolutions beyond 300 DPI may not be discernible to the human eye and could be considered excessive for certain printing needs.
Other important specifications to consider when choosing the right sublimation printer include:
- Print head technology
- Ink system
- RIP software
- Substrate compatibility
These factors greatly affect the print quality and functionality of the printer, and should be considered carefully.
Summary
To wrap up, choosing the right sublimation printer involves considering a variety of factors, from printer type and print size capability to physical dimensions, maintenance, and total cost of ownership. The quality of sublimation inks and papers, as well as understanding printer specifications, are also crucial elements in the decision-making process.
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all printer. The best sublimation printer for you will depend on your specific needs, budget, and workspace. Happy printing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which printer is best for sublimation t shirts?
For the best sublimation printer for T-shirts, consider the Sawgrass SG500 as the best overall, the Sawgrass SG1000 for large-scale prints, or the Epson EcoTank ET-15000, which also offers wide format printing.
What is the best machine for sublimation printing?
The best machine for sublimation printing is the Sawgrass SG500, while the Epson SureColor SC-F100 (F170) is also a great choice. . Consider your specific needs and budget before making a decision.
What brand of shirt is best for sublimation?
For sublimation, Gildan and Bella Canvas T-shirts are great options. Gildan G640 and Bella Canvas 3001 are both suitable for sublimation due to their polyester and cotton blend.
What is the importance of color accuracy in a sublimation printer?
Color accuracy is important in a sublimation printer because it ensures professional-grade results, especially when printing t-shirts. Accurate colors and dynamic range are crucial for precise color reproduction.
What should I look for in sublimation inks and papers?
Look for high-quality sublimation inks and papers, which are essential for achieving detailed and vibrant prints on t-shirts. The paper greatly influences the transfer quality and vibrancy of the final printed t-shirt.
