Sublimation printing has become one of the most sought-after techniques in crafting, small businesses, and professional production.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a beginner just diving into this world, choosing the right sublimation printer can be daunting.
That’s why I’ve curated this guide on the best sublimation printers in 2025, each chosen for its unique capabilities and strengths.
Our Top Picks of The Best Sublimation Printers of 2025
- Sawgrass SG500 Dye-Sublimation Printer with Sawgrass UHD Ink Set: Choose from 20ml or 31ml Inks Sets. Cyan, Yellow, Black, Magenta
- 50 Piece ProSub Deluxe Blank Set: 4 Makeup Bags – 8″ x 5.7″, 4 Garden Flags – 17.7″ x 11.8″, 10 Round Car Coasters – 2.8″, 10 Square Coasters – 3.5″ x 3.5″, 4 Pillow Cases – 16″ x 16″, 3, Rectangle Key Chains – 2.4″ x 1.6″, 3 Round Key Chains – 2″, 3 Bone Key Chains – 2″ x 2″, 3 Square Key Chains – 1.96″ x 1.96″, 3 Round Magnets – 2.55″, 3 Square Magnets – 2.55″ x 2.55″
- Powered by Artspira: Import printing images easily with the free Artspira app. With access to printing patterns and designs, plus the ability to convert images into poster-style drawings, Artspira will have you creating on the go.
- Create in Artspira: To start using the Brother Sublimation Printer, you must first download the free Artspira app. Once in Artspira, you can access over 100 sublimation designs, stylistic photo authentic images, and more!
- DESCRIPTION You will receive: 1 Original F170 sublimation printer. 25 Sheets of original sublimation Paper for polyester garments 2 sheets Forever Subli-Flex 202 for 100% cotton dark garments (sublimation to Black cotton) 3 Sheets Subli Light Cotton for 100% cotton light color garments (sublimation to white cotton) 1 sublimation mouse pad 1 Thermal Tape 1 full set of sublimation Inks. User guide and AC power cable SCF170
- Original Sublimation Printer
- Compatible with Artspira: Import and save up to 20 printing images easily with the Artspira app. With access to printing patterns and designs, plus the ability to convert images into poster-style drawings, Artspira will have you creating on the go
- Create in Artspira: To start using the Brother Sublimation Printer, you must first download the Artspira app. Once in Artspira, you can access over 100 sublimation designs, stylistic photo authentic images, and more.
- Wireless Super-Tank AIl-in-One Printer with Scanner and Copier. High-capacity ink tanks mean no more ink cartridges.
- Sublimation Ink Contents: Black 127mL; Magenta 85mL; Cyan 85mL; Yellow 85mL. Ink may be shipped in a separate package based on logistic optimizations.
- Innovative Cartridge-Free Printing ― High-capacity ink tanks mean no more tiny, expensive ink cartridges
- Dramatic Savings on Replacement Ink ― Save up to 90% with replacement ink bottles vs. ink cartridges (1) – that’s enough to print up to 4,500 pages black/7,500 color (2), equivalent to about 90 individual ink cartridges (3)
- Innovative Cartridge-Free Printing ― High-capacity ink tanks mean no more tiny, expensive ink cartridges; Epson’s exclusive EcoFit ink bottles make filling easy and worry-free.Operating Temperature : 50 to 95 °F (10 to 35 °C)
- Dramatic Savings on Replacement Ink ― Save up to 90% with replacement ink bottles vs. ink cartridges (1) – that’s enough to print up to 4,500 pages black/7,500 color (2), equivalent to about 90 individual ink cartridges (3)
- Innovative Cartridge-Free Printing ― No more tiny, expensive ink cartridges; each ink bottle set is equivalent to about 80 individual cartridges (2)
- Dramatic Savings on Replacement Ink ― Save up to 90% with replacement ink bottles vs. ink cartridges (1) – that’s enough to print up to 4,500 pages black/7,500 color (3)
- Innovative Cartridge-Free Printing ― No more tiny, expensive ink cartridges; each ink bottle set is equivalent to about 80 individual ink cartridges (2)
- Dramatic Savings on Replacement Ink ― Save up to 90% with replacement ink bottles vs. ink cartridges (1) – that’s enough to print up to 4,500 pages black/7,500 color (3)
- Item Package Dimension: 19.2L x 16.7W x 10.7H inches
- Item Package Weight – 16.19 Pounds
The best sublimation printer of 2025 in full
From beginners to business owners, there’s something for everyone. Below, I’ll walk you through the standout sublimation printers of 2025, breaking down their specifications, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Best sublimation printer overall
1. Epson SureColor SC-F100 (F170)
Specifications
- Printing technology: Dye-sublimation
- Print size: A4 (8.5 x 11 inches)
- Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
- Ink system: High-capacity refillable bottles
Reasons to buy
- Compact size perfect for small spaces
- Easy to set up and operate, even for beginners
- Produces vibrant, high-quality prints
- Affordable upfront and long-term operating costs
Reasons to avoid
- Limited to smaller print sizes (A4 max)
- Slower printing speed compared to larger models
As the best overall sublimation printer of 2025, the Epson SureColor SC-F100 is ideal for hobbyists and small businesses. Its affordability, quality output, and ease of use make it a standout choice. However, if you need larger prints or faster speeds, this model may not meet all your needs.
Best sublimation printer for businesses
2. HP Stitch S500
Specifications
- Printing technology: Thermal dye-sublimation
- Print size: Up to 64 inches wide
- Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
- Ink system: High-efficiency cartridges
Reasons to buy
- Exceptional speed and efficiency for large-scale production
- High precision for complex designs and graphics
- Seamless integration with business workflows
- Advanced color management features
Reasons to avoid
- Expensive initial investment
- Requires ample space for setup
The HP Stitch S500 is designed for businesses that demand high output and precision. While it’s pricey and requires more room, its speed and efficiency make it worth the investment for growing businesses.
Best sublimation printer for beginners
3. Epson SureColor F570 Pro
Specifications
- Printing technology: Dye-sublimation
- Print size: Up to 24 inches wide
- Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
- Ink system: Refillable tanks
Reasons to buy
- Intuitive setup process with guided instructions
- Compact design for a wide-format printer
- Comes with software and tools tailored for beginners
- Produces professional-quality prints
Reasons to avoid
- Higher price point compared to smaller models
- Slower output when handling larger projects
If you’re just starting in sublimation, the Epson SureColor F570 Pro offers a balance of simplicity and functionality. It’s beginner-friendly yet powerful enough to produce professional-quality results.
Best sublimation printer for crafting
4. Sawgrass SG500
Specifications
- Printing technology: Dye-sublimation
- Print size: Up to 8.5 x 14 inches
- Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
- Ink system: Specialized dye-sublimation cartridges
Reasons to buy
- Compact and lightweight, perfect for crafting spaces
- Vibrant color reproduction tailored for creative projects
- Includes CreativeStudio software for easy design creation
- Reliable customer support
Reasons to avoid
- Ink cartridges can be expensive over time
- Limited to smaller print sizes
For crafters, the Sawgrass SG500 is a dream. Its compact design, vibrant output, and beginner-friendly software make it the ideal choice for personalized gifts and small-scale projects.
Best sublimation printer for professionals
5. Mimaki TS100-1600
Specifications
- Printing technology: Dye-sublimation
- Print size: Up to 64 inches wide
- Connectivity: USB, Ethernet
- Ink system: Large-capacity ink bags
Reasons to buy
- Industry-grade quality and precision
- Supports wide-format printing for large projects
- Fast and efficient, even for high-volume production
- Excellent durability and reliability
Reasons to avoid
- Very expensive and large
- Requires expertise to operate and maintain
The Mimaki TS100-1600 is a powerhouse for professional use. Its precision and efficiency are unmatched, but it’s best suited for experienced users with the space and budget to accommodate it.
Best wide-format sublimation printer
6. Epson SureColor SC-F6400
Specifications
- Printing technology: Dye-sublimation
- Print size: Up to 44 inches wide
- Connectivity: USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
- Ink system: Refillable tanks
Reasons to buy
- Handles wide-format projects with ease
- Delivers sharp, vibrant results
- Efficient ink usage with refillable tanks
- Great for banners, textiles, and large prints
Reasons to avoid
- Requires significant space for setup
- Higher upfront cost
If you need a wide-format sublimation printer, the Epson SureColor SC-F6400 is a reliable choice. It’s designed for those tackling large-scale projects like banners and textiles.
What does a sublimation printer do?
Sublimation printers use heat to transfer dye into materials like fabric, ceramic, and metal. This method produces durable, vibrant prints that won’t peel or crack.
Can I sublimate with any printer?
No, you can’t use just any printer for sublimation. Only printers designed for dye-sublimation or modified for it can perform this process.
What sublimation printers do you recommend?
I recommend the Epson SureColor SC-F100 for beginners, the HP Stitch S500 for businesses, and the Mimaki TS100-1600 for professionals.
Ok, but what is the BEST printer?
The best printer depends on your needs. For overall versatility, I’d say the Epson SureColor SC-F100.
How do sublimation printers compare for ease of setup?
Most modern sublimation printers are relatively easy to set up, but beginner-friendly models like the Epson SureColor F570 Pro excel in this area.
Wow, sublimation printers are expensive! What is the cheapest sublimation printer?
The Epson SureColor SC-F100 offers excellent value for its price, making it the most affordable option without sacrificing quality.
Can I convert any printer to sublimate?
Some inkjet printers, like Epson EcoTank models, can be converted to sublimation. However, this voids the warranty and may require additional adjustments.
What kind of ink does a printer converted to sublimation printing need?
Converted printers require sublimation ink specifically designed for heat transfer.
What brand of sublimation transfer paper do you prefer?
I recommend A-SUB or TexPrint for their consistent quality and affordability.
How do you get a sublimation print onto a craft project?
You’ll need sublimation transfer paper, heat-resistant tape, and a heat press to transfer the design onto your material.
Can I use any heat press or heat source to press my sublimation transfers?
Not all heat sources will work. A high-quality heat press is the best option for even pressure and temperature control.
What kinds of things can I make with a sublimation printer?
You can create custom T-shirts, mugs, phone cases, keychains, and even large banners.
Can I sublimate on any T-shirt?
Sublimation works best on polyester or polyester-coated materials. Cotton shirts are not ideal.
Do I need to purchase sublimation blanks?
Yes, sublimation requires materials coated or made with polyester to accept the dye properly.
Why does my sublimation printer print my projects so lightly?
If your prints appear light, it might be due to the sublimation process itself. Sublimation designs often appear faded before being transferred. Ensure your heat press is set to the correct temperature, pressure, and time, as these variables bring out the vibrancy during transfer.
Will my sublimation image fade after washing?
Sublimation prints are incredibly durable and typically don’t fade if applied correctly. However, using non-polyester fabrics or improper heat settings can lead to fading over time. Always follow care instructions to preserve the vibrancy.
Can I only use white materials for my sublimation projects?
While sublimation works best on white or light-colored materials, you can experiment with light pastels. Dark materials won’t show sublimation designs well unless combined with techniques like layering on white glitter heat transfer vinyl.
I have heard you can sublimate on top of white glitter heat transfer vinyl, is this true?
Yes, you can sublimate on white glitter HTV. The glitter vinyl serves as a polyester-coated surface, allowing sublimation dyes to bond effectively. This is an excellent method for customizing dark-colored fabrics.
What are some examples of blanks you can purchase for sublimation projects?
You can purchase a variety of blanks, including polyester T-shirts, mugs, tumblers, phone cases, coasters, mouse pads, keychains, and pillowcases. Specialty sublimation blanks often have a polyester coating to ensure successful transfers.
Can I sublimate a photo on a canvas?
Yes, but you’ll need a polyester-coated canvas. Standard cotton canvases won’t work unless you apply a sublimation coating or layer HTV as a base.
Do I need to mirror my project image before sublimation printing?
Yes, mirroring your image is essential for sublimation printing. This ensures the design appears correctly on your final product after transferring.
Can I sublimate a tumbler?
Absolutely. Tumblers are one of the most popular items for sublimation. Make sure to use a tumbler press or a convection oven with proper heat wraps to achieve even transfers.
Why do I need butcher paper for my sublimation projects?
Butcher paper prevents sublimation ink from bleeding onto your heat press or the back of your project. Always use fresh sheets for each press to avoid unwanted ink transfer.
Why do I need heat-resistant tape for my sublimation projects?
Heat-resistant tape holds your transfer paper in place during pressing, preventing shifting that could cause blurred or misaligned designs.
Will I need to weed my sublimation project after it is finished printing?
No weeding is required with sublimation printing. Unlike vinyl, sublimation designs transfer completely, leaving no residue or extra material behind.
How is sublimation different from heat transfer vinyl (iron-on vinyl)?
Sublimation dyes the material itself, creating a permanent bond. In contrast, heat transfer vinyl adheres to the surface of the material, which can peel or crack over time. Sublimation also allows for full-color, intricate designs, whereas HTV typically involves solid colors or layered patterns.
Are there any cons of sublimation printing?
Sublimation has its limitations. It’s restricted to polyester or polyester-coated materials and light colors. The upfront cost of printers and heat presses can also be high, and you’ll need specific supplies like sublimation ink and transfer paper.
Is it worth it to get a sublimation printer, or just use Infusible Ink sheets?
While Infusible Ink sheets are a good starting point, they’re limited in design flexibility. A sublimation printer allows for full customization and is more cost-effective in the long run if you frequently create personalized items.
How do these sublimation printers compare?
Each printer has unique strengths. For instance, the Epson SureColor SC-F100 is compact and beginner-friendly, while the Mimaki TS100-1600 excels in professional settings. Choosing the right one depends on your specific needs.
How do I learn more about sublimation?
To learn more, join crafting communities, watch tutorials, and experiment with different printers and techniques. Online forums and Facebook groups are also great resources for troubleshooting and creative inspiration.
Sublimation printing is a creative and rewarding process, whether you’re designing custom gifts or running a business. With the right printer, tools, and knowledge, you can produce professional-quality items that last for years. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect sublimation printer for your needs in 2025.
