10 Best Sublimation Printers for Small Business in 2026: Top Picks for Reliable Custom Products

Choosing the best sublimation printer for small business means balancing print quality, operating costs, workspace, and the types of products you plan to sell. A compact printer may suit mugs and small apparel designs, while a wide-format model can support larger transfers and higher-volume orders.

This roundup compares 10 options, including Epson, Sawgrass, Brother, and bundled alternatives, so you can match printer size, ink system, included supplies, and workflow features to your business goals.

Best 10 Sublimation Printer for Small Business Picks for 2026

Best Compact Epson Pick – SureColor F170

The Epson SureColor F170 is a practical sublimation printer for small business owners who need a compact, dedicated machine for transfers up to 8.5 inches wide. It includes genuine Epson ink, a 150-sheet enclosed tray, and connectivity through Wi-Fi, USB, or Ethernet.

Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small businesses producing apparel, mugs, mousepads, and other small-format sublimation projects.

Pros:

• Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks with auto-stop refill bottles.
• PrecisionCore printhead and Precision Droplet Control support sharp, detailed prints.
• Compact design with a dust-resistant 150-sheet auto-feed tray.
• Works with Windows and macOS and supports Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet.

Cons:

• Maximum media width is 8.5 inches.
• Mobile-device connections are not supported.
• Print-only design lacks scanning, copying, and fax functions.

The F170 is a focused choice when dependable small-format output and straightforward Epson support matter more than multifunction features or oversized transfers.

Best for Growing Shops – Sawgrass SG500

The Sawgrass SG500 is a strong sublimation printer for small business users who want a desktop-friendly system with bundled ink and paper. It prints up to 8.5 by 14 inches, while its bypass tray can accommodate prints up to 8.5 by 51 inches.

Best For: Home-based entrepreneurs and small businesses making apparel, drinkware, signage, and promotional products.

Pros:

• Includes a complete set of 31 mL SubliJet UHD CMYK inks and TruePix paper.
• Supports standard media up to 8.5 by 14 inches and longer bypass-tray prints.
• Wi-Fi connectivity and printhead auto-maintenance support convenient operation.
• MySawgrass and Sawgrass Print Utility provide templates and print controls.

Cons:

• Standard tray capacity is 100 sheets.
• Designed for 110/120V US and North American outlets.
• It is a print-focused device rather than a multifunction office printer.

With bundled supplies, design software, and support for longer bypass-tray media, the SG500 offers useful flexibility for a small shop expanding its product range.

Best Multifunction Option – EcoTank ET-15000

The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is a versatile alternative for a sublimation printer for small business setup when scanning, copying, faxing, and wide-format printing are also important. Its refillable tank design supports media up to 11 by 17 inches and offers Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity.

Best For: Small offices and businesses that need one printer for general documents, wide-format work, and compatible sublimation applications.

Pros:

• All-in-one functionality includes printing, scanning, copying, and faxing.
• Supports media up to 11 by 17 inches.
• Refillable EcoTank system helps avoid traditional cartridges.
• Offers auto-duplex printing, a 250-sheet capacity, Wi-Fi, and Ethernet.

Cons:

• It is an inkjet printer, not a dedicated dye-sublimation model.
• Sublimation use depends on compatible sublimation ink and setup.
• Larger and heavier than the dedicated compact sublimation printers listed here.

The ET-15000 makes the most sense for a mixed-use workspace. Choose it for broad office functionality and larger paper sizes rather than a dedicated sublimation workflow.

Best Starter Bundle – Brother SP-1

The Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle is an appealing sublimation printer for small business beginners because it combines the printer with CMYK ink, transfer paper, blanks, heat-resistant tape, and design resources. Its compact body supports 8.5 by 11-inch and legal-size media.

Best For: New crafters, artists, and entrepreneurs who want supplies and design assets included with their first sublimation printer.

Pros:

• Bundle includes a full CMYK ink set, 160 transfer sheets, 50 blanks, and heat-resistant tape.
• Includes Artspira software, 100 sublimation designs, and commercial-use design cards.
• Supports Windows, Mac, and app compatibility.
• Offers Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity with a 160-sheet capacity.

Cons:

• Maximum listed resolution is 600 by 600 dpi.
• Maximum media size is 8.5 by 14 inches.
• Print-only design does not provide scanning or copying.

The SP-1 bundle reduces the number of separate purchases needed to begin making shirts, mugs, tumblers, totes, and other products, making it especially convenient for first-time sellers.

Best for App-Powered Crafting – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer

If you want a sublimation printer for small business projects that emphasizes simple, mobile-first design work, the Brother SP-1 is a practical option. Its Artspira app supports saved designs, ready-made sublimation artwork, and image conversion, while the included starter ink and paper help you begin quickly. A separate heat press is required.

Best For: Crafters and small businesses creating shirts, mugs, tumblers, bags, hats, and other projects from an iOS phone or tablet.

Pros:

• Artspira provides more than 100 designs and lets you import and save up to 20 images.
• Includes Brother Genuine black, cyan, magenta, and yellow sublimation ink plus starter paper.
• Wi-Fi connectivity, an LCD display, and support for media up to 8.5 x 11 inches.
• Brother states that its transfers are designed for vibrant, washable results on suitable polyester-coated items.

Cons:

• A heat press is required and must be purchased separately.
• The supplied notes identify iOS as the controller and say the desktop version is still coming soon.
• The product is intended for US 120-volt use.

The SP-1 stands out when convenience and guided mobile design matter more than a desktop-centered workflow. It is a focused choice for custom-product sellers who already have, or plan to add, a compatible heat press.

Best for Professional-Style Reliability – Epson SureColor F170

The Epson SureColor F170 is a strong sublimation printer for small business owners who want a compact, desktop-oriented setup with genuine OEM supplies. It includes a full ink set, paper in two sizes, thermal tape, and a 150-sheet enclosed auto-feed tray. The printer works with Windows and macOS, but mobile-device connections are not supported.

Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small businesses producing apparel, mugs, mousepads, and similar sublimation products from a Mac or Windows computer.

Pros:

• PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control is designed for clear image output.
• Includes Epson sublimation inks, 8.5 x 11 and 8.5 x 14 paper, thermal tape, and starter supplies.
• The enclosed 150-sheet tray helps reduce paper preparation and exposure to dust.
• Ink bottles use auto-stop technology for cleaner refills.

Cons:

• Mobile-device connection is not supported.
• Maximum supported media width is 8.5 inches.
• It is print-only, without scanning or copying functions.

With its closed paper tray, included OEM ink, and computer compatibility, the F170 is well suited to repeatable desktop production. It makes the most sense for buyers who value an established workflow and do not need mobile printing.

Best for a Low-Cost Starter Setup – Generic Sublimation Printer Bundle

This generic bundle is aimed at buyers testing a sublimation printer for small business products without starting with a large equipment package. It includes a printer, 100 sublimation paper sheets, a printhead cleaning kit, and heat-transfer tape. However, OEM inks are not included, so confirm the supply requirements before relying on it for regular production.

Best For: Beginners experimenting with light-colored polyester apparel and polyester-coated mugs, bags, mouse pads, and phone cases.

Pros:

• Includes 100 sheets of sublimation paper for initial testing.
• Printhead cleaning kit and heat-transfer tape are included.
• Supports a range of personalization projects, including T-shirts and ceramic mugs.
• Designed for light-colored polyester fabrics and polyester-coated items with no more than 30% cotton.

Cons:

• OEM inks are not included, despite the bundle description.
• Supplied specifications provide limited information about connectivity, resolution, and print speed.
• The recommended material limitations may restrict which garments and blanks you can use.

This package can be an economical way to explore sublimation, but its sparse specifications and need for separate OEM ink make it less reassuring for established, high-volume production. Treat it as an entry-level option and budget for compatible consumables.

Best with Extra Features – SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer

The Epson SureColor F170 is a practical sublimation printer for small business owners who want a compact, ready-to-use setup. It includes a full OEM CMYK ink set, a maintenance tank, and a 150-sheet covered auto-feed tray for producing transfers and personalized projects with less paper handling.

Best For: Makers and small businesses needing a compact desktop printer for mugs, tumblers, shirts, gifts, and other compatible sublimation projects.

Pros:

• Includes genuine Epson sublimation ink and a maintenance tank.
• PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead supports precise droplet control and vibrant color output.
• Covered 150-sheet auto-feed tray helps streamline repeat printing.
• Compact design supports home studios and smaller workspaces.

Cons:

• Maximum media size is listed as A4/8.5 x 14 inches.
• Requires a Windows or Mac computer; mobile devices are not supported.
• USB connectivity is listed in the supplied specifications.

Choose the F170 when space, straightforward setup, and included OEM supplies matter more than oversized transfer formats. Its compact footprint and covered paper tray make it a sensible option for growing personalized-product workflows.

Best All-Inclusive Bundle – Brother SP-1 Deluxe Sublimation Kit

The Brother SP-1 Deluxe Bundle is a sublimation printer for small business users who want supplies and blanks included from the start. Along with the printer and full CMYK ink set, the package includes sublimation paper, 50 blanks, heat-resistant tape, design resources, and a tool set for launching personalized-product projects.

Best For: New entrepreneurs, crafters, and small businesses that want an extensive starter package for shirts, mugs, tumblers, totes, coasters, and similar projects.

Pros:

• Includes full CMYK ink, 310 sublimation sheets, 50 blanks, tape, and tools.
• Supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity.
• Works with Windows, Mac, and the Artspira design app.
• Includes designs, design cards, and commercial-use resources.

Cons:

• The bundle includes many supplies that may be unnecessary for users who already have blanks and paper.
• Heat pressing is still required to finish sublimation projects.
• Its listed maximum media size is legal, or 8.5 x 14 inches.

This bundle stands out for reducing the number of separate purchases needed to begin. It is especially useful for a new operation that needs both a printer and a broad selection of starter materials.

Best App-Friendly Option – Brother SP-1 Printer With Ink and Paper

The Brother SP-1 is a convenient sublimation printer for small business users who prefer app-assisted design and quick project preparation. This package includes an extra set of color sublimation ink cartridges and 100 letter-size sheets, while Artspira provides designs and image-import tools for creating transfers before heat pressing.

Best For: Small businesses and DIY creators who want wireless printing, Artspira-based design tools, and a straightforward letter-size workflow.

Pros:

• Prints a sheet in up to 45 seconds, according to the supplied notes.
• Includes extra cyan, magenta, and yellow cartridges plus 100 sheets of paper.
• Artspira offers designs, image importing, and poster-style image conversion.
• Supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB connectivity.

Cons:

• Maximum media size is 8.5 x 11 inches.
• Artspira must be downloaded to begin using the printer.
• A heat press is required and must be purchased separately.

The SP-1 is a good fit when convenient design access and faster individual-sheet production are priorities. Its included paper and extra color cartridges help extend the initial setup, though the letter-size limit may not suit larger transfer needs.

How We Picked the Best Sublimation Printer for Small Business

We evaluated these models and bundles according to the factors that matter most to small businesses: supported print size, sublimation compatibility, ink and paper included, ease of setup, expected workflow, connectivity, and overall value. We also separated purpose-built sublimation printers from general-purpose wide-format machines and starter bundles, since each serves a different type of buyer.

Included supplies can make a meaningful difference for beginners, but they should not outweigh long-term ink availability, maintenance requirements, or the printer’s ability to handle your planned product range. Always verify the exact bundle contents and seller warranty before ordering, as packages can vary.

Quick Comparison

Best For	Look For	Why It Matters
First-time sellers	Complete starter bundle	Reduces the number of separate supplies to buy
Small workspaces	Compact dye-sublimation printer	Uses less desk space and simplifies setup
Apparel and larger transfers	Wide-format support	Accommodates larger designs and varied blanks
Growing order volume	Reliable ink supply and maintenance support	Helps control interruptions and running costs

Key Buying Factors for a Sublimation Printer for Small Business

Print Size and Product Range

Check the maximum paper size before buying. Letter-size printers work well for mugs, small shirts, phone cases, and compact décor. If you expect to produce larger apparel graphics, signs, or multiple small transfers on one sheet, a wide-format model may provide better productivity.

Ink System and Running Costs

Purpose-built sublimation printers typically simplify color management and reduce conversion concerns. Compare the price and availability of replacement ink, not just the included starter set. High-volume users should also consider maintenance tanks, nozzle checks, cleaning cycles, and the risk of downtime.

Workflow and Connectivity

Wireless connectivity, dependable drivers, and straightforward color settings can save time when orders increase. Check compatibility with your design software and operating system, and make sure the printer’s recommended settings align with your heat press and transfer paper.

Bundle Contents

Starter bundles may include transfer paper, heat-resistant tape, blanks, or a full ink set. These extras are useful for testing products, but confirm their quantities and quality. A bundle is valuable only if the included supplies match the blanks and press process you intend to use.

Who Should Buy Which Sublimation Printer for Small Business?

Choose a compact Epson SureColor F170 or Sawgrass SG500-style setup if you want a dedicated, beginner-friendly machine for a home studio and standard-size transfers. Consider a Brother SP-1 bundle if you value included blanks and paper for learning or launching a small catalog quickly.

An Epson EcoTank wide-format option may appeal to sellers who need scanning, copying, or larger paper support, provided the exact configuration is suitable for sublimation. Generic bundles can be tempting for experimentation, but established brands generally offer clearer documentation, more predictable supplies, and stronger support for a business that depends on consistent output.