10 Best Sublimation Printers for Custom Apparel and Crafts in 2026

The best sublimation printers make it easier to turn digital designs into vibrant shirts, mugs, tumblers, gifts, and other personalized products. The right model depends on your project size, preferred blanks, print volume, and whether you need an all-in-one office printer or a purpose-built machine.

We’ve gathered 10 options ranging from compact Epson SureColor models and Brother starter bundles to converted-style super-tank printers with accessories. Use the guide below to compare capabilities, supplies, workflow requirements, and overall fit before you buy.

Best 10 Sublimation Printers Picks for 2026

Best Overall – Epson SureColor F170

The Epson SureColor F170 is a practical choice among sublimation printers for crafters and small businesses that want a compact, purpose-built machine. It includes genuine Epson sublimation ink, supports up to 8.5-inch-wide media, and offers wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity.

Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small businesses seeking an original Epson sublimation printer with straightforward desktop setup.

Pros:

• Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks and manufacturer support.
• PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control for detailed color transfers.
• Closed 150-sheet paper tray helps protect media from dust.
• Compact design supports Windows and macOS with wireless, USB, and Ethernet connections.

Cons:

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

The F170 stands out for buyers who prioritize Epson’s dedicated sublimation workflow, included OEM supplies, and a space-saving design over wider-format output or mobile printing.

Best for App-Based Crafting – Brother SP-1

The Brother SP-1 is one of the more accessible sublimation printers for DIY projects, using the Artspira app to import designs and prepare custom creations. It prints on 8.5-by-11-inch media and is intended for projects such as shirts, mugs, tumblers, bags, and hats when paired with a heat press.

Best For: Beginners and mobile-focused crafters who want an app-guided route to personalized sublimation projects.

Pros:

• Artspira supports saved images, ready-made designs, and poster-style image conversions.
• Includes Brother genuine CMYK sublimation ink and a starter paper pack.
• Wi-Fi connectivity and a touchscreen-style control experience support convenient setup.
• Designed for vibrant, washable transfers on polyester-coated items.

Cons:

• A heat press is required and sold separately.
• Artspira must be downloaded to begin using the printer.
• The listed app workflow is centered on phones and tablets, with the desktop version noted as forthcoming.

Choose the SP-1 if creative convenience matters more than advanced desktop controls. Its app integration and starter supplies make it approachable, but buyers should budget for a compatible heat press.

Best Wide-Format Alternative – Epson EcoTank ET-15000

The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is a wide-format all-in-one inkjet that can suit buyers comparing flexible printers with sublimation printers. It supports up to 11-by-17-inch media, includes refillable ink tanks, and adds printing, scanning, copying, and faxing for home or small-office use.

Best For: Home offices and small businesses that need an all-in-one wide-format printer and may use standard or sublimation ink.

Pros:

• Prints up to 11 by 17 inches for larger projects than standard letter-size machines.
• Refillable EcoTank design avoids traditional disposable cartridges.
• Combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing in one device.
• Offers automatic duplexing plus USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Cons:

• It is an inkjet rather than a dedicated dye-sublimation printer.
• Sublimation use depends on compatible ink and transfer materials.
• The larger all-in-one chassis takes more space than compact sublimation-focused models.

The ET-15000 makes the most sense when office functionality and larger paper handling are priorities. Dedicated sublimation users may prefer a purpose-built model, while mixed-use buyers gain considerably more everyday versatility.

Best Starter Bundle – Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle

The Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle is a convenient entry point for sublimation printers because it packages the printer with supplies for immediate crafting. Along with a full CMYK ink set, it includes transfer paper, 50 blanks, heat-resistant tape, design resources, and Artspira access.

Best For: New crafters and small-business starters who want a broad collection of sublimation supplies in one purchase.

Pros:

• Includes the Brother SP-1 with a full set of black, cyan, magenta, and yellow inks.
• Provides 160 total transfer sheets, including ProSub and Brother paper.
• Adds 50 sublimation blanks, four tape rolls, and design resources.
• Supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity with Windows, Mac, and app compatibility.

Cons:

• The bundled blanks and materials may not match every project preference.
• A heat press is not listed among the included supplies.
• The printer’s listed maximum media size is 8.5 by 14 inches.

This bundle is particularly appealing when the goal is to start making projects quickly rather than sourcing each consumable separately. Confirm that the included blanks suit your intended products and plan for a separate heat press.

Best Everyday EcoTank – Epson ET-2803

The Epson EcoTank ET-2803 is a practical choice for shoppers comparing sublimation printers but who primarily need a home color printer for documents, photos, scanning, and copying. Its refillable ink tanks, wireless connectivity, and included ink supply make it well suited to routine household or school printing.

Best For: Home users who want low-maintenance everyday color printing with scanning and copying.

Pros:

• Cartridge-free EcoTank design with high-capacity refillable tanks.
• Includes enough ink for up to 4,500 black or 7,500 color pages, according to the supplied notes.
• Supports Wi-Fi, USB, AirPrint, voice-activated printing, and the Epson Smart Panel app.
• Includes a flatbed scanner and copier with borderless photo printing.

Cons:

• Print speeds are modest at up to 10 black-and-white or 5 color pages per minute.
• It is supplied with standard Epson ink rather than sublimation ink.
• It uses a single paper tray and simplex printing.

Choose this model for economical general-purpose printing rather than as a ready-to-use sublimation setup. Its strong point is convenient, cartridge-free home printing with useful all-in-one features.

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

The Pinckney Super-Tank Printer is the most directly focused option here for shoppers seeking sublimation printers. It pairs a converted Epson ET-2800 or ET-2803-style all-in-one with Pinckney sublimation ink, giving crafters a bundle designed for heat-transfer projects rather than requiring a separate ink purchase.

Best For: Crafters and small makers creating sublimation heat transfers on supported media.

Pros:

• Includes black, cyan, magenta, and yellow sublimation ink in generous bottle sizes.
• High-capacity tanks use auto-fill nozzles designed for easier, cleaner refilling.
• Offers wireless printing plus built-in scanning and copying.
• Print resolution reaches up to 5760 x 1440 dpi and supports common paper sizes.

Cons:

• Sublimation prints may look dull on paper and require heat transfer to appear vivid.
• The supplied guidance recommends nozzle checks and print-head alignment if quality issues occur.
• It prints on a simplex basis and is limited to a maximum media size of 8.5 x 11 inches in the listed details.

This is the strongest match for the keyword because sublimation ink is included and sublimation printing is its stated use. Expect some setup and maintenance, especially around nozzle checks and alignment, but the bundle simplifies getting started with heat-transfer work.

Best Budget Home EcoTank – Epson ET-2800

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is a compact all-in-one option for comparing sublimation printers alongside affordable home models. It uses refillable tanks instead of cartridges and handles everyday documents, photos, scanning, and copying, although the supplied configuration does not include sublimation ink.

Best For: Budget-conscious home users who want wireless color printing with lower-frequency ink replacement.

Pros:

• Cartridge-free tank system can print up to 4,500 black or 7,500 color pages with replacement ink, based on the supplied notes.
• Includes up to two years of ink in the box, according to the product information.
• Provides wireless and USB connectivity with mobile printing capability.
• Combines printing, flatbed scanning, and copying in one unit.

Cons:

• It is an ordinary inkjet model, not a sublimation-ink bundle.
• Color output is listed at up to 5 pages per minute.
• Printing is simplex, and the paper capacity is 100 sheets.

The ET-2800 makes sense when low-cost home printing matters more than specialized transfer work. For sublimation projects, shoppers would need to account for the supplied standard ink configuration and any compatibility considerations before changing the setup.

Best Factory-Sealed Pick – Epson SureColor F170

Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer. Includes Full Set of Ink, User Guide, AC Power Cable, Sublimation Starter Kit, Thermal Tape, 8.5" x 11" & 8.5" x 14" Paper SCF170

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The Epson SureColor F170 is a purpose-built option for shoppers comparing sublimation printers for apparel, mugs, mousepads, and other compatible blanks. It combines Epson OEM sublimation ink, PrecisionCore printhead technology, and a compact design suited to home crafting or small-business work.

Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small businesses wanting an authorized Epson sublimation printer with ink and starter supplies included.

Pros:

• Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks and a starter kit with paper and thermal tape.
• PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control supports detailed, clear transfers.
• 150-sheet enclosed auto-feed tray helps reduce paper handling and dust exposure.
• Supports wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity and includes a full manufacturer warranty.

Cons:

• Maximum media width is 8.5 inches, limiting larger-format projects.
• Mobile-device connection is not supported.
• Print speed is listed at one page per minute.

Among these sublimation printers, the F170 is the most straightforward dedicated solution. Its included OEM ink, enclosed paper tray, and Epson-backed warranty make it a practical choice when reliability and a clean setup matter more than oversized output.

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Best All-in-One Alternative – Epson EcoTank ET-4800

Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer

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The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 is a general-purpose inkjet rather than a dedicated sublimation printer, but its refillable tank system may appeal to shoppers who also need everyday document printing. It adds scanning, copying, faxing, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and a 100-sheet capacity for home or small-office use.

Best For: Home users and small offices that prioritize multifunction printing and low-cartridge-waste operation over a dedicated sublimation workflow.

Pros:

• High-capacity refillable ink tanks eliminate standard small cartridges.
• Includes a flatbed scanner, copier, fax, LCD, Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet connectivity.
• Micro Piezo Heat-Free technology supports sharp text and color graphics on varied paper types.
• Includes a one-year limited warranty and up to 10 pages per minute in black-and-white.

Cons:

• It is an inkjet printer, not a dedicated dye-sublimation model.
• Supplied notes specify plain paper media rather than sublimation media.
• Color speed is listed at up to 5 pages per minute.

This model is best viewed as a versatile home-office printer, not a direct substitute for purpose-built sublimation printers. Choose it when scanning and copying are essential and sublimation is not the primary requirement.

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Best Simple Pick – PC Universal Mug Press Kit

PC Universal Super-Tank Wireless Sublimation Printer Bundle for Custom Mug Design - Up to 10,000 Pages Yield/Bundle with Mug Press Machine & All Accessories

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This PC Universal bundle stands out among sublimation printers by pairing a wireless super-tank printer with a mug press and transfer supplies. It is designed for shoppers who want to begin making custom mug projects without sourcing the main equipment separately.

Best For: Beginners and creators focused on mug designs who want a printer, press, coated mugs, ink, paper, and heat-resistant tape in one package.

Pros:

• Bundle includes a mug press, coated mugs, sublimation paper, ink bottles, and heat-resistant tape.
• XL ink bottles are rated for up to 10,000 pages per bundle.
• 5760 x 1440 optimized dpi supports sharp, vibrant color output.
• Wireless printing works with computers and mobile devices.

Cons:

• Maximum print size is A4, or approximately 8.27 by 11.69 inches.
• USB is the listed hardware interface despite wireless printing support.
• The bundle is oriented toward mug projects rather than broad-format production.

For newcomers, the included mug press and consumables add practical value and reduce setup friction. Its high stated ink yield and mobile-friendly wireless printing also make it appealing for recurring small projects, especially custom mugs.

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How We Picked These Sublimation Printers

We focused on printers and bundles suited to heat-transfer projects, including purpose-built dye-sublimation machines, compatible super-tank models, and packages that include ink or useful starter accessories. We considered print size, wireless connectivity, refill convenience, included supplies, multifunction features, and suitability for beginners, hobbyists, and small businesses.

Because sublimation requires specialized ink, transfer paper, compatible blanks, and a heat press, the lowest purchase price is not always the lowest overall cost. A complete bundle may offer better value for a new crafter, while a dedicated printer can provide a more straightforward long-term workflow.

Quick Comparison

Best For	What to Look For
Beginners	Starter ink, paper, blanks, clear setup instructions, and simple wireless printing
Shirts and small crafts	Reliable letter-size output, accurate color, and affordable replacement ink
Large designs	Wide-format support, especially sizes approaching 13 x 19 inches
Home offices	Scanning, copying, faxing, automatic document feeding, and network connectivity
Small businesses	Consistent output, efficient refills, strong software support, and dependable media handling

Key Buying Factors for Sublimation Printers

Printer Type and Ink Compatibility

Purpose-built dye-Sublimation Printers are designed for sublimation workflows and can be easier to set up correctly. Some EcoTank-style and super-tank printers are sold for conversion or bundled with sublimation ink. Do not mix regular and sublimation ink in the same tanks unless the manufacturer explicitly supports that process; contamination can affect color and performance.

Print Size and Resolution

Letter-size output is sufficient for many shirts, mugs, totes, and small decorations. Wide-format models provide more flexibility for larger apparel graphics and oversized transfers. Resolution matters, but color management, transfer paper, blank quality, and heat-press settings also have a major effect on the final result.

Running Costs and Included Supplies

Check whether the package includes a full ink set, transfer paper, heat-resistant tape, blanks, or a press. Compare replacement ink capacity and expected yield rather than judging only by the printer’s upfront price. Bundles can be convenient, but confirm that the included blanks match your intended projects.

Workflow and Connectivity

Wireless printing is useful when designs are created on phones, tablets, or multiple computers. Scanning and copying are valuable for general office use but are not required for sublimation. For frequent production, prioritize dependable feeding, easy maintenance, and software that supports accurate color adjustments.

Who Should Buy Which Sublimation Printers?

Choose a dedicated Epson SureColor or Brother sublimation printer if you want a purpose-built system with a clearer sublimation setup and plan to make transfers regularly.

Choose an Epson EcoTank or compatible super-tank option if you also need scanning, copying, faxing, or wide-format office functionality and understand the requirements of using sublimation ink.

Choose a starter bundle if you are new to crafting and want ink, paper, blanks, tape, or a mug press included. Before ordering, verify the supported print size, included ink type, heat-press requirements, operating-system compatibility, and return policy.