Introduction
Sublimation printers have become essential tools for crafters, Etsy sellers, small print shops, and large-scale production businesses. Whether you’re creating sublimation shirts, tumblers, mugs, or promotional items, choosing the right sublimation printer can make or break your print quality and efficiency.
This 2025 buyer’s guide explores the best sublimation printers on the market, what to look for before buying, key features, and detailed comparisons to help you make the right choice for your business or hobby.
What Is a Sublimation Printer?
A sublimation printer is a specialized machine that uses dye-sublimation ink to print designs onto sublimation paper. When heated, the ink turns into gas and permanently bonds to polyester materials or polymer-coated surfaces.
Ideal uses include:
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Sublimation shirts
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Tumblers
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Ceramic mugs
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Phone cases
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Coasters
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Aluminum photo panels
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Keychains
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Custom merch for print-on-demand
How Sublimation Printers Work
The printer replaces standard ink with sublimation dye, allowing printed images to transfer with heat.
Steps:
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Design → created in design software
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Print → using sublimation ink + sublimation paper
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Transfer → heat press at 385–400°F
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Infusion → ink turns into gas and bonds with polyester
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Permanent Print → vibrant and long-lasting
Types of Sublimation Printers
1. Dedicated Sublimation Printers
Examples:
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Sawgrass SG500 / SG1000
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Epson SureColor F170 / F570
These printers are engineered specifically for sublimation.
Pros
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Hassle-free setup
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Best color profiles
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Reliable support
Cons
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Higher price
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Expensive ink
2. Converted Sublimation Printers
Examples:
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Epson EcoTank ET-2800 / ET-2850
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ET-15000
These are normal inkjet printers converted to sublimation use.
Pros
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Very affordable
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Easy to refill
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Great for beginners
Cons
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No manufacturer warranty for sublimation
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Color accuracy varies
Best Sublimation Printers for 2025
🥇 1. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 (Best Overall for Beginners)
Why it’s great:
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Prints up to 13×19
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Low-cost ink refills
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Excellent for shirts, mugs, tumblers
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Affordable for home businesses
Best for: Shops needing wide-format printing on a budget.
🥈 2. Sawgrass SG500 (Best for Professional Color Quality)
Why it’s great:
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True sublimation printer
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Stunning color accuracy
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Built-in ICC profiles
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Official tech support
Best for: Pros selling on Etsy or large orders.
🥉 3. Epson SureColor F570 (Best for High-Volume Production)
Why it’s great:
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24-inch wide prints
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Automatic settings
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Ultra-fast output
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Factory-engineered for sublimation
Best for: Large shops needing fast, consistent production.
Features to Consider When Buying a Sublimation Printer
1. Print Size
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8.5×11 for mugs/keychains
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13×19 or larger for shirts
2. Ink Cost
EcoTank = cheapest
Sawgrass = premium
3. Print Quality
Look for printers with high DPI and stable color profiles.
4. Ease of Use
Beginner-friendly options like Sawgrass and EcoTank are best.
5. Warranty
Converted printers lose their warranty.
Conclusion
A sublimation printer is a powerful tool for creating beautiful custom products, and choosing the right one ensures high-quality prints and smooth workflow. Whether you’re a beginner, hobbyist, or seasoned business owner, there is a sublimation printer that fits your needs and budget. From the affordable EcoTank to the professional Sawgrass and Epson F-Series, your perfect sublimation setup awaits in 2025.
Shop now at creative inkers: https://creativeinkers.com/shop/
