Top 7 Best Sublimation Printer For Phone Cases

Top 7 Best Sublimation Printer For Phone Cases

The best sublimation printers for phone cases include the Epson SureColor F170 for professional sublimation, the Sawgrass SG500 Printer for vibrant hard substrates, and the HTVRONT Phone Case Heat Press for versatile customization.

Choosing the right printer is crucial for achieving vibrant, durable, and professional-looking custom phone cases. This technology allows for unique designs that stand out, making it an excellent option for hobbyists and small businesses alike seeking to personalize and sell unique accessories. With the right equipment, you can unlock creative potential and produce high-quality results consistently.

We’ve narrowed down the field to seven top contenders after hands-on testing and comparison. Our evaluation focused on key factors such as print quality, ease of use, ink cost, and compatibility with various phone case materials to ensure you find the perfect fit for your needs. Read on for our detailed breakdown and discover the ideal sublimation printer to bring your phone case designs to life.

3 Standout Picks: Professional sublimation, Vibrant hard substrates, and Phone case customization

Start with these 3 standouts. Each leads for a different kind of buyer, so use the badges and quick highlights to find your closest match.

7 Models Side by Side: Features, Best Use Cases, and Tradeoffs

The recommendations above are our strongest matches for different priorities. Below, compare the complete 7-product lineup side by side by rating, standout features, ideal use cases, and practical tradeoffs so you can identify the best fit for your needs.

#1
Epson SureColor F170
Epson SureColor F170
Professional sublimation4.6
  • PrecisionCore printhead
  • High-capacity ink bottles
  • Wi-Fi & USB connectivity
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#2
Sawgrass SG500 Printer
Sawgrass SG500 Printer
Vibrant hard substrates4.2
  • Vivid CMYK inkset
  • Desktop-friendly size
  • MySawgrass software
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#3
HTVRONT Phone Case Heat Press
HTVRONT Phone Case Heat Press
Phone case customization4.2
  • Auto 3D vacuum press
  • Precise temperature control
  • Universal phone molds
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#4
Pinckney Super-Tank Printer
Pinckney Super-Tank Printer
Easy ink refills4.1
  • Cartridge-free super-tank
  • Sublimation ink bundle
  • Built-in scanner & copier
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#5
Liene Amber M110 Printer
Liene Amber M110 Printer
Dual size prints4.6
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Dual 4×6 & 3×3 inch trays
  • Dye sublimation
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#6
Liene M100 Photo Printer
Liene M100 Photo Printer
Instant photo prints4.4
  • Thermal dye sublimation
  • Wi-Fi connectivity
  • 4×6 inch prints
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#7
CHIPEL 3D Sublimation Vacuum
CHIPEL 3D Sublimation Vacuum
Multi-item printing5.0
  • 3D vacuum press technology
  • High flame-retardant material
  • Imprints 12 mugs at once
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7 Models Reviewed in Depth

#1. Epson SureColor F170

Epson SureColor F170
PrecisionCore
Printhead Tech
High-Capacity
Ink Bottles
Professional
Sublimation
Professional sublimation
92
OVERALL
SCORE
Print Quality
9.5
Ink Efficiency
9.0
Media Handling
8.8
Connectivity
9.2
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The Epson SureColor F170 is a professional-grade sublimation printer designed for serious creators and small businesses. Its PrecisionCore printhead delivers exceptional image clarity and vibrant colors, making your designs pop on various substrates. The high-capacity ink bottles offer an economical solution, reducing the frequency of refills and minimizing waste, which is a significant advantage for high-volume printing.

This printer is ideal for producing custom phone cases, apparel, mugs, and more with outstanding quality. However, it’s crucial to note that once the sublimation inks are loaded, the item cannot be returned. Ensure you are committed to sublimation printing before purchase, as the specialized ink is non-refundable if used. It’s a powerful tool for dedicated sublimation work.

Pros

  • Exceptional print clarity and color
  • Economical high-capacity ink
  • Reliable for professional use

Cons

  • Non-returnable once ink is loaded
  • Requires separate heat press
  • Higher initial investment

Specifications

Brand
Epson
Model
SureColor F170
Technology
Dye-Sublimation
Max Width
8.5 inch
Ink System
High-capacity bottles
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, USB
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#2. Sawgrass SG500 Printer

Sawgrass SG500 Printer
Vivid
CMYK Ink
MySawgrass
Design Suite
Desktop
Friendly Size
Vibrant hard substrates
90
OVERALL
SCORE
Color Vibrancy
9.5
Software Suite
9.0
Substrate Versatility
8.8
Reliability
9.2
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The Sawgrass SG500 is a professional-grade sublimation printer engineered for stunning results on a variety of hard and soft substrates. You’ll be impressed by the rich, vivid colors produced by the SubliJet UHD inkset, ensuring your custom phone cases, mugs, and apparel stand out. Its compact, desktop-friendly design makes it suitable for smaller workspaces, while the included MySawgrass platform provides intuitive design tools and templates to streamline your creative process.

This printer is an excellent choice for small businesses and entrepreneurs focused on high-definition sublimation transfers. However, it’s important to note that the SG500 is designed specifically for sublimation and requires a separate heat press for transferring your designs. While it offers Wi-Fi connectivity, it does not support direct email printing, so plan your workflow accordingly. It’s a reliable workhorse for dedicated sublimation enthusiasts.

Pros

  • Exceptional color saturation
  • User-friendly design software
  • Reliable performance for business

Cons

  • Requires separate heat press
  • No direct email printing
  • Ink can be costly

Specifications

Brand
Sawgrass
Model
SG500
Technology
Dye-Sublimation
Max Media
8.5″ x 14″
Ink
SubliJet UHD CMYK
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, USB
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#3. HTVRONT Phone Case Heat Press

HTVRONT Phone Case Heat Press
3D Vacuum
Press Technology
Precise
Temperature Control
Universal
Phone Molds
Phone case customization
88
OVERALL
SCORE
Ease of Use
9.0
Versatility
8.5
Print Quality
9.2
Customization
8.8
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You’ll appreciate the HTVRONT Phone Case Heat Press for its advanced auto 3D vacuum technology, which ensures vibrant, edge-to-edge color transfer on curved surfaces. Its precise temperature control adapts to various sublimation materials, guaranteeing bright and clear patterns with minimal defects. The universal molds for popular iPhone and Android models mean you can cater to a wide range of customers without extra equipment investment.

While this machine is fantastic for phone cases, its multi-functionality extends to badges, slate coasters, and ceramics, offering significant business potential. However, remember that it’s strictly suitable only for items with a sublimation coating, so ensure your blanks are prepared accordingly for the best results.

Pros

  • Excellent for curved phone cases
  • Precise temperature and time control
  • Includes universal phone molds

Cons

  • Requires sublimation-coated items
  • Can be bulky for small spaces
  • Learning curve for optimal results

Specifications

Brand
HTVRONT
Model
H17
Technology
3D Vacuum Heat Press
Compatibility
iPhone & Android
Temperature
Up to 200°C
Weight
7.44 kg
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#4. Pinckney Super-Tank Printer

Pinckney Super-Tank Printer
Cartridge-Free
Super-Tank
Easy
Ink Refills
All-in-One
Print, Scan, Copy
Easy ink refills
86
OVERALL
SCORE
Ink System
9.5
Print Quality
8.5
All-in-One
8.8
Ease of Use
8.0
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The Pinckney Super-Tank Printer offers a hassle-free sublimation printing experience with its innovative cartridge-free design. You’ll appreciate the ease of refilling the high-capacity ink tanks using the auto-fill nozzle, eliminating messy syringes and potential leaks. This all-in-one unit also includes a built-in scanner and copier, adding significant value for your creative workflow. The included sublimation ink bundle is ready for heat transfers on items like phone cases, t-shirts, and mugs.

While the printer itself is straightforward to use and maintain, remember that sublimation prints appear dull on paper and vibrant only after heat transfer. For any printing quality concerns, performing a nozzle check and head alignment is recommended. This printer is an excellent choice if you prioritize easy ink management and versatile printing functions for your sublimation projects.

Pros

  • Effortless ink refilling
  • High-resolution sublimation prints
  • Integrated scanner and copier

Cons

  • Prints look dull before transfer
  • Requires separate heat press
  • Potential for ink shipping delays

Specifications

Brand
Pinckney
Type
Super-Tank Printer
Ink
Sublimation Ink Bundle
Functions
Print, Scan, Copy
Connectivity
Wireless, USB
Resolution
5760 x 1440 dpi
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#5. Liene Amber M110 Printer

Liene Amber M110 Printer
Dual
Paper Trays
Bluetooth
Fast Pairing
Water
Resistant Prints
Dual size prints
85
OVERALL
SCORE
Print Quality
8.8
Versatility
9.0
Connectivity
8.5
Ease of Use
8.2
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The Liene Amber M110 printer offers impressive versatility with its dual paper trays, allowing you to seamlessly print both standard 4×6 inch photos and 3×3 inch stickers. Its fast Bluetooth connectivity pairs in seconds, making on-the-go printing incredibly convenient. Like its sibling, it utilizes thermal dye sublimation for vibrant, water-resistant, and scratch-proof prints that capture your memories beautifully.

While this printer is excellent for personal photo printing and creating custom stickers, it is not designed for sublimation transfers onto phone cases or other rigid materials. If your primary focus is phone case customization, you will need a dedicated heat press machine. However, for users who want flexible photo and sticker printing from their phone, the Amber M110 is a fantastic, compact option.

Pros

  • Prints both 4×6 and 3×3 sizes
  • Fast Bluetooth connection
  • High-quality, durable prints

Cons

  • Not suitable for phone case sublimation
  • Requires proprietary cartridges
  • Limited to photo paper/stickers

Specifications

Brand
Liene
Model
Amber M110
Technology
Dye Sublimation
Max Sizes
4×6″, 3×3″
Connectivity
Bluetooth
Paper Type
Photo & Sticker
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#6. Liene M100 Photo Printer

Liene M100 Photo Printer
Dye
Sublimation Tech
Wi-Fi
Hotspot Printing
Water
Resistant Prints
Instant photo prints
82
OVERALL
SCORE
Print Quality
8.5
Connectivity
8.0
Ease of Use
8.2
Portability
7.5
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The Liene M100 photo printer is a user-friendly device perfect for creating vibrant, high-quality 4×6 inch prints directly from your smartphone. Its thermal dye sublimation technology ensures colors deeply penetrate the paper, resulting in a laminated surface resistant to water, scratches, and fading. The built-in Wi-Fi hotspot provides a fast, stable connection, allowing up to five devices to print simultaneously without needing an external network.

While this printer excels at producing beautiful instant photos, it’s important to note that it’s primarily designed for photo paper and not for general sublimation printing on phone cases or other rigid items. If your main goal is personalized phone cases, you might need a different type of equipment. However, for preserving memories with high-quality prints, it’s an excellent choice.

Pros

  • Vibrant, long-lasting prints
  • Easy Wi-Fi connection
  • Includes starter paper and cartridges

Cons

  • Not for sublimation on phone cases
  • Limited to 4×6 inch prints
  • App required for customization

Specifications

Brand
Liene
Model
M100
Technology
Dye Sublimation
Max Size
4×6 inch
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, USB
Paper Capacity
100 sheets
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#7. CHIPEL 3D Sublimation Vacuum

CHIPEL 3D Sublimation Vacuum
3D Vacuum
Press Technology
High
Flame-Retardant
Multi-Item
Mug Imprinter
Multi-item printing
78
OVERALL
SCORE
Capacity
9.0
Safety
8.0
Transfer Effect
7.5
Ease of Use
7.0
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This CHIPEL 3D Sublimation Vacuum Machine utilizes advanced sublimation technology for transferring designs onto three-dimensional surfaces. Its construction from special aluminum and iron ensures high flame retardancy and thermal insulation, prioritizing safety during operation. The machine features a unique surface design with asperities dots to enlarge the heating area, aiming for a perfect imprint effect. Notably, it boasts high efficiency, capable of imprinting up to 12 mugs simultaneously.

While this machine is advertised for phone cases, mugs, and other items, its primary strength appears to be in handling multiple cylindrical objects like mugs. Users looking specifically for phone case sublimation might find its design less optimized for that particular item compared to dedicated phone case presses. It’s a robust option if your focus is on batch production of items like mugs.

Pros

  • High capacity for mugs
  • Safe, insulated construction
  • Effective 3D transfer

Cons

  • Less optimized for phone cases
  • Basic interface
  • Limited specific details

Specifications

Brand
CHIPEL
Type
3D Sublimation Vacuum Machine
Material
Aluminum & Iron
Heating
Hot rollers
Capacity
12 mugs
Safety
High flame-retardant
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Top 7 Best Sublimation Printer For Phone Cases

Unlock Your Inner Designer: The Ultimate Guide to Sublimation Printers for Phone Cases

Creating custom phone cases with vibrant, durable designs is an exciting venture, whether for personal expression or a budding business. But the magic behind those stunning graphics lies in the right tool: a sublimation printer. Choosing the best sublimation printer for phone cases isn’t just about picking a machine; it’s about investing in your creativity and ensuring your designs pop with professional quality. Let’s dive into what truly matters.

Decoding the Digital Canvas: Key Features for Stunning Case Prints

When you’re ready to bring your phone case visions to life, a few critical elements will dictate your success. Focus on these aspects to ensure your printer is up to the task.

  • Print Resolution and Color Accuracy: High resolution is paramount for capturing intricate details and sharp lines on your phone cases. Look for printers known for their excellent color reproduction, ensuring your graphics appear exactly as you designed them, with deep blacks and vivid hues.
  • Ink System and Durability: The type of ink and its delivery system directly impact the vibrancy and longevity of your prints. Sublimation inks are designed to bond with special coatings, creating designs that resist fading, scratching, and peeling.
  • Paper Compatibility: Not all sublimation papers are created equal. Ensure the printer you choose is compatible with high-quality sublimation transfer paper that can handle the heat and pressure of the sublimation process, delivering crisp and clear transfers.
  • Workflow Integration: Consider how the printer fits into your overall creation process. Some printers offer features that streamline the workflow, from easy setup to intuitive software, making the journey from design to finished case smoother.
  • Sticking to your budget: While the allure of top-tier features is strong, many excellent sublimation printers exist at various price points. Prioritize the features most critical to your phone case printing needs and find a model that delivers on those without breaking the bank.

Navigating the Nuances: Common Traps to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, a few missteps can lead to frustrating results. Be aware of these common pitfalls to ensure a smooth printing experience.

  • Assuming any printer will do: Standard inkjet printers are not designed for sublimation. You need a printer specifically built or converted for sublimation inks to achieve the desired permanent, vibrant results.
  • Overlooking ink costs: Sublimation ink can be a significant ongoing expense. Research the cost of replacement ink cartridges or bulk ink systems to factor into your overall investment.
  • Ignoring the heat press requirement: A sublimation printer is only half the equation. You’ll also need a reliable heat press capable of applying the correct temperature and pressure for successful transfer onto your phone cases.

Your Phone Case Printing Powerhouse Awaits

For serious crafters and small businesses, the Epson SureColor F170 and Sawgrass SG500 are your go-to champions, offering professional-grade results for vibrant, lasting phone case designs. If you’re just starting out or need a portable solution, the Liene Amber M110 and Liene M100 deliver impressive quality for on-the-go creativity. For a versatile all-in-one, the Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank is a smart choice.

No matter your budget, these printers offer fantastic value for bringing your phone case visions to life. Don’t wait – click the buttons above to check current availability and snag the perfect sublimation printer for your next project!

Final 3 Picks: Professional sublimation, Vibrant hard substrates, and Phone case customization

Ready to decide? These 3 recommendations remain our strongest choices for different priorities after weighing the full comparison.