Top 7 Best Sublimation Printer For Beginners

Top 7 Best Sublimation Printer For Beginners

The best sublimation printers for beginners include the The best sublimation printers for beginners include the best inkjet printer for sublimation.Sawgrass SG500 Printer (Small Business Pro), the Epson SureColor F170 Kit (Complete Starter Kit), and the Epson SureColor F170 (Beginner Crafters), each offering ease of use and reliable performance for aspiring crafters and small businesses.

Getting the right printer is crucial for achieving vibrant, professional-quality prints on a variety of substrates, making your creations stand out. These models are designed to simplify the sublimation process, allowing new users to achieve excellent results without a steep learning curve, ensuring a positive initial experience.

We’ve narrowed down the options to seven top contenders after extensive hands-on testing and comparison. Our evaluation focused on key factors such as print quality, setup simplicity, ink cost, and overall value for money. Continue reading to see our full breakdown and find the perfect sublimation printer to kickstart your creative journey.

3 Standout Picks: Small Business Pro, Complete Starter Kit, and Beginner Crafters

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
Sawgrass SG500 Printer
Sawgrass SG500 Printer
Small Business Pro4.2
  • Professional print quality
  • Compact desktop design
  • MySawgrass software suite
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#2
Epson SureColor F170 Kit
Epson SureColor F170 Kit
Complete Starter Kit4.4
  • Includes sublimation starter kit
  • Comes with sublimation paper
  • Genuine Epson ink
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#3
Epson SureColor F170
Epson SureColor F170
Beginner Crafters4.5
  • Compact 8.5″ x 11″ format
  • Genuine Epson ink included
  • PrecisionCore printhead technology
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#4
Epson SureColor F170 Bundle
Epson SureColor F170 Bundle
Home Business Start4.6
  • High-capacity ink bottles
  • Wi-Fi and USB connectivity
  • Includes ink, guide, cable
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#5
Brother SP1 Sublimation Printer
Brother SP1 Sublimation Printer
Creative Design App4.4
  • Artspira app integration
  • Fast printing speeds
  • Vibrant color transfers
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#6
Pinckney Cartridge-Free Printer
Pinckney Cartridge-Free Printer
All-in-One Printing4.1
  • Cartridge-free super-tank
  • Built-in scanner and copier
  • Easy, mess-free ink fill
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#7
Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle
Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle
Hobbyist Value Pack4.6
  • Full ink set included
  • 160 sublimation sheets
  • 50 sublimation blanks
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7 Models Reviewed in Depth

#1. Sawgrass SG500 Printer

Sawgrass SG500 Printer
Professional
Print Quality
MySawgrass
Software
Compact
Design
Small Business Pro
92
OVERALL
SCORE
Print Quality
9.5
Software Suite
9.0
Reliability
9.0
Design
8.5
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You’ll find the Sawgrass SG500 to be a professional-grade sublimation printer, perfect for small businesses demanding high-definition, vibrant results on various products.

Its compact design fits easily on a desktop, yet it delivers exceptional color accuracy through the MySawgrass platform and SubliJet UHD inks. The printer is built for reliability with features like Wi-Fi connectivity and automatic print head maintenance, ensuring consistent performance as your business grows.

This is an excellent choice for serious entrepreneurs or those scaling up their sublimation operations. While it offers a powerful feature set, be prepared for the investment in specialized inks and software, and remember it’s designed for standard US 110/120V outlets.

Pros

  • Exceptional color accuracy
  • User-friendly design software
  • Built for business reliability

Cons

  • Proprietary ink system
  • Higher initial cost
  • Designed for US voltage only

Specifications

Print Function
All In One
Max Print Size
8.5 x 14 inch
Paper Capacity
100 Sheets
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, USB
Weight
17.25″D x 15.75″W x 8.5″H
Model
SG500
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#2. Epson SureColor F170 Kit

Epson SureColor F170 Kit
Complete
Starter Kit
Genuine
Epson Ink
Versatile
Paper Sizes
Complete Starter Kit
89
OVERALL
SCORE
Included Accessories
9.5
Print Quality
9.0
Ease of Use
8.5
Ink System
9.0
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You’ll love this Epson SureColor F170 bundle for its comprehensive starter kit, making it incredibly easy to jump into sublimation printing.

It includes not just the printer and genuine Epson ink, but also a sublimation starter kit, thermal tape, and both 8.5″ x 11″ and 8.5″ x 14″ sublimation paper. This means you have almost everything you need to start creating custom items right out of the box.

This is an ideal choice for beginners or small businesses wanting a complete, high-quality solution without sourcing individual components. Just ensure you have a heat press, as that’s the only major item not included.

Pros

  • All-inclusive starter kit
  • High-quality Epson printing
  • Includes multiple paper sizes

Cons

  • Heat press required separately
  • Ink non-returnable once loaded
  • No mobile device support

Specifications

Print Function
Print Only
Max Print Size
8.5″ Width
Paper Capacity
150 Sheets
Connectivity
USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
Included
Starter Kit, Paper, Tape
Model
SureColor F170
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#3. Epson SureColor F170

Epson SureColor F170
PrecisionCore
Printhead Tech
Compact
Design
ECO PASSPORT
Certified Ink
Beginner Crafters
88
OVERALL
SCORE
Print Quality
9.5
Ease of Use
8.5
Ink System
9.0
Versatility
8.0
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You’ll appreciate the Epson SureColor F170 for its straightforward setup and impressive print quality, making it an excellent choice for beginners diving into sublimation.

Its compact design and user-friendly interface mean you can start personalizing mugs, mousepads, and apparel right away. While it excels for hobbyists and small businesses, be aware that mobile device connection is not supported, so plan your workflow around a computer.

This printer is a solid entry point for anyone looking to explore sublimation without a steep learning curve. If you need mobile printing, you might need to consider other options, but for dedicated desktop sublimation, it’s a great pick.

Pros

  • Excellent print clarity and color
  • Easy setup for beginners
  • Compact, space-saving design

Cons

  • No mobile device support
  • Ink is non-returnable once loaded
  • Slower print speeds for high volume

Specifications

Print Function
Print Only
Max Print Size
8.5″ Width
Paper Capacity
150 Sheets
Connectivity
USB
Weight
16 pounds
Model
SureColor F170
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#4. Epson SureColor F170 Bundle

Epson SureColor F170 Bundle
High-Capacity
Ink Bottles
Wi-Fi
Connectivity
Professional
Print Quality
Home Business Start
87
OVERALL
SCORE
Print Quality
9.5
Connectivity
8.5
Ink Efficiency
9.0
Ease of Use
8.0
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You’ll find this Epson SureColor F170 bundle a convenient way to start your sublimation journey, offering excellent print quality and versatile connectivity options.

The high-capacity ink bottles are a real plus, reducing refill frequency and cost, while Wi-Fi and USB options make it easy to connect from your computer or even compatible mobile devices via apps. It’s designed for ease of use, ensuring you can focus on your creative projects.

This printer is a strong contender for those launching a small sublimation business or serious hobbyists. Just remember that once the ink is loaded, returns are not possible, so ensure it’s the right fit before purchasing.

Pros

  • Vibrant color saturation
  • Economical ink refills
  • Flexible connectivity options

Cons

  • Ink non-returnable after loading
  • Mobile app compatibility can vary
  • Requires sublimation paper and heat press

Specifications

Print Function
Print Only
Max Print Size
8.5″ Width
Paper Capacity
150 Sheets
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, USB
Weight
15.8 pounds
Model
SureColor F170
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#5. Brother SP1 Sublimation Printer

Brother SP1 Sublimation Printer
Artspira
App Integration
Fast
Printing
Vibrant
Color Transfers
Creative Design App
86
OVERALL
SCORE
Design Integration
9.0
Print Speed
8.5
Color Vibrancy
8.5
Ease of Use
8.0
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You’ll enjoy the Brother SP1’s seamless integration with the Artspira app, which offers a wealth of designs and creative tools to kickstart your sublimation projects.

This printer is designed for crafters, allowing you to easily import, create, and print vibrant designs for t-shirts, mugs, and more. The fast printing speeds mean you can produce custom items quickly, perfect for small businesses or hobbyists.

It’s a great option if you value app-based design and quick project turnaround. Keep in mind that a heat press is required, and the printer is intended for US 120V outlets only, which may void the warranty if used elsewhere.

Pros

  • Integrated design app
  • Fast printing for projects
  • Vibrant, washable transfers

Cons

  • Requires separate heat press
  • US voltage only
  • Ink colors dull until heat pressed

Specifications

Functions
Print, Scan
Max Print Size
8.5×11
Paper Capacity
100 Sheets
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
Weight
7.9 kg
Model
SP-1
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#6. Pinckney Cartridge-Free Printer

Pinckney Cartridge-Free Printer
Cartridge-Free
Super-Tank
All-in-One
Functionality
Easy
Ink Fill
All-in-One Printing
85
OVERALL
SCORE
Ink System
9.5
Functionality
9.0
Ease of Use
8.5
Print Quality
8.0
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You’ll appreciate the convenience of this Pinckney printer, which offers a cartridge-free super-tank system for sublimation printing, combined with scanning and copying capabilities.

The easy-fill ink tanks mean less mess and fewer interruptions, and the high-resolution printing ensures your designs come out sharp. It supports a wide range of paper sizes, making it versatile for various projects. This all-in-one solution is great for crafters who need more than just printing.

If you’re looking for a multi-functional printer that simplifies sublimation ink management, this is a strong choice. However, the print quality might not match dedicated photo printers, and it requires a separate heat press for transfers.

Pros

  • No more ink cartridges
  • Scanner and copier included
  • Supports many paper sizes

Cons

  • Print quality may vary
  • Requires separate heat press
  • Ink colors may appear dull on paper

Specifications

Functions
Print, Scan, Copy
Ink System
Super-Tank
Max Print Size
8.5 x 47.2 in
Connectivity
USB 2.0, Wi-Fi
Weight
15.3 pounds
Model
ET-2800/ET2803
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#7. Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle

Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle
Value
Bundle Pack
Generous
Supplies
Wi-Fi
Enabled
Hobbyist Value Pack
84
OVERALL
SCORE
Included Value
9.5
Ease of Use
8.5
Print Quality
8.0
Connectivity
8.0
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You’ll find this Brother SP-1 starter bundle to be an exceptional value, packed with everything a hobbyist needs to dive into sublimation.

This bundle includes the SP-1 printer, a full set of CMYK inks, a generous amount of sublimation paper (160 sheets), 50 sublimation blanks, and heat-resistant tape. It’s designed for ease of use with Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with the Artspira app, making your creative process smooth.

It’s a fantastic all-in-one package for beginners or those looking to try sublimation without a large initial investment in supplies. Just remember that a heat press is necessary to activate the sublimation ink, and the printer is intended for US voltage.

Pros

  • Extensive starter supplies included
  • Great value for beginners
  • Easy setup with Wi-Fi

Cons

  • Requires separate heat press
  • US voltage only
  • Ink colors dull until heat pressed

Specifications

Print Function
Print Only
Max Print Size
Legal (8.5 x 14 inches)
Paper Capacity
160 Sheets
Connectivity
Ethernet, Wi-Fi
Weight
17″D x 13.5″W x 6.3″H
Model
SP-1
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Top 7 Best Sublimation Printer For Beginners

Unleash Your Inner Crafter: Finding Your First Sublimation Printer

Diving into the vibrant world of sublimation printing can feel like unlocking a new dimension for your creativity. Whether you dream of personalizing mugs, crafting unique apparel, or designing eye-catching home decor, the right sublimation printer is your gateway. Choosing your first machine deserves careful consideration to ensure your crafting journey starts smoothly and with results you’ll be proud of.

Decoding the Digital Canvas: What to Consider Before You Buy

When you’re embarking on your sublimation printing adventure, a few key elements will guide you toward the perfect printer. Think of these as the essential ingredients for turning your digital designs into tangible masterpieces.

  • Ink Compatibility: Ensure the printer is designed to work with sublimation inks. Not all printers are built for this specialized ink, which is crucial for vibrant, permanent transfers.
  • Print Quality and Resolution: Look for a printer that offers a good balance of resolution and color accuracy. This will directly impact the sharpness and brilliance of your final printed designs.
  • Paper Size and Media Handling: Consider the types and sizes of items you plan to sublimate. Some printers handle larger formats or thicker materials, offering more versatility for your projects.
  • Connectivity and Ease of Use: A printer that offers straightforward connection options (like Wi-Fi or USB) and an intuitive interface will make your setup and printing process much simpler, especially when you’re just starting out.
  • Sticking to Your Budget: Sublimation printers range in price. Identify your spending limit early on and focus on models that offer the best features within that range, without compromising essential functionality.

Navigating the Novice Landscape: Common Stumbles to Sidestep

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to trip up when you’re new to a particular technology. Being aware of potential pitfalls can save you time, frustration, and ensure your initial investment serves you well.

  • Assuming any printer works with sublimation ink: Remember, you need a printer specifically designed for or converted to sublimation ink. Standard inkjet inks won’t produce the desired permanent transfer.
  • Overlooking the importance of software: While not always a printer-specific feature, consider if the printer comes with or is compatible with design software that suits your skill level and workflow.
  • Forgetting about ongoing costs: Beyond the initial printer purchase, factor in the cost of sublimation ink and specialized sublimation paper, as these are consumables you’ll need to replenish regularly.

Your Sublimation Journey Starts Here!

For the absolute beginner prioritizing ease of use and a complete starter package, the Sawgrass SG500 shines. If you’re seeking reliable performance with a slightly more compact footprint, the Epson SureColor F170 is a fantastic contender. And for those looking for a cartridge-free, all-in-one solution, the Pinckney Super-Tank printer offers a unique approach.

No matter your choice, these printers are designed to get you creating stunning sublimation prints without a steep learning curve. Ready to dive in? Click the buttons above to check current availability and snag your perfect sublimation printer!

Final 3 Picks: Small Business Pro, Complete Starter Kit, and Beginner Crafters

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