6 Best Dye Ink Printers (November 2026)
The best dye ink printers include the Johnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer. for complete sublimation setups, the Hiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles Compatible for compatible ink refills, and the Johnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer for compact Epson sublimation printing.
On this page (4 sections)
The best dye ink printer for vivid photographic output is the Canon PIXMA PRO-200S, with 8-color dye ink and borderless printing up to 13 x 19 inches.
Choose the Epson F170 for dye-sublimation projects, or the Canon Selphy for compact 4 x 6 photos.
Dye ink printers make the most sense when color impact matters more than pigment-style document permanence.
The picks here cover large photo printing, everyday home use, compact photo output and heat-transfer work.
Dye ink tends to suit photos because it can produce bright color and smooth gradients at photo sizes.
Pigment ink is often preferred when document permanence matters more than photographic smoothness.
That trade-off is the first filter to apply before comparing print speeds or paper sizes.
A photographer printing large images will value color depth and borderless range.
A home user printing homework will value scanning, copying and simple wireless setup.
A crafter using sublimation will value matched ink, paper and transfer materials.
Those three needs lead to different machines, even though all use dye-based color.
The Canon PIXMA PRO-200S is aimed at photographers and graphic artists who need large prints.
The Epson SureColor F170 models are aimed at sublimation work on items such as mugs, apparel and mousepads.
The Canon Selphy CP1500 is aimed at small finished photos from a phone or computer.
The HP Envy 6155 is aimed at mixed home tasks rather than a single specialty output.
Print size should be checked early because it limits what a printer can do afterwards.
Connection also matters because some models suit a phone workflow and others suit a wired desk workflow.
Included supplies matter too, especially where matched paper and ink simplify the first print.
If you're choosing between ink technologies, read our guide to What Is the Difference Between Dye Ink and Pigment Ink?.
Artists may also want our Best Inkjet Printer For Artists guide before choosing a print size.
That artist guide is useful when paper size and media choice are still open.
It helps to narrow the size range before comparing large-format and compact models.
The sections below match each option to the use it suits best.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for complete sublimation setupsJohnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer.
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for compatible ink refillsHiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles Compatible
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for compact Epson sublimation printingJohnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itHP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet
Best for everyday home printing - 5
Check itCanon Selphy CP1500 Photo Printer Bundle
Best for compact 4 x 6 photos - 6
Check itCanon PIXMA PRO-200S Professional 13" Wireless Inkjet
Best for large photographic prints
The best dye ink printers for different uses
The Canon PIXMA PRO-200S is the strongest photo-focused option, while the Epson F170 models are better for sublimation transfers.
The HP Envy 6155 is the practical home choice, and the Canon Selphy is the smallest photo-focused option.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
We checked the listed ink systems, supported media, connection options and included items rather than treating every dye printer as the same type of machine.
That distinction matters because not every dye printer is meant for the same kind of finished output.
A large photo printer, a sublimation printer and a home all-in-one may share dye color but work very differently.
The Canon PIXMA PRO-200S focuses on large photographic prints with an 8-color dye system.
The Epson F170 models focus on dye-sublimation transfers for soft and rigid items.
The HP Envy 6155 focuses on everyday print, scan and copy work for a home.
The Canon Selphy CP1500 focuses on compact 4 x 6 photo prints from connected devices.
Hiipoo is different again because it supplies ink for compatible printers rather than a printer itself.
Keeping those jobs separate makes the comparison clearer and avoids buying for the wrong task.
Use the product cards that follow to check size, weight, connection and included supplies.
| Product | Best for | Printer type | Maximum media size | Sheet capacity | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Johnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer. | complete sublimation setups | Dye-sublimation printer | 8.5 in wide | 150 sheets | 9.7 |
| Hiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles Compatible | compatible ink refills | 9.6 | |||
| Johnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer | compact Epson sublimation printing | Dye-sublimation printer | 9.6 | ||
| HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet | everyday home printing | Letter | 9.4 | ||
| Canon Selphy CP1500 Photo Printer Bundle | compact 4 x 6 photos | Wireless compact dye-sub printer | 9.3 | ||
| Canon PIXMA PRO-200S Professional 13" Wireless Inkjet | large photographic prints | 9.3 |
Johnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer.: Best for complete sublimation setups
- Full set of Epson sublimation ink
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray
- 8.5 x 11 in and 8.5 x 14 in paper
- Sublimation starter kit included
This Epson F170 bundle includes genuine Epson ink, paper, thermal tape and a sublimation starter kit. Its compact body and 150-sheet tray suit hobbyists, crafters and small businesses.
Pros
- Complete starter bundle
- Genuine Epson sublimation ink
- Closed 150-sheet tray
Cons
- Print only
- No mobile-device connection
The Epson SureColor F170 bundle is the most complete choice for a new sublimation setup. It includes a full set of Epson sublimation ink, a user guide, AC power cable, sublimation starter kit, thermal tape, and 8.5 x 11 in and 8.5 x 14 in paper.
Its 150-sheet auto-feed tray keeps paper in a closed, dust-resistant area. That helps reduce repeated loading during a craft session, while the compact 13.7 x 14.8 x 7.4 in body is easier to place than a larger photo printer.
The printer uses Epson PrecisionCore technology and genuine Epson sublimation ink. The ink is certified ECO PASSPORT by OEKO-TEX, and the bundle is intended for transfers involving textiles, apparel, mugs and mousepads.
Use this pick when you want the printer and basic transfer supplies together. It supports Mac and Windows setup, but mobile-device connection isn't supported.
For another transfer option, compare it with our guide to the Best Refillable Ink Tank Printer.
Hiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles Compatible: Best for compatible ink refills
- 127 ml black bottle
- 70 ml cyan, magenta and yellow bottles
- Compatible with many Epson ET and WorkForce models
- For fabric with less than 30% cotton
Hiipoo supplies a black bottle plus cyan, magenta and yellow bottles for compatible Epson printers. It suits DIY transfer work on fabrics and other listed sublimation materials.
Pros
- Multiple compatible Epson models
- High-yield format
- Four-color refill set
Cons
- Compatibility must match your printer
- Fabric must contain less than 30% cotton
Hiipoo is the best fit here when you already have a compatible Epson printer and need sublimation ink refills. The set includes one 127 ml black bottle and 70 ml cyan, magenta and yellow bottles.
The long compatibility list includes Epson ET-2800, ET-2400, ET-2760, ET-4800, ET-3850 and many other ET and WorkForce models. Match your exact printer model before filling an ink tank, because compatibility is central to choosing this product.
Hiipoo describes the ink as water-based sublimation ink for mugs, T-shirts, cloth, pillowcases, shoes, caps, ceramics, boxes, bags, quilts, flags and banners. The material guidance matters: the fabric should contain less than 30% cotton.
This is ink, not a printer, so it suits a buyer who already has the right hardware. It can support a DIY or small-business transfer workflow, but it doesn't replace the need for a compatible printer and heat-transfer process.
Johnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer: Best for compact Epson sublimation printing
- Genuine Epson sublimation ink
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray
- USB and Ethernet
- Mac and Windows setup
This Epson SureColor F170 package focuses on the printer, genuine ink, user guide and power cable. It fits buyers who want the compact F170 format without the larger starter bundle.
Pros
- Compact body
- 150-sheet tray
- USB and Ethernet
Cons
- Print only
- No mobile-device connection
This second Epson SureColor F170 option is best for buyers who want the compact printer with genuine Epson ink, a user guide and power cable. It has the same 13.7 x 14.8 x 7.4 in dimensions as the larger F170 bundle and weighs 16 lb.
The 150-sheet auto-feed tray supports repeated printing without constant paper loading. USB and Ethernet provide wired connection choices, and the printer is designed for Mac and Windows setup.
The package includes a full set of Epson sublimation ink. It does not include the larger bundle's listed sublimation starter kit, thermal tape or 8.5 x 11 in and 8.5 x 14 in paper, so compare what you need before choosing between the two F170 options.
Like the other F170, this is a print-only machine for sublimation work. Mobile-device connection isn't supported.
It fits a craft desk or small business that already has transfer blanks and paper.
HP Envy 6155 Wireless All-in-One Color Inkjet: Best for everyday home printing
- Print, scan and copy
- Automatic 2-sided printing
- 100-sheet input tray
- 2.4 in color touchscreen
The HP Envy 6155 handles color documents, photos, scanning and copying in one home printer. Wireless printing, a touchscreen and automatic duplexing make it the most general-purpose pick here.
Pros
- Print, scan and copy
- Automatic duplex printing
- Wireless and mobile printing
Cons
- Cartridges use original HP chips or circuitry
- 100-sheet tray
The HP Envy 6155 is the best dye-ink-style home option when you also need scanning and copying. It prints, scans and copies, supports automatic 2-sided printing, and holds up to 100 sheets in its input tray.
Its stated speeds reach 10 pages per minute in black and 7 pages per minute in color. A 2.4 in color touchscreen handles printer controls, while dual-band Wi-Fi and the HP app support wireless and mobile printing.
The included items are the printer, HP 68 setup black and tri-color cartridges, regulatory flyer, setup guide, reference guide and power cord. The cartridges have stated setup yields of about 120 black pages and 75 color pages.
This pick is better for mixed household work than for large photo art. It accepts letter-size media, prints color at up to 4800 x 1200 dpi, and uses cartridges with original HP chips or circuitry.
Canon Selphy CP1500 Photo Printer Bundle: Best for compact 4 x 6 photos
- KP-108 paper with 108 sheets
- Three color ink cartridges
- Wireless printing
- Tudak microfiber cleaning cloth
The Canon Selphy CP1500 bundle pairs matched paper and color cartridges for compact photo printing. Its wireless design suits desks, events, scrapbooks and quick photo gifts.
Pros
- Compact design
- Matched paper and ink
- Water-resistant and fingerprint-resistant photos
Cons
- Maximum media size is 4 x 6 in
- Print only
The Canon Selphy CP1500 is the best dye-sublimation photo printer for small, finished prints. Its maximum media size is 4 x 6 inches, making it a focused choice for snapshots, journaling, scrapbooking and event photos.
The bundle includes the Canon Selphy printer, KP-108 paper with 108 sheets, three full-size color ink cartridges and a Tudak microfiber cleaning cloth. Matched paper and ink simplify setup because the included supplies are designed to work as a set.
Wireless support lets you print from a PC or smartphone. The compact black printer fits on a desk, shelf or travel bag more easily than the large-format Canon.
The dye-sublimation process is designed for vibrant, water-resistant and fingerprint-resistant photos. Choose it when small photo output matters more than flexible paper sizes or large artwork.
For scrapbook projects that may need a general inkjet, see our Best Inkjet Printer For Scrapbooking guide.
Canon PIXMA PRO-200S Professional 13" Wireless Inkjet: Best for large photographic prints
- 8-color dye-based ink system
- Borderless printing up to 13 x 19 in
- 3 in color LCD
- Ethernet and USB
The Canon PIXMA PRO-200S is the strongest fit for photographers and graphic artists who need vivid large prints. Its 8-color dye system and 13 x 19 in borderless output give it the broadest photographic range here.
Pros
- 8-color dye ink
- 13 x 19 in borderless printing
- 3 in color LCD
Cons
- Large 32 lb printer
- Print only
The Canon PIXMA PRO-200S is the best dye ink printer here for photographers and graphic artists who need large, vivid prints. Its 8-color dye-based ink system supports borderless printing from 3.5 x 3.5 inches up to 13 x 19 inches.
The 3 in color LCD lets you check ink levels, printer status and settings from the machine. Ethernet and USB provide wired connection options, while the printer accepts paper up to the stated 13 x 19 in borderless range.
Canon gives print times of 90 seconds for a bordered A3+ print and 53 seconds for a bordered 8 x 10 in print. Those figures help set expectations for large images, where print size and detail matter more than office document speed.
At 28.7 x 18.6 x 14.04 in and 32 lb, this is the largest and heaviest printer in the group. Make sure your desk can hold it with room for paper handling before choosing it.
Buyers comparing Canon's dye and pigment lines can also review the Best Canon Printers with Pigment Ink.
How should you choose a dye ink printer?
Choose a dye ink printer by matching the ink process, print size and daily workload to your project. The best option for large photographs is different from the best option for sublimation transfers or routine home documents.
What will you print?
For large photographic prints, the Canon PIXMA PRO-200S has the widest stated print range here, including borderless output up to 13 x 19 inches. For 4 x 6 photos, the Canon Selphy CP1500 is more focused and compact.
For everyday documents with scanning and copying, the HP Envy 6155 covers more tasks than the print-only models. For sublimation, choose the Epson F170 or a compatible printer and ink system intended for transfers.
Do you need dye ink or dye-sublimation ink?
Dye ink goes onto the print medium. Dye-sublimation ink is used for a transfer process, so the printer, ink, paper and heat-transfer materials must work together.
The two Epson F170 products are purpose-built dye-sublimation printers. Hiipoo is a compatible ink refill set, so it only makes sense when your Epson model appears in the compatibility information and your project uses suitable transfer materials.
How much space do you have?
The Canon PIXMA PRO-200S needs the most room at 28.7 x 18.6 x 14.04 in and weighs 32 lb. The Epson F170 is much smaller at 13.7 x 14.8 x 7.4 in, while the Canon Selphy is designed around compact photo printing.
Check the printer's depth, width and height against your desk before ordering. Also leave room for paper loading, cables and finished prints.
What connection do you need?
The Canon Selphy CP1500 supports wireless printing from PCs and smartphones.
The HP Envy 6155 supports wireless and mobile printing through its app.
The Epson F170 models support USB, with Ethernet also listed for the second F170 option.
Mobile-device connection isn't supported on the F170, so choose a model with the right connection method for your workspace.
Connection should be matched to how you actually start a print job each day.
A phone-first user will want wireless printing and app control without a cable.
A desk-based crafter may be fine with USB if the computer stays in one place.
A small office may value Ethernet when a wired network connection is more stable.
Check the listed hardware interface before ordering rather than assuming every printer offers the same options.
The Canon PIXMA PRO-200S also lists Ethernet and USB for wired desk use.
The HP Envy 6155 lists USB in its specs and adds wireless printing for home use.
The Canon Selphy CP1500 lists USB and wireless support for PC and smartphone printing.
The first Epson F170 bundle lists USB, while the second F170 option lists USB and Ethernet.
That small difference can matter when you plan where the printer will sit.
Cable length, desk layout and network access should be considered together.
Also check whether the job needs scanning or copying, because print-only models cannot cover those tasks.
The HP Envy 6155 is the all-in-one here, while the other models are print only.
For projects that need specialty paper handling, our guide to Best Rear Feed Inkjet Printers can help you compare another printer design.
How do you care for a dye ink printer?
Keep paper, ink and transfer materials matched to the printer, and follow the setup instructions for that model.
Store supplies as directed, keep the print path clean, and use the printer regularly enough to fit your normal workload.
Good care starts with using only the media and ink types listed for your exact printer.
Unmatched paper can affect feeding and print quality, especially on photo and sublimation work.
Store paper flat and dry so dust and moisture do not reach the print path.
Keep finished prints and blanks away from the printer area until you need them.
For refillable or sublimation systems, confirm the exact ink compatibility before filling tanks.
Mixing an unsuitable ink system can disrupt color results and create avoidable maintenance work.
Check the model list carefully because a similar model name may not be supported.
For the Hiipoo refill set, the compatible Epson model must match before you fill any tank.
For the Epson F170, use the genuine Epson sublimation ink supplied or specified for that printer.
That approach protects print quality and keeps the warranty and support path clear.
Use the Canon Selphy bundle's included microfiber cleaning cloth for the printer's exterior.
Wipe the outside gently and avoid harsh cleaners around controls and vents.
For larger machines, keep dust away from paper paths and check ink levels before a large photo job.
The Canon PIXMA PRO-200S has a 3 in color LCD for checking ink and status.
That makes it easier to spot a low ink level before starting a 13 x 19 in print.
Clean hands also help because oils can mark photo paper and transfer blanks.
Load paper only when you are ready to print, and keep the tray closed when idle.
The Epson F170 closed tray helps by keeping paper in a dust-resistant area.
Regular use helps keep ink flowing in dye systems that sit unused for long periods.
Set a simple routine for checking ink, cleaning the exterior and storing media.
Dye ink is a strong choice for vivid images, but every printer has a different job.
A photo printer should not be selected only because it uses dye ink.
Check the print size, connection, media and other functions first.
Which dye ink printer should you choose?
Pick the Canon PIXMA PRO-200S if you need large photographic prints and an 8-color dye system.
Pick the Epson SureColor F170 bundle if you want a complete sublimation setup with ink, paper and transfer supplies.
Choose the HP Envy 6155 for home printing, scanning and copying, or the Canon Selphy CP1500 for compact wireless 4 x 6 photos.
If you already own a compatible Epson printer, the Hiipoo refill set is the focused choice for sublimation ink.
The Canon PIXMA PRO-200S suits photographers and graphic artists who print large images.
Its borderless range reaches 13 x 19 inches, and its 8-color dye system supports vivid photographic color.
It needs more desk space because it measures 28.7 x 18.6 x 14.04 in and weighs 32 lb.
The Epson SureColor F170 bundle suits a new sublimation setup because more supplies are included.
It includes genuine Epson ink, a starter kit, thermal tape and two paper sizes.
The second F170 option suits buyers who already have paper and transfer supplies.
The HP Envy 6155 suits a home that needs print, scan and copy in one machine.
Its automatic 2-sided printing and 100-sheet tray suit routine document work.
The Canon Selphy CP1500 suits small photo output and wireless printing from a phone.
Its matched paper and ink bundle simplifies setup for 4 x 6 prints.
The Hiipoo refill set suits only buyers whose Epson model is listed as compatible.
Match the model and fabric guidance before filling a tank with sublimation ink.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for complete sublimation setups
Johnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer.
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for compatible ink refills
Hiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles Compatible
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for compact Epson sublimation printing
Johnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer
9.6/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What is the best dye ink printer for photos?
The Canon PIXMA PRO-200S is the best dye ink printer here for large photographic work because it uses an 8-color dye-based ink system and prints borderless images up to 13 x 19 inches.
For 4 x 6 inch photos, the Canon Selphy CP1500 is easier to place and use.
Are dye ink printers good for photography?
Yes. Dye ink printers are well suited to vivid photographic output because dye-based color systems can produce bright images and smooth gradients.
Choose the Canon PIXMA PRO-200S for larger prints, or the Canon Selphy CP1500 when your photos are mainly 4 x 6 inches.
What is the difference between a dye ink printer and a sublimation printer?
A dye ink printer puts dye-based ink onto paper or another print medium. A dye-sublimation printer transfers color to suitable materials through a heat process.
The Epson SureColor F170 and Canon Selphy CP1500 are dye-sublimation printers, while the Canon PIXMA PRO-200S is a dye-ink photo inkjet.
Can I use sublimation ink in any dye ink printer?
No. Sublimation ink needs a compatible printer and a suitable transfer workflow.
Hiipoo lists specific Epson ET and WorkForce models, while the Epson SureColor F170 is designed as a dye-sublimation printer.
Check the exact model before changing ink systems.
