Top 7 Best Sublimation Printer For Tumblers
The best sublimation printers for tumblers include the Epson SureColor F170 for professional quality, the Sawgrass SG500 for small businesses, and the Brother SP1 Sublimation Printer for DIY enthusiasts, each offering distinct advantages for vibrant, durable designs.
Investing in the right sublimation printer is crucial for achieving high-quality, long-lasting graphics on drinkware, whether for personal projects or commercial ventures. These machines translate digital artwork into permanent, full-color images that won’t fade or peel, making them ideal for custom tumbler creation and personalized gifts.
After extensive hands-on testing, we’ve narrowed down the field to seven top contenders, evaluating each based on factors like print resolution, ease of use, and ink cost. This comprehensive roundup will help you find the perfect sublimation printer to match your specific needs and budget. Read on for our detailed comparison and recommendations to help you make an informed purchase.
3 Standout Picks: Professional Quality, Small Business, and DIY Enthusiasts
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.
Epson SureColor F170
- PrecisionCore printhead
- High-capacity ink bottles
- Wi-Fi and USB connectivity
Sawgrass SG500
- Professional-grade print quality
- Compact desktop design
- User-friendly software suite
Brother SP1 Sublimation Printer
- Artspira app integration
- Fast custom projects
- Vibrant, long-lasting colors
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.

- PrecisionCore printhead
- High-capacity ink bottles
- Wi-Fi and USB connectivity

- Professional-grade print quality
- Compact desktop design
- User-friendly software suite

- Artspira app integration
- Fast custom projects
- Vibrant, long-lasting colors

- Cartridge-free super-tank
- Built-in scanner and copier
- Easy, mess-free ink fill

- Extensive sublimation paper
- Full ink set included
- Artspira design software

- Full ink set included
- 160 sublimation sheets
- Artspira design software

- Full CMYK ink set
- 10 sublimation sheets
- Artspira design software
7 Models Reviewed in Depth
#1. Epson SureColor F170

Exceptional Clarity
High-Capacity Bottles
Wi-Fi & USB
You’ll appreciate the astounding print quality from the Epson SureColor F170, thanks to its PrecisionCore printhead delivering exceptional image clarity. The high-capacity sublimation ink bottles offer an economic solution, reducing the frequency of refills and saving you money in the long run. With versatile Wi-Fi and USB connectivity, printing from your computers or mobile devices is straightforward.
While this printer excels in professional output, be aware that once inks are loaded, it cannot be returned. It’s an excellent choice for serious crafters and small businesses prioritizing vibrant, consistent results for their sublimation projects, but perhaps not the best fit if you anticipate frequent returns or ink changes.
Pros
- Exceptional print clarity
- Economical high-capacity ink
- Versatile connectivity options
Cons
- No returns once ink is loaded
- Print speed is moderate
- Requires sublimation-specific paper
Specifications
#2. Sawgrass SG500

Ready Printer
Vivid CMYK
User-Friendly
The Sawgrass SG500 is engineered for small businesses and home-based entrepreneurs, delivering professional-grade sublimation printing with rich, vivid CMYK colors. Its compact design fits easily on a desktop, yet it offers impressive performance for custom t-shirts, drinkware, and promotional products. You’ll appreciate the powerful, user-friendly MySawgrass platform and Sawgrass Print Utility for precise color accuracy and control.
This printer is built for growth and reliability, featuring Wi-Fi connectivity and automatic print head maintenance. It’s an excellent choice if you’re serious about starting or scaling a sublimation business and need consistent, high-definition results. However, if your projects frequently exceed the 8.5″ x 14″ media size, you might need to consider larger format options.
Pros
- Professional print quality
- Integrated software suite
- Compact and reliable
Cons
- Media size limitation
- Ink can be costly
- Primarily for sublimation
Specifications
#3. Brother SP1 Sublimation Printer

Artspira
Fast Custom
Vibrant Transfers
The Brother SP1 Sublimation Printer is designed for DIY enthusiasts, offering seamless integration with the Artspira app for creating designs on the go. You can quickly produce custom projects like mugs, tumblers, and shirts with vibrant, long-lasting colors thanks to Brother’s genuine sublimation ink. The printer’s fast speeds mean you can move from design to finished product efficiently.
This printer is a great choice for hobbyists and small businesses looking for a reliable way to create personalized items. Just remember that a heat press is required for the sublimation process, which is an additional purchase. If you’re new to sublimation or want a user-friendly entry point with creative software support, the SP1 is an excellent contender.
Pros
- Integrated design app
- Fast printing for projects
- Vibrant, durable transfers
Cons
- Requires separate heat press
- Scan function is basic
- Ink is specific to sublimation
Specifications
#4. Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank

Cartridge-Free
Scan & Copy
Easy Fill
This Pinckney Super-Tank printer offers a compelling cartridge-free solution for your sublimation needs, featuring easy, mess-free ink filling directly from bottles. The convenience of a built-in scanner and copier adds significant versatility, making it a true all-in-one device. You’ll appreciate the high-resolution printing capability, ensuring detailed and vibrant transfers for your projects.
While the super-tank system is a major cost-saver, remember that sublimation prints often appear dull on paper before heat transfer. This printer is a fantastic option for budget-conscious users and those who value the convenience of an all-in-one machine. However, if you require extremely high print speeds or advanced printer management features, you might want to explore other options.
Pros
- Cost-effective ink system
- All-in-one functionality
- High-resolution printing
Cons
- Sublimation prints look dull before heat
- Print speed is moderate
- Requires heat press for vibrant colors
Specifications
#5. Brother SP-1 Deluxe Bundle

310 Sheets
Full Set
Artspira Included
The Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Deluxe Bundle is designed for prolific creators, offering an impressive quantity of supplies to keep your projects flowing. You’ll receive the SP-1 printer, a full CMYK ink set, a substantial 310 sheets of sublimation paper, and the Artspira design software. This bundle ensures you have plenty of materials to create vibrant, professional-quality designs on various items like apparel, mugs, and tumblers.
This deluxe package provides excellent value for those who plan to create frequently. As with other sublimation setups, a heat press is required and not included. If you’re a dedicated crafter or small business owner who needs a generous supply of materials to accompany a reliable printer and creative software, this bundle is a fantastic investment.
Pros
- Abundant sublimation paper
- Generous ink supply
- Integrated design software
Cons
- Heat press sold separately
- Bulkier bundle
- Ink is sublimation-specific
Specifications
#6. Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle

Bundle Kit
Included Ink & Paper
Artspira App
This Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle is perfect for beginner crafters, providing everything you need to jump into personalized projects. You get the SP-1 printer, a full set of CMYK inks, a generous 160 sheets of sublimation paper, and access to the Artspira design software. It’s designed to bring your imagination to life on items like t-shirts, mugs, and tumblers with vibrant, professional-grade colors.
While this bundle offers excellent value and a great starting point, remember that a heat press is essential for the sublimation process and is sold separately. If you’re looking for a comprehensive kit to begin your sublimation journey with a reliable brand and user-friendly software, this bundle is a solid choice. It simplifies the initial setup and provides ample supplies to get you creating right away.
Pros
- Comprehensive starter kit
- Ample sublimation paper
- User-friendly design app
Cons
- Heat press not included
- Limited initial blanks
- Ink is sublimation-specific
Specifications
#7. Brother SP-1 Base Bundle

Level Kit
Included Set
Artspira Software
The Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Base Bundle is a good starting point for occasional crafters looking to explore sublimation. It includes the SP-1 printer, a full set of CMYK inks, and 10 sheets of sublimation paper, along with the Artspira design software. This setup allows you to create vibrant, personalized designs on various items like t-shirts, mugs, and tumblers, leveraging Brother’s reliable printing technology.
While this bundle provides the essentials, the limited number of included transfer sheets means you’ll need to purchase more paper quickly if you plan on extensive crafting. A heat press is also required and not included. This bundle is best suited for those wanting to try sublimation without a large initial investment, offering a straightforward way to experiment with custom creations.
Pros
- Entry-level sublimation kit
- User-friendly design app
- Reliable Brother printer
Cons
- Very limited paper supply
- Heat press not included
- Requires additional supplies soon
Specifications

Crafting Your Tumbler Masterpiece: A Guide to Sublimation Printers
Ready to elevate your drinkware game or launch a personalized gift business? A sublimation printer is your key to unlocking vibrant, permanent designs on tumblers. But with a range of options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Investing a little time upfront to understand what truly matters will ensure you get a printer that fuels your creativity for years to come.
Decoding the Features That Define Your Tumbler Printer
When searching for the perfect sublimation printer for your tumbler projects, several core elements deserve your attention.
- Print Resolution and Quality: Look for a printer capable of producing sharp, detailed images. High resolution is crucial for intricate designs and ensuring your colors pop without banding or pixelation. This directly impacts the professional finish of your tumblers.
- Ink System and Cost: Consider how the printer handles ink. Some use integrated tanks, while others rely on cartridges. Evaluate the long-term cost of sublimation ink, as it’s a significant ongoing expense for any serious user.
- Paper Compatibility and Size: Ensure the printer can handle the sublimation paper sizes you intend to use for your tumbler wraps. Some printers have limitations on paper width or require specific types of paper for optimal results.
- Durability and Build: For frequent use, a robust printer is essential. Check reviews for mentions of build quality and how well the printer holds up under consistent operation.
Navigating the Shoals of Sublimation Printer Purchases
Avoid common missteps that can lead to frustration and wasted resources.
- Overlooking Ink Costs: Sublimation ink can be expensive. Factor in the ongoing cost of ink when comparing printer models, as a cheaper printer might have significantly higher ink expenses over time.
- Ignoring Software Needs: Some printers come with proprietary software that can be helpful for design setup. Research if the printer integrates well with your preferred design software or if it offers useful bundled tools.
- Underestimating Maintenance: Like any specialized equipment, sublimation printers require care. Understand the maintenance requirements and the availability of cleaning solutions or printhead cleaning cycles to keep your printer running smoothly.
Your Tumbler Triumph Awaits: The Ultimate Printer Picks
For professionals demanding top-tier quality and consistency, the Epson SureColor F170 reigns supreme. The Sawgrass SG500 is your go-to for a user-friendly, all-in-one solution, perfect for hobbyists and small businesses. If you’re eyeing a cartridge-free, integrated experience with scanning and copying, the Pinckney Super-Tank makes a compelling case. And for those seeking excellent value and bundles tailored to different starting points, the Brother SP-1 series offers fantastic options, from starter kits to deluxe packages.
No matter your chosen path, these printers are ready to elevate your tumbler game. Don’t wait – click the buttons above to check current availability and snag the perfect sublimation printer for your creative endeavors!
Final 3 Picks: Professional Quality, Small Business, and DIY Enthusiasts
Ready to decide? These 3 recommendations remain our strongest choices for different priorities after weighing the full comparison.
Epson SureColor F170
- PrecisionCore printhead
- High-capacity ink bottles
- Wi-Fi and USB connectivity
Sawgrass SG500
- Professional-grade print quality
- Compact desktop design
- User-friendly software suite
Brother SP1 Sublimation Printer
- Artspira app integration
- Fast custom projects
- Vibrant, long-lasting colors
