Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer Review: Worth It? (November 2026)
The Sawgrass SG500 suits a smaller home workspace if you want a desktop sublimation printer for craft projects. Compare compatible ink versions carefully, and consider the Epson SureColor F170 if you prefer an alternative with included genuine Epson ink.
On this page (9 sections)
- What should you know about the Sawgrass SG500?
- Which alternative fits your printing plans?
- What does the SG500 workflow involve?
- How should you think about ink compatibility?
- Is the SG500 right for photos or T-shirts?
- What are the main trade-offs?
- How do the alternatives compare?
- How we score these products
- Is the Sawgrass SG500 a good choice for you?
The Sawgrass SG500 is a desktop sublimation printer for smaller home workspaces and craft projects. For larger layouts, compare sublimation printers for large prints before choosing.
Sawgrass SG500 sublimation printer reviews are most useful when they help you weigh space, compatible ink and the kind of transfers you plan to make.
The SG500 belongs in a setup built around sublimation transfer printing. If your main goal is small full-color stickers with automatic cutting, the Liene PixCut S1 serves a different purpose; if you want genuine Epson ink in the box, compare the Epson SureColor F170.
What should you know about the Sawgrass SG500?
The SG500 is a desktop sublimation printer for home craft use. It makes sense when your projects call for sublimation transfers; compare sublimation versus DTF printers if you are weighing another transfer process.
It makes sense when your projects call for sublimation transfers and you want a printer dedicated to that process.
Sublimation printing uses heat to transfer dye into compatible materials. For a plain-language overview of the process and its limits, read What Is a Sublimation Printer?.
We compared the stated product features and alternatives for different small-workspace needs. The SG500's fit depends on your transfer materials, space, software needs and ongoing supply choices.
Which alternative fits your printing plans?
The best alternative depends on whether you want a similar sublimation workflow, included original-brand ink or sticker printing with built-in cutting. These three options serve different needs, so don't treat them as direct substitutes.
ChemU 4.0.3 SG500 SG1000 Sublimation Ink Cartridges: Best for compatible replacement ink
- Black, cyan, magenta and yellow cartridges
- 35 ml in each cartridge
- Designed for compatible SG500 and SG1000 versions
A four-color compatible ink set designed for supported Sawgrass SG500 and SG1000 printer versions. Check your printer version and applicable warranty terms before choosing third-party consumables.
Pros
- Includes all 4 ink colors
- 35 ml in each cartridge
- Designed for supported SG500 and SG1000 versions
Cons
- Compatibility with future or untested versions is not guaranteed
- Third-party ink may affect warranty coverage under applicable terms
ChemU's four-color compatible set is designed for supported SG500 and SG1000 versions. Check your printer's version before ordering, since compatibility with future or untested versions isn't guaranteed.
Liene PixCut S1 Inspire Kit: Best for print-and-cut stickers
- Thermal dye-sublimation printing
- 300 dpi color resolution
- Print and cut workflow
A different kind of dye-sublimation device for people focused on color stickers, labels and small photos. Its built-in cutting workflow and 4 x 7 in maximum media size make it a specialized alternative to a craft transfer printer.
Pros
- Combines printing and cutting
- Prints at 300 dpi
- Includes photo and sticker paper
Cons
- Maximum media size is 4 x 7 in
- Designed around stickers, labels and photos rather than the SG500 workflow
The Liene PixCut S1 is a compact print-and-cut system for stickers, labels and photos. Its 4 x 7 in maximum media size makes it a different fit from a printer chosen for larger craft transfers.
Johnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer.: Best for included genuine Epson ink
- Genuine Epson sublimation ink included
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray
- Supports paper up to 8.5 in wide
A compact alternative bundled with genuine Epson sublimation ink, paper and starter supplies. It supports Mac and Windows setup, while mobile device connection isn't supported.
Pros
- Includes a full set of genuine Epson ink
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray
- Bundle includes sublimation paper and thermal tape
Cons
- Mobile device connection isn't supported
- Uses a different printer and ink system from the Sawgrass SG500
The Epson SureColor F170 bundle includes genuine Epson sublimation ink, a 150-sheet auto-feed tray, paper and thermal tape. It supports Mac and Windows setup, but mobile device connection isn't supported.
What does the SG500 workflow involve?
A sublimation printer needs suitable transfer paper, a compatible blank and a heat press for the transfer step. The printer produces the design; it doesn't complete the heat transfer on its own.
Your design and print settings matter because the printed transfer must match the blank and pressing instructions. See how to use a Sawgrass sublimation printer for a step-by-step look at the workflow.
Check the materials and press settings for each project. For apparel, compare shirts for sublimation.
Fabric content, coating and temperature instructions can affect whether a blank is suitable for sublimation.
How should you think about ink compatibility?
Match the cartridge to the exact SG500 version before buying. ChemU describes its cartridges as compatible with SG500 and SG1000 printers running Version 4.06 and earlier supported versions, with future or untested compatibility not guaranteed.
The set includes black, cyan, magenta and yellow cartridges, with 35 ml in each. ChemU is an independent third-party brand and isn't affiliated with or endorsed by Sawgrass.
Third-party consumables may have warranty implications. Review Sawgrass's applicable warranty terms before using compatible ink, and confirm compatibility if your printer has a newer version.
If you haven't bought a sublimation printer yet, compare the trade-offs in our guide to the best inkjet printer for sublimation. A standard inkjet printer isn't automatically suitable for sublimation, as explained in Can You Use an Inkjet Printer for Sublimation?.
Is the SG500 right for photos or T-shirts?
The SG500 can fit projects where sublimation transfers are part of your photo or apparel workflow. The right choice still depends on the media, blank and transfer steps you need.
For photo-focused options, compare the models and formats in our guide to the best sublimation printer for photos. For apparel projects, see our best sublimation printer for T-shirts guide.
Sublimation generally needs a compatible coated surface or suitable fabric blend. Check the blank maker's instructions before planning a project, especially if you expect a particular color or finish.
What are the main trade-offs?
The SG500's clearest advantage is its dedicated desktop role for sublimation printing. Its main planning tasks are confirming the space it needs, choosing a compatible supply path and setting up the full transfer workflow.
Consider these points before choosing:
- Workspace: Measure the surface and allow room for paper, cartridges and cables.
- Supplies: Check the printer version and cartridge compatibility before ordering ink.
- Transfer equipment: Budget space for the heat press and blanks you plan to use.
- Project type: Match the printer to your intended transfers, not to a different sticker or photo workflow.
- Support and terms: Review the manufacturer's instructions and warranty terms for your chosen ink.
Avoid choosing by printer footprint alone. Paper storage, heat-press placement and a safe surface for cooling transfers also take room.
How do the alternatives compare?
The alternatives differ most in ink system and intended output. The Epson F170 is another desktop sublimation option with genuine Epson ink included, while the PixCut S1 focuses on small sticker and label projects.
| Option | Best fit | Key distinction |
|---|---|---|
| Sawgrass SG500 | Desktop sublimation transfers | Dedicated Sawgrass printer and supply system |
| ChemU compatible cartridges | Supported SG500 or SG1000 versions | Four colors, 35 ml per cartridge |
| Liene PixCut S1 | Stickers, labels and small photos | 300 dpi print-and-cut workflow, up to 4 x 7 in |
| Epson SureColor F170 | Desktop sublimation with included Epson ink | 150-sheet tray and genuine Epson ink |
Choose the SG500 if your workspace and projects are built around its sublimation workflow. Choose the PixCut S1 for compact sticker output, or compare the F170 if the included ink and paper bundle fits your setup better.
How we score these products
Our score weighs features and fit against the needs of the searcher. The SG500-focused cartridge set scores well for a buyer who already owns a compatible printer, while the other devices address distinct printing tasks.
Scores don't mean the products are interchangeable. Review the compatibility and media details before deciding which one fits your workspace.
Is the Sawgrass SG500 a good choice for you?
Choose the SG500 if you want a dedicated desktop sublimation printer and have room for the printer, transfer supplies and heat press. Choose the Epson SureColor F170 if its included Epson ink and tray better suit your setup, or the Liene PixCut S1 for small color stickers and labels.
For buyers comparing Sawgrass SG500 sublimation printer reviews, the key decision is your intended output and supply system. Check your printer version before choosing compatible cartridges, and follow the instructions for each blank and transfer.
FAQ
Is the Sawgrass SG500 suitable for a small workspace?
The SG500 is intended as a desktop sublimation printer for smaller home workspaces. Before choosing it, check its current dimensions and the clearance needed for paper handling, cables and routine cartridge access; a compact printer still needs room around it to work comfortably.
Can I use third-party ink in a Sawgrass SG500?
Some third-party cartridges are designed for supported SG500 versions, but compatibility depends on the printer version and cartridge chip. ChemU says its set supports Version 4.06 and earlier supported versions, and advises checking the printer version; future or untested compatibility isn't guaranteed.
What is the difference between the SG500 and the Liene PixCut S1?
The SG500 is a desktop sublimation printer for craft transfers, while the Liene PixCut S1 combines 300 dpi thermal dye-sublimation printing with cutting for small stickers, labels and photos. The PixCut S1 supports media up to 4 x 7 inches, so it serves a more specialized print-and-cut task.
Should I choose the SG500 or Epson SureColor F170?
Choose based on the ink system and workflow you want. The Epson SureColor F170 bundle includes genuine Epson sublimation ink and a 150-sheet tray, while the SG500 uses its own cartridges and may suit buyers already planning around Sawgrass supplies and software.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Sawgrass SG500 suitable for a small workspace?
The SG500 is intended as a desktop sublimation printer for smaller home workspaces. Before choosing it, check its current dimensions and the clearance needed for paper handling, cables and routine cartridge access; a compact printer still needs room around it to work comfortably.
Can I use third-party ink in a Sawgrass SG500?
Some third-party cartridges are designed for supported SG500 versions, but compatibility depends on the printer version and cartridge chip. ChemU says its set supports Version 4.06 and earlier supported versions, and advises checking the printer version; future or untested compatibility isn't guaranteed.
What is the difference between the SG500 and the Liene PixCut S1?
The SG500 is a desktop sublimation printer for craft transfers, while the Liene PixCut S1 combines 300 dpi thermal dye-sublimation printing with cutting for small stickers, labels and photos. The PixCut S1 supports media up to 4 x 7 inches, so it serves a more specialized print-and-cut task.
Should I choose the SG500 or Epson SureColor F170?
Choose based on the ink system and workflow you want. The Epson SureColor F170 bundle includes genuine Epson sublimation ink and a 150-sheet tray, while the SG500 uses its own cartridges and may suit buyers already planning around Sawgrass supplies and software.
