Choosing the right printer can make or break your heat transfer results. The best sublimation printers for heat transfer printing deliver consistent color, reliable output, and a setup that matches your workflow.
In this roundup, we focus on models and bundles that make it easier to start fast, print cleanly, and scale with confidence.
Best 10 Sublimation Printers for Heat Transfer Printing Picks for 2026
Pro Desktop Pick
Epson SureColor F170 for Small-Batch Transfers
- PrecisionCore printhead for detailed output
- Includes sublimation ink, guide, and power cable
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray with wireless/USB/Ethernet
Best For: Small customization shops and personalized-gift projects
Refillable All-in-One Pick
A4 Sublimation Conversion Printer with Refillable Tanks
- Refillable ink tank design instead of cartridges
- Includes C/M/Y/B sublimation ink bottles
- Print, copy, and scan functions in one unit
Best For: Refillable-tank users who want multifunction support
Professional Sublimation Workhorse
Sawgrass SG500 Bundle for Small Businesses
- Dedicated sublimation printer with SubliJet UHD inks
- Compact format prints up to 8.5" x 14"
- Wi-Fi plus MySawgrass design and print tools
Best For: Small businesses and home creators needing a dedicated sublimation printer
Cartridge-Free Budget Builder
Pinckney EcoTank Sublimation Bundle
- Super-tank, cartridge-free all-in-one printer
- Easy-fill ink system with included sublimation inks
- Prints up to 5760 x 1440 dpi with Wi-Fi
Best For: Hobbyists and small makers wanting an easy refillable sublimation printer
Versatile Transfer System
Sawgrass SG500 VersiFlex for More Surfaces
- Transfers to cotton, metal, wood, and polyester
- No pre-treatment needed for porous surfaces
- Includes printer, inks, and transfer paper
Best For: Makers wanting a versatile transfer system for porous materials
Premium All-in-One Bundle
Epson F170 Sublimation Printer Bundle with Heat Press & Oven
- Includes Epson F170 printer, heat press, and sublimation oven
- PrecisionCore printhead for sharp, high-resolution output
- Wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity
Best For: Beginners and small businesses wanting a complete sublimation setup
Deluxe Starter Kit
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Deluxe Bundle
- Includes printer, CMYK inks, 310 sheets, blanks, and tape
- Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Windows, Mac, and app compatible
- Good starter kit for craft and small business use
Best For: Crafters and sellers who want a fuller all-in-one starter bundle
Value Starter Bundle
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle
- Includes printer, CMYK inks, 160 sheets, blanks, and tape
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
- Artspira app and design resources included
Best For: Beginners and hobby users who want a simpler Brother SP-1 starter kit
Pro Desktop Pick – Epson SureColor F170 for Small-Batch Transfers
If you want a compact option in sublimation printers for heat transfer printing, the Epson SureColor F170 is built for clean, consistent output in a small workspace. It includes a full set of Epson sublimation ink, uses a 150-sheet auto-feed tray, and supports wireless, USB, and Ethernet connections for straightforward production.
Best For: Customization businesses, personalized gifts, and small shops that want a compact dye-sublimation setup.
Pros:
- PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control for sharp image clarity.
- Includes a full set of sublimation ink, user guide, and AC power cable.
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray and closed, dust-resistant paper path.
- Works with Epson Print Layout, Epson Edge Print, and Epson iPrint.
Cons:
- Maximum media size is limited to 8.5″ width.
- Print-only design, so it does not scan or copy.
- Direct email printing and camera connections are not supported.
Overall, the F170 is a practical pick if you want a compact Epson sublimation printer with bundled ink and business-friendly paper handling. It is best suited to buyers who value dependable transfer printing over multifunction extras.
App-Driven Creator – Brother SP1 for Easy Design-to-Press Projects
The Brother Sublimation Printer is aimed at makers who want a guided workflow for sublimation printers for heat transfer printing. It connects to the Artspira app, where you can import and save up to 20 images, access 100+ sublimation designs, and convert images into poster-style drawings before printing.
Best For: DIY crafters who want app-based design tools and an easy path from artwork to heat press.
Pros:
- Artspira app support with image importing, saving, and design creation.
- Includes Brother Genuine sublimation ink and a starter paper pack.
- Fast printing speeds for quick project turnaround.
- Designed for heat press projects on polyester-coated items like mugs, shirts, bags, and hats.
Cons:
- Requires the Artspira app to get started.
- Heat press is required and sold separately.
- Usable only in the US at 120 volts according to the supplied notes.
If you like app-led creation and want a printer that fits DIY sublimation workflows, the SP1 is built around that experience. Its strengths are convenience, bundled supplies, and clear guidance from design to finished transfer.
Compact Bundle Value – Epson F170 Bundle with Cables and Cloth
This Epson SureColor F170 bundle is a practical choice for sublimation printers for heat transfer printing when you want the core printer plus useful setup accessories. The notes highlight genuine Epson dye-sublimation ink, a compact desktop-friendly design, and bundled Ethernet cable, USB cable, and fiber cloth for an easier start.
Best For: Home offices and small workspaces that want a compact Epson bundle with setup extras.
Pros:
- Includes Ethernet cable, USB cable, and fiber cloth alongside the printer.
- Genuine Epson dye-sublimation ink is optimized for heat-transfer applications.
- Compact, desktop-friendly footprint for tighter spaces.
- Supports a wide range of dye-sub media, including transfer paper for fabrics and rigid materials.
Cons:
- The notes do not provide detailed speed or capacity figures.
- Bundle description is short on software and workflow details.
- Still limited to the F170’s compact desktop format.
For buyers focused on convenience, this bundle stands out by adding the basic cables and cleaning cloth you may want on day one. It is a straightforward way to get the F170 setup with fewer extra purchases.
Refillable All-in-One Pick – A4 Sublimation Conversion Printer with Refillable Tanks
If you need an affordable-feeling workstation for sublimation printers for heat transfer printing, this A4 sublimation conversion printer is built around refillable tanks and included ink. The supplied notes describe it as a wireless super-tank all-in-one printer with scanner and copier functions, making it more flexible than a print-only device.
Best For: Users who want a refillable ink-tank printer with copy and scan functions for sublimation conversion work.
Pros:
- Refillable ink tank design with no cartridges to replace.
- Includes black, magenta, cyan, and yellow sublimation ink bottles.
- All-in-one functions add scan and copy capabilities.
- Auto-fill nozzle is designed to reduce mess and avoid syringe filling.
Cons:
- Generic brand listing with limited warranty details in the notes.
- Maximum media size is limited to 8.5 x 11 inches.
- Product title and details are less polished than the major-brand options.
This model makes sense if you want a refillable conversion printer with included ink and basic office-style functions. It is best for buyers who prioritize tank economy and multifunction convenience over premium-brand positioning.
Professional Sublimation Workhorse – Sawgrass SG500 Bundle for Small Businesses
If you want sublimation printers for heat transfer printing that feel built for serious use, the Sawgrass SG500 is a polished option designed exclusively for sublimation. It pairs compact desktop sizing with professional output, making it a strong fit for custom apparel, drinkware, signage, and promotional products.
Best For: Small businesses and home-based creators who want a dedicated sublimation printer with reliable color and easy workflow tools.
Pros:
- Designed exclusively for sublimation with SubliJet UHD CMYK inks included
- Prints up to 8.5″ x 14″, with bypass tray support up to 8.5″ x 51″
- Wi-Fi connectivity plus MySawgrass and Print Utility software for guided design and color control
- Auto-maintenance features help support long-term reliability
Cons:
- Maximum media size is smaller than wider-format production printers
- Best suited to small and medium projects rather than high-volume large runs
Overall, the SG500 is a focused, dependable choice if you want a dedicated sublimation setup with a compact footprint and professional-grade results. It stands out most for creators who value consistency, software support, and a printer made specifically for the job.
Cartridge-Free Budget Builder – Pinckney EcoTank Sublimation Bundle
For buyers comparing sublimation printers for heat transfer printing, this Pinckney bundle offers a cartridge-free super-tank approach with an all-in-one scanner and copier. It is aimed at easy filling and high-resolution output, which makes it practical for users who want a straightforward sublimation setup without dealing with cartridges.
Best For: Hobbyists and small makers who want a refillable all-in-one sublimation printer with simple setup and broad paper support.
Pros:
- Cartridge-free super-tank design with included sublimation ink bundle
- Easy-fill ink system with auto-fill nozzle and no syringe required
- Supports a wide range of paper sizes, including 8.5″ x 47.2″
- High-resolution printing up to 5760 x 1440 dpi
Cons:
- Maximum media size is limited to 8.5″ x 11″ in the listed specs
- Uses a converted ET-2800 or ET2803 base printer, not a purpose-built sublimation model
This bundle is appealing if you want a refillable, easy-to-manage sublimation printer with included ink and multifunction features. It is best viewed as a practical value pick for users who want versatility and convenience more than a specialized pro system.
Versatile Transfer System – Sawgrass SG500 VersiFlex for More Surfaces
If your goal is more than standard sublimation printers for heat transfer printing, the Sawgrass SG500 VersiFlex expands into cotton, metal, wood, and polyester. It uses a specialized decoration system with included inks and transfer paper, and it is designed for porous materials without pre-treatment.
Best For: Makers who want a more versatile transfer system for porous materials and soft-feel designs.
Pros:
- Transfers to cotton, metal, wood, and polyester
- No pre-treatment needed for porous surfaces like natural fibers and untreated wood
- Includes SG500 printer, VersiFlex ink set, and transfer paper
- Soft-touch finishes with true-to-life color output
Cons:
- A pressure-adjustable manual heat press is required
- Limited to 8.5″ x 11″ media size in the included setup
The VersiFlex bundle is a smart choice if you want one system that goes beyond classic sublimation and handles more material types. It is especially compelling for creators focused on soft-feel transfers and a simplified workflow on porous substrates.
Premium All-in-One Bundle – Epson F170 Sublimation Printer Bundle with Heat Press & Oven
Epson F170 Sublimation Printer Bundle with Craft Express Combo Heat Press & Elite Sublimation Oven
Check Price On AmazonIf you want one of the most complete sublimation printers for heat transfer printing, this Epson F170 bundle gives you the printer plus two major finishing tools in one package. The F170 uses PrecisionCore technology for sharp color output, and the included Craft Express heat press and Elite sublimation oven make it easier to move from printing to pressing without piecing together a setup.
Best For: Beginners or small business users who want a ready-to-run bundle for prints, flat items, and wrap-style sublimation projects.
Pros:
- Includes the Epson F170 printer, sublimation ink, a 9″ x 12″ heat press, and a sublimation oven.
- PrecisionCore printhead is built for precise, high-resolution sublimation output.
- Wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity provide flexible setup options.
- Good fit if you want to handle both flat pressing and fuller wrap projects.
Cons:
- The bundle takes up more space than a printer-only setup.
- Designed for sublimation use, so it is not a general-purpose photo printer.
This is a strong value choice if your priority is convenience and capability rather than buying each component separately. It suits users who want to start producing a wider range of sublimated products right away.
Deluxe Starter Kit – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Deluxe Bundle
The Brother SP-1 is a compact option in sublimation printers for heat transfer printing, and this deluxe bundle adds a deep starter supply package to get you moving quickly. You get the printer with CMYK inks, 310 sublimation sheets, 50 blanks, heat resistant tape, design cards, and the Artspira app download, which makes it a broad kit for crafting or small-batch work.
Best For: Crafters, hobbyists, and small business sellers who want a fuller starter package with more paper and extras included.
Pros:
- Large bundle includes 310 sublimation transfer sheets and 50 blanks.
- Includes full CMYK ink set, tape, tools, and design resources.
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity support flexible workflow options.
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, and the Artspira app.
Cons:
- Uses simplex printing only, so it does not offer duplex printing.
- The included supplies make it less minimal than a printer-only buy.
If you want a kit that covers more of the basics out of the box, this deluxe bundle is the more stocked-up Brother SP-1 option. It is especially appealing when you value extra paper, blanks, and design support from the start.
Value Starter Bundle – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle
If you are comparing sublimation printers for heat transfer printing and want a simpler entry point, this Brother SP-1 starter bundle trims the extras while still covering the essentials. It includes the printer, CMYK inks, 160 sublimation sheets, 50 blanks, tape, the Artspira app download, and design resources, making it a practical starting package for smaller production needs.
Best For: Buyers who want a lower-supply Brother SP-1 bundle for personal projects or lighter-volume crafting.
Pros:
- Includes the Brother SP-1 printer with full CMYK ink set.
- Starter supplies cover 160 sublimation sheets, 50 blanks, and tape.
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity make setup flexible.
- Includes Artspira app access, design cards, and a quick reference guide.
Cons:
- Includes fewer sublimation sheets than the deluxe Brother bundle.
- Still limited to print-only operation.
This bundle makes sense if you want the Brother SP-1 platform without paying for as many included supplies. It offers a balanced mix of essentials and convenience for beginners who do not need a larger stockpile upfront.
How We Picked These Sublimation Printers for Heat Transfer Printing
We prioritized print consistency, ease of setup, ink ecosystem, bundle value, and how well each option fits real-world use. We also weighed whether a model is better for beginners, occasional crafters, or higher-volume sellers.
Quick Comparison
Some choices are compact, desktop-friendly printers for smaller designs and home use. Others are bundle packages that add ink, paper, and heat-apparel accessories, making them better for all-in-one buying. A few are designed for more specialized workflows, including systems meant for dedicated sublimation or broader transfer applications.
Key Buying Factors for Sublimation Printers for Heat Transfer Printing
Print Size and Media Support
Check whether you need a compact 8.5" x 11" format, A4 output, or a setup that can handle larger project needs. The right size depends on the garments, blanks, and design layouts you sell most often.
Ink System and Maintenance
Cartridge-based and refillable systems each have tradeoffs. Cartridge models are usually simpler to manage, while tank-style or bundle-based setups may lower running costs. Anti-clog features, consistent nozzle performance, and easy maintenance matter if you print often.
Bundle Contents
For first-time buyers, bundles can save time and reduce guesswork. Look for included ink, transfer sheets, cables, and useful accessories if you want to get started without separate purchases.
Workflow and Output Goals
If you mainly make small gifts or hobby projects, a compact printer may be enough. If you plan to run a shop, consider reliability, consumable costs, and whether the printer matches your preferred transfer method and production pace.
Who Should Buy Which Sublimation Printers for Heat Transfer Printing?
Beginners should look for straightforward bundles with clear setup support and enough supplies to learn without extra purchases. Small business owners may prefer models with dependable output and lower long-term ink costs. Crafters who want versatility should compare transfer compatibility, while buyers focused on simplicity may benefit from dedicated sublimation systems over more general-purpose printers.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on how often you print, what materials you use, and how much you want included in the box. Matching those needs to the right machine is the fastest way to get better results from your sublimation printing workflow.