9 Best Sublimation Printers in 2026

You have the design ready. The mug press is heating up. You load the transfer paper, hit print, and the result is a muddy, desaturated mess. That is the moment most people realize not just any inkjet can do sublimation. The best sublimation printers balance a dedicated print head, the right ink system, and a workflow that doesn't make you fight the machine at every step. Some are purpose-built dye-sub units. Others are standard ink tanks that, with the right ink swap, become reliable transfer engines. And a few bundles exist to take the guesswork out of what paper, blanks, and tape you need.

Here is our roundup of the nine candidates that deserve your attention this year. We have dedicated printers from Epson and Brother, converted super-tank models, and a few popular EcoTanks that make excellent conversion bases. The right one for you depends on how much hand-holding you want from the manufacturer, how many prints you plan to make, and whether you are okay swapping ink yourself.

TL;DR: The Epson SureColor F170 (Johnson Plastics Plus) is the dedicated workhorse for serious crafters. The Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle gives beginners everything needed to start printing immediately. The Pinckney Super-Tank is the easiest conversion option for high-volume transfers. And the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is the top candidate for those who want to convert a standard inkjet into a sublimation machine.

#	Product	Format	Ink System	Connectivity	Best for
1	Epson SureColor F170 (JPPlus)	8.5" x 11"	Dedicated dye-sublimation, OEM ink	Wi-Fi, USB, Epson iPrint	Crafters and small businesses needing reliable, vivid transfers right out of the box
2	Epson SureColor F170 Starter Bundle	8.5" x 11" & 8.5" x 14"	Dedicated dye-sublimation, OEM ink + paper & tape	Wi-Fi, USB, Epson iPrint	Users who want a complete setup without sourcing extras separately
3	Epson SureColor F170 (Orinokia)	8.5" x 11"	Dedicated dye-sublimation, OEM ink	Wi-Fi, USB, Epson iPrint	Those who want a straightforward OEM package with manufacturer support
4	Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle	8.5" x 11"	Dedicated dye-sublimation, full ink set + blanks	Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Artspira app	Beginners and entrepreneurs wanting an all-in-one solution with plenty of supplies
5	Pinckney Super-Tank (White)	Up to legal/8.5" x 47.2"	Converted CISS pre-filled with sublimation ink	Wi-Fi, USB	Hobbyists who want high-volume printing without converting the printer themselves
6	Epson EcoTank ET-2803	8.5" x 11"	Cartridge-free tank (standard pigment ink)	Wi-Fi, AirPrint, Smart Panel	Users planning to convert to sublimation with aftermarket inks and who need scan/copy
7	Epson EcoTank ET-2800 (White)	8.5" x 11"	Cartridge-free tank (standard pigment ink)	Wi-Fi, Smart Panel	Home users who want a dual-purpose printer (documents + sublimation conversion)
8	Epson EcoTank ET-2800 (Black)	8.5" x 11"	Cartridge-free tank (standard pigment ink)	Wi-Fi, Smart Panel	Users who prefer the black chassis and want the same reliable conversion base
9	Epson EcoTank ET-2400 (Black)	8.5" x 11"	Cartridge-free tank (standard pigment ink)	Wi-Fi	Users who need basic print/scan/copy and are open to conversion later

How we picked the best sublimation printers

We evaluated these printers based on the factors that actually determine how usable they are for sublimation work. Here is what we looked for:

• Dedicated vs. converted. A printer designed from the ground up for sublimation ink (like the Epson F170) will always produce more consistent results than a converted standard inkjet. But converted machines can be just as capable if you know what you are doing.
• Print head technology. PrecisionCore and Micro Piezo heads produce finer droplet control. That translates to sharper edges and smoother gradations in transfers.
• Ink system and refill ease. Supertanks with auto-stop ink bottles beat cartridge-based systems for sublimation because you refill frequently and want zero mess. The ink capacity also matters for high-volume jobs.
• Media handling and paper path. A closed, dust-resistant paper tray keeps sublimation paper clean. The ability to feed thicker substrates or longer sheets (like for banners) expands what you can produce.
• Connectivity and software. Wi-Fi and good mobile app support let you send designs from a tablet or phone. Some dedicated models also come with design software or templates that speed up the workflow.
• Bundle contents. For a first-time buyer, a starter bundle that includes paper, transfer sheets, blanks, and tape removes the friction of sourcing individual components. That can be the difference between printing on day one and waiting for separate shipments.

1. Epson SureColor F170 (Johnson Plastics Plus): Best Overall Dedicated Sublimation Printer

Pros

• Dedicated PrecisionCore printhead designed for sublimation
• Comes with full set of genuine Epson sublimation ink from an authorized partner
• Compact footprint fits small workspaces
• 150-sheet auto-feed tray with dust cover
• OEM warranty and support

Cons

• Limited to 8.5" x 11" paper size
• No built-in scanner or copier (print-only)
• Ink bottles included are not the highest capacity (will need refills sooner for heavy use)

Best for: Crafters and small business owners who want a reliable, dedicated dye-sublimation printer with genuine Epson ink and full manufacturer support.

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This is the printer that most people shopping for the best sublimation printers end up buying. Johnson Plastics Plus sells it as an OEM unit with Epson’s factory-sealed packaging, documentation, and the full manufacturer warranty. That matters because third-party resellers sometimes swap ink or break the seal.

The F170 uses Epson’s PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control. In practice, that means the fine dots of ink land exactly where they should, producing smooth color transitions and crisp text on transfer paper. The closed paper tray keeps dust off the sublimation paper, which reduces the number of wasted transfers caused by specks or debris.

The only real limitation is the 8.5" x 11" format. If you plan to print legal-size transfers or larger banners, you will need to look at the starter bundle (next) or a different machine. But for the bulk of sublimation work — mugs, coasters, t-shirts, and small panels — this printer handles it cleanly.

2. Epson SureColor F170 Starter Bundle (Johnson Plastics Plus): Best Complete Starter Setup

Pros

• Includes thermal tape, 8.5" x 11" and 8.5" x 14" paper
• Same dependable PrecisionCore printhead as the standalone F170
• Genuine Epson ink with ECO PASSPORT certification
• Auto-stop ink bottles for mess-free refills

Cons

• Bulkier package (more consumables to store)
• Still print-only (no scan/copy)
• Paper and tape are consumables you may already have

Best for: First-time sublimation buyers who want everything in one box: printer, ink, transfer paper, legal-size sheets, and heat-resistant tape.

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This bundle takes the standard F170 and adds a sublimation starter kit: thermal tape, a pack of 8.5" x 11" transfer paper, and a pack of 8.5" x 14" legal-size paper. It removes the single biggest friction point for someone new to the craft — the need to order separate supplies before making the first print.

The Epson DS Multi-Use transfer paper included here works on both soft and rigid materials. The legal-size paper is a nice addition if you ever need to print longer designs for tumblers or vertical panels. Mechanically, the printer is identical to the standalone unit, so you get the same precise ink delivery and dust-resistant tray.

One note: the tape and paper are consumables that will run out, so your second purchase will involve restocking those separately. But the convenience of having them bundled with the printer is real for anyone who wants to start printing the same weekend it arrives.

3. Epson SureColor F170 (Orinokia): Best OEM-Partnered Compact Sublimation Printer

Pros

• Genuine Epson sublimation ink included
• PrecisionCore printhead for outstanding clarity
• Wi-Fi and USB connectivity with Epson Print Layout software
• Auto-stop ink bottles reduce waste

Cons

• No paper included (buy separately)
• Same 8.5" x 11" size limit as the other F170 models
• Some reports of ink leaks in transit (printer cannot be returned once ink is loaded)

Best for: Users who trust the Epson SureColor platform and want a straightforward purchase from a different authorized seller.

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The Orinokia-bundled F170 is essentially the same printer as the Johnson Plastics Plus version, but sold through a different channel. It ships with the full set of Epson CMYK sublimation ink, a user guide, and an AC power cable.

The print quality is identical to the others in the F170 family. The PrecisionCore head produces rich, saturated colors that transfer beautifully onto coated substrates. The printer also supports the Epson iPrint app, so you can send designs from your phone or tablet without sitting at a computer.

One difference is the return policy note: once you load the ink, you cannot return the unit because ink can leak in transit. That is standard for most sublimation printers, but worth knowing if you are a first-time buyer. If you are already familiar with the F170, this version is a solid alternative.

4. Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle: Best All-in-One Starter Bundle for Beginners

Pros

• Comes with 160 sublimation transfer sheets and 50 blanks (coasters, mugs, and more)
• Includes heat-resistant tape in four sizes
• Artspira design software and 100 designs included
• Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity

Cons

• Proprietary Brother ink bottles (less common than Epson)
• Larger footprint than the F170
• Some blanks are basic (ceramic coasters, small mugs) — you may outgrow them quickly

Best for: Beginners who want to print the same day the box arrives, with blanks, paper, tape, and software all included.

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Brother’s entry into the sublimation space is impressively thorough. The SP-1 bundle includes a dedicated dye-sublimation printer, a full set of CMYK ink bottles (47ml each), 150 sheets of ProSub 8.5" x 11" paper, 10 sheets of Brother-branded paper, 50 sublimation blanks from Prosub, and four rolls of heat-resistant tape. On top of that, you get a digital download of the Artspira design app and 100 ready-to-print designs.

The printer itself is compact and connects over Wi-Fi or Ethernet. The Artspira app is surprisingly capable for a bundled tool — you can resize, mirror, and composite designs before sending them to the printer. The 50 blanks include items like ceramic coasters, small mugs, and other shapes that are perfect for practice or market stall inventory.

The downside is that Brother uses its own ink bottle system, which may be harder to find in a pinch than the widely available Epson inks. But for a start-to-finish solution, this bundle removes all friction. You will not need to place a second order for weeks.

5. Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank with Sublimation Ink: Best Converted SuperTank for High-Volume Sublimation

Pros

• Pre-filled with sublimation ink (Black 127mL, CMY 85mL each)
• Easy fill nozzles — no syringe needed
• Prints up to 5760 x 1440 dpi
• Supports paper sizes from 2.2" x 3.4" up to 8.5" x 47.2" (banner mode)

Cons

• Not a dedicated sublimation printer; based on a converted Epson ET-2800/2803
• Limited customer support compared to Epson/Brother
• Print quality may need a nozzle check before each session

Best for: Hobbyists who want a ready-to-go sublimation workhorse with a large ink capacity and the ability to print long sheets.

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Pinckney takes an Epson EcoTank chassis (the ET-2800 or ET-2803) and converts it into a sublimation printer by shipping it with pre-filled sublimation ink in the tanks. This saves you the messy and sometimes risky step of flushing out the original ink and replacing it yourself.

The ink comes in a 127ml black bottle and 85ml each of cyan, magenta, and yellow. That is enough for hundreds of prints before any tank runs dry. The print resolution goes up to 5760 x 1440 dpi, which is more than the dedicated F170 models. In practice, the F170 still produces slightly smoother gradations because its printhead is tuned for sublimation, but the Pinckney is no slouch.

The killer feature here is the paper size range. You can print on sheets as small as 2.2" x 3.4" (great for small coasters) and as long as 8.5" x 47.2" (for banner-style transfers). That versatility is hard to find in a machine at this level.

6. Epson EcoTank ET-2803: Best Conversion Candidate with Scan and Copy

Pros

• Cartridge-free supertank design with up to 4,500 pages black / 7,500 color per ink set
• Built-in scanner and copier with color display
• AirPrint and voice-activated printing
• Zero cartridge waste

Cons

• Not a sublimation printer out of the box (uses standard pigment ink)
• Using non-Epson ink voids the warranty
• No dedicated support for sublimation workflow

Best for: Users who want a single all-in-one for home printing and plan to convert it to sublimation with aftermarket ink.

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The ET-2803 is part of Epson’s popular EcoTank family, and it is a top candidate for conversion because of its huge ink capacity and low operating cost. Out of the box, it uses standard pigment ink designed for documents and photos. To use it for sublimation, you would need to drain the original ink and refill with aftermarket sublimation ink — a process that voids the warranty and can be messy.

That said, the printer itself is excellent. The ink bottles with auto-stop technology make refilling frustration-free. The color display on the front lets you check ink levels, run nozzle checks, and navigate settings without a computer. AirPrint support means iOS users can print directly from their phone.

If you are comfortable with the conversion process and understand the warranty implications, the ET-2803 is a powerful base. Its per-print ink costs are very low, and the scan/copy functions are useful if you also do document work.

7. Epson EcoTank ET-2800 (White): Best Home Printer That Can Be Converted

Pros

• High-capacity ink tanks (equivalent to about 90 cartridges)
• Built-in scanner and copier
• Micro Piezo Heat-Free printhead for sharp text and color
• Up to 2 years of ink included in the box

Cons

• Same conversion pitfalls as the ET-2803 (warranty void, messy refill)
• No AirPrint (relies on Epson Smart Panel app)
• Slower print speed than the F170

Best for: Home users who want a capable scanner and copier for daily use and are willing to convert the printer for sublimation later.

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The ET-2800 is essentially the same printer as the ET-2803 but sold in a white chassis and missing a few connectivity niceties like AirPrint. It still uses the same high-capacity ink tanks and the same Micro Piezo printhead that produces crisp text and vibrant colors on plain paper.

For the sublimation crowd, the appeal is the ink volume. Each set of ink bottles is rated for up to 4,500 black pages or 7,500 color pages. After conversion, that ink capacity means you can print dozens of full-color transfers before needing to refill. The scanner is also a bonus if you digitize hand-drawn designs or trace patterns.

The main drawbacks are the lack of AirPrint (you use the Smart Panel app instead, which works fine but is an extra step) and the fact that it is not optimized for sublimation ink. Clogging can happen if you leave the printer idle for a week, so you need to print something regularly.

8. Epson EcoTank ET-2800 (Black): Same Reliable Conversion Base in Black

Pros

• Identical internals to the white ET-2800
• Sleeker black finish matches more modern desks
• High ink yield and built-in scanner/copier
• 10 ISO pages per minute print speed

Cons

• Same conversion and warranty concerns as the white version
• Slightly heavier (11.4 lb vs 11.56 lb white — negligible)
• No AirPrint

Best for: Users who prefer a black chassis for their workspace and want the same conversion-friendly EcoTank foundation.

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The black ET-2800 is mechanically identical to the white model. The only meaningful differences are the color of the plastic and the dimensions (the black unit is 17" deep vs 22.8" for the white, according to the listing data). Both use the same Micro Piezo printhead, the same ink bottles, and the same software.

If you care about aesthetics — and plenty of people do — the black finish looks more professional in a home office. The tank windows are still visible on the front, so you can check ink levels at a glance. For conversion, the process is exactly the same as with the white ET-2800: drain, flush, fill with sublimation ink, and print.

Given that both the black and white versions are widely stocked, we would recommend choosing the one that best fits your decor. There is no performance difference.

9. Epson EcoTank ET-2400 (Black): Best Basic All-in-One for Conversion

Pros

• Lowest entry point for an EcoTank all-in-one
• Ink yield of up to 4,500 black / 7,200 color pages
• Compact and lightweight (8.6 lb)
• Zero cartridge waste

Cons

• No color display (only status LEDs)
• Slower print speed than the ET-2800 series
• No automatic document feeder (single-sheet scanner)

Best for: Users who are confident in their conversion skills and want a simple, high-ink-capacity machine without extra frills.

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The ET-2400 is the most basic EcoTank in this list. It offers the same cartridge-free ink system and the same high page yields, but it cuts back on the interface. There is no color display — you get a few indicator lights for ink low and errors. The scanner is a flatbed with no automatic document feeder, and the control panel is minimal.

For sublimation conversion, these omissions can actually be a benefit. You will be using the printer mainly through a computer or phone, so the extra hardware adds cost and complexity you do not need. The printhead is the same Micro Piezo design used in the higher-tier models, so the output quality after conversion matches the ET-2800.

The ET-2400 is also noticeably lighter and more compact. If your workspace is tight, this model fits on a shallow desk or shelf. Just be aware that the lack of a display makes troubleshooting a bit more cryptic — you have to rely on software diagnostics.

Buyer's guide: how to choose the best sublimation printer

Sublimation printing is different from standard inkjet or laser work. The printer needs to deposit a specific type of ink that turns into a gas under heat and bonds with polymer-coated materials. Not every inkjet can handle that. Here are the factors to weigh when making your choice.

Dedicated sublimation printers vs. converted standard printers

A dedicated sublimation printer like the Epson SureColor F170 or the Brother SP-1 comes from the factory with a printhead, ink system, and driver profiles tuned for sublimation ink. The color management is more predictable, and the manufacturer supports the sublimation workflow. You pay for that convenience in the form of a higher initial cost for the ink system.

Converted printers — usually from the Epson EcoTank line or the Pinckney super-tank — start life as standard pigment-ink machines. To use them for sublimation, you drain the original ink and replace it with dye-sublimation ink. The conversion process can be messy and voids the original warranty. But once converted, the per-print cost is very low because the tanks hold so much ink.

If you want reliability and are not comfortable tinkering with ink bottles, a dedicated printer is the safer route. If you are technically inclined and want to print hundreds of transfers each month without worrying about cartridge costs, a converted EcoTank can be a great value.

Print head technology

The quality of your transfers depends largely on the print head. Epson’s PrecisionCore (used in the F170) and Micro Piezo (used in the EcoTank line) both deliver precise droplet control. PrecisionCore is a newer design that can fire ink at higher frequencies and with finer droplet sizes. In practice, the F170 produces slightly smoother color gradients and sharper edges than the converted EcoTank, but the difference is subtle on most transfers.

Brother’s SP-1 uses its own print head technology, which we found to produce very good saturation and detail. The important thing is to look for a print head that is designed for pigment or dye ink and that can be cleaned manually if clogs occur. Sublimation ink is thicker than standard ink and can clog when left idle for more than a week.

Ink system and capacity

The best sublimation printers use a continuous ink supply system (CISS) or a supertank with refillable bottles. Cartridge-based printers are impractical for sublimation because the cartridges hold very little ink and the cost per milliliter is high.

Look for ink bottles with an auto-stop feature that prevents overfilling. The bottle nozzles should fit the tank opening snugly to avoid spills. Ink capacity is measured in milliliters per color. A typical CMYK set might be 70ml each for cyan, magenta, yellow, and 100ml for black. The Pinckney bundle gives you 127ml black and 85ml for the colors, which is generous.

The ink itself should be authentic dye-sublimation ink. Third-party inks vary in quality and can cause nozzle clogging or color shifts. If you are buying a dedicated printer, stick with the manufacturer’s ink. For conversions, source from reputable suppliers who provide ICC profiles.

Media handling and paper sizes

Most sublimation work is done on 8.5" x 11" transfer paper, but you may occasionally need legal-size sheets for longer designs, or banner paper for multi-panel transfers. The Pinckney printer supports paper up to 8.5" x 47.2", which is useful for items like long tumblers or full-back t-shirt designs.

A closed paper tray that protects the substrate from dust is a nice-to-have. Sublimation paper is sensitive to moisture and debris, which can cause white spots in the final transfer. The F170 models have a dust-resistant tray.

Connectivity and software

Wi-Fi is essential unless you want to keep your printer tethered to a computer. The Epson models support the Epson iPrint app (or Smart Panel for some models), which lets you print from a phone or tablet. The Brother SP-1 comes with the Artspira design app, which includes basic editing tools and pre-made designs.

For professional work, you may prefer to use Adobe Photoshop or CorelDRAW with a dedicated RIP (raster image processor) for color management. In that case, as long as the printer supports the standard printer driver, you are fine. AirPrint is convenient for iOS users, but not a dealbreaker if the printer has a compatible app.

Bundle contents

If this is your first sublimation printer, a bundle that includes paper, blanks, and tape saves you from having to order separate supplies. The Brother SP-1 bundle is particularly generous with 50 blanks and 160 sheets of paper. The Epson starter bundle from Johnson Plastics Plus includes legal-size paper and thermal tape. Compare what you get and subtract the cost of buying those items separately.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use regular inkjet paper for sublimation?

No. Sublimation requires special dye-sublimation transfer paper that can hold the ink in suspension and release it as a gas when heated. Regular paper absorbs the ink too quickly and will not transfer the design properly.

Do I need a heat press for sublimation?

Yes. The transfer paper must be pressed against the substrate at temperatures between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit with even pressure. A heat press or a mug press is necessary. An iron might work for fabric but will not give consistent results.

How long do sublimation prints last in the tank?

Sublimation ink can settle or evaporate if left unused for more than a month. It is best to print something at least once a week to keep the nozzles clear. The ink itself has a shelf life of about 18 months in the bottle, but in the printer tank it should be used within 6 to 8 months.

Is it safe to convert an Epson EcoTank to sublimation?

Technically yes, but it voids the manufacturer’s warranty. You must fully drain the original ink, flush the system with cleaning solution, and then fill with sublimation ink. There is a risk of clogging if the cleaning is not thorough. Some users report good results for years after conversion; others struggle with constant nozzle issues.

What colors does sublimation ink come in?

Standard sublimation ink is CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black). Some brands offer additional colors like light cyan, light magenta, and a wider gamut. For most applications, CMYK is sufficient. The printers in this roundup all use CMYK.

Can I sublimate on dark fabrics?

Sublimation works best on white or light-colored polyester fabrics. The ink is transparent, so it will not show up on dark backgrounds. For dark fabrics, you need sublimation-compatible printable vinyl or a different process.

What is the difference between sublimation ink and pigment ink?

Sublimation ink is water-based and turns into a gas when heated, bonding with polymer molecules in the substrate. Pigment ink sits on top of the paper and is not designed to transfer. Using pigment ink for sublimation will result in a pale, washed-out transfer that washes off.

Final verdict

The best sublimation printer for most people is the Epson SureColor F170 from Johnson Plastics Plus. It is the dedicated choice with genuine Epson ink, a reliable printhead, and manufacturer support. If you want to open a box and start printing immediately without conversion, that is the printer to buy.

For beginners, the Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle is hard to beat. It includes all the supplies you need to produce your first transfers within minutes of unboxing. The Artspira app simplifies the design step, and the 50 blanks give you instant inventory.

If you already own an Econo machine and understand the conversion process, the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 (white or black) is a fantastic conversion base. Its high ink capacity and built-in scanner make it a versatile tool for both sublimation and document printing.

For those who want the best of both worlds (a ready-to-go converted machine), the Pinckney Super-Tank comes pre-filled and works right out of the box with a wide range of paper sizes.

Whichever route you take, these are the printers that will give you the most consistent results for creating custom apparel, mugs, signs, and more. Pick the one that matches your workflow and confidence level, and you will be producing bright, lasting transfers in no time.

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