Large sized prints are in demand for customization on t-shirts, hoodies, and tote bags, etc. However, most of the sublimation printers that print wide format prints are slow or get stuck in the middle. Therefore, you’ll need 11×17 sublimation printer to print tabloid or ledger size paper and keep your business running smoothly.
After spending over 28 hours and testing a dozen of printers, we’ve found that the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is the best 11×17 sublimation printer. It is the most versatile, economic, and fast printer. Its super-tabloid print size allows you to create wide format vibrant designs that truly make an impact. Equipped with an auto document feeder and ICC profiles, the ET-15000 streamlines your workflow and ensures exceptional color accuracy.
Having personally tested a few top rated 11×17 sublimation printers in 2024, I’m here to share my honest experiences and help you navigate the world of wide-format printing. Whether you are a seasoned designer or a curious beginner, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make the best choice for your needs.
1. Epson EcoTank ET-15000
The Epson ET-15000 is a versatile all-in-one printer designed for both home and small business use. It immediately impressed me with its ability to handle 11×17-inch paper effortlessly. This super-tabloid printer is a beast, churning out vibrant tabloid prints with unmatched efficiency.
Best of all, the integrated ink tanks eliminate the need for constant cartridge replacements, making it a cost-effective option in the long run. You’ll be surprised to know that it costs less than 1 dollar for a sublimation print using ET-15000 (isn’t it economical?). Not just for 11″x17″ size, we also rate it as one of the best sublimation printers in 2024.
What I Loved:
Super-Tabloid Print Size: This opens up endless possibilities for creating oversized designs.
Auto Document Feeder: This feature saves time and effort, especially when dealing with large batches.
ICC Profiles: Ensures accurate color reproduction, crucial for professional-looking results.
Low Running Costs: EcoTank technology makes it a budget-friendly option.
Generous Paper Capacity: With a 250-sheet front tray and a rear specialty-paper feed, it’s ready for high-volume printing.
Things to Consider:
Slow Printing: Slower print speeds, which may impact productivity in time-sensitive environments.
Initial Investment: Initial cost might be higher compared to some models
Verdict:
If you are looking for a powerful, feature-rich printer for large-format sublimation printing, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is a top contender. It’s perfect for businesses, professional designers, and anyone who demands the best in terms of quality and efficiency.
For those who prioritize color accuracy and vibrant prints, the Sawgrass Virtuoso SG1000 is a dedicated sublimation printer that ensures your dreams come true. And the good news? Along with printing tabloid sized prints, SG1000 is capable of printing up to 51” long poster too.
This printer utilizes advanced sublimation technology and pigment-based inks to achieve exceptional color fidelity and fade resistance. Its unique feature lies in the Sawgrass’ SubliJet UHD ink set, offering a broader color spectrum for unmatched vibrancy.
Moreover, the Sawgrass print manager automatically do the color correction. I didn’t believe this theory until I printed different sublimation designs to transfer on different substrates, such as t-shirt, mug, my tote bag, and my beach hat. The designs were vibrant as the brand promised.
Best of all, the smooth texture option further elevates the quality of your transfers, ensuring smooth and professional results. Its compact design and ability to handle large sized prints makes it ideal for home studios or small businesses.
An exceptional feature – the Sawgrass SG1000 has a built-in auto maintenance feature which keeps the printhead clean and prevent clogging. I love this feature because it saves a lot of time from cleaning.
What I Loved:
Unmatched Color Accuracy: Sawgrass technology delivers exceptional vibrancy and detail.
Pigment-Based Inks: Ensures long-lasting prints that resist fading.
Smooth Texture Option: Creates a soft, high-quality finish on your transfers.
Auto Maintenance Cycle: Built in auto maintenance cycle cleans the nozzles and prevent clogging in printhead.
User-Friendly Interface: User-friendly design makes the printing process simple and intuitive.
Things to Consider:
Higher Ink Costs: Pigment-based inks can be more expensive than dye-based options.
Limited Media Compatibility: Not compatible with all types of sublimation substrates.
Verdict:
If you are running a sublimation business, a professional designer, or photographer who demands the best possible color accuracy and print quality, the Sawgrass Virtuoso SG1000 is a worthwhile investment. With SubliJet UHD ink set and auto color correction feature, it ensures your creations stand out from the crowd.
3. Epson EcoTank ET-8550
For budget-conscious creators who still require high-quality 11×17-inch prints, it can even print one size bigger – 13×19-inch, the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 offers a compelling solution. This printer strikes a balance between affordability and performance, making it a great choice for small businesses and hobbyists alike.
I was surprised with the color accuracy and brightness of the prints, perhaps it was due to the ET-8550’s six-color ink system. It prints sublimation prints up to 5760×1440 dpi resolution (which is a high resolution).
In addition, what sets it apart is its ability to handle a variety of media types, making it an excellent choice for creative projects beyond traditional sublimation printing.
Affordable Price Tag: This printer offers a budget-friendly entry point into 11×17 sublimation printing.
Refillable Ink Tanks: Reduce your running costs and eliminate cartridge replacements.
Fast Print Speeds: Ensures efficient production, especially for larger orders.
Six-Color Ink System: This technology enhances color range and accuracy.
Wi-Fi Connectivity: Enables convenient printing from your mobile devices.
Things to Consider:
Limited Paper Tray Capacity: May require frequent refilling for larger projects.
Print Speed: It performs slightly slower while printing full color sublimation prints.
Verdict:
If you are looking for an affordable option for 11×17 sublimation printing and prioritize efficiency over top-tier print quality, the Epson EcoTank ET-8550 is an excellent choice. It’s a well-rounded printer that delivers solid performance at a competitive price.
Are you confused whether to choose ET-8550 or ET-15000? Read a detailed comparison between Epson 8550 vs 15000 and make the right choice.
4. Epson SureColor F570
It is a true powerhouse in the domain of large format printing. Its ability to handle both rolls and sheets gives it unmatched versatility for a variety of projects. The PrecisionCore technology ensures that each print is sharp and detailed.
This printer is not only capable of printing 11×17 sublimation prints, but also you can print long posters which are 24” wide. This desktop printer delivers impressive results despite its smaller footprint, making it ideal for home offices and small businesses.
I also rate is as one of the premium sublimation printers because of it’s Nozzle Verification Technology, and Precision Droplet Control Technology. These assure the ink drops at exact point with accuracy to produce vibrant designs at fast speed, and prevent ink wastage.
What I Loved:
Fast Print Speeds: Get your projects done quickly and efficiently.
High Print Resolution: Produces sharp and detailed images with accurate colors.
Affordable Price: A great value for the features offered.
Large Sized Substrates: Capable of printing wide format and large sized sublimation prints – up to 24” wide.
Easy Printing Out of the Box: Ideal for both – new to sublimation printing, and for those who are in sublimation business.
Things to Consider:
Limited Paper Tray Capacity: Similar to the ET-8550, frequent refills might be needed for larger projects.
No Auto Document Feeder: Manually feeding paper can become tedious for larger print runs.
Verdict:
The Epson SureColor F570 is a fantastic choice for creators who need the convenience of 11×17 printing without sacrificing space. It offers impressive print quality, speed, and affordability, making it ideal for home offices, small businesses, and hobbyists looking for a compact and efficient solution.
5. Epson WorkForce WF-7720
If you need a printer that does it all on a budget, the Epson WorkForce WF-7720 is a wide-format all-in-one printer for almost every task. This old machine combines 11×17 sublimation printing capabilities with scanning, copying, and faxing functionalities, making it a one-stop shop for all your office needs.
The WF-7720 offers a dual-tray system with 250 papers capacity each. This streamlines productivity, allowing you to keep different media sizes ready for printing.
Note that while it may not be exclusively designed for sublimation, however, with the right modifications, it can produce excellent sublimation prints.
Bulkier Build: It’s larger than some competitors, so allocate space accordingly.
A Bit Slower: I found it a little slower than other tabloid printers.
Verdict:
The Epson WorkForce WF-7720 is a powerhouse for busy offices and professionals who require a versatile printer with 11×17 printing capabilities. Its multifunctionality and efficiency make it a valuable asset for anyone who needs to handle diverse printing, scanning, and copying tasks.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an 11×17 Sublimation Printer
Selecting the right 11×17 sublimation printer involves more than just comparing specs. Let’s dive into the critical factors that can make or break your printing experience:
1. Print Quality
When it comes to sublimation printing, print quality reigns supreme because the magic happens in the details. Look for a printer with a high DPI capability (5760×1440 dpi or more is great for sublimation). The more dots, the sharper your images and text will appear.
Remember, whether you are creating custom apparel, promotional materials, or art prints, print quality sets the tone for your final product.
2. Print Speed(Especially in Bulk)
Time is money, and in the world of printing, print speed matters, especially if you are running a business or handling large-volume projects. A faster printer can significantly increase your productivity, allowing you to meet tight deadlines and handle multiple orders with ease.
Consider your workflow. Are you willing to wait a bit longer for top-notch quality, or do you need speed to meet deadlines? Strike a balance—opt for a printer that delivers both quality and reasonable speed.
3. Ink Cost and Economy
Sublimation ink can be a significant expense, hence we advise choosing a printer with cost-effective features. Prioritize models with refillable ink tanks (like the EcoTank series), significantly reducing ink costs compared to cartridge-based systems. While the initial investment might be higher, the long-term savings are substantial.
Additionally, consider printers with features that optimize ink usage, minimizing waste and maximizing your budget.
4. Connectivity and Compatibility
In today’s digital age, connectivity and compatibility are more important than ever. For seamless integration into your existing workflow, ensure your chosen printer offers convenient connectivity options.
Look for printers with versatile connectivity options, including USB, Ethernet, and wireless capabilities, allowing you to send print jobs wirelessly from your laptop, tablet, or smartphone.
Furthermore, consider the printer’s compatibility with your operating system (Windows, MacOS, etc.) and design software to guarantee a smooth and efficient printing experience.
5. Additional Features: Beyond the Basics
While the core functionalities are essential, additional features can enhance your printing experience and unlock new creative possibilities. Consider features like:
Auto Document Feeder (ADF): Handy for scanning or copying multiple pages at once.
Borderless Printing: Creates stunning, edge-to-edge designs for a professional look.
Scanning Capabilities: Enhances your workflow by allowing you to scan physical documents directly into your computer.
Applications of 11×17 Sublimation Printing
The expansive canvas of 11×17 sublimation printing isn’t just for oversized t-shirt designs! It caters to diverse customization needs. Let’s find out what you can achieve with an 11×17 sublimation printer:
1. Apparel and Fashion
Imagine crafting personalized t-shirts, hoodies, and bags that showcase your unique style. Design eye-catching team jerseys, dance costumes, or quirky streetwear. The possibilities to customize apparel are endless!
Apart from designing your personal clothing, you can create promotional apparel for your business, showcasing your logo and slogan on a grand scale. And even if your items are of large size, do not worry – a tabloid printer for sublimation will help you design them without putting too much efforts.
Go beyond flimsy flyers and static banners for marketing. Design vibrant mugs, phone cases, mug coasters, and keychains that become conversation starters and lasting impressions for your brand. Although these are small items, but a wide format printer will print multiple design on one page, saving ink and operation time.
In addition, personalize notebooks, water bottles, and power banks with inspirational quotes or company logos, making them delightful and memorable gifts for clients and colleagues.
Whether it’s for a business or an event, trade shows, or for your storefront signage, displays are crucial for communication and branding. Large-format sublimation printing produces vibrant banners, posters, and signs that capture attention and convey your message effectively.
Moreover, you can personalize your space, such as you can create your custom wall art, doormats, or even tablecloths using a 11×17 sublimation printer.
4. Home Décor
Sublimation printing brings a personal touch to any living space. Breathe new life into cushions, mugs, towels, and other home décor items with your designs, photos, or artwork. Create matching sets for a cohesive look or surprise loved ones with heartwarming photo collages on their favorite mugs.
Immortalize special moments on large-format canvases or photo tiles, creating cherished keepsakes that adorn your walls and tell your story (whether it’s a love or travel story).
Got some genuine leather cushions that you want to design to match with your couches? Here’s a guide to sublimate on leather.
5. Artistic Expression
Sublimation is not limited to paper and fabric only, you can also experiment it onto unconventional substrates like wood, metal, or ceramics. Design decorative plates, coasters, or even phone stands that showcase your artistic flair.
You’ll surprised if I share that I have created personalized cutting boards, plant pots, and garden markers with unique designs, adding a touch of artistry to my outdoor haven.
Final Thoughts on 11×17 Sublimation Printer
As we wrap up our analysis of 11×17 sublimation printers, let’s narrow down the choices and unveil the top contenders.
I prefer the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 for its versatility and cost-effectiveness. It’s like having a reliable partner in your creative adventures. And when space is a premium, the Sawgrass Virtuoso SG1000 steps in. Its compact design doesn’t compromise on quality. Both of these printers are perfect to print tabloid sized sublimation prints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can EcoTank print 11×17?
Yes, not all EcoTank printers, but several Epson EcoTank models, including the ET-15000, ET-8550, and ET-8500, offer 11×17 printing capabilities. These models are specifically designed for wide-format printing and can handle various paper sizes, including tabloid (11×17).
Can I print 11×17 on any printer?
No, not all printers can handle 11×17 paper. Standard printers are typically limited to A4 or letter size (8.5×11). To print 11×17, you need a wide-format printer specifically designed for larger paper sizes.
What size can sublimation printers print?
Sublimation printer capabilities vary depending on the model. Some basic models may only handle standard sizes like A4 or letter, while others offer wide-format printing up to 13×19 or even larger. Popular 11×17 tabloid-sized options are ideal for creating t-shirts, mugs, banners, and other larger projects.
My passion for colors and customizing items has led me to sublimation printing. Not only do I personalize my belongings, but also run a profitable business. After the experience of over a decade - I am glad to share my reviews on best sublimation printers, ink and the right software (I use). Read the guides and contact if you need any help regarding dye-sublimation or heat press.
