As sublimation is growing in popularity, people often ask what printer can be used for sublimation heat transfer paper. Here, we’ll explore features of the top choices of the best sublimation printer for heat transfer. So, whether you are a beginner or a professional, there is a printer that suits your needs!
“A recent study predicted that the sublimation printer market will grow more than 22% by 2024.”
Important Features of the Best Sublimation Printer for Heat Transfer
Here are some factors to keep in mind when shopping for a sublimation printer for heat transfer.
First, make sure that the printer has an accurate heat sensor so that you can achieve consistent results.
Second, look for a printer with a large print area so that you can work on larger projects.
Finally, be sure to choose a printer that is easy to operate and maintain.
5 Best Sublimation Printers for Heat Transfer – Tested and Approved
Here is a list of the top 5 best printers for sublimation and heat transfer in 2024. Upon testing more than a dozen sublimation printers, these printers were found to be the best for the dye heat transfer method.
1. Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500 – Best Sublimation Printer for Heat Transfer
2. Workforce WF-7710 – Best for T-Shirts Business
3. Epson SureColor T3170x – Best for Wide Format
4. Epson Stylus C88+ – Best for Sublimation and Heat Transfer
The Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500 is the best sublimation printer for heat transfer due to its accuracy in heat sensing, convenient printing area, and ease of use.
This printer comes with a 2-year warranty and is sure to produce consistent results. With the included Creative Studio online designer software, the SG500 is perfect for both beginners and professionals.
Grab the bundle deal: It comes with a complete set of Sublijet-UHD inks CMYK (original starter kit cartridges). The package also includes 440 sheets of Sublimax sublimation paper (110 sheets size 8.5″x11″ and 330 sheets size 8.5″x14″). This instant-dry sublimation paper is made in Japan and certified by Sawgrass – use this paper with Sawgrass printers for best results.
The SG500 can print on media up to 51˝ long (1295 mm)
Versatile Sublijet-UHD to sublimate on multiple polymer-coated hard substrates, including fabrics, 100% polyester, ceramics, metal, ceramic, glass, FRP plastic, hardboard and more
It prints high-resolution, extremely vibrant images with fine details
It features an ultra-fine photo mode that allows the SG500 to print at a resolution of 4800×1200 dpi
It has a self-maintenance mode that cleans it routinely and keeps the printer operating at its best
The built-in Creative Studio online design tool has thousands of ready-to-use designs, and seamless integration with the Sawgrass SG500 printer
It features both connectivity options – including WiFi and USB
Best of all, the SG500 is backward-compatible with SG400 accessories, so if you already own the accessories of SG400, you will be able to continue using them
The Epson WorkForce WF-7710 is a great option for those looking for an all-in-one printer for their sublimation printing business. This printer is perfect for fabric sublimation like cotton and polyester shirts.
It uses PrecisionCore technology to produce borderless, sharp and crisp prints up to 13"x19". It also has wireless printing and networking capabilities for iPad, iPhone, Android tablets and smartphones.
The Epson SureColor T3170x is a professional-grade wide format sublimation printer that is perfect for businesses and graphic designers who need to create high-quality prints quickly and easily.
This printer can handle large rolls of paper, making it ideal for printing banners, posters, and other large-scale graphics. It also has a sleek design that will complement any office space.
Best of all, the printer is easy to set up, you can be up and running in no time. If you are looking for a top-of-the-line sublimation printer that can handle any sublimation printing job, the SureColor T3170x is a perfect choice.
It has high-capacity ink bottles with auto-stop for easy mess-free filling
Wide printing area for versatile media handling, it can accommodate paper/canvas rolls up to 24″ wide and sheets up to 11″x17″ through the auto sheet feeder
It features a Next-generation PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead that offers Precision Droplet Control for outstanding photographic images, precise lines and crisp text up to 2400 dpi
Very low running costs, it comes with 1120 ml ink that can print a profitable number of sheets, saves a lot of sublimation ink
Easy to operate with a large intuitive 4.3″ color LCD screen
Connectivity options: USB and Wireless, easily print from anywhere in the office or home
The Epson Stylus C88+ inkjet printer is one of the best choices for sublimation and heat transfer. It has a maximum print resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi, which is ideal for high-quality prints.
Additionally, it supports a wide range of transfer media types, so you can print whatever you need. Plus, it comes with an easy-to-use interface that makes printing a breeze.
However, we experienced one drawback – it does not have an automatic duplexer for printing on both sides of the paper. So, if you are planning to print dye sublimation for heat transfer on both sides of the transfer paper, it is not a good option.
The Epson EcoTank ET-3760 is an innovative cartridge-free printer that uses high-capacity, easily refillable ink tanks. This makes it a great choice for busy offices that need a reliable and affordable printer.
The ET-3760 also features an auto document feeder, fast printing with outstanding print quality, productive paper handling, a high-resolution flatbed scanner, and a large color display. Plus, it comes with up to 2 years of ink in the box, making it a great choice for those who want to avoid running out of ink.
High-capacity, easily refillable ink tanks eliminate the worry of refilling quite often, and save up to 90% on replacement ink
Its EcoTank system ensures zero cartridge waste
30-sheet auto document feeder, a 250-sheet paper tray for maximum productivity and fast printing with impressive print quality
Unique PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology and Claria ET pigment black ink produces extremely sharp and vibrant prints on transfer sublimation paper
It features a high-resolution flatbed scanner and a 2.4″ color display for easy copying and navigation
Connectivity options: Ethernet and wireless, plus hands-free voice-activated printing to easily print from your smart device using the intuitive Epson Smart Panel App
The automatic document feeder operates inconsistently sometimes
The scanner is a bit slow
Best Sublimation Printer for Heat Transfer: Buying Guide
Sublimation printing has become increasingly popular in recent years as people look for new and creative ways to customize their belongings. From clothes to phone cases, sublimation printing allows for complete customization and personalization.
If you are considering getting into sublimation printing, you'll need to invest in a quality printer that is specifically designed for sublimation. When shopping for a sublimation printer for heat transfer, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind:
a. Compatible Substrates
The first thing to consider is the type of substrate that you'll be printing on. Sublimation printers are designed to work with a specific type of media, so you'll need to make sure the printer you choose is compatible with the material you plan to use.
b. Maximum Print Size
Another important thing to consider is the maximum print size. If you plan to print large items, like posters or banners, you'll need a printer that can accommodate those sizes.
c. Print Quality
Of course, you'll also want to consider the print quality of the printer. As we mentioned earlier, dye-sublimation printers typically produce higher quality prints than inkjet sublimation printers. So if the print quality is a priority for you, you'll want to go with a dye-sublimation printer.
d. Ink Cartridge Replacement Cost
Along with the cost of the heat transfer sublimation printer, you'll want to consider the cost of replacement ink cartridges. Some printers have expensive ink cartridges, while others have more affordable cartridges. It's important to factor this into your decision-making process, especially if you plan to do a lot of printing.
e. Connectivity Options
Finally, you'll want to consider the connectivity options of the printer. Some printers have built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, while others require a USB cable for connectivity. If you're not sure which is right for you, make sure to read up on the individual printers before making a purchase.
There are multiple brands claiming to make good printers for sublimation transfer but not everyone produces a quality end product. In order to perfectly transfer the dyes of the print, you need the best sublimation printer for heat transfer.
For a premium printing experience and high-end business, the Epson SureColor T3170x is our first choice. Our second recommendation is the WorkForce WF-7710, it prints vibrant sublimation designs in no time. And if budget is an issue and you still want a quality printer to transfer sublimation, you'll not go wrong with Sawgrass SG500 - this printer is especially designed for sublimation printing. The only drawback is that it only works with Sawgrass Sublijet sublimation ink and that is costly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What printer is best for sublimation?
Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500 is the best printer for sublimation. Here is a list of the best sublimation printers in 2024;
Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500
Workforce WF-7710
Epson SureColor T3170x
Epson Stylus C88+
Epson EcoTank ET-3760
Which is better heat transfer or sublimation?
Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages. Heat transfer is typically less expensive and can be used with a wider variety of materials, while sublimation produces higher quality prints. It really depends on your needs and what you are looking to achieve with your prints.
Can you use an inkjet printer for sublimation?
Yes, you can use an inkjet printer for sublimation if it is compatible with sublimation ink. While inkjet sublimation printers are less expensive than their dye-sublimation counterparts, they have some limitations. For example, inkjet sublimation printers can only print on specific types of media, and the quality of the print is not as high as it would be with a dye-sublimation printer.
Can sublimation ink be used on heat transfer paper?
Yes, sublimation ink can be used on heat transfer paper. However, it's important to note that the quality of the print will be dependent on the quality of the printer you use. So if the print quality is a priority for you, you'll want to go with a dye-sublimation printer.
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.
The Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500 is the best sublimation printer for heat transfer due to its accuracy in heat sensing, convenient printing area, and ease of use.
The Epson WorkForce WF-7710 is a great option for those looking for an all-in-one printer for their sublimation printing business. This printer is perfect for fabric sublimation like cotton and polyester shirts.
The Epson SureColor T3170x is a professional-grade wide format sublimation printer that is perfect for businesses and graphic designers who need to create high-quality prints quickly and easily.
The Epson Stylus C88+ inkjet printer is one of the best choices for sublimation and heat transfer. It has a maximum print resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi, which is ideal for high-quality prints.
The Epson EcoTank ET-3760 is an innovative cartridge-free printer that uses high-capacity, easily refillable ink tanks. This makes it a great choice for busy offices that need a reliable and affordable printer.
