Thanks to today’s technology, printers are more feature-rich and advanced. Printers nowadays do more than just print on paper; high-profile printers can also print personal designs on almost any material. There are many printers under this category: circuit printers, heat transfer printers and sublimation printers — with the last one offering more compact options.
Dye-sublimation printers provide the best results when it comes to printing artwork or transferring dye on ceramics or fabrics. Dye-sublimation printing uses heat to transfer digital images on paper, plastic, textiles and other sublimation-friendly surfaces. With the best sublimation printer and the right ink, you can print transfers to create bespoke crockery designs, branded signs and customized clothing.
If you’re planning to do business that involves printing on anything besides paper, picking the right one for your business is essential. However, if you’re unfamiliar with these advanced printers, the selection process can be a tricky one.
So, what is the best sublimation printer for beginners?
The Best Sublimation Printers for Beginners
A sublimation printer is one of the best ways to maximize technology for your business. If you’re new to sublimation printing, keep in mind that these machines need some initial investment. It sounds pricey, but it will be worth it in the long run. Good sublimation printers can save you money and time.
Epson Eco Tank ET-2760
If you’re looking for the best Epson printer for sublimation, this is one of them. The Epson EcoTank 2760 is an all-in-one inkjet printer that boasts of a superb tank system. This innovative printer doesn’t use conventional cartridges. Instead, it prints using four big ink tanks that users refill with ink bottles.
It is known for its excellent printing capabilities. One of its most popular features is its black page yield, which is one of the highest experts have tested. Therefore, the Epson EcoTank 2760 is an excellent alternative for people who want to print multiple pages of documents.
Features
- 100-sheet capacity input tray
- USB 2.0 for PC connection
- Wi-Fi connectivity and wireless printing with Apple AirPrint
- Built-in copy and scan functions
- Comes with the following essentials:
- Produce set-up CD-ROM
- Power cord
- 127ml bottle of 502 black
- 70 ml bottle of 502 cyan, yellow and magenta
Pros
- High page yields
- Offers a variety of connection alternatives
- Low cost per print
- Easily converts to sublimation
- Easy ink level tracking
- Occupies less desk space
Cons
- Slow printing speed
Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer
If you’re looking for another quality Epson sublimation printer, the Epson SureColor F170 is another option. This is one of the company’s most commercial sublimation printers. It is perfect for small business owners who want to produce t-shirts, mugs, mousepads and other custom items.
Thanks to its reliable PrecisionCore Technology, this printer guarantees the best results. You’ll enjoy a maximum print resolution of 1200 x 600 dpi, which makes your prints nearly life-like.
Features
- Precision Droplet Control that saves you a lot of ink with great clarity
- High-capacity ink bottles
- Wi-Fi Connectivity
Pros
- Easy to print
- Effective and high-performing
- High-quality print contrasts and colors
- Low wastage
Cons
- Tedious installation process
Liene Photo Printer
One of the best printers for sublimation that also falls under the “niftiest category” is the Liene Photo Printer. This portable and wireless photo printer allows professional cameramen to bring the printer with them and immediately print copies of their work.
If you use the Liene Photo Printer, you’ll also receive support for an application called the Liene app, which enables users to easily print their photos. The package also includes 20 photo printer papers so that you can immediately test the printer after you unbox it. This is a universally compatible device that can work with a desktop computer, laptop, Android or iOS. As long as you have Wi-Fi connectivity, you can connect up to five devices at once.
There are plenty of good reviews for this product, so you’ll have peace of mind when using it.
Features
- Wi-Fi connectivity option
- Dye Sublimation printing technology compatibility
- Suitable for five simultaneous connections
Pros
- Compatible with many devices
- Ships with 20 photo papers
- Prints 4×6 inches images
Cons
- Doesn’t work well with repetitive printing
Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer
When it comes to special printing purposes, Sawgrass is a trusted name. The Sawgrass SG500 is the perfect product to use for your sublimation printing business. Compared to other professional printers, it comes with a more affordable price tag and still offers tons of features. This Sawgrass sublimation printer works well with the company’s print manager, as well as other CreativeStudio Online Designer apps.
Another plus: you get a 2-year warranty period on the printer!
Features
- Suitable for desktop computers, laptops and smartphones
- WiFi connectivity option
- Two-year warranty period
Pros
- Print up to 51-inches long media
- Automated maintenance cycle
- Wi-Fi Connectivity
Cons
- Not as portable as other options
Evolis Classic Zenius Transfer Printer
The Evolis Classic Zenius is a high-capacity sublimation printer that lets you print a variety of products: passes, cards, badges and other wearables. Backed by the Evolis Premium Suite software, this sublimation printer comes with an easy-to-use printing configuration system, which users (even beginners) can easily understand.
You’ll operate the printer using the app. The app is a handy tool that doesn’t just do the printing; it also lets you know about your current printing status and ribbon availability.
Features
- Print up to 120 cards
- USB connectivity option
- Suitable for desktop computers
Pros
- The best option for mass printing
- Capable of creating two million colors
- Great printing speed
Cons
- Not as reliable as other sublimation printers
The Best Sublimation Out of the Rest
The suggested sublimation printers above are produced by renowned brands in the field, particularly Sawgrass and Epson. All of these brands have their areas of expertise, so it depends on the type of need.
Epson sublimation printers are more affordable compared to the others. These printers are also capable of completing different printing tasks, so if you’re dealing with multi-dimensional work, an Epson sublimation printer is the best for you. However, if you are focusing on a specific printing business, Sawgrass printers are ideal.
Ultimately, the best sublimation printer is the one that meets your budget and specific needs. So, take the time to research your options to make an informed decision before you buy.
Factors to Consider When Shopping for a Sublimation Printer
Before you settle on a sublimation printer, consider the following points:
- Maximum printing layout. Check the maximum printing layout of a potential printer since the layout size matters.
- Resolution. A rule of thumb with printers: the higher the resolution, the better. Before choosing a sublimation printer, check the highest resolution they offer.
- Available connectivity. Always check for the connectivity options available with your chosen printer. Make sure it has both wired and wireless connectivity.
The Bottom Line: Is It Worth Getting a Sublimation Printer?
Sublimation printers are not just for regular printing; instead, they are designed for special purpose applications, which include printing a variety of custom-made products. So, if you want to open a small business that creates bespoke items, investing in a sublimation printer is worth it.
The products listed above received high remarks from satisfied customers. Add them to your choices when you shop for a sublimation printer.