12 Best Sublimation Printers for Shirts in 2026

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You want a sublimation printer for shirts that delivers vibrant, durable designs with ease and sharp detail. Choosing the best sublimation printers for shirts in 2026 means looking for models offering high resolution and reliable dye-based inks. Popular options like the Brother SP-1 or Epson SureColor F170 combine user-friendly touchscreens with compact A4 sizes.

Wi-Fi connectivity and auto-stop ink refills make printing hassle-free and efficient. These features streamline your workflow and ensure consistent, high-quality results every time. Pair these printers with heat presses for perfect transfers that bring your designs to life.

Keep exploring to discover top options, bundles, and key features that match your creative needs and help elevate your shirt printing projects.

Image Name Editor's Rating Price
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Deluxe ...
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Deluxe ...
★★★★★
★★★★★
5 out of 5
Brother Sublimation Printer
Brother Sublimation Printer
★★★★★
★★★★★
5 out of 5
Johnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F1...
Johnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F1...
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.5 out of 5
Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Print...
Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Print...
★★★★★
★★★★★
4 out of 5
The Supplierhub Epson SureColor F170 Dye...
The Supplierhub Epson SureColor F170 Dye...
★★★★★
★★★★★
4 out of 5

Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Deluxe Bundle

The Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Deluxe Bundle is designed for creating vibrant, professional-quality prints on various materials. It supports media sizes up to 8.5 x 14 inches and delivers detailed images at 300 dpi using dye-based CMYK inks. This printer connects easily via Wi-Fi or Ethernet and is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Artspira software, making it versatile for different setups.

This all-in-one sublimation printing solution comes complete with sublimation paper, blanks, heat-resistant tape, tools, and 100 digital designs. The bundle enables users to start crafting custom apparel, mugs, and other personalized items immediately. Its compact design suits both hobbyists and small business owners working in home studios or small workshops.

While the printer handles single-sided printing only, it offers consistent, rich color output for a variety of projects. The included dye-based inks require compatible sublimation blanks and careful handling to achieve the best results. The media size may limit larger prints but is ideal for common customization needs.

Best for: hobbyists and small business owners seeking a compact, versatile sublimation printer bundle for vibrant custom apparel and personalized products.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive bundle with inks, sublimation paper, blanks, tools, and digital designs included
  • Multiple connectivity options: Wi-Fi and Ethernet
  • Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Artspira software
  • Produces high-quality, full-color prints at 300 dpi

Cons:

  • Limited to single-sided printing, which might restrict some designs
  • Maximum media size may be small for larger projects
  • Dye-based inks require careful handling and compatible blanks

Important:

This product description is based solely on the provided specifications and bundle contents.

Brother Sublimation Printer

The Brother Sublimation Printer delivers high-resolution dye sublimation printing using Brother Genuine Ink for vibrant and durable results. Its compact design supports media up to 8.5×11 inches, making it ideal for personalized apparel and home decor projects. Wireless and USB connectivity options offer flexible setup, while the 2.7-inch touch panel ensures easy operation.

Designed to work seamlessly with the Artspira app, this printer gives users access to free design templates and straightforward editing tools. After printing, designs are transferred to shirts, mugs, or other substrates using a heat press. The combination of user-friendly technology and quality output makes it suitable for various creative projects.

Setup is simple, and the printer operates primarily on 120V power, catering to the US market. While a separate heat press is necessary for transferring images, the machine’s fast print speeds and reliable performance support both beginners and experienced crafters.

Best for: DIY enthusiasts and crafters seeking easy-to-use sublimation printing for vibrant, personalized apparel and home decor.

Pros:

  • Compact design with wireless and USB connectivity
  • High-resolution printing with Brother Genuine Ink
  • User-friendly Artspira app with free design templates
  • Fast print speeds and intuitive touch panel

Cons:

  • Media size limited to 8.5×11 inches, which may restrict larger projects
  • Requires an additional heat press for transferring designs
  • Primarily designed for 120V power, potentially limiting international use

Important: This description is based solely on provided information without added claims or assumptions.

Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer Kit

The Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer Kit offers a streamlined solution for creating vibrant, professional-quality sublimation prints. This compact printer features a PrecisionCore printhead that produces sharp and vivid images on various media sizes. It comes factory-sealed with genuine Epson ECO PASSPORT-certified sublimation inks, designed for clean refills using auto-stop technology.

The kit includes essential accessories like a heat press and thermal tape, allowing users to begin sublimation projects immediately. A 150-sheet auto-feed tray helps maintain workflow while protecting media from dust. Compatible with both Mac and Windows systems, this printer supports ease of use for hobbyists and small business owners alike.

Designed primarily for smaller-scale sublimation tasks, the Epson SureColor F170 is ideal for detailed work requiring high image clarity. Its compact design and included accessories make it a practical choice for those new to dye-sublimation printing or with limited space.

Best for: Hobbyists and small business owners seeking a compact, easy-to-use dye-sublimation printer kit with professional-quality output.

Pros:

  • Includes genuine Epson ECO PASSPORT-certified sublimation inks with auto-stop refill technology.
  • PrecisionCore printhead delivers sharp, vivid prints.
  • Comes with a heat press, thermal tape, and a dust-resistant 150-sheet auto-feed tray.

Cons:

  • Media size compatibility limited to 8.5″ x 11″ and 8.5″ x 14″ formats.
  • Primarily designed for smaller-scale projects, which may limit high-volume commercial use.
  • Might require additional tools for advanced sublimation applications beyond the included accessories.

Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Printer with Scanner

The Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Printer with Scanner is designed for versatile sublimation printing without the need for cartridges. It features high-capacity ink tanks with simple auto-fill nozzles, ensuring smooth operation. This printer supports wide media sizes up to 8.5 by 47.2 inches, making it suitable for various creative projects.

With a sharp 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution, the printer produces vibrant transfers ideal for shirts and other materials. It also includes scanning and copying functions, adding multifunctionality to your workspace. The device connects via USB 2.0 and is compatible with many devices, providing a reliable sublimation printing solution.

Best for: Creative professionals and hobbyists who need a cartridge-free sublimation printer that also scans and copies, perfect for heat transfer applications on different media sizes.

Pros:

  • High-capacity ink tanks with easy auto-fill nozzles reduce refilling hassle.
  • Supports media up to 8.5 x 47.2 inches for diverse printing needs.
  • Multifunctional with scanning and copying features to boost productivity.

Cons:

  • Connectivity limited to USB 2.0 without wireless or Ethernet options.
  • Print colors may appear muted on paper until heat transferred.
  • Single tray holds up to 100 sheets, which might limit high-volume printing.

Important:

Descriptions are based solely on provided product details without external information.

Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer Set

The Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer Set offers precise and vibrant color output ideal for dye-sublimation transfers. It uses a PrecisionCore printhead paired with genuine Epson dye-sublimation ink to produce sharp, high-contrast images. The 150-sheet auto-feed tray is enclosed in a dust-resistant case, keeping media clean and ready for printing.

This printer supports efficient ink management with high-capacity ink bottles featuring an auto-stop refill system to reduce mess and waste. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi and USB, allowing seamless integration into various workflows. It also works well with Epson’s print apps for easy setup and operation.

Designed specifically for sublimation printing, it excels at creating professional-quality transfers on shirts and other materials. While it may require some initial adjustment to optimize print settings, it delivers consistent and detailed results once configured.

Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses and hobbyists needing reliable, high-quality dye-sublimation printing with effective ink handling and versatile connectivity.

Pros:

  • PrecisionCore printhead and Epson ink ensure sharp, vibrant prints
  • Dust-resistant 150-sheet auto-feed tray keeps media clean
  • High-capacity ink bottles with auto-stop feature enable mess-free refills
  • Wi-Fi and USB connectivity for flexible workflow integration

Cons:

  • May not support direct email printing or camera connections
  • Primarily designed for sublimation transfers, not standard documents
  • Could require a learning curve to optimize print and ink settings

Important:

This description is based solely on the provided product details without additional claims.

Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle

The Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle is designed for users who need a compact and efficient sublimation printing solution. It delivers professional-grade prints in full color, suitable for various items like shirts and mugs. The printer supports printing up to 8.5 x 14 inches, ideal for small to medium-sized projects.

This starter bundle includes everything required to begin sublimation printing right away. It comes with dye-based CMYK inks, sublimation paper, blanks, and heat-resistant tape, along with Artspira design software containing 100 design files. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi and Ethernet, compatible with Windows, Mac, and mobile devices, ensuring flexible and convenient use.

Best for: Hobbyists, artists, designers, and small business owners looking for a reliable sublimation printer bundle to create vibrant, professional custom products.

Pros:

  • Complete kit with inks, sublimation paper, blanks, heat-resistant tape, and design software.
  • Supports wireless and Ethernet connections across multiple platforms.
  • Produces high-quality, full-color prints up to 8.5 x 14 inches.

Cons:

  • Maximum print resolution of 600 x 600 dpi may be lower than some competitors.
  • Only supports single-sided printing, which might limit some applications.
  • Limited to smaller media sizes, possibly restricting larger format projects.

Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer Desktop

The Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer Desktop offers precise, high-resolution dye sublimation printing ideal for creators and small businesses. It uses Epson’s advanced PrecisionCore microTFP printhead to produce vibrant colors at resolutions up to 600 x 1200 dpi. This ensures sharp and detailed prints on various sublimation blanks like shirts, mugs, and tumblers.

Designed for desktop use, the compact printer handles media sizes up to A4 and connects easily to both Mac and Windows computers via USB. While it does not support mobile or duplex printing, its reliability and straightforward setup make it well-suited for professional sublimation projects. The printer requires genuine sublimation ink, sold separately, to maintain optimal print quality.

Best for: small businesses, hobbyists, and creators who need consistent, high-quality dye sublimation prints on diverse sublimation products.

Pros:

  • Produces vibrant, detailed prints with Epson’s PrecisionCore microTFP technology.
  • Compact design fits neatly on desktops and supports media up to A4 size.
  • Compatible with Mac and Windows via USB for easy integration.
  • Reliable performance suitable for professional sublimation needs.

Cons:

  • May not support mobile device printing, limiting flexibility.
  • Could be restrictive without duplex printing for double-sided projects.
  • Requires genuine sublimation ink, which is sold separately.

Important:

This description is based solely on the provided product details without additional claims or outside information.

A4 Sublimation Printer with Ink Set for T-Shirts

The A4 Sublimation Printer with Ink Set for T-Shirts is designed to simplify your creative process. This compact device combines printing, copying, and scanning functions, making it a versatile tool for small-scale projects. It supports media sizes up to 8.5 x 11 inches and uses a 4-color sublimation ink set to produce vibrant, detailed prints.

With high-capacity, auto-fill ink tanks, you avoid the hassle of cartridges. The printer comes ready to use with sublimation paper, heat tape, and protective gloves included. This setup allows for quick and easy transfers to apparel and promotional items, making it ideal for customization.

This sublimation printer is perfect for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want an efficient way to create personalized products. Its user-friendly design and all-in-one functionality help streamline your workflow without complex setup.

Best for: Entrepreneurs and small business owners seeking a compact sublimation printer for customizing apparel and promotional items.

Pros:

  • Combines printing, copying, and scanning in a single device.
  • High-capacity, auto-fill ink tanks with a 4-color sublimation ink set.
  • Comes with sublimation paper, heat tape, and protective gloves for immediate use.

Cons:

  • May be limited by media sizes up to 8.5 x 11 inches.
  • Does not include duplex (double-sided) printing functionality.
  • Ink might be shipped separately, which could delay initial setup.

Important:

This product description is based solely on provided details and does not include external information.

Epson Surecolor F170 Sublimation Starter Kit

The Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Starter Kit offers precise and vibrant sublimation printing with its advanced Precision Core microTFP printhead. This kit is designed for seamless printing on shirts, tumblers, and other personalized items. It includes the printer, CMYK ink, sublimation paper, heat tape, and a variety of premium tumblers, providing all essentials in one package.

Compatible with both Mac and Windows systems, the kit supports easy setup and reliable operation. Users also receive a Creative Fabrica design pack, featuring fonts and sublimation-ready designs to jumpstart creative projects. MakerFlo Crafts and Epson provide full support, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.

This complete sublimation printing solution balances quality and convenience, making it suitable for hobbyists and small business owners. The included materials and software support simplify the process of producing custom products with professional results.

Best for: Hobbyists and small business owners seeking a straightforward sublimation printing kit for personalized apparel and drinkware.

Pros:

  • Complete kit with printer, ink, paper, heat tape, and tumblers included
  • High-quality prints with sharp details and vibrant colors
  • Compatible with Mac and Windows computers
  • Comes with Creative Fabrica design pack and dedicated support

Cons:

  • Printer is non-returnable after ink installation, limiting return options
  • Requires a Mac or Windows device; no mobile compatibility
  • Tumbler styles are limited and may be substituted if out of stock

Important:

This description uses only the provided information without additional claims.

A4 Sublimation Printer with Ink Set and Accessories

This A4 sublimation printer with ink set and accessories offers a compact and efficient solution for fabric printing. It features wireless connectivity for easy setup and a 4-color sublimation ink system with 70mL tanks. These high-capacity tanks support continuous printing without the hassle of cartridges.

The printer’s all-in-one design includes scanning and copying functions, adding versatility to your workspace. An auto-fill nozzle simplifies ink refills, reducing mess and downtime. Included sublimation paper and heat tape help produce sharp and vibrant transfers on different fabrics.

This setup is ideal for both hobbyists and professionals aiming to streamline their sublimation projects. Its design balances ease of use with advanced features to support creative and small-scale production needs.

Best for: hobbyists and professionals seeking a wireless sublimation printer with reliable ink capacity for fabric and garment printing.

Pros:

  • Wireless connectivity for flexible printing locations.
  • Large 70mL sublimation ink tanks reduce interruptions.
  • Multi-function device with scanning and copying.
  • Auto-fill nozzle simplifies ink refills.

Cons:

  • Limited to A4 size, which might not fit larger projects.
  • Requires additional consumables like sublimation paper and heat tape.
  • May need time to learn sublimation printing techniques.

Important: Information is based solely on the provided product details.

AKEYDIY 8-in-1 Sublimation Heat Press Machine

The AKEYDIY 8-in-1 Sublimation Heat Press Machine offers versatile functionality for various creative projects. It features a Teflon-coated aluminum plate with double heating tubes that maintain even heat, ensuring precise and consistent transfers. The 12″ x 15″ pressing surface accommodates different materials, from T-shirts to mugs and caps.

Its 360-degree swing-away design allows safe and easy access during operation. Adjustable pressure settings give you control over each transfer, enhancing accuracy. Certified by UL and FCC, this machine prioritizes safety and reliability for users.

This all-in-one heat press machine is designed for those who want a multifunctional tool with advanced heating technology. Its accessories support diverse project types, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced crafters.

Best for: DIY enthusiasts and small business owners seeking a versatile heat press that handles various materials with precision and safety.

Pros:

  • Double heating tubes and Teflon-coated plate ensure even temperature and prevent scorching
  • 8-in-1 design includes multiple accessories for different projects
  • UL and FCC certified for safety with responsive customer support

Cons:

  • The 12″ x 15″ pressing area may be limited for larger items
  • Swing-away design might require extra workspace
  • Initial setup and pressure adjustment could involve a learning curve for new users

Sublimation Heat Transfer Printing Bundle for T-Shirts

The Sublimation Heat Transfer Printing Bundle for T-Shirts offers a complete solution for creating vibrant, full-color designs on light-colored polyester fabrics. This kit includes a compact printer, 100 sheets of sublimation paper, a printhead cleaning kit, and heat transfer tape—requiring only ink to get started. It supports customization on various items such as shirts, mugs, and mouse pads.

Designed for ease of use, the bundle operates at a maximum temperature of 350°F, making it suitable for polyester and polyester-coated materials with up to 30% cotton. Its user-friendly setup helps hobbyists and small business owners efficiently produce high-quality, durable prints. The included components ensure smooth operation and consistent results with minimal effort.

This all-in-one sublimation printing kit is ideal for those looking to start or expand a custom apparel business. It combines essential tools for heat transfer printing, allowing users to explore creative projects or scale their product lines with confidence.

Best for: hobbyists and small business owners aiming to create vibrant, full-color custom designs on light-colored polyester apparel and coated items with ease.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive starter kit with printer, sublimation paper, cleaning kit, and heat transfer tape
  • Suitable for various substrates including fabrics, mugs, and phone cases
  • Easy to use with efficient ink consumption and heat transfer capabilities
  • Supports printing at temperatures up to 350°F

Cons:

  • Ink is not included, requiring a separate purchase to begin printing
  • Limited to light-colored polyester or polyester-coated items with up to 30% cotton content
  • Customer experiences may vary, as reflected in an average rating

Important: This bundle provides the core tools needed for sublimation printing but requires ink purchase and is best suited for specific fabric types to achieve optimal results.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Sublimation Printer for Shirts

When picking a sublimation printer for shirts, you’ll want to focus on print quality and resolution to get vibrant designs. Consider ink compatibility and durability to guarantee your prints last through washes. Also, check the media size, connectivity options, and ease of use to match your workflow and project needs.

Although choosing a sublimation printer involves many factors, print quality and resolution play a crucial role in determining how vibrant and detailed your shirt designs will look. You’ll want a printer that supports at least 300 dpi to capture smooth gradients and fine details, but higher resolutions like 1440 x 1440 dpi deliver sharper, more intricate images.

The maximum print resolution directly affects the clarity and vibrancy of your transfers, especially for complex designs. Also, ensure the printer can consistently maintain high resolution across larger prints without losing detail or introducing banding and pixelation.

This accuracy helps your colors and gradients appear smooth and professional, making your shirts stand out with crisp, vivid imagery every time you print.

Ink Compatibility And Durability

Achieving sharp, vibrant prints goes beyond resolution; the inks you use play a major role in how your designs hold up over time. You’ll want dye-based sublimation inks since they deliver superior durability and richer colors compared to pigment-based options. Make certain the inks are compatible with your printer model to avoid clogging and maintain consistent performance.

Check that the inks are certified for resistance to washing and UV exposure, so your shirt prints don’t fade or degrade quickly. Also, pay attention to the ink’s chemical makeup to ensure it’s formulated for heat transfer, preventing issues during sublimation. Staying updated on manufacturer recommendations helps you keep ink compatibility in check and guarantees your prints last as long as you want.

Media Size And Capacity

Choosing the right sublimation printer means paying close attention to media size and capacity to match your shirt designs. Make sure the printer supports media sizes compatible with your projects, typically up to 8.5 x 14 inches for most shirt transfers. Check if it handles standard sheet sizes like A4 or letter, or if you need larger formats for full-front designs.

Also, consider the maximum media capacity—some printers can hold up to 460 sheets, letting you print in larger batches without constant reloading. If you work on bigger or more complex projects, look for printers that support continuous roll media. Opt for models with adjustable media capacity, so you can easily switch between small runs and high-volume orders without hassle or downtime.

Connectivity Options Available

When selecting a sublimation printer for shirts, you’ll want to take into account the connectivity options to guarantee smooth and flexible printing. Many printers offer wireless features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, letting you place your printer anywhere and print remotely. USB connections are standard, providing direct and stable links to your computer or laptop.

If you run a small business, consider models with Ethernet ports for network sharing and faster data transfers. Also, check if the printer supports mobile app integration, which allows printing straight from your smartphone or tablet. Finally, ensure the printer’s connectivity matches your operating system, whether Windows or Mac, to avoid compatibility issues and enjoy seamless driver support.

Ease Of Use

A sublimation printer that’s easy to use can save you time and frustration, especially if you’re new to the process. Look for one with a user-friendly interface, like a touchscreen or simple control panel, to make operation straightforward. Clear setup instructions, especially for connecting to Wi-Fi or your computer, reduce technical hiccups.

Compatibility with design software or mobile apps lets you create and transfer designs effortlessly. Automated features such as ink refill alerts and maintenance reminders keep your printer running smoothly without needing advanced skills. Finally, having access to clear, all-encompassing instructions and support resources ensures you can confidently handle any challenges.

Prioritizing ease of use helps you focus on creating great shirt designs, not wrestling with complicated equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Sublimation Printers Be Used on Dark-Colored Shirts?

No, you can’t use sublimation printers directly on dark-colored shirts because the process requires light or white fabric to show colors vividly.

For dark shirts, consider using special coatings or heat transfer vinyl instead.

How Long Do Sublimation Prints Typically Last After Washing?

Sublimation prints typically last 50-100 washes if you care for them properly. You should wash shirts inside out in cold water and avoid harsh detergents or bleach to keep the colors vibrant and prevent fading.

Following these care instructions helps maintain the quality and longevity of the prints. Proper handling ensures that the colors stay bright and the design remains intact.

Avoiding high heat during washing and drying is also crucial. Use gentle cycles and air dry when possible. This reduces stress on the fabric and print, extending their lifespan.

What Type of Fabric Works Best With Sublimation Printing?

You’ll get the best results with polyester fabrics for sublimation printing since the dye bonds well to synthetic fibers. High polyester content guarantees vibrant, durable prints, while cotton or blends don’t hold sublimation inks effectively.

Are Sublimation Inks Safe and Non-Toxic for Clothing?

You’re wrapping yourself in a gentle rainbow—yes, sublimation inks are generally safe and non-toxic for clothing. They’re designed to bond with fabric fibers, so you don’t have to worry about harmful chemicals touching your skin.

This makes them a popular choice for vibrant, long-lasting designs. When properly used, sublimation inks don’t flake or peel off.

As a result, they maintain safety and comfort throughout the garment’s life.

Can Sublimation Printing Be Done at Home Without Professional Equipment?

Yes, you can do sublimation printing at home using a compatible printer, sublimation ink, and heat press or iron. It’s affordable and effective for personal projects, though professional equipment offers higher quality and speed.

Using a heat press is recommended for best results, but an iron can work for smaller or occasional jobs. Make sure to use the right type of sublimation paper and materials designed for sublimation printing.

While home setups are great for beginners and hobbyists, investing in professional equipment can improve durability and color vibrancy if you plan to produce items regularly.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect sublimation printer for your shirts is like finding the key to access your creativity. With options ranging from Brother’s reliable bundles to Epson’s vibrant color tech, you’re set to bring your designs to life effortlessly. Keep your needs and budget in mind, and you’ll soon be turning blank shirts into wearable art.

Immerse yourself, and watch your ideas burst into color. Your perfect sublimation printer for shirts is waiting to make magic happen! Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, the best sublimation printers for shirts will help you create stunning, durable designs with ease.

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