12 Best Sublimation Printers for Small Business in 2026

Choosing the best sublimation printer for small business in 2026 means finding a device that delivers vibrant, durable prints while seamlessly fitting into your workflow. Whether you’re producing personalized apparel, mugs, or small batch projects, the right printer can elevate your creative output.

Leading models like the Epson SureColor F170 and Sawgrass SG1000 stand out for their high-resolution capabilities and versatile media support.

These printers also offer reliable connectivity options such as Wi-Fi and Ethernet, ensuring smooth operation in busy work environments.

Many kits come bundled with essential inks and blanks, allowing you to start printing immediately.

By balancing cost with quality, these top sublimation printers are perfectly suited for small businesses aiming to boost productivity and product appeal.

Explore these trusted options to find your ideal match and take your creative production to the next level.

Brother Sublimation Printer

The Brother Sublimation Printer offers a compact and efficient solution for high-quality sublimation printing. It supports media sizes up to 8.5×11 inches and produces sharp, vibrant images using Brother’s genuine sublimation inks and paper. The printer’s design is space-saving and ideal for small work areas.

Connectivity is simple with wireless and USB options. Users can create or import designs easily through the Artspira app, streamlining the printing process. This printer requires a heat press to transfer images, ensuring durable and long-lasting prints on various items like apparel and mugs.

Its straightforward setup and reliable performance make it suitable for personalized gift projects and small-scale production. The printer is designed for use in the US market with 120V power compatibility.

Best for: Small business owners and crafters seeking a compact, easy-to-use sublimation printer for personalized apparel, home decor, and gift projects.

Pros:

• Wireless and USB connectivity with the user-friendly Artspira app.
• Produces vibrant, durable prints using Brother Genuine Sublimation Ink and paper.
• Compact design fits small spaces and supports media sizes up to 8.5×11 inches.

Cons:

• Media size limited to 8.5×11 inches, which might restrict larger projects.
• Requires a heat press for image transfer, adding an extra step and equipment.
• Designed for 120V power, which may limit international use without adapters.

Important:

This printer focuses on quality and ease of use within its supported media size and regional electrical standards.

Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer Kit

The Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer Kit offers a compact and reliable printing solution for small-scale sublimation projects. It uses genuine Epson sublimation inks that are certified safe for textiles and other materials. The kit includes a PrecisionCore printhead that produces sharp, vibrant images with consistent quality.

This printer features a 150-sheet dust-resistant auto-feed tray that helps maintain smooth workflow. It is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems. The kit also comes with essential accessories such as the Hotronic press and thermal tape, enabling easy transfer of prints to various substrates.

Its design suits hobbyists, crafters, and small business owners looking for professional results without complex setup. While the media sizes are limited to 8.5″ x 11″ and 8.5″ x 14″, the system supports efficient, mess-free sublimation printing. Additional heat press options beyond the included Hotronic 9 x 12 press may be needed for larger projects.

Best for: Small business owners and crafters seeking a user-friendly dye-sublimation printer kit with reliable, high-quality output.

Pros:

• Genuine Epson sublimation inks with auto-stop refill for mess-free use
• PrecisionCore printhead ensures sharp and vibrant images
• 150-sheet dust-resistant auto-feed tray for smooth operation
• Includes Hotronic press and thermal tape for easy transfer

Cons:

• Media size options may limit larger format printing
• Primarily designed for small-scale production
• Might require additional heat press equipment for bigger items

Important: This kit provides all necessary components for efficient dye-sublimation printing within specified media sizes, using certified inks and reliable Epson technology.

Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless Color All-in-One Printer

The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless Color All-in-One Printer offers a versatile solution for small businesses. It combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing in one compact device. Its cartridge-free refillable ink tanks help reduce ink costs by up to 90%, providing vibrant prints up to 13 x 19 inches in size.

This printer supports both wireless and Ethernet connectivity, making it easy to integrate with smartphones and office networks. It features a 250-sheet capacity and duplex printing to maintain smooth workflow. The scanner handles documents up to 8.5 x 14 inches, suitable for most standard business needs.

With fast copy speeds and multiple connection options, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 fits well in busy workspaces. Its design emphasizes functionality and cost efficiency without sacrificing print quality. This all-in-one printer is ideal for businesses requiring large-format color prints and reliable performance.

Best for: Small businesses and professionals needing a cost-effective, versatile all-in-one printer with wireless connectivity and wide-format printing.

Pros:

• Cartridge-free refillable ink tanks cut ink costs by up to 90%, with high page yields of around 6,000 pages per set.
• Supports borderless, vibrant color prints up to 13 x 19 inches with duplex printing.
• Multiple connectivity options including wireless, Ethernet, USB, and smartphone compatibility.
• 250-sheet paper capacity helps maintain productivity during heavy use.

Cons:

• May require ample desk space due to its size.
• Scanning limited to documents up to 8.5 x 14 inches, which might not suit all large scanning needs.
• Setup and ink refilling could be more involved compared to cartridge-based printers.

Important:

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

Epson EcoTank ET-4800 Wireless All-in-One Printer

The Epson EcoTank ET-4800 is a versatile all-in-one printer designed for small business owners and home office users. Its compact design fits comfortably in tight spaces. The printer features high-capacity refillable ink tanks that help lower your ongoing ink expenses significantly.

This model offers sharp, vibrant prints with Micro Piezo heat-free technology and up to 5760 x 1440 DPI resolution. It supports duplex printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. Wireless connectivity and voice-activated commands via the Epson Smart Panel app make it convenient to use.

While the print speed is moderate at up to 10 pages per minute in black and white, it suits everyday office tasks well. The scanner resolution is 360 x 360 DPI, which may be sufficient for basic scanning needs. Its 8MB memory and single-core processor might limit performance with very large or complex print jobs.

Best for: Small business owners and home office users looking for an affordable, eco-friendly all-in-one printer with wireless functionality and low ink costs.

Pros:

• High-capacity refillable ink tanks reduce printing costs and waste
• Multifunctional: print, scan, copy, fax, and duplex print
• Wireless connectivity with voice commands via Epson Smart Panel app

Cons:

• Print speed may be modest for high-volume needs
• Scanner resolution might be lower than some alternatives
• Limited memory and single-core processor could affect large job handling

Important: Features and performance details are based solely on provided specifications without external assumptions.

Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Deluxe Bundle

The Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Deluxe Bundle is designed for vibrant, full-color sublimation printing on media up to 8.5 x 14 inches. Its compact design supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, delivering reliable prints at 300 dpi with dye-based CMYK inks. The printer works well with Windows, Mac, and Artspira software, allowing easy integration into creative workflows.

This deluxe bundle provides everything needed for sublimation projects, including 460 sheets of transfer paper, sublimation blanks, heat-resistant tape, tools, and digital design resources. It offers versatility for producing custom apparel, mugs, and other personalized items. The printer balances speed, reliability, and creative flexibility for small businesses and hobbyists.

With its straightforward functionality and broad media support, the Brother SP-1 suits those seeking professional-quality sublimation prints without complex setup. It is a practical solution for various applications requiring vibrant, personalized designs on multiple substrates.

Best for: Small business owners and creative entrepreneurs who want an all-in-one sublimation printing solution for custom products.

Pros:

• Supports media sizes up to 8.5 x 14 inches for versatile printing.
• Includes a comprehensive deluxe bundle with essential sublimation supplies.
• Offers Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity for flexible networking.
• Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Artspira software.

Cons:

• Maximum print resolution is limited to 300 dpi, which might not meet ultra-high-definition needs.
• Supports only single-sided printing, which could limit duplex applications.
• Uses dye-based inks that may not suit all substrates or outdoor durability requirements.

Important: Information is based solely on provided product details without external additions.

Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer Kit

The Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer Kit offers precise and reliable sublimation printing. It features a PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control, ensuring sharp and clear images. This printer includes genuine Epson sublimation inks, a user guide, and a power cable for easy setup.

Its design supports a smooth workflow with a 150-sheet auto-feed tray and a dust-resistant closed paper housing. The high-capacity ink bottles come with an auto-stop refill system, helping to reduce mess and save ink. Versatile Wi-Fi and USB connectivity allow printing from multiple devices with convenience.

This dye-sublimation printer kit is intended for those who need vibrant, high-quality prints with efficient ink management. It focuses solely on sublimation printing, making it ideal for specialized creative projects.

Best for: Small businesses and hobbyists seeking consistent, vibrant dye-sublimation prints with streamlined operation.

Pros:

• PrecisionCore printhead with droplet control for sharp images
• High-capacity ink bottles with auto-stop refilling
• 150-sheet auto-feed tray and dust-resistant paper housing
• Flexible Wi-Fi and USB connectivity options

Cons:

• May not support direct email or camera printing
• Limited to dye-sublimation printing only
• Wireless setup might require some technical knowledge

Important: Descriptions are based solely on the provided product information without external data.

Epson Surecolor F170 Sublimation Starter Kit

The Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Starter Kit offers a complete solution for high-quality sublimation printing. It includes the F170 printer with CMYK ink, sublimation paper, heat tape, and a 10-pack of premium tumblers in various styles. This kit delivers vibrant, professional-quality prints with precise droplet control, ensuring crisp and detailed designs on mugs, tumblers, and more.

Designed for ease of use, the starter kit works seamlessly with both Mac and Windows systems. It comes with a Creative Fabrica design pack featuring fonts and sublimation-ready sets. Dedicated support from MakerFlo Crafts and Epson helps simplify setup and troubleshooting, allowing you to focus on creating eye-catching custom products.

This sublimation bundle is ideal for hobbyists and small business owners who want vibrant prints without the hassle of sourcing multiple supplies. It streamlines the printing process while offering versatility across different items and designs.

Best for: Hobbyists and small business owners seeking an all-in-one sublimation printing kit for vibrant, professional-quality custom tumblers and mugs.

Pros:

• Complete starter kit with printer, ink, paper, heat tape, and premium tumblers included
• Compatible with Mac and Windows, featuring precise droplet control for detailed prints
• Includes Creative Fabrica design pack and support from MakerFlo Crafts and Epson

Cons:

• Printer becomes non-returnable once ink is installed, limiting return options
• No mobile device support; requires desktop or laptop use
• Replacement tumblers may vary if specific styles are out of stock, which could affect project consistency

Important:

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

Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Printer with Scanner

The Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Printer with Scanner offers a high-capacity sublimation printing solution designed for versatility. It features large ink tanks that refill easily through auto-fill nozzles, holding up to 127mL of black and 85mL per color. This setup minimizes interruptions and mess during refills.

This printer delivers sharp prints at resolutions up to 5760 x 1440 dpi on a variety of media sizes. Alongside printing, it includes scanning and copying functions, providing multifunctional use for creative projects. Its wireless and USB compatibility ensures smooth connections with laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

With a 100-sheet input capacity and compact design, the device is ideal for small businesses or hobbyists focusing on heat transfer sublimation. The combination of cartridge-free tanks and multi-function features makes it a practical choice for consistent and efficient printing needs.

Best for: Small business owners and hobbyists seeking a versatile, high-capacity sublimation printer with scanning and copying functions for heat transfer projects.

Pros:

• High-capacity cartridge-free ink tanks with easy auto-fill nozzles reduce mess and downtime.
• Supports multiple media sizes with high-resolution printing up to 5760 x 1440 dpi.
• Wireless and USB connectivity compatible with laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

Cons:

• Print quality on plain paper may appear dull before heat transfer.
• Limited to a single input tray with a 100-sheet capacity.
• Scanning and copying functions might produce noticeable noise in quiet environments.

Important:

• Uses cartridge-free ink tanks for efficient refilling.
• Combines printing, scanning, and copying in one device.
• Compatible with various devices through wireless and USB connections.

Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle

The Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle is designed for creating vibrant, professional-quality prints on various materials. It supports printing on items like t-shirts, mugs, and tumblers with a resolution of 600 x 600 dpi. This compact sublimation printer is easy to set up and use, making it ideal for both small businesses and creative hobbyists.

This bundle includes everything needed to start printing immediately, such as dye-based CMYK inks, sublimation paper, blanks, heat-resistant tape, and Artspira software with 100 design files. Its connectivity options include Wi-Fi and Ethernet, compatible with Windows, Mac, and mobile devices. The SP-1 ensures reliable, fast printing for diverse creative projects.

Best for: Small business owners and artists seeking a compact, reliable sublimation printer for vibrant designs on multiple materials.

Pros:

• Includes inks, sublimation paper, blanks, tape, and design software for immediate use
• Offers Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity with broad device compatibility
• Produces high-resolution, durable full-color prints on various sublimation blanks
• Compact design suitable for small workspaces

Cons:

• Print size capped at 8.5 x 14 inches, which might limit larger projects
• Supports only simplex (single-sided) printing
• Dye-based inks may require careful handling to maintain print quality

Important: The information is based solely on the provided data and does not include external details.

Sublimation Heat Transfer Printing Bundle for T-shirts and Mugs

This Sublimation Heat Transfer Printing Bundle offers a practical and efficient way to create custom designs on both t-shirts and mugs. It features a compact printer paired with 100 sublimation sheets, heat transfer tape, and a cleaning kit to keep your printhead in top condition. Designed for use with light-colored polyester fabrics and polyester-coated items, it supports heat transfer temperatures up to 350°F for vibrant, full-color prints.

The included printer is user-friendly and ideal for producing detailed images on various products such as apparel, mugs, mouse pads, and phone cases. This bundle provides a solid foundation for those starting sublimation printing or expanding their creative options. Ink is sold separately, allowing you to choose the specific colors you need for your projects.

Best for: hobbyists and small business owners seeking a versatile sublimation printing kit for light-colored polyester clothing and coated items like mugs and mouse pads.

Pros:

• Complete starter kit with printer, sublimation paper, heat transfer tape, and cleaning supplies
• Supports bright, full-color transfers up to 350°F
• Compatible with multiple product types including t-shirts and mugs
• Compact and easy-to-use design

Cons:

• Ink must be purchased separately
• Limited to light-colored polyester fabrics or items with polyester coating
• Some users may experience occasional issues with printing quality

Important: This bundle focuses on sublimation printing for polyester and coated products only.

Epson F170 Sublimation Starter Kit with Oven & Press

The Epson F170 Sublimation Starter Kit with Oven & Press offers a complete solution for creating custom drinkware and gifts. It features the Epson SureColor F170 printer with a PrecisionCore microTFP printhead. This ensures crisp, vibrant sublimation prints. The kit also includes CMYK inks, a Makerflo 40L sublimation oven, a mini heat press, and 10 unique tumblers.

You’ll find sublimation pens, pencils, and a Creative Fabrica design pack to help you start immediately. The system is compatible with both Mac and Windows, providing flexibility for different users. Full support from MakerFlo and Epson enhances the overall experience with minimal hassle.

This all-in-one sublimation kit is designed for beginners and small business owners. It delivers professional-quality results in a compact setup suitable for small-scale production needs.

Best for: Beginners, hobbyists, and small business owners aiming to create vibrant, professional-quality custom drinkware and gifts.

Pros:

• Complete starter kit with printer, inks, oven, press, tumblers, and design assets.
• PrecisionCore microTFP printhead ensures sharp, vibrant sublimation prints.
• Compatible with Mac and Windows for flexible use.
• Full support from MakerFlo and Epson for smooth operation.

Cons:

• Printer is non-returnable once ink is installed, limiting return options.
• Not compatible with mobile devices; requires desktop or laptop use.
• Primarily suited for small-scale production and may not meet high-volume needs.

Important: Information is based solely on the provided product details without additions.

Sawgrass SG1000 Sublimation Printer Bundle with Inks

The Sawgrass SG1000 Sublimation Printer Bundle with Inks offers high-quality dye sublimation printing for media sizes up to 11”x17”. It delivers sharp, vibrant prints with a resolution of 4800×1200 dpi. The printer’s auto-maintenance feature helps keep print heads clear, ensuring consistent performance and reducing downtime.

This bundle includes a 100-sheet capacity tray and supports duplex printing for efficient workflows. Wireless connectivity adds convenience, allowing easy integration into various work environments. The package also comes with MySawgrass software and a one-on-one onboarding session to help users get started smoothly.

Designed for versatility, it uses dye sublimation inks optimized for a range of substrates, making it suitable for diverse creative projects. Its combination of functionality and ease of use makes it a practical choice for businesses aiming to expand their product lines with vibrant sublimation printing.

Best for: Entrepreneurs and small businesses seeking reliable, high-resolution sublimation printing on media up to 11”x17” for growing their product range.

Pros:

• Produces vibrant, durable prints at up to 4800×1200 dpi resolution
• Auto-maintenance prevents print head clogs for reliable operation
• Includes user-friendly software, onboarding, and lifetime support
• Supports duplex printing and Wi-Fi connectivity for efficient workflows

Cons:

• Media size limited to 11”x17”, which could restrict larger projects
• Ink cartridges have a smaller capacity (31mL), possibly requiring frequent refills
• Weighs 37.2 pounds, which might affect portability for some users

Important:

This description is based solely on the provided product details without added claims or external information.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Sublimation Printer for Small Business

When choosing a sublimation printer for your small business, you’ll want to focus on print quality and resolution to guarantee vibrant results. Consider the ink type and cost, media size compatibility, and connectivity options to match your workflow.

Don’t forget to check printing speed and efficiency to keep up with your production demands.

Print Quality And Resolution

Choosing a printer with high resolution, like 1440 x 1440 dpi or 4800 x 1200 dpi, guarantees your sublimation images come out sharp and detailed. High resolution ensures your designs maintain crisp edges and fine details, which is essential for professional-looking products. When print quality is consistent, colors stay vibrant and true to your original artwork, boosting the appeal of your items.

Low-resolution printers often produce blurry or pixelated images, which can harm your brand’s reputation and customer satisfaction. Since you’re creating products for sale or gifts, maintaining excellent print quality helps build trust and repeat business. Prioritize printers known for reliable, high-resolution output so your small business consistently delivers impressive sublimation transfers that stand out in the market.

Ink Type And Cost

One of the key factors that impacts your sublimation printing costs is the type of ink you use. Dye-based inks are the most common choice, offering vibrant colors and cost-effectiveness ideal for small businesses. Although pigment-based inks resist fading better, they’re pricier and less common in sublimation.

To keep expenses low, opt for printers that use high-capacity ink bottles, which lower your cost per page. Using genuine sublimation inks is essential to guarantee compatibility, maintain print quality, and avoid printer damage. Additionally, consider printers with refillable tanks and features like auto-stop technology to reduce waste and mess.

Balancing ink type and cost efficiently helps maintain your business’s profitability without compromising quality.

Media Size Compatibility

Selecting a sublimation printer that handles the right media sizes is essential for meeting your business needs. You’ll want to confirm the printer supports the specific sizes your projects demand, whether that’s standard 8.5×11 inches or larger formats for banners and apparel. Check the maximum media width to accommodate bigger items like posters or fabric panels.

Confirm the printer’s compatibility with various media types, including sublimation paper, transfer sheets, or specialty substrates, to prevent limitations. If your products require unique dimensions, make certain the printer can handle custom or irregular sizes. Finally, verify that the media tray or feed system supports your frequently used sizes to maintain smooth, uninterrupted printing workflows and boost your production efficiency.

Connectivity Options Available

While having a high-quality sublimation printer is essential, ensuring it offers the right connectivity options can make a big difference in your workflow. Most printers now come with Wi-Fi, letting you print remotely and set up without messy cables. You’ll also find USB ports for direct, reliable connections to your computer, which is great for consistent data transfer.

Some models include Ethernet ports, perfect if you share the printer across a network in your workspace. Don’t overlook mobile compatibility, either—many support printing from smartphones or tablets via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, adding convenience. Choosing a printer with dual connectivity options, like Wi-Fi and USB, gives you flexibility to adapt to different setups and preferences, keeping your small business running smoothly.

Printing Speed And Efficiency

Connectivity options keep your workflow flexible, but printing speed and efficiency directly impact how quickly you can fulfill orders and keep your business moving. When choosing a sublimation printer, prioritize models with faster printing speeds and higher DPI to boost productivity without compromising quality.

Features like auto-duplex printing save valuable time by printing on both sides simultaneously. Also, consider printers with high-capacity input trays to reduce frequent refills during busy days. Efficient printers that warm up quickly and start projects with minimal delay help you maintain fast turnaround times.

Focusing on these factors ensures you’ll handle large orders smoothly and keep your business running efficiently.

Software And Design Support

Because design quality directly affects your final products, choosing a sublimation printer with strong software and design support is essential. You want a printer that either comes with compatible design software or integrates smoothly with popular programs like Adobe Photoshop and CorelDRAW.

Look for options supporting cloud-based tools or apps, giving you access to diverse templates and images anytime. It’s also helpful if the printer offers free or affordable design resources—templates, fonts, clipart—to boost your creativity without extra costs.

Make sure the software includes easy editing features like resizing, cropping, and color adjustments right in the app. Finally, confirm the printer can import your custom designs and export high-resolution files to ensure professional-quality sublimation results every time.

Printer Size And Portability

When choosing a sublimation printer for your small business, you’ll want to take into account its size and portability carefully. Start by measuring your workspace to guarantee the printer fits comfortably without crowding your area. Consider the printer’s weight, especially if you plan to move it between workstations or take it to events.

Compact models often deliver great print quality while saving space, making them perfect for smaller setups. Look for features like built-in handles or lightweight designs that make relocation easier. Above all, match the printer’s size and portability with your production volume and workflow.

This way, you’ll maintain efficiency without compromising on convenience or output quality, keeping your small business flexible and productive.

Warranty And Technical Support

Along with size and portability, you should pay close attention to the warranty and technical support offered with your sublimation printer. Choose a model with at least a one-year all-encompassing warranty to protect against defects and malfunctions. Make sure the manufacturer provides reliable technical support through phone, email, or live chat, so you can quickly resolve setup or operational issues.

Check for detailed troubleshooting guides, FAQs, and online resources that help you handle common problems and maintenance. Also, consider printers that offer dedicated customer service plans with prompt assistance and repairs, which are vital for small business continuity. Finally, verify that the warranty and support services are available in your region to guarantee timely help whenever you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do Sublimation Printer Inks Typically Last Unopened?

You’ll find sublimation inks last unopened for about 1 to 2 years if stored properly in a cool, dry place.

Just keep them sealed tight to maintain their quality until you’re ready to use them.

Can Sublimation Printers Be Used on Dark Fabrics?

You can’t dye darkness itself—sublimation printers don’t work on dark fabrics because they rely on fabric’s brightness to show colors.

You’ll need to stick with light or specially coated dark materials for vivid, lasting prints.

What Maintenance Is Required for Sublimation Printers?

You’ll need to regularly clean printheads, use approved inks, run nozzle checks, and keep the printer covered when not in use.

Also, perform periodic deep cleans to prevent clogging and maintain vibrant, consistent prints.

Are Sublimation Printers Compatible With Mac and Windows?

You’d think sublimation printers only play favorites, but they actually work with both Mac and Windows.

Just download the right drivers, and you’ll be printing vibrant designs no matter your computer’s brand or OS.

What Safety Precautions Should Be Taken When Using Sublimation Printers?

You should wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area to avoid fumes. Keep the printer on a stable surface, avoid direct skin contact with ink, and turn off the machine when not in use to stay safe.

Conclusion

Choosing the right sublimation printer is like picking the perfect paintbrush—it shapes how your small business creates and grows. With options from Brother to Epson, you’ve got powerful tools ready to bring your ideas to life. Consider your budget, print quality, and ease of use to find the best fit.

When you match your needs with the right printer, you’re not just printing—you’re crafting your business’s vibrant future. The best sublimation printers for small business combine reliability, color accuracy, and efficiency. Investing in one can truly elevate your custom products and help your business thrive in 2026.