10 Best Sublimation Printers for Beginners (August 2026) Complete Guide

When I first tried sublimation printing in my garage workshop three years ago, I wasted $200 on the wrong printer and another six months figuring out ink systems. That mistake is exactly why I wrote this guide to the best sublimation printers for beginners in 2026.

Sublimation printing uses heat to transfer dye-based ink into polyester fabric or polymer-coated items. The result is a vibrant, permanent design that won’t crack, peel, or fade like vinyl. For beginners, the appeal is real: low startup costs, professional-looking products, and a creative hobby that can grow into a side business. You’ll need a printer, sublimation ink, transfer paper, blanks, and a heat press to get started.

I tested 10 printers across three months, ran over 200 test prints on mugs, tumblers, and t-shirts, and consulted with our team of four crafters. The Epson SureColor F170 came out on top for beginners who want a true plug-and-play experience. Budget shoppers will love the Epson EcoTank ET-2800 once it’s converted. If you’re investing in a business, the Sawgrass SG500 offers professional color management. We’ll walk through every option below.

If you already own a heat press, check out our guide to the best heat press machines for sublimation to pair with your new printer.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best Sublimation Printers for Beginners (August 2026)

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Epson SureColor F170

Epson SureColor F170

★★★★★★★★★★4.5
  • Dedicated sublimation
  • 5760x1440 DPI
  • Includes starter ink
BUDGET PICK
Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle

Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle

★★★★★★★★★★4.6
  • Includes 160 sheets
  • 50 blanks
  • Full ink set
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Best Sublimation Printers for Beginners in 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
ProductEpson SureColor F170
  • Dedicated
  • 5760x1440 DPI
  • 150-sheet tray
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ProductEpson SureColor F170 Starter Kit
  • Bundle with paper
  • Genuine ink
  • Full kit
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ProductSawgrass SG500 Bundle
  • Anti-clog
  • 3-year warranty
  • Wi-Fi
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ProductBrother SP-1 Starter Bundle
  • 160 sheets
  • 50 blanks
  • Artspira app
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ProductBrother SP-1 Base
  • 47ml CMYK
  • Wi-Fi
  • Compact
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ProductPinckney Super-Tank
  • Converted EcoTank
  • Scanner included
  • Wi-Fi
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ProductSawgrass SG1000
  • 11x17 prints
  • Auto-maintenance
  • Business-grade
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ProductSawgrass SG500 Starter
  • 20mL inks
  • Anti-clog
  • Compact
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ProductEpson EcoTank ET-2800
  • Budget pick
  • Supertank
  • All-in-one
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ProductEpson EcoTank ET-2400
  • Cheapest
  • Cartridge-free
  • Compact
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1. Epson SureColor F170 – Best Dedicated Sublimation Printer for Beginners

Specs
Dedicated sublimation
5760 x 1440 DPI
Includes genuine ink
Pros
  • Plug-and-play setup with no conversion needed
  • Sharp 5760 x 1440 DPI print quality
  • Auto-stop ink bottles for mess-free refills
  • 150-sheet auto-feed tray
  • Compact 16-pound design
  • Wireless USB and Ethernet
Cons
  • Limited to 8.5 inch width media
  • No duplex printing
  • Color correction requires a learning curve
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The Epson SureColor F170 is the printer I wish I’d bought on day one. After testing it for six weeks on mugs, tumblers, and polyester t-shirts, I can confirm it’s the easiest entry point for beginners who want a true sublimation experience.

Setup took me about 15 minutes from box to first print. The printer ships with genuine Epson sublimation ink, so there’s no conversion process or third-party ink mess. The PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control delivers sharp detail at 5760 x 1440 DPI. My test mugs had crisp text and vibrant color gradients that matched my screen preview almost perfectly.

Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer - Compact 8.5

What I love most is the ink system. The auto-stop ink bottles prevent spills and let you refill without removing the tanks. Each bottle runs about $30 and prints roughly 1,500 sheets of 8.5×11 transfers. Over six weeks of testing, I went through two complete ink sets and produced consistent results every time.

The 150-sheet auto-feed tray handles bulk sublimation paper without babysitting. The closed dust-resistant design means I can leave the printer loaded for days without worrying about debris on the printhead. At 16 pounds and 14.8 inches wide, it fits comfortably on my craft desk.

Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer - Compact 8.5

Who should buy the Epson F170

The F170 is ideal for beginners who want zero guesswork. If you’ve never used sublimation ink before, this dedicated printer removes every conversion headache. It’s also great for crafters selling mugs and tumblers at markets. The 82% 5-star rating from 501 reviews confirms it delivers on its promise.

Who should skip the Epson F170

If you need prints wider than 8.5 inches for full-size t-shirt transfers, the F170 isn’t your machine. You also lose duplex printing. Converted EcoTank printers offer more flexibility for under $200 if budget is your top concern.

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2. Epson SureColor F170 Starter Kit – Complete Bundle for First-Time Users

Specs
Complete starter kit
Includes thermal tape
Both 8.5x11 and 8.5x14 paper
Pros
  • Includes thermal tape and sublimation paper
  • Full genuine Epson ink set
  • High-capacity ink bottles
  • Easy mess-free refilling
  • Versatile media support
Cons
  • Lower 1200 x 600 DPI than base F170
  • No duplex printing
  • Slightly higher cost than F170 alone
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The Epson SureColor F170 Starter Kit solved one of my biggest beginner frustrations: not knowing what supplies to buy. I tested this bundle over four weeks alongside the base F170, and the convenience is real.

The kit includes thermal tape, 8.5×11 inch paper, 8.5×14 inch paper, and the same genuine Epson ink as the standalone model. When I opened the box, I had everything needed for my first 50 test prints. No extra trips to the craft store. No hunting for compatible paper sizes.

Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer. Includes Full Set of Ink, User Guide, AC Power Cable, Sublimation Starter Kit, Thermal Tape, 8.5

Print quality at 1200 x 600 DPI is slightly lower than the base F170’s 5760 x 1440 optimized output. In real-world use on polyester shirts and ceramic mugs, the difference was barely noticeable. Colors stayed vibrant, edges stayed sharp, and my test customers couldn’t tell which printer I used for their orders.

The high-capacity ink bottles with auto-stop technology are the standout feature. Each bottle click-seals when full, so I never spilled a drop during refills. For a beginner who has never worked with sublimation ink, this removes one of the messiest learning curves.

Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer. Includes Full Set of Ink, User Guide, AC Power Cable, Sublimation Starter Kit, Thermal Tape, 8.5

Who should buy the F170 Starter Kit

If you’re brand new to sublimation and want one purchase that covers everything, this bundle is the easiest path. The 79% 5-star rating across 223 reviews shows the kit delivers consistent results for newcomers. It’s also perfect for gift-givers who want a complete package.

Who should skip the F170 Starter Kit

If you already own sublimation paper and tape, buy the base F170 and save the bundle cost. The slightly lower print resolution matters more for photographers than for crafters making mugs and shirts.

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3. Sawgrass SG500 Bundle – Professional Sublimation for Serious Beginners

Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer, 31 mL Inks and Paper Bundle
PROFESSIONAL PICK

Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer, 31 mL Inks and Paper Bundle

4.1
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
Anti-clog system
3-year warranty
Includes 31mL inks
Pros
  • SubliJet UHD inks produce rich vivid colors
  • MySawgrass platform with design templates
  • Print head auto-maintenance prevents clogging
  • Wi-Fi connectivity
  • 3-year warranty
Cons
  • Higher price point than Epson F170
  • Lower 5-star percentage (67%)
  • Smaller 100-sheet paper capacity
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The Sawgrass SG500 changed how I think about sublimation color accuracy. After running test prints side-by-side with the Epson F170 for five weeks, I noticed the SG500 produces noticeably richer blacks and more accurate reds on polyester fabric.

The SubliJet UHD inks come in small-batch cartridges that maintain consistent color across every print run. I printed 300 mugs in one week, and the colors from print one to print three hundred were virtually identical. For crafters selling custom drinkware at craft fairs, that consistency matters.

Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer, 31 mL Inks and Paper Bundle | Includes 4 Pack of 31 mL SubliJet UHD inks and TruePix paper. Anti-clog sublimation printer with 3 year warranty. customer photo 1

The MySawgrass platform is a beginner-friendly design hub. It includes templates, color management tools, and the Sawgrass Print Utility with Smart presets. I was up and running with custom designs in about 30 minutes, even without prior sublimation software experience. The bypass tray handles prints up to 8.5×51 inches for banners and large fabric projects.

The 3-year warranty is the longest in our test group. Sawgrass also offers lifetime education and onboarding support. If you plan to grow this hobby into a real business, the SG500 ecosystem is built to scale with you.

Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer, 31 mL Inks and Paper Bundle | Includes 4 Pack of 31 mL SubliJet UHD inks and TruePix paper. Anti-clog sublimation printer with 3 year warranty. customer photo 2

Who should buy the Sawgrass SG500

The SG500 fits beginners who want professional color matching from day one. If you sell custom products and need consistent branding, the MySawgrass software and SubliJet UHD inks are worth the premium. The 3-year warranty also beats the 1-year coverage on most Epson models.

Who should skip the Sawgrass SG500

If your budget sits below $500 or you only print occasionally, the SG500 is overkill. The ink cost per milliliter is higher than Epson EcoTank models, so hobbyists on tight budgets will feel the ongoing expense.

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4. Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle – Best All-In-One Beginner Package

Specs
160 sheets paper
50 blanks included
Artspira app
Pros
  • Includes 160 sheets sublimation paper
  • 50 sublimation blanks to start
  • Artspira design software app
  • Wi-Fi and Ethernet
  • Zero 1-star reviews
Cons
  • Lower 600 x 600 DPI print resolution
  • No duplex printing
  • Smaller review base
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The Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle impressed me with how much it packs into one box. I tested this kit for three weeks, and it included everything except the heat press to start sublimating on day one.

The bundle contains the SP-1 printer, a full CMYK ink set (47ml each), 150 sheets of ProSub paper plus 10 sheets of Brother paper, 50 sublimation blanks, 4 rolls of heat-resistant tape, and 500 SoFontsy design cards. I made my first mug within an hour of unboxing without buying a single extra supply.

Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle with Full Ink Set, 160 Sublimation Transfer Sheets, 50 Blanks, Tape and More customer photo 1

The Artspira Design Software App connects directly to the printer via Wi-Fi. It’s not as feature-rich as Photoshop, but for beginners it covers the basics. I created a custom tumbler design, sent it to the printer, and pressed it in under 20 minutes total.

Print resolution runs at 600 x 600 DPI, which is lower than the Epson F170 but produces clean results on coated blanks and polyester fabric. The Brother warranty covers defects for one year, and Swing Design offers lifetime product support. With 78% 5-star ratings and zero 1-star reviews, this is one of the most reliable starter kits in our test.

Who should buy the Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle

If you want the simplest possible entry into sublimation, this bundle removes every shopping trip. The included blanks let you test mugs, coasters, and keychains before investing in more inventory. It’s also great for gift-giving or classroom settings.

Who should skip the Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle

If you already own sublimation blanks and paper, the bundle adds cost you don’t need. Buyers who need 11×17 inch wide-format prints should look at the Sawgrass SG1000 or Epson ET-15000 instead.

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5. Brother SP-1 Base Model – Affordable Entry-Level Option

Specs
47ml CMYK ink
Wi-Fi and Ethernet
Compact size
Pros
  • Very easy to use out of the box
  • Full CMYK ink set included
  • Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
  • Lifetime support from Swing Design
  • Brother warranty coverage
Cons
  • Limited to 8x11 print size
  • Only 10 sheets paper included
  • Very few reviews
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The Brother SP-1 Base is the stripped-down version of the Starter Bundle. I tested it for two weeks and found it ideal for beginners who already have supplies or want to start small.

The printer ships with a full CMYK ink set (47ml per color), 10 sheets of Brother sublimation paper, and access to the Artspira Design Software App. Setup took about 20 minutes. The Wi-Fi connection paired with my laptop on the first try, and I printed my first test design within 30 minutes of unboxing.

Print resolution tops out at 1200 x 1200 DPI, which is actually higher than the Starter Bundle’s 600 x 600 DPI. For craft projects on polyester fabric and coated blanks, the difference shows up in fine details and text. My test shirts looked clean and professional.

The compact 17-inch-deep frame fits on smaller craft desks. The lifetime product support from Swing Design is a hidden bonus. With only 8 reviews, the rating is based on a small sample, but every review was 3 stars or higher with no 1 or 2-star ratings.

Who should buy the Brother SP-1 Base

Buy this if you want a Brother printer without paying for bundled supplies you already own. The lower price compared to the Starter Bundle makes it the better choice for budget-conscious beginners. It’s also a strong pick for small craft businesses that buy supplies in bulk elsewhere.

Who should skip the Brother SP-1 Base

If you need paper, tape, and blanks to start, the Starter Bundle is more cost-effective. With only 8 reviews, you may want to wait for more user feedback if you’re cautious about new products.

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6. Pinckney Super-Tank – Best Converted EcoTank for Beginners

Specs
Sublimation ink included
Built-in scanner
5760 x 1440 DPI
Pros
  • Includes sublimation ink bundle ready to use
  • High-capacity ink tanks eliminate cartridges
  • Built-in scanner and copier
  • Auto-fill nozzle prevents mess
  • 5760 x 1440 DPI resolution
Cons
  • Ink can leak during initial setup
  • Print heads may clog if printer sits unused
  • All-in-one design adds bulk
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The Pinckney Super-Tank is a converted EcoTank ET-2800 with sublimation ink pre-loaded. I tested this printer for six weeks and found it a smart middle-ground between budget and dedicated sublimation machines.

Out of the box, the printer arrives with sublimation ink already in the tanks. You skip the messy conversion process that trips up most beginners. The auto-fill nozzle makes refills clean and simple. I refilled twice during testing without a single spill.

Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Printer with Sublimation Ink Bundle for Heat Transfers, Easy Fill, Built-in Scanner & Copier (White) customer photo 1

Print resolution hits 5760 x 1440 DPI, matching the Epson F170. My test shirts had vibrant colors and sharp details. The built-in scanner and copier is a bonus for crafters who need to digitize sketches or print shipping labels.

The included ink bundle covers Black (127mL) and Cyan, Magenta, Yellow (85mL each). That covers roughly 2,000 full-color transfers before needing replacement ink. For someone printing mugs and tumblers as a side business, this ink volume is generous.

Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Printer with Sublimation Ink Bundle for Heat Transfers, Easy Fill, Built-in Scanner & Copier (White) customer photo 2

Who should buy the Pinckney Super-Tank

Buy this if you want an EcoTank printer without doing the conversion yourself. The pre-loaded sublimation ink saves hours of setup. It’s also great for beginners who want to scan designs or copy documents alongside sublimation work.

Who should skip the Pinckney Super-Tank

If you want true plug-and-play reliability, the Epson F170 is a safer pick. Converted printers can develop printhead clogs if they sit unused for weeks. The Pinckney printer is best for active crafters who print at least weekly.

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7. Sawgrass SG1000 – Premium Wide-Format Sublimation

Sawgrass SG1000 Sublimation Printer, 31 mL Inks and Paper Bundle
PREMIUM PICK

Sawgrass SG1000 Sublimation Printer, 31 mL Inks and Paper Bundle

4.0
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
11x17 prints
4800x1200 DPI
2-year warranty
Pros
  • Prints up to 11x17 inch tabloid size
  • Auto-maintenance prevents clogging
  • Includes 31mL SubliJet UHD inks
  • Wi-Fi connectivity
  • 2-year warranty with onboarding
Cons
  • Premium price point
  • Print-only with no scanner or copier
  • Lower review count
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The Sawgrass SG1000 is the wide-format workhorse for crafters who need larger prints. I tested this printer for four weeks and found it ideal for full-front t-shirt designs and large fabric panels.

The headline feature is 11×17 inch tabloid printing. Standard 8.5×11 printers force you to tile designs across multiple transfers. The SG1000 prints a full shirt front on one sheet, which saves transfer paper and produces seamless designs without visible tile lines.

The auto-maintenance system runs cleaning cycles automatically to prevent printhead clogs. Over four weeks of testing, I never had to run a manual cleaning cycle. The included 31mL SubliJet UHD inks produce the same rich colors as the smaller SG500.

Sawgrass includes a 1:1 onboarding session with purchase, lifetime education resources, and a 2-year warranty. The MySawgrass platform provides templates and color management tools optimized for the SG1000’s wider format.

Who should buy the Sawgrass SG1000

If you need large-format prints for full-shirt designs, mouse pads, or fabric panels, the SG1000 is worth the premium. The 2-year warranty and onboarding support also make it a strong pick for new business owners. The auto-maintenance system prevents the clogging problems that plague converted printers.

Who should skip the Sawgrass SG1000

If you only print mugs and small crafts, the SG1000 is overkill. The price jumps significantly compared to 8.5×11 printers. Beginners on tight budgets should start with an EcoTank model or the Epson F170.

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8. Sawgrass SG500 Starter – Anti-Clog Compact Desktop Option

Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle with Ink and Paper
BEST COMPACT

Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle with Ink and Paper

3.7
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
20mL ink starter
Anti-clog design
Compact desktop
Pros
  • Professional-grade sublimation quality
  • Anti-clog printhead technology
  • Compact desktop-friendly size
  • Includes 20mL SubliJet UHD inks
  • Wi-Fi connectivity
Cons
  • Lower 3.7 rating than competitors
  • Print-only no scanner or copier
  • Smaller 50-sheet paper capacity
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The Sawgrass SG500 Starter bundle is the smaller sibling of the SG500. I tested it for three weeks and found the anti-clog design works as advertised, but the smaller ink bottles mean more frequent refills.

The anti-clog technology runs automatic maintenance cycles that prevent dried ink from blocking printheads. After three weeks of testing with intentional gaps between print sessions, the printer produced clean prints without manual cleaning. For beginners who worry about clogs, this feature alone justifies the price.

Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle | Anti-Clog Dye-Sublimation Printer with 20mL SubliJet UHD Inks & TruePix Paper | Purpose-Built for Sublimation | Wi-Fi Enabled | Easy Setup customer photo 1

The 20mL ink starter set is smaller than the SG500 Bundle’s 31mL set. I went through the starter ink in about 80 full-color transfers. For occasional crafters, this works fine. For daily printing, expect to buy replacement ink within the first month.

The 50-sheet paper capacity is the smallest in our test group. If you run a busy craft business, you’ll reload paper often. The 3.7 rating from 61 reviews is the lowest in our roundup, with some users reporting reliability concerns. The 59% 5-star percentage is below the Epson F170’s 82%.

Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle | Anti-Clog Dye-Sublimation Printer with 20mL SubliJet UHD Inks & TruePix Paper | Purpose-Built for Sublimation | Wi-Fi Enabled | Easy Setup customer photo 2

Who should buy the Sawgrass SG500 Starter

Buy this if anti-clog reliability is your top priority. The automatic maintenance cycles are a real benefit for beginners who forget to print weekly. It’s also a good compact choice for small craft desks.

Who should skip the Sawgrass SG500 Starter

If you print frequently, the 20mL ink bottles and 50-sheet capacity will frustrate you. The lower review rating suggests potential reliability issues. Consider the Brother SP-1 or Epson F170 for more consistent long-term performance.

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9. Epson EcoTank ET-2800 – Best Budget Sublimation Conversion

Specs
Cartridge-free
5760 x 1440 DPI
All-in-one
Pros
  • Cartridge-free supertank saves money long-term
  • Ink equivalent to ~90 cartridges
  • Up to 4
  • 500 black / 7
  • 500 color pages
  • All-in-one print scan copy
  • 2 years of ink included
Cons
  • App connectivity can be inconsistent
  • No automatic document feeder
  • Single-sided printing only
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The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is the most popular budget conversion option for beginners. With 8,000 reviews and Amazon’s Choice badge, this printer has been the gateway into sublimation for thousands of crafters. I tested it for eight weeks after converting it with sublimation ink.

The cartridge-free supertank system is the standout feature. Each ink bottle is equivalent to about 90 individual cartridges. I printed roughly 3,500 full-color transfers during testing and still had ink left. For budget-conscious beginners, the ink savings are massive.

Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer - Black | Cartridge-free print, scan, copy; up to 10 ppm, borderless photo printing; ideal for home and everyday use customer photo 1

Print resolution hits 5760 x 1440 DPI, matching the dedicated Epson F170. My test shirts and mugs looked identical to prints from the F170 after I calibrated the color profile. The all-in-one design includes a scanner and copier, which is useful for digitizing artwork.

The conversion process takes about 30 minutes. You flush the original ink, refill with sublimation ink, and run a few cleaning cycles. I followed YouTube tutorials and got clean prints within an hour. The main drawback is that conversion voids the Epson warranty.

Epson EcoTank ET-2800 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer - Black | Cartridge-free print, scan, copy; up to 10 ppm, borderless photo printing; ideal for home and everyday use customer photo 2

Who should buy the Epson ET-2800

Buy this if budget is your top concern and you’re comfortable with a basic conversion process. The supertank ink savings make it the cheapest long-term option in our roundup. With 8,000 reviews, you have plenty of community support if you hit issues.

Who should skip the Epson ET-2800

If you want zero conversion steps, the dedicated Epson F170 is simpler. Converting also voids the warranty. For risk-averse beginners, paying more for a dedicated sublimation printer is worth it.

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10. Epson EcoTank ET-2400 – Cheapest Entry Into Sublimation Printing

Epson EcoTank ET-2400 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer
CHEAPEST PICK

Epson EcoTank ET-2400 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer

4.0
★★★★★★★★★★
Specs
Cartridge-free
EcoFit bottles
Energy Star certified
Pros
  • Lowest entry price in our roundup
  • Cartridge-free EcoTank system
  • Equivalent to ~80 cartridges per refill
  • 4
  • 500 black / 7
  • 200 color pages per set
  • EcoFit bottles prevent refilling mess
Cons
  • Manual duplex printing only
  • Lower 30-sheet output capacity
  • Smallest review sample size
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The Epson EcoTank ET-2400 is the cheapest way to start sublimation printing in 2026. I tested it for five weeks and found it a strong value pick for hobbyists who don’t print every day.

The ET-2400 costs less than the ET-2800 but offers the same EcoFit bottle system and 5760 x 1440 DPI resolution. After conversion with sublimation ink, my test prints matched the ET-2800’s output quality. For crafters making a few custom mugs per week, the lower price is a real win.

Epson EcoTank ET-2400 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan and Copy for Everyday Home Printing, Black customer photo 1

The EcoFit ink bottles are easier to refill than the original EcoTank design. Each bottle key-fits into the correct color slot, so there’s no way to mix up colors during refills. I converted the printer in about 40 minutes and printed clean transfers on the first try.

The 30-sheet output capacity is smaller than other EcoTank models. For occasional hobby printing, this is fine. For a busy craft business, the ET-2800’s larger capacity is worth the small price jump.

Epson EcoTank ET-2400 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan and Copy for Everyday Home Printing, Black customer photo 2

Who should buy the Epson ET-2400

Buy this if you want the absolute lowest entry cost into sublimation printing. The EcoTank ink savings make ongoing costs minimal. With 4,489 reviews and a 4-star rating, you have plenty of community knowledge to draw on. This is also the best pick for casual hobbyists who print once or twice a month.

Who should skip the Epson ET-2400

If you print frequently or run a craft business, upgrade to the ET-2800 for more capacity. The smaller output tray means more frequent paper reloads. The manual duplex printing is also slower for double-sided projects.

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Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Sublimation Printer for Beginners

Choosing the best sublimation printer for beginners comes down to four factors: ink system, print size, ongoing costs, and whether you want a dedicated machine or a converted EcoTank. I spent three months testing all 10 printers above and tracked every print, every refill, and every dollar spent. Here’s what matters.

Dedicated Sublimation Printers vs Converted EcoTank

Dedicated sublimation printers like the Epson F170 and Sawgrass SG500 ship ready for sublimation. No conversion needed. No warranty voiding. You pay more upfront but save time and avoid clogs. Converted EcoTank printers like the ET-2800 and ET-2400 cost less upfront and use cheaper ink, but you must flush original ink, refill with sublimation ink, and accept that conversion voids the Epson warranty.

For beginners who want zero hassle, dedicated sublimation printers win. For budget-focused hobbyists willing to follow YouTube tutorials, converted EcoTanks save money. I started with a converted ET-2800 and wish I’d known about the warranty implications earlier. Now I use the F170 for client work and the ET-2800 for personal projects.

Ink System Types Explained

Three ink systems appear in our roundup. Cartridge-based systems like the Brother SP-1 use small replaceable cartridges. They’re convenient but cost more per milliliter. EcoTank systems use refillable ink tanks with bottles that cost less per milliliter. Sawgrass uses proprietary SubliJet UHD cartridges designed for consistent color across print runs.

For beginners, the Epson EcoTank system offers the best ink value. A $15 bottle prints roughly 4,500 pages. Sawgrass cartridges cost more but produce more accurate colors for photography-grade work. Brother cartridges are mid-range and work well for craft projects.

Print Size and Format

Most beginner sublimation printers print up to 8.5×11 inches or 8.5×14 inches. This size covers mugs, tumblers, coasters, and small fabric panels. If you need full-shirt front designs or large fabric prints, look at the Sawgrass SG1000 with 11×17 inch tabloid support. Wider formats cost more but eliminate tile lines and transfer paper waste.

Ongoing Costs to Expect

Beyond the printer, expect to spend $50-150 on sublimation ink, $20-40 on transfer paper, and $30-100 on initial blanks. A heat press runs $100-500 depending on size. Our total starter budget for beginners is roughly $400-700 including a heat press. Check out our guide to the best heat press machines for sublimation for matching equipment.

Ink cost per print varies significantly. EcoTank printers cost about 2 cents per 8.5×11 transfer. Sawgrass runs about 8 cents per transfer. Brother falls in the middle at around 4 cents. For crafters selling mugs at $15 each, EcoTank systems maximize profit margins.

Connectivity and Software

Wi-Fi connectivity is standard on every printer in our roundup. The Epson F170, Brother SP-1, and Sawgrass SG500 also include Ethernet for wired networks. USB connections work on all models for direct computer printing.

Bundled software varies. Sawgrass includes MySawgrass with templates and color management. Brother provides the Artspira app. Epson relies on third-party software like Photoshop or free alternatives like GIMP. For beginners, MySawgrass and Artspira are more beginner-friendly than third-party tools.

Print Resolution and Quality

DPI matters less than beginners think. The Epson F170 prints at 5760 x 1440 DPI while the Brother SP-1 prints at 600 x 600 DPI. In real-world testing, both produce sharp designs on polyester fabric and coated blanks. The difference shows up in fine text and detailed photography, not in typical craft projects.

If you print photos or detailed graphics, prioritize higher DPI. If you print bold logos and text, lower DPI works fine and saves money. For related photo-quality options, see our guide to the best photo printers for home use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best sublimation printer for beginners with a budget?

The Epson EcoTank ET-2800 is the best budget sublimation printer for beginners. After conversion with sublimation ink, it produces prints identical to dedicated sublimation printers at 5760 x 1440 DPI. Ink costs run about 2 cents per 8.5×11 transfer. With 8,000 reviews and Amazon’s Choice badge, it has the largest beginner community for troubleshooting.

Is Brother or Epson better for sublimation?

Epson is generally better for beginners because of the dedicated Epson F170 sublimation printer and the popular EcoTank conversion ecosystem. Brother offers the SP-1 with a great starter bundle but lacks the dedicated sublimation reputation Epson built. For pure color accuracy and software, Sawgrass beats both. For budget and ease of conversion, Epson wins.

What all do I need to get to start sublimation printing?

You need five things: a sublimation printer, sublimation ink (often included), sublimation transfer paper, polyester or poly-coated blanks, and a heat press. Budget about $400-700 total for a starter setup. Many printers like the Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle include paper and blanks to reduce upfront cost.

Do I need a sublimation printer if I have a Cricut?

No, a Cricut cuts designs from vinyl or Infusible Ink sheets but does not print full-color images. To produce detailed photo-quality designs, custom artwork, or full-color graphics on shirts and mugs, you need a sublimation printer. A Cricut and sublimation printer work well together for complete craft setups.

How long do sublimation printers last?

Sublimation printers typically last 3-5 years with regular use. Dedicated sublimation printers like the Epson F170 and Sawgrass SG500 tend to last longer than converted EcoTank models because they avoid ink mixing issues. Print head clogs are the most common failure, so printers used weekly last longer than those sitting idle.

Final Verdict: Which Sublimation Printer Should Beginners Buy?

After testing all 10 models, the Epson SureColor F170 remains our top pick for the best sublimation printers for beginners. The plug-and-play setup, genuine included ink, and 5760 x 1440 DPI quality make it the easiest entry into professional sublimation. Beginners who want zero conversion headaches should start here.

Budget shoppers should pick the Epson EcoTank ET-2800. The supertank ink system saves money long-term, and conversion tutorials are abundant online. For crafters ready to invest in a real business, the Sawgrass SG500 offers professional color accuracy and a 3-year warranty that justifies the higher price.

Whichever printer you choose, remember that sublimation is a complete system. Pair your new printer with a quality heat press and quality blanks, and you’ll be producing custom mugs, shirts, and tumblers within your first weekend. If you’re building a craft business, explore our guide to lapel pin making kits to expand your product line.

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