Top 10 Best Sublimation Printers for Vibrant SVG Designs in 2024 [Affordable & Reliable]

Sublimation printing has surged in popularity among both crafters and small businesses looking to produce high-quality, vivid prints. From t-shirts and mugs to phone cases and keychains, sublimation printing offers superior color saturation and image permanence—making it a top choice for creators everywhere. One of the keys to successful sublimation projects lies in selecting the best sublimation printer for your needs. After all, you want equipment that handles your design files smoothly and delivers crisp, long-lasting results.

For those who rely on detailed vector graphics, SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) files are a must. Unlike raster images, SVGs maintain clarity regardless of size, which is ideal for precise or large-scale designs. At SVGBank.com, we provide a massive library of high-quality SVG files at $2.99 each. We also have a Free SVG Collection and a special Bundle SVG package for $4.99. If you’re completely new to this, take a look at our guides on Sublimation for Beginners and What is an SVG File to lay down a solid foundation.

In this article, we’ll cover the basics of sublimation printing in a way that’s easy to understand—even if you’re not particularly tech-savvy—then dive into the top 10 best sublimation printers of 2024. By the end, you’ll know exactly what factors to look out for, how to maintain your device, and which model might be your ideal companion for crafting and business endeavors.

Understanding Sublimation Printing

What Is Sublimation Printing?

Sublimation printing is a process that uses special sublimation ink and heat to transfer designs onto polyester fabrics and polymer-coated items. In plain terms:

1. Ink Goes on Transfer Paper
   You print your design—often an SVG file—using sublimation ink on sublimation paper.
2. Heat and Pressure
   Next, you place your printed paper against the material, then use a heat press (or other specialized machines) to apply heat and pressure.
3. Ink Becomes Gas
   Under high temperatures, the sublimation ink transitions from a solid to a gas, penetrating the material’s fibers or the polymer coating.
4. Permanent Bond
   As the material cools, the ink returns to a solid state, becoming part of the material itself.

Key Benefits of Sublimation

• Long-Lasting Prints: Since the design becomes ingrained in the material, it resists cracking and fading.
• Brilliant Colors: Sublimation ink tends to yield vibrant, photo-quality prints.
• Versatility: You can sublimate onto apparel, mugs, tumblers, phone cases, and more, as long as it’s polyester-based or polymer-coated.
• Seamless Feel: There’s no raised layer; the result is smooth and comfortable to the touch.

Why SVG Files Excel in Sublimation

SVG files are vector-based, meaning they can be resized without any blurry edges or pixelation. For sublimation projects—especially large prints or intricate designs—this is a huge advantage. You can resize an SVG to fit on a mug or a giant banner, and the design remains crisp.

Simplified Technical Terms

If you’re coming across terms like “dye-sub” or “polymer coatings” and you’re not sure what they mean, don’t sweat it. Here’s a quick mini-glossary:

• Dye-Sublimation: Another term for sublimation printing, referring to the ink’s shift from solid dye to a gaseous state.
• Heat Press: The machine used to apply heat and pressure to a design and transfer it onto an item.
• Polyester: A type of fabric that works well for sublimation because it can bond with the gaseous ink.
• Polymer-Coated: Items like ceramic mugs or metal plates need a special polymer layer to accept sublimation ink.

If you need a deeper dive, check out our guide on Sublimation for Beginners.

Key Features to Look for in the Best Sublimation Printer

Selecting the best sublimation printer isn’t just about name brands. You should also consider:

1. Print Resolution (DPI)
   • Look for at least 1440 x 1440 DPI for crisp details in your SVG files.
2. Ink Configuration
   • Make sure the printer either uses official sublimation cartridges or is easy to convert for sublimation.
   • High-quality sublimation ink yields better color accuracy and reduces the risk of clogs.
3. Material Compatibility
   • Some printers are optimized for polyester fabrics, while others might handle oversized prints for banners or multiple surfaces like mugs, tumblers, and more.
4. Print Size
   • Consider if you only plan to print up to standard letter size (8.5 x 11 inches) or if you need larger formats (13 x 19 inches or beyond).
5. Ease of Conversion
   • Inkjet models such as certain Epson EcoTank printers can be converted easily by flushing out the standard ink and filling the tanks with sublimation ink.
6. Budget and Volume
   • If you’re printing daily for a business, you might invest in a higher-end model. If you’re just doing occasional crafting, a more affordable sublimation printer will suffice.

Top 10 Best Sublimation Printers for Vibrant SVG Designs in 2024

Now let’s explore the top 10 best sublimation printers on the market this year. We’ll highlight their main features, who they’re best suited for, and any drawbacks to keep in mind.

Quick Comparison Table

*Indicates models typically converted for sublimation by using compatible sublimation ink.

1. Epson SureColor F170

• Type: Dedicated Sublimation
• Max Print Size: 8.5″ x 14″
• Why It’s Great:
  • Officially designed for sublimation; minimal setup headaches.
  • High resolution and fast printing speeds.
  • Reliable color fidelity with genuine Epson inks.
• Drawbacks:
  • Strictly uses Epson’s own branded consumables, which can be pricier than third-party options.

This is an excellent choice if you want a straightforward, plug-and-play sublimation solution without needing to convert anything.

2. Sawgrass SG500

• Type: Dedicated Sublimation
• Max Print Size: 8.5″ x 14″
• Key Benefits:
  • Provides color management software for perfect hues.
  • Beginner-friendly setup and strong customer support.
  • Great for consistent, commercial-grade color matching.
• Potential Cons:
  • Higher upfront cost.
  • Requires Sawgrass ink cartridges, which can be more expensive.

The Sawgrass SG500 is often praised for producing brilliant prints for mugs, t-shirts, and more. If you’re a business owner looking for reliability, it’s a solid option.

3. Epson EcoTank ET-2720 (Converted)

• Type: Inkjet (Converted)
• Max Print Size: 8.5″ x 11″
• Pros:
  • Affordable entry-level option for crafters.
  • EcoTank design simplifies refilling ink.
  • Compact footprint for small workspaces.
• Cons:
  • You must flush out the original ink properly before adding sublimation ink.
  • Limited to letter-size prints.

If you’re dipping your toes into sublimation without a hefty budget, converting an ET-2720 can be an excellent starting point.

4. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 (Converted)

• Type: Inkjet (Converted)
• Max Print Size: 13″ x 19″
• Advantages:
  • Large format for printing bigger designs or creating multiple smaller designs on one sheet.
  • EcoTank system reduces ink costs over time.
  • Suitable for a moderate volume of prints.
• Disadvantages:
  • Higher initial investment than smaller EcoTank models.
  • Requires careful conversion and ink maintenance.

Ideal for crafters or small businesses who need more printing space—like t-shirt designs, large posters, or a variety of bigger projects.

5. Sawgrass SG1000

• Type: Dedicated Sublimation
• Max Print Size: 11″ x 17″
• What Makes It Stand Out:
  • Fantastic color accuracy for professional-quality prints.
  • Larger print size offers more versatility.
  • Integrated software for ease of use.
• Downsides:
  • Premium price point, mainly justified if you’re printing high volumes.
  • Proprietary cartridges.

If you’re running a profitable sublimation business or planning to scale up quickly, the SG1000 might be your next best friend.

6. Canon SELPHY CP1300

• Type: Compact Dye-Sub
• Max Print Size: 4″ x 6″
• Pluses:
  • Extremely portable and easy to set up.
  • Great for small photo prints—think instant keepsakes at events.
  • Offers borderless printing.
• Minuses:
  • Limited to postcard-sized prints, not suitable for garments.
  • Uses proprietary ribbon cartridges.

Though it’s not a typical wide-format sublimation printer, it’s excellent for on-the-spot photo printing, especially if you attend craft fairs or events.

7. HP STITCH S500

• Type: Industrial Sublimation
• Max Print Width: 64″
• Strengths:
  • Built-in spectrophotometer ensures consistent color across large print runs.
  • High-capacity for professional textile production.
  • Ideal for serious commercial setups (apparel, interior textiles, etc.).
• Weaknesses:
  • Large, expensive, and not suitable for small studios.
  • Steeper learning curve; recommended for seasoned professionals.

Perfect for businesses that need to churn out banners, curtains, or mass apparel. If your sales volume justifies the cost, HP STITCH S500 can be a game-changer.

8. Epson WorkForce WF-7720 (Converted)

• Type: Inkjet (Converted)
• Max Print Size: 13″ x 19″
• Key Highlights:
  • Dual trays for multiple paper sizes, plus wide-format capability.
  • Decent speed for both standard printing and sublimation projects.
  • Multi-function (scan, fax, copy) if you need an office workhorse too.
• Issues:
  • Must be converted with care; any leftover standard ink can affect print quality.
  • Bulkier than simpler home models.

This is an excellent option for an all-in-one solution that can handle office tasks and sublimation prints once converted.

9. Mimaki TS55-1800

• Type: Industrial Sublimation
• Max Print Width: 74.8″
• Why It Excels:
  • Extremely fast for high-volume textile production.
  • Precision engineering for large-scale outputs.
  • Suited for large banners, curtains, and other oversized items.
• Shortcomings:
  • Expensive, requiring a serious investment.
  • Demands significant workspace and specialized maintenance.

If you’re a large-scale textile manufacturer or have a thriving business with big monthly orders, the Mimaki TS55-1800 meets industrial demands.

10. Ricoh Ri 100

• Type: DTG/Sublimation Hybrid
• Max Print Size: 8.3″ x 11.7″
• Positives:
  • Compact design for small home businesses or kiosks.
  • Direct-to-garment printing capability with certain modifications for sublimation.
  • User-friendly, minimal setup required.
• Negatives:
  • Limited to smaller prints.
  • Slower than dedicated industrial machines.

If you occasionally print t-shirts and want a relatively simple device, the Ricoh Ri 100 is a convenient choice.

Note that prices and performance specifications may change over time, so it’s advisable to check the latest information from manufacturers before making a purchase decision.

Simplifying a DIY Conversion (Inkjet to Sublimation)

Converting an existing inkjet printer—especially an Epson EcoTank model—into a sublimation printer can be cost-effective for beginners. Here’s a straightforward breakdown:

1. Check Compatibility
   • Ensure your printer uses a piezo printhead (Epson EcoTank series is popular).
2. Flush Out Old Ink
   • If the printer has been used with standard ink, thoroughly clean or replace the ink tanks.
3. Fill with Sublimation Ink
   • Purchase high-quality ink specifically designed for sublimation.
   • Carefully follow instructions to avoid mixing ink types.
4. Adjust Printer Settings
   • Select the right paper type and set your quality settings to high.
   • Use an ICC profile if available for accurate color.
5. Test and Troubleshoot
   • Print a nozzle check and a test design—perhaps one from SVGBank.com.
   • Tweak color settings or run a cleaning cycle if you see any banding or color issues.

While conversions can save money, remember they also require consistent upkeep, especially if you’re printing sporadically. For more help, refer to our guide on Sublimation for Beginners.

Section 5: Maintenance Tips for Any Sublimation Printer

1. Weekly Nozzle Checks
   • Run a nozzle check at least once a week to spot clogged heads.
   • Perform a head cleaning cycle if lines appear broken.
2. Use High-Quality Inks and Paper
   • Avoid cheap or expired inks.
   • Sublimation paper ensures better color saturation and detail.
3. Keep the Printer Clean
   • Dust or debris can clog vents and cause mechanical problems.
   • Wipe down the exterior periodically.
4. Regular Updates
   • Check for firmware updates from the manufacturer.
   • Keep your drivers up to date for compatibility with design software.
5. Print Regularly
   • Even if you’re not fulfilling orders, try to print something small weekly.
   • This keeps ink flowing and reduces the chance of clogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion & Stronger Call to Action

Sublimation printing offers crafters, entrepreneurs, and hobbyists an excellent way to achieve long-lasting, vibrant designs. By selecting the best sublimation printer for your particular goals—be it a compact Canon SELPHY for on-the-go prints or an industrial Mimaki for bulk textile production—you set yourself up for success. Remember to keep an eye on factors like print resolution, ink quality, and the overall cost of ownership.

Now that you have a clear understanding of which top sublimation printers stand out in 2024, it’s time to take your creative projects to the next level. We invite you to:

1. Bookmark This Page: Save this guide so you can revisit it whenever you’re ready to upgrade your printing setup.
2. Subscribe for Updates: Sign up for our email list at SVGBank.com to get the latest news on printer reviews, design tips, and exclusive deals.
3. Explore More SVG Files: Dive into our extensive SVG library to find the perfect designs for your next sublimation project. We have options for every season, holiday, and niche you can imagine.
4. Stay Connected: Check out our Sublimation for Beginners article if you need more tips on starting your journey, and learn about the benefits of SVG files with our What Is an SVG File guide.

Ready to turn your creativity into tangible products or profitable merchandise? Grab a best sublimation printer, pick your favorite designs from SVGBank, and start transferring your ideas onto t-shirts, mugs, and so much more. Your journey into professional-grade printing begins now—join us, and let’s create something incredible together!