Shopping for a sublimation printer in 2025? You’re not alone, and with more options than ever, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. What’s the difference between each model? What should you look for? Which printer is right for your needs?
Whether you're a hobbyist just getting started or a business scaling up, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before making your decision. Let’s break down key features, differences between models, and what to consider based on your specific goals.
Start With Your Budget, But Don’t Stop There
Naturally, price is one of the first things people look at when shopping for a sublimation printer. But it’s important to understand what drives those prices.
Most of the time, the biggest factor is maximum print size. Larger-format printers and those with advanced features cost more. But keep this in mind: expensive doesn’t always mean better, and budget-friendly doesn’t mean low-quality.
For example, a home-based shop doing 5–10 mugs a day probably doesn't need a large-format Epson F570. On the flip side, a business doing hundreds of custom orders daily will quickly outgrow a small-format printer like the Sawgrass SG500.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. The best printer is the one that fits your needs.
Print Size: Why It Matters More Than You Think
Your printer’s max print size determines what kinds of products you can make—and how efficiently you can make them. You’ll want your transfer prints to be slightly larger than your blank for full edge-to-edge coverage (also called full-bleed).
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Small Format Printers (Up to 8.5" x 14")
- Ideal for: mugs, coasters, keychains, small signs
- Great for: beginners, hobbyists, mobile setups, and kiosk environments
- Models: Sawgrass SG500, UniNet iColor 350
These are excellent entry-level printers with wide blank compatibility and low startup costs.
Medium Format Printers (Up to 13" x 19")
- Ideal for: shirts, lanyards, larger signs, photo panels
- Best for: growing businesses that need more flexibility
- Model: Sawgrass SG1000
This printer can handle 11" x 17" sheets via its standard tray, and up to 13" x 19" with the optional bypass tray.
Large Format Printers (Up to 24" wide rolls)
- Ideal for: jumbo shirt designs, high-volume production, full-bleed panels
- Best for: full-time shops and advanced users
- Models: Epson F570, Sawgrass VJ628
These printers use roll-fed paper and allow for batch printing at scale, with optional features like auto-feed trays or take-up reels.
Understanding Inks: The Heart of Sublimation
Sublimation works by turning ink into gas under heat, bonding permanently to your blank. But not all sublimation inks are the same.
Here’s how the most popular systems stack up:
Epson F570
- UltraChrome ink
- Sold in bottles (lowers cost per print)
- Requires occasional maintenance
UniNet iColor 350
- Toner-based sublimation
- No clogs, fast print speeds
- Slightly different transfer process depending on the substrate
Sawgrass Printers (SG500, SG1000, VJ628)
- Use cartridge-based ink
- Multiple ink options:
- SubliJet: General-use sublimation
- EasySubli: Designed for Siser EasySubli HTV, works for other blanks too
- VersiFlex: Prints on 100% cotton and uncoated hard surfaces using special transfer paper
🛑 Pro Tip: Always stick with O.E.M. inks. Third-party inks might be cheaper, but they often lead to poor quality, printer issues, and even safety concerns.
Print Drivers vs. RIP Software
Sublimation’s stunning color payoff relies on how well your printer translates your design. That’s where print drivers and RIP (Raster Image Processor) software come in.
-
Print Drivers (Epson F570 Lite, UniNet iColor 350):
- Works like any home/office printer
- Design adjustments handled in programs like Photoshop or Affinity
-
RIP Software (Sawgrass SG500, SG1000, VJ628, Epson F570 Pro):
- More control over color, size, layout
- Great for users without advanced design tools
🎨 Sawgrass printers also include MySawgrass Designer, a web-based design program with built-in templates and artwork. Perfect for beginners or anyone without design software.
Warranty & Support: Who Has Your Back?
A sublimation printer is an investment, and solid support is a must.
All printers sold at Heat Press Nation come with:
Manufacturer Support:
HPN MyExpert™ Support:
We go beyond the manufacturer warranty. As long as you own your sublimation printer, our U.S.-based tech team is here to help with setup, troubleshooting, and expert advice.
Final Thoughts: Find What’s Right for You
There’s no universal “best” sublimation printer, just the best one for your needs, space, and budget. Whether you're starting small or ready to expand, the right tool will set you up for success.
Still have questions? We’re here to help.
📧 Email: support@heatpressnation.com
📞 Call: 800-215-0894
Browse our full lineup of sublimation printers, blanks, and supplies at heatpressnation.com
