9 Best Sublimation Printers for Beginners (October 2026)
The best beginner sublimation printers include the Liene PixCut S1 Color Sticker Printer for printed stickers, the Johnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer for a ready-to-use start, and the Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer for guided print setup.
On this page (8 sections)
- Which beginner sublimation printer fits your setup?
- How did we compare beginner-friendly sublimation printers?
- What setup choices matter most for a first sublimation printer?
- How much maintenance should beginners expect?
- Which printer size works for your first projects?
- Should beginners choose a printer by project?
- When should you move from a beginner printer to a business model?
- Which beginner sublimation printer should you choose?
The best sublimation printer for beginners is the Epson SureColor F170 for a dedicated, compact setup. It comes with genuine sublimation ink and a closed paper tray; the Brother SP1 suits app-based design, while Sawgrass adds print presets and automatic print head maintenance.
A first printer shapes your routine as much as your print quality. Think about whether you want a printer made for sublimation or a converted tank model, how you plan to make designs, and how much upkeep you are comfortable doing.
If you are still learning the process, start with What Printer Do I Need for Sublimation? What Really Happens.
For background on how a transfer works, read What Is Heat Transfer Sublimation? A Beginner’s Explanation.
Our picks at a glance
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Best for a ready-to-use startJohnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
- 4
Best for phone or tablet designCheck it - 5
Check itHiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles Work
Best for compatible tank printers - 6
Check itHiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles Compatible
Best for a broad model match - 7
Check itPinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Printer with Sublimation Ink
Best for an all-in-one tank bundle - 8
Check itA-SUB DTF Transfer Film and Powder Kit
Best for learning a DTF workflow - 9
Check itJohnson Plastics Plus Epson Surecolor F570 24" Desktop
Best for wide-format production
Which beginner sublimation printer fits your setup?
The best beginner sublimation printer depends on your preferred setup and projects. The picks below range from sticker making to dedicated transfer printing and a wide-format system.
Liene PixCut S1 Color Sticker Printer: Best for printed stickers
- Thermal dye-sublimation printing
- Prints and cuts stickers
- 300 dpi
- Bluetooth app control
Prints and cuts sticker paper in one device, with Bluetooth app control. It is for making stickers, not a general sublimation printer for transfers.
Pros
- Print and cut in one device
- App offers templates and design tools
- Automatic lamination of sticker paper
Cons
- Maximum media size is 4 x 7 in
- Sticker-focused workflow
The Liene PixCut S1 is an unusual pick for someone whose first goal is custom stickers and labels. It combines thermal dye-sublimation printing and cutting, with smartphone editing and print control through Bluetooth.
The app workflow can make a small project feel more direct: select or edit an image, print it, then cut the sticker sheet. The device prints at 300 dpi and handles media up to 4 x 7 in.
It also automatically laminates the photo or sticker paper during printing. Liene describes the finished stickers as waterproof and scratch resistant, and recommends smooth surfaces for the best adhesion.
This is not a general purpose transfer printer for shirts, mugs or coated blanks. Pick it when printed stickers are the project, and choose a different printer when you need sublimation paper for heat transfers.
Johnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer: Best for a ready-to-use start
- Genuine Epson sublimation ink included
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray
- Closed, dust-resistant paper tray
- Mac and Windows setup
A compact dye-sublimation printer that includes genuine Epson ink and a closed paper tray. Epson software supports Mac and Windows, while mobile device printing is not supported.
Pros
- Genuine sublimation ink included
- Closed auto-feed paper tray
- Auto-stop ink bottles
Cons
- No mobile device support
- Prints up to 8.5 in wide
The Epson SureColor F170 is the most balanced entry point here for regular sublimation transfers. It arrives with genuine Epson sublimation ink, a 150-sheet auto-feed tray and software for Mac and Windows.
Its closed tray helps keep paper away from dust between prints, so you spend less time preparing sheets. The compact design also takes less space than the F570 wide-format system.
Epson's setup is not mobile friendly. If you plan to design and print from a phone or tablet, choose a model with an app workflow instead.
The F170 prints media up to 8.5 in wide. That works for many starter projects, while larger drinkware wraps and apparel layouts may need a wider printer or a different workflow.
Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer: Best for guided print setup
- MySawgrass design platform
- Print Utility with Smart presets
- Print head auto-maintenance
- Wi-Fi connectivity
MySawgrass and Sawgrass Print Utility provide design tools and print presets. The SG500 also has Wi-Fi and print head auto-maintenance.
Pros
- Design tools and print presets
- Auto-maintenance feature
- Paper and ink bundle included
Cons
- Designed for 110/120V outlets
- Larger prints require the bypass tray
The Sawgrass SG500 suits beginners who want software support alongside the printer. The MySawgrass platform includes templates, while Sawgrass Print Utility offers Smart presets and print controls.
It also includes print head auto-maintenance, a feature that may appeal if you want the printer to handle some routine upkeep. Wi-Fi connectivity gives you another connection option, and the standard media limit is 8.5 x 14 in.
A bypass tray supports prints up to 8.5 x 51 in, which can help with longer layouts. Check your electrical setup first: this model is designed for 110/120V US and North American outlets.
Brother Sublimation Printer: Best for phone or tablet design
- Artspira app for phone or tablet
- Over 100 app designs
- Ink and starter paper included
- 8.5 x 11 in maximum media
Brother's SP1 works with the Artspira app for creating and sending designs from a phone or tablet. Brother sublimation ink and starter paper are included.
Pros
- App includes design options
- Ink and paper starter pack included
- Compact printer body
Cons
- Heat press required separately
- Intended for US 120V use
The Brother SP1 puts design work on a phone or tablet through Artspira. The app offers over 100 sublimation designs, and Brother says users can import and save up to 20 images.
Ink and a starter pack of sublimation paper are included. The printer supports media up to 8.5 x 11 in, and a heat press is required separately to transfer designs to blanks.
If you want both in one package, compare sublimation printer and heat press bundles.
Choose Brother if you prefer a mobile creative workflow and want designs inside the app. Confirm device and operating system compatibility, and note that this model is intended for US 120V use.
Hiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles Work: Best for compatible tank printers
- Refill bottles designed for compatible inkjet models
- Syringe-free filling
- Water-based sublimation ink
- Includes black, cyan, magenta and yellow
These bottles suit owners of a compatible tank printer who are prepared to manage a converted sublimation setup. Check your exact model before filling, since ink compatibility is specific.
Pros
- Syringe-free bottle design
- Broad range of compatible printer families
- Four color set
Cons
- Requires a compatible printer
- Conversion and ink setup need careful planning
Hiipoo's refill bottles are an ink option for owners of compatible tank printers, not a complete printer setup. They fit a range of Epson ET, WorkForce and Expression models, so verify the exact model before buying or filling.
The bottles are designed to refill without a syringe. That can make refills less fiddly, but converting a regular tank printer still involves choosing compatible hardware and setting up a dedicated sublimation workflow.
For a first printer, compare this route with a purpose-built model like the F170. Refill ink may suit you if you already have a compatible printer and are comfortable managing the conversion.
Hiipoo Sublimation Ink Refilled Bottles Compatible: Best for a broad model match
- Black, cyan, magenta and yellow bottles
- Compatible with selected Epson ET and WorkForce models
- Water-based sublimation ink
- 127 ml black and 70 ml color bottles
This four-color refill set is for a compatible inkjet printer converted for sublimation. Confirm the printer model and understand the setup before choosing refill ink.
Pros
- Compatible with a wide range of stated models
- Four color bottles included
- Syringe-free refill approach
Cons
- Not a printer by itself
- Model compatibility must be checked
This Hiipoo set also contains four colors for compatible inkjet printers. It names a broad range of Epson ET and WorkForce models, plus some Stylus models, but the exact printer model still matters.
The set includes 127 ml of black ink and 70 ml each of cyan, magenta and yellow. As with other refill options, this is not a standalone sublimation printer.
Choose it when you have confirmed compatibility and want a refill path. If you are starting from scratch, a dedicated printer can reduce the number of conversion decisions you need to make.
Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Printer with Sublimation Ink: Best for an all-in-one tank bundle
- Printer, scanner and copier
- Sublimation ink included
- Auto-fill ink nozzles
- Multiple paper sizes up to 8.5 x 47.2 in
This bundle combines a converted ET-2800 or ET-2803 with sublimation ink and all-in-one functions. The included setup materials and auto-fill bottles may suit a beginner who wants scanning and copying as well as printing.
Pros
- Printer and ink are bundled
- Scanner and copier included
- Auto-fill bottles
Cons
- Converted printer setup
- Check which ET-2800 variant is supplied
Pinckney bundles a converted ET-2800 or ET-2803 with sublimation ink, plus scanning and copying functions. The auto-fill nozzle design does not require a syringe, and the supported paper sizes include several common formats.
The bundle can suit a beginner who also wants an all-in-one printer. Its setup is still based on a converted tank printer, so check which ET model is included and follow the setup guidance closely.
Pinckney lists paper sizes up to 8.5 x 47.2 in. That long format may help with certain layouts, but the printer's shape and space needs are different from a compact dedicated unit.
A-SUB DTF Transfer Film and Powder Kit: Best for learning a DTF workflow
- 30 A4 transfer film sheets
- 17.6 oz white powder
- Heat-resistant tape included
- For DTF or sublimation printer use
This is a transfer film and powder kit, not a printer. It may suit someone exploring a DTF or light-fabric sublimation hack, but it adds steps beyond a beginner's basic sublimation setup.
Pros
- Film, powder and tape are included
- Designed for DTF beginners
- Can be used with DTF or sublimation printers
Cons
- Not a printer
- Sublimation hack is for light-colored fabric only
The A-SUB kit is for learning about transfer film and powder, not for printing by itself. It includes 30 A4 sheets, white powder and heat-resistant tape for a DTF workflow.
A sublimation printer can be used for the kit's sublimation hack on light-colored fabrics only. For printer options focused on apparel, see sublimation printers for fabric and T-shirts.
For dark fabrics, the kit calls for DTF ink, so beginners should not treat it as a shortcut to every fabric color.
Choose this only if you specifically want to explore DTF or the light-fabric method. For standard sublimation transfers, focus first on printer, ink, paper and heat press.
Johnson Plastics Plus Epson Surecolor F570 24" Desktop: Best for wide-format production
- Prints on media up to 24 in wide
- Roll and sheet media support
- 50-sheet auto-feed tray
- Built-in cutter
The F570 is a wide-format system for larger work, with roll and sheet support and a built-in cutter. Its 151 lb weight and freight delivery make it a substantial first setup for most home beginners.
Pros
- Wide media support
- Roll and sheet workflows
- Built-in cutter
Cons
- Large and heavy for a home craft setup
- Freight delivery requires a scheduled phone appointment
The Epson SureColor F570 is a wide-format choice for beginners who already know they need larger prints. If you need tabloid sheets, compare sublimation printers that print 11 x 17.
It supports roll and sheet media up to 24 in wide, includes a 50-sheet auto-feed tray and has a built-in cutter.
That capacity comes with a much larger footprint. The printer weighs 151 lb, and freight delivery requires a phone number to schedule a delivery appointment.
For most first craft projects, the F170 or SG500 is easier to fit into a small workspace. Consider the F570 if larger formats are central to your work and you have planned room for installation.
How did we compare beginner-friendly sublimation printers?
We compared each option by setup demands, ink path, software or app support, print size and stated upkeep features.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for. A dedicated printer ranks well for a simpler start, while converted printers and supply kits rank lower because they require more decisions or are not printers on their own.
What setup choices matter most for a first sublimation printer?
A purpose-built printer reduces ink conversion decisions, while a converted tank setup can require more model checking. Choose based on how much setup responsibility you want to manage.
The Epson F170 and Brother SP1 are sold as sublimation printers and include their respective sublimation ink. The Sawgrass SG500 comes with ink and paper, plus design and print software.
Converted tank options can provide an ink bundle or refill path, but you need to verify exact printer compatibility. See the best sublimation printers for Cricut projects if your workflow combines printed transfers with a cutting machine.
How much maintenance should beginners expect?
Maintenance varies by printer, and no printer removes the need to follow its care instructions. The Sawgrass SG500 specifically includes print head auto-maintenance, while tank systems require careful attention to ink compatibility and print condition.
A predictable routine matters more than picking a model with the most features. Keep the printer in a suitable workspace, use the correct ink and media, and consult its setup guidance if print quality changes.
Which printer size works for your first projects?
An 8.5 in wide printer covers many small crafts, shirts and flat blanks, while a 24 in model is designed for much larger layouts. Choose around the largest transfer you expect to print often.
The F170, Brother and standard SG500 formats are compact desktop options. If mugs are your main project, compare the dedicated best sublimation printers for mugs and check the wrap dimensions you need before settling on a printer.
For drinkware with a longer wrap, the SG500 bypass tray supports prints up to 8.5 x 51 in. The F570 handles media up to 24 in wide, but its size and 151 lb weight call for a planned workspace.
Should beginners choose a printer by project?
Yes. A printer that matches your first products is easier to use than one chosen only for a long feature list.
Consider the blank size, transfer dimensions and whether you need a dedicated app or computer software.
For tumblers, look at the best sublimation printers for tumblers and compare supported print lengths with your wrap design. If you're deciding between photo printing and heat transfers, our guide to the best dye sublimation photo printer covers a different kind of output.
Wood is not automatically ready for a sublimation transfer. Read [Can You Sublimate Wood?
A Beginner’s Guide](/can-you-sublimate-wood/) before choosing a printer around wood blanks.
When should you move from a beginner printer to a business model?
Move to a larger or more business-focused setup when your regular jobs exceed the printer's media size or volume needs. The F570's 24 in width suits larger work, while the desktop choices fit more modest projects.
A larger printer takes more space and setup planning, so let your repeat orders guide the change. For a more detailed comparison of higher-volume options, see the guide to the best sublimation printer for small business.
Which beginner sublimation printer should you choose?
Choose the Epson SureColor F170 for a dedicated start with included genuine ink and a closed paper tray. Pick Brother if you want to create through a phone or tablet, Sawgrass for software presets and auto-maintenance, or a converted tank only if you have checked compatibility and accept the setup work.
If you are still comparing printer types, return to What Printer Do I Need for Sublimation? What Really Happens and match the printer to the materials and transfer sizes you plan to use.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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1
-
2
Best for a ready-to-use start
Johnson Plastics Plus Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer
9.5/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest sublimation printer for beginners?
The Epson SureColor F170 is a straightforward choice for many beginners because genuine sublimation ink and a 150-sheet auto-feed tray are included. Its setup supports Mac and Windows, but not mobile devices.
If you prefer making designs on a phone or tablet, consider the Brother SP1 and its Artspira app.
Do I need special ink for a sublimation printer?
Yes. Sublimation printing uses sublimation ink, which transfers from printed paper to a compatible item with heat and pressure.
A printer designed for sublimation, such as the F170 or Brother SP1, comes with sublimation ink.
Converted tank printers require compatible ink and careful model checks.
How much maintenance does a beginner sublimation printer need?
Maintenance depends on the printer and workflow. The Sawgrass SG500 has print head auto-maintenance, while other setups may require you to follow the printer's care instructions and check print quality.
For a converted tank printer, use only ink confirmed for its model and keep the printer in regular use according to its guidance.
Can a regular printer be used for sublimation?
Some inkjet printers can be converted, but they need compatible sublimation ink and should be dedicated to that ink. Changing ink types can complicate setup and print quality.
A purpose-built sublimation printer can reduce conversion decisions.
Learn what printer you need for sublimation before buying.
What else do I need besides a sublimation printer?
You need sublimation paper, a heat press, and items with a polyester surface or polymer coating. The printer makes the transfer; heat and pressure move the design onto the blank.
Read what heat transfer sublimation is to understand the full process.
