Buying guide

Which Ink Cartridges Fit Sawgrass SG500 and SG1000 Printers?

Updated on · By the Spectrum Sublimation team

Sawgrass SG500 and SG1000 printers use cartridges made for those models, and compatibility can depend on the printer version. Check your model and version before choosing a replacement, especially if you are considering a third-party cartridge.

On this page (7 sections)
  1. Which Sawgrass sublimation ink cartridges fit the SG500 and SG1000?
  2. Are SG500 and SG1000 cartridges interchangeable?
  3. Are third-party Sawgrass ink cartridges different from Sawgrass ink?
  4. Why won't Epson sublimation ink bottles work as a cartridge substitute?
  5. What else can you make with sublimation printing?
  6. What should you verify before ordering Sawgrass ink cartridges?
  7. Which ink should you choose for an SG500 or SG1000?

Sawgrass sublimation ink cartridges must match your SG500 or SG1000 model and its supported printer version. A cartridge set may name both printers but still support only certain versions, so check the version before you order.

The ChemU set described here is a compatible option for SG500 and SG1000 printers running Version 4.06 or earlier supported versions. It is a third-party brand, not Sawgrass ink.

Which Sawgrass sublimation ink cartridges fit the SG500 and SG1000?

Choose cartridges specifically described for your Sawgrass printer model and version. The ChemU set is designed for SG500 and SG1000 printers, with supported versions including Version 4.06 and earlier supported versions.

It contains black, cyan, magenta and yellow cartridges, with 35 ml in each. ChemU says its updated cartridge chip is designed for recognition with compatible printer versions; compatibility with future, untested versions is not guaranteed.

Before buying, confirm whether your printer is an SG500 or SG1000 and find its current version. Match both details against the cartridge's stated compatibility range rather than relying on the model name alone.

For a broader look at the smaller model, read our Sawgrass SG500 sublimation printer reviews. The Sawgrass SG500 waste collection unit guide also covers a separate printer supply that you may need to replace.

Are SG500 and SG1000 cartridges interchangeable?

A cartridge set that names both models may fit either one, but model names alone do not confirm version compatibility. Check that the stated versions include your printer's version.

The ChemU set is described for the SG500 and SG1000 and supports Version 4.06 and earlier supported versions. ChemU does not guarantee compatibility with future, untested printer or firmware versions.

If you are unsure which version your printer uses, check its settings or consult Sawgrass support before ordering. Avoid choosing a cartridge based only on a search result or a photo that looks similar.

Are third-party Sawgrass ink cartridges different from Sawgrass ink?

Third-party cartridges are made by a brand other than Sawgrass, so check compatibility and warranty terms before using one. ChemU identifies itself as an independent third-party brand and says it is not affiliated with or endorsed by Sawgrass.

The ChemU cartridges are described as a compatible alternative for supported SG500 and SG1000 versions. Its chip is designed for recognition with those supported versions, but that does not promise compatibility with every update.

Review the applicable Sawgrass warranty terms for third-party consumables before choosing. Keep the printer model and version details handy if you contact support.

Why won't Epson sublimation ink bottles work as a cartridge substitute?

Epson sublimation ink bottles are made for a different printer and ink system, so they are not a substitute for SG500 or SG1000 cartridges. The Epson SureColor F170 uses genuine Epson sublimation ink bottles.

The F170 is a separate printer option with its own ink supply. If you are choosing a printer for sublimation from the start, our printer guide explains what to consider, and Infusible Ink vs Sublimation Ink compares two materials that are often confused.

Ink type matters because sublimation systems are designed around their own printers and supplies. Don't pour bottle ink into a cartridge or assume an ink bottle can replace a Sawgrass cartridge.

What else can you make with sublimation printing?

The SG500 and SG1000 are for sublimation printing, while a sticker printer and cutter serves a different task. The Liene PixCut S1 Inspire Kit uses thermal dye-sublimation for photo and sticker printing, with an integrated cutting machine.

The PixCut S1 is not an ink cartridge option for either Sawgrass printer. Consider it only if your goal is to print and cut photos, stickers or labels with its own system.

If you are comparing Sawgrass consumables across older models, see which sublimation ink works with the Sawgrass SG400. For setup steps on the SG500, read how to use a Sawgrass SG500 printer.

What should you verify before ordering Sawgrass ink cartridges?

Confirm the printer model, current version and cartridge compatibility range before placing an order. These checks help prevent a mismatch between a compatible cartridge and your printer's software version.

  1. Identify whether your printer is an SG500 or SG1000.
  2. Find its current printer or firmware version.
  3. Check that the cartridge supports that model and version.
  4. Confirm that the cartridge set includes the colors you need.
  5. Review Sawgrass warranty terms if you are considering a third-party brand.

The same careful model check applies to accessories. For example, use the guide to which Sawgrass bypass tray fits your printer to match that accessory to your model.

Which ink should you choose for an SG500 or SG1000?

Choose cartridges named for your exact Sawgrass model and supported version, and verify version compatibility before ordering. The ChemU set is a third-party compatible option described for supported SG500 and SG1000 versions, while Epson F170 ink bottles belong to a different printer system.

If you have an SG500 or SG1000, start by checking its version and comparing it with the cartridge's supported range. For the SG400, use supplies made for that printer and check the SG400 sublimation ink guide.

The right ink depends on the printer you own: match Sawgrass cartridges to a supported SG500 or SG1000 version, and Epson bottles to the F170.

Frequently asked questions

Which cartridges fit a Sawgrass SG500?

Use sublimation cartridges designed for the SG500 and verify that they support your printer's version. The ChemU compatible set is described for SG500 and SG1000 printers, with support stated for Version 4.06 and earlier supported versions.

Check your printer version before ordering.

Do SG500 and SG1000 use the same ink cartridges?

Some cartridge sets are made for both models. ChemU describes its compatible set for the Sawgrass SG500 and SG1000, but compatibility also depends on printer version.

Confirm the cartridge's supported versions and your printer's current version before choosing.

Can I use Epson sublimation ink in a Sawgrass printer?

The Epson SureColor F170 uses Epson sublimation ink bottles, while the Sawgrass models require cartridges designed for the SG500 or SG1000. These are different ink systems, so don't assume ink made for one printer will work in the other.

Choose supplies for your exact printer.

What should I check before buying third-party Sawgrass cartridges?

Check the exact printer model, current version, and the cartridge's stated compatibility range. ChemU describes its cartridges as an independent third-party option for supported SG500 and SG1000 versions, and says compatibility with future, untested versions is not guaranteed.

Review Sawgrass warranty terms too.