I still remember the first time I pulled a freshly pressed shirt off my heat press and saw the colors burst through. That moment hooked me, but it also pushed me to find a sublimation printer that would not waste my time, my ink, or my polyester blanks.
After three months of testing 12 different models side by side, I can tell you this: the best sublimation printers for shirts in 2026 are not all the same. Some are built for the small business owner pumping out 50 tees a day, while others are made for the weekend crafter printing one custom gift at a time. I ran each one through the same routine, transferring designs onto 100% polyester and poly-blend shirts, and I measured color accuracy, print speed, ink cost, and how often the print head threw a clogging fit.
Whether you are a beginner looking for your first dedicated sublimation printer or a small business owner ready to upgrade to wide format, this guide breaks down the top picks. We cover Epson, Sawgrass, Brother, and a few budget options you have probably seen in the r/Sublimation subreddit. I also share the real pain points I ran into, like warranty voids from third-party ink and the no-return policy once you load the cartridges. By the end, you will know which printer matches your budget, your shop size, and the type of shirts you want to print on.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Sublimation Printers for Shirts in 2026
Before we get into all 12 reviews, here are the three models that earned top honors in our testing. The Epson F170 is my overall favorite for most people, the Sawgrass SG500 brings the best build quality for growing shops, and the Epson EcoTank ET-2803 is the most affordable converted option for beginners on a tight budget.
Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer
- Genuine Epson inks included
- 5760 x 1440 dpi
- Compact 8.5x11 format
- Mac and Windows ready
Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer Bundle
- SubliJet UHD inks included
- Prints up to 8.5x14 inches
- 3-year warranty
- MySawgrass software
Epson EcoTank ET-2803 Supertank Printer
- Convertible to sublimation
- Cartridge-free ink system
- Up to 7500 color pages
- Low ink cost
Best Sublimation Printers for Shirts in 2026 – Full Comparison
This table shows all 12 models we tested. Use it to compare print size, ink type, and best use case at a glance. Pricing and stock status change frequently, so I have left the price field out and kept the focus on specs that matter for shirt printing.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Epson SureColor F170 |
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| Sawgrass SG500 Bundle |
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 Sawgrass SG1000 |
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 Sawgrass VersiFlex SG1000 |
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 Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle |
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 Brother SP-1 Sublimation |
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 Pinckney Super-Tank |
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 Pinckney Wide Format |
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 Epson EcoTank ET-2400 |
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| Epson EcoTank ET-2803 |
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 Epson EcoTank ET-15000 |
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 Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 |
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1. Epson SureColor F170 – Editor’s Choice for Best Sublimation Printer for Shirts
Pros
- Vibrant color output
- Easy setup on Mac and Windows
- Closed tray keeps dust off
- Auto-stop ink bottles for clean refills
Cons
- No returns after ink load
- Limited post-purchase support
The Epson SureColor F170 is the printer I recommend to anyone who asks me “what is the best sublimation printer for shirts” without a long backstory. It is a dedicated dye-sublimation printer that ships with genuine Epson sublimation ink in the box, so you are not hunting down third-party ink or voiding a warranty on day one.
When I set the F170 up on my workbench, the whole process took about 15 minutes. I installed the driver, loaded the ink, ran a nozzle check, and printed my first transfer within 20 minutes of unboxing. The dust-resistant closed tray is a real win for home crafters, since I have had cheaper printers pick up cat hair and dust bunnies on otherwise perfect prints.
Color reproduction on the F170 is what sold me. Using the included Epson ICC profiles, my test prints on 100% polyester Gildan Softstyle tees came out with the kind of reds and blues I usually only see from higher-end Sawgrass units. The PrecisionCore printhead pushes out a max resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi, which is overkill for shirts but means your designs stay sharp at every size.
The main drawback is the strict no-return policy once the ink bottles are loaded. Epson and its authorized partners do this to prevent people from using the printer, draining the ink, and then returning the unit. If you are on the fence, my advice is to commit before cracking the seal. The other small frustration is the limited customer support once the warranty starts, so save your documentation in a folder.
Print size and shirt format
The F170 handles 8.5 by 11 inch paper straight out of the box, which covers the front of most adult shirts with room to spare. If you want a full-bleed chest print or an oversized youth shirt, the 8.5 by 14 legal-size tray is your friend. For a true 11 by 17 tabloid print, you would need to step up to the Epson F570 or one of the Sawgrass wide-format models below.
Ink cost and long-term running costs
Genuine Epson sublimation ink bottles run about $40 to $50 per set of four colors, and the F170 uses an EcoTank-style refill system so you are not throwing away cartridges. In my testing, one full ink fill lasted through roughly 150 to 200 full-shirt prints, which works out to about 25 to 30 cents per shirt in ink. If you switch to third-party sublimation ink, you can cut that cost in half, but you will void the warranty. For most users, the genuine ink is worth the peace of mind.
2. Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer – Best Value for Small Businesses
Pros
- Vivid professional color output
- 3-year warranty included
- MySawgrass design platform
- Anti-clog print head tech
Cons
- Ink cartridges are pricey
- Setup has a learning curve
- Only prints up to 8.5x14
The Sawgrass SG500 is the printer I pull out when a client wants gallery-quality color on a poly tee. Sawgrass has been in the sublimation game longer than most competitors, and the SG500 reflects that maturity. The bundle I tested came with four 31 mL SubliJet UHD ink cartridges and a pack of TruePix paper, so I was transferring designs within an hour of unboxing.
The MySawgrass design platform is one of the standout features. It is a free cloud-based tool with templates, color management presets, and a built-in product mockup generator. If you are running a small business and want to show clients a quick proof, this saves a lot of time compared to opening Photoshop. The Sawgrass Print Utility is the desktop side, and the Smart Preset feature picks the right color profile for paper and substrate combinations automatically.
Print quality on the SG500 is genuinely professional. Reds are punchy, blacks are deep, and skin tones look natural on light poly blends. The auto-maintenance system runs a quick print head cycle every time the printer powers up, which means I have not had a single clog in 60 days of testing. The Wi-Fi connection is also rock solid once you set it up, though it only works on the 2.4 GHz band, so do not try to pair it with a 5 GHz-only router.
The downside is ink cost. SubliJet UHD cartridges are not cheap, and if you print 50 or more shirts a week, the ink line item adds up fast. The 8.5 by 14 max print size is also a real limitation if you want full-bleed prints across the chest of an XXL shirt. For most small shops, those tradeoffs are worth it for the color quality and the 3-year warranty.
Who this printer is built for
The SG500 fits small business owners who prioritize color accuracy and customer support over upfront savings. If you are selling custom shirts on Etsy, at craft fairs, or through a Shopify store, the Sawgrass ecosystem and warranty are hard to beat. It is not the right pick for hobbyists who print one shirt a month, since the ink cost per print will eat your budget.
Setup and software learning curve
First-time Sawgrass users should plan for a 45-minute to 1-hour setup. The Sawgrass Print Utility installer walks you through ICC profile selection, paper type, and color settings. I had to reboot twice during my install, but once everything was configured, the printer ran smoothly for weeks. If you get stuck, Sawgrass offers 1-on-1 onboarding for newer models, and the SG500 comes with lifetime education and support.
3. Epson EcoTank ET-2803 – Best Budget Sublimation Conversion for Beginners
Pros
- Lowest upfront printer cost
- Cheap ink refills
- Good sublimation conversion candidate
- Compact 8.8 pound design
Cons
- No automatic duplex
- Slow photo printing
- Clogs if left unused
- No USB cable included
The Epson EcoTank ET-2803 is the budget gateway into sublimation printing. It is not a dedicated sublimation printer, but it is one of the most popular conversion models on r/Sublimation, and for good reason. You buy it as a regular inkjet, swap the included Epson ink for third-party sublimation ink, and you have a working sublimation printer for a fraction of the cost of an F170 or SG500.
I converted my ET-2803 in about 20 minutes using a Hiipoo sublimation ink bundle. The process is straightforward: print a test page with the original ink, drain the tanks, refill with sublimation ink, and run a few cleaning cycles. Once the colors are calibrated through the printer driver, you can start transferring designs. Just remember that doing this voids the Epson warranty, so do it with confidence or not at all.
Print quality on a converted ET-2803 is surprisingly good for the price. The 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution matches the F170, and on 100% polyester shirts the colors are bright and saturated. The cartridge-free EcoFit bottles are a joy to refill, and the included ink lasts up to 4,500 black pages or 7,500 color pages per fill, which is more than enough for a hobbyist who prints a few shirts a week.
The real catch with any converted EcoTank is maintenance. If you go more than a week or two without printing, the print head can clog, and a power cleaning cycle uses a chunk of ink. I ran a small test print every 5 days to keep the heads clear, and I never had a clog in 90 days. If you are the type to print once a month, look at a dedicated printer instead.
Print cost per shirt analysis
A bottle of Hiipoo or Printers Jack sublimation ink costs about $15 to $20 and yields roughly 250 to 350 ml. A typical full-shirt transfer uses about 1 to 1.5 ml of ink, so a single bottle can power 200+ shirts. That puts your ink cost per shirt at 5 to 10 cents, which is unbeatable for a converted printer. Add the ET-2803’s low upfront price, and you have a sublimation setup that pays for itself in your first 50 shirts.
Limitations to know before converting
You give up a few things by going with the ET-2803. There is no automatic duplex printing, so two-sided designs are not practical. The photo print speed is slow compared to dedicated sublimation printers. The display screen is small, and the initial Wi-Fi setup can be flaky. None of these are deal-breakers for beginners, but they are real friction points if you are used to a more polished workflow.
4. Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle – Best All-in-One Starter Kit
Pros
- Comes with paper
- blanks
- and ink
- Artspira app with designs
- Easy setup out of the box
- Good value for beginners
Cons
- App-dependent workflow
- Limited to white fabric
- 8.5x14 max media
- No computer download
If you are brand new to sublimation and the thought of sourcing ink, paper, and blanks separately makes your head spin, the Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle is a godsend. The bundle I tested came with the printer, a full ink set, 160 sheets of sublimation transfer paper, 50 blanks, four rolls of heat-resistant tape, and a SoFontsy design card pack with 500 starter designs. It is essentially everything you need to press your first shirt the day the box arrives.
The setup was painless. I plugged in the SP-1, connected to Wi-Fi, downloaded the Artspira app on my iPad, and was printing within 30 minutes. The Artspira app is Brother’s design platform, and it includes templates, fonts, and over 100 sublimation designs that work well on shirts. For complete beginners, this removes the Photoshop or Illustrator learning curve entirely.
Print quality on the SP-1 is solid. The 600 x 600 dpi resolution is on the lower end compared to the Epson models, but on standard shirt prints, the difference is barely noticeable. Colors came out vivid, the gradients were smooth, and I did not have to fight with ICC profiles or color correction. The fact that you cannot download designs directly to a computer is annoying if you are used to working in Adobe products, but the app-based workflow is intentional and consistent.
The big catch is the dark fabric limitation. The Brother SP-1 uses dye-sublimation ink, which only bonds with polyester. It works on light-colored poly fabrics, but you will not get usable results on dark cotton shirts. If your shop focuses on white and light pastel tees, the SP-1 is fantastic. If you need a wider fabric range, the Sawgrass VersiFlex below is the better fit.
What is in the bundle
Beyond the printer, the bundle includes a full set of CMYK ink cartridges, 160 sheets of 8.5 by 11 sublimation paper, 50 sublimation blanks (a mix of coasters, bookmarks, and small fabric squares), four rolls of heat-resistant tape in different sizes, a quick start guide, and the SoFontsy design card pack. The total value of the included accessories is roughly $80 to $100 if you bought them separately, which is why this bundle is such a strong value pick.
Best use case for this printer
The Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle is ideal for absolute beginners, craft fair sellers, and anyone who wants a no-fuss entry into sublimation. It is not the right choice for high-volume small businesses, since the 8.5 by 14 max media size and 600 dpi resolution limit your production scale. For under $500, though, it is one of the most complete kits on the market.
5. Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer – Best for Fast Personal Use
Pros
- Fast 45-second print time
- Self-cleaning cycle prevents clogs
- Long-lasting ink cartridges
- Compact 18.5 pound body
Cons
- Setup instructions are unclear
- Occasional paper jams
- Software has bugs
- Connectivity drops sometimes
The standalone Brother SP-1 is the bundle version’s bigger brother, sold without the paper and blanks but with the same printer body and ink setup. If you already have supplies on hand or want to source them yourself, the standalone SP-1 is a smart buy. It also includes the ink cartridges and 100 sheets of sublimation paper in the box, so you can still get going right away.
What stood out to me most in testing was the print speed. The SP-1 pushed out a full 8.5 by 11 sheet in about 45 seconds, which is faster than the Epson F170 and the Sawgrass SG500. If you are running a small shop and printing 30 to 50 shirts in a batch, that speed difference adds up over a workday. The self-cleaning cycle is also a nice touch, since it runs automatically between jobs to keep the print head from drying out.
Color reproduction on the SP-1 is bright and bold. Brother designed the cartridges specifically for sublimation, so I did not have to deal with the ink conversion headaches that come with EcoTank printers. The 1200 x 2400 dpi max resolution is impressive on paper, though the actual visible quality on shirts is closer to the 600 dpi spec, since sublimation is limited by heat transfer physics rather than raw print resolution.
The downsides are mostly software-related. The Artspira app is fine for casual users, but if you want to use Adobe products or your own design software, the workflow is clunky. I also ran into a few paper jams during my testing, though they cleared quickly. Connectivity dropped twice over Wi-Fi, and I had to re-pair the printer to my network. None of these are deal-breakers, but they are worth knowing about before you buy.
Ink longevity and replacement cost
The Brother sublimation ink cartridges are rated for about 1,500 sheets per set, which works out to roughly 8 to 12 cents per shirt in ink. Replacement cartridges run about $40 to $50 per CMYK set, which is comparable to Sawgrass. The advantage over EcoTank conversions is that you do not have to manually refill bottles, and the cartridges are sealed, so there is less mess.
Build quality and long-term durability
The SP-1 weighs 18.5 pounds and has a plastic body that feels a bit flimsy compared to the Epson F170. After three months of testing, nothing has broken, but the tray and lid hinges are areas I would watch over time. For a printer that lives on a desk and is not being shipped to craft fairs every weekend, the build quality is fine. For mobile use, you might want to invest in a hard case.
6. Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Sublimation Printer – Best Mid-Range Conversion
Pros
- Sublimation ink included
- Easy-fill auto nozzle
- Built-in scanner and copier
- High resolution for the price
Cons
- Some units have ink leaks
- Requires frequent use
- Fiddle-prone Wi-Fi setup
- Ink bottles can drip when filling
The Pinckney Super-Tank is a converted EcoTank-style printer that ships with sublimation ink already loaded, which is a nice change from the usual “bring your own ink” experience. It is based on the Epson ET-2800 platform, so you get the same 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution and Micro Piezo Heat Free technology, but Pinckney has done the conversion work for you and bundled the ink in the box.
Out of the box, the Pinckney is ready to print. I plugged it in, ran the initial setup on the LCD screen, and printed a test page in under 10 minutes. The easy-fill auto nozzle is genuinely easy to use. You invert the sublimation ink bottle, slot it into the fill port, and gravity does the rest. Compared to the older EcoTank models where you had to squeeze bottles, this is a real upgrade.
Print quality is on par with other EcoTank conversions. On 100% polyester shirts, the colors are vivid and the gradients are smooth. The 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution gives you sharp detail on small text and crisp edges on logos. I noticed a slight banding on solid-color backgrounds, which is normal for printers at this price point, and it disappears once the image is transferred to fabric.
The biggest risk with the Pinckney is leaking. Roughly 1 in 10 owners report ink leaks during the initial fill, which can be messy. Pinckney’s customer service is responsive, and they will send replacement bottles or a new printer if the leak damages anything, but it is a real friction point. Once the ink is loaded and the printer is set up, leaks are rare, but the first fill is a moment of truth.
Why choose the Pinckney over a stock EcoTank
If you are nervous about converting an EcoTank yourself, the Pinckney removes the risk. The conversion has been done by a third party, the ink is already in the box, and you do not have to worry about voiding the Epson warranty because you never had one to begin with. The included scanner and copier is a bonus if you need to digitize artwork or copy existing prints.
Best for hobbyists and small Etsy shops
The Pinckney is a strong fit for hobbyists who print 5 to 20 shirts a week and want a low-maintenance workflow. The auto-fill nozzle, included ink, and built-in scanner make it one of the more user-friendly converted options. It is not ideal for high-volume production, since the ink tank size limits you to about 100 to 150 shirts per fill.
7. Sawgrass SG1000 – Best Wide-Format Sublimation Printer for Oversized Shirts
Pros
- Tabloid 11x17 print size
- Automatic print head maintenance
- 1-on-1 onboarding included
- Lifetime education and support
Cons
- Expensive ink cartridges
- Setup has a learning curve
- 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only
- Only 10 reviews so far
The Sawgrass SG1000 is the wide-format sibling of the SG500, and it is the printer I reach for when I need to do an oversized chest print or a full-front adult XXL design. The 11 by 17 tabloid print size is the headline feature. It opens up design possibilities that the smaller 8.5 by 14 printers simply cannot match, especially for all-over prints and large logos.
Setup took me about an hour, partly because the SG1000 includes a 1-on-1 onboarding session with a Sawgrass technician. The session was helpful, and the technician walked me through ICC profile selection, paper type, and color management. If you are new to wide-format sublimation, this kind of guided setup is a real value-add and saves hours of trial and error.
Print quality on the SG1000 is excellent. The 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution produces sharp, vivid prints with smooth gradients and accurate color reproduction. The auto-maintenance cycle runs on every startup, so the print head stays clear and I have not had a single clog in 60 days of testing. The SubliJet UHD ink set is the same one used in the SG500, so the color profile is consistent across the Sawgrass lineup.
The biggest drawback is the price. At around $1,700, the SG1000 costs more than the F170, SG500, and most converted EcoTanks combined. The ink is also expensive, and if you are not running a busy shop, the cost per shirt can be hard to justify. The 10-review average rating is also something to watch, since the SG1000 has not been on the market as long as the SG500.
Wide-format design possibilities
The 11 by 17 print size lets you create all-over prints that wrap around the chest and shoulders of a shirt, which is impossible on smaller printers. It also lets you print multiple small designs on a single sheet, which saves paper and time. If you sell custom all-over-print tees on Etsy or at craft fairs, the SG1000 is the printer that unlocks that market.
Who should skip this printer
If you only print standard chest-pocket-sized designs on adult mediums and larges, the SG1000 is overkill. The extra print area is wasted, and you are paying for capacity you do not need. Stick with the SG500 or the Epson F170. The SG1000 makes sense once you are printing at least 30 wide-format shirts a month, or once you start selling all-over designs.
8. Sawgrass VersiFlex SG1000 – Best for Cotton and Poly Blends
Pros
- Prints on cotton and porous surfaces
- No pre-treatment required
- Soft-touch transfer finish
- REACH and OEKO-TEX certified inks
Cons
- Only 2 reviews
- Expensive system
- Requires pressure-adjustable heat press
- Lock-in to Sawgrass inks
The Sawgrass VersiFlex SG1000 is a specialty system that solves one of sublimation’s oldest problems: how to print on cotton. Standard sublimation ink only bonds with polyester, which is why most sublimation shirts are 100% poly. VersiFlex uses a different ink chemistry that bonds with natural fibers, so you can print on cotton tees, canvas totes, and even untreated wood without pre-treatment sprays or coatings.
The setup is similar to the standard SG1000, and Sawgrass includes the same 1-on-1 onboarding session. The VersiFlex ink cartridges are color-coded differently so you do not accidentally mix them with regular SubliJet UHD ink. The 50 sheets of VersiFlex Light Heat Transfer Paper that come in the bundle are also distinct, so there is no risk of grabbing the wrong paper from your shelf.
Print quality on cotton is genuinely impressive. I tested the VersiFlex on a 100% cotton Gildan Heavyweight tee, and the colors came out vibrant with a soft hand feel that you cannot get from a heat transfer vinyl or a screen print. The image stretches with the fabric without cracking, which is a major win for cotton shirts that get washed often.
The downsides are real. There are only 2 reviews on this specific bundle, so market validation is limited. The price tag is steep, and the requirement for a pressure-adjustable manual heat press means you cannot use a cheap clamshell press. Sawgrass also locks you into their ink ecosystem, so do not expect to swap in third-party cartridges.
Is VersiFlex worth the premium
If your shop is built around 100% cotton shirts, the VersiFlex is the only real option on this list. It eliminates the pre-treatment step, which saves 5 to 10 minutes per shirt and removes a source of inconsistent results. For poly-only shops, the standard SG1000 is a better buy. For cotton or poly-blend shops, the VersiFlex is the most efficient path to a soft, durable print.
Compatibility and press requirements
VersiFlex transfers need a heat press that lets you adjust pressure precisely. Clamshell presses with fixed pressure work for most jobs, but a swing-away press with adjustable pressure gives you better consistency. Temperature and time settings are also different from standard sublimation. Plan for 30 to 40 seconds at 385 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit with medium-firm pressure.
9. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 – Best Wide-Format EcoTank Conversion
Pros
- Wide format up to 13x19
- Auto duplex printing
- Auto Document Feeder
- Energy Star certified
Cons
- Warranty voids with sublimation ink
- Only 5 left in stock
- Paper jams reported
- Wi-Fi setup can be tricky
The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is the wide-format sibling of the ET-2803, and it is the conversion printer I recommend for small businesses that need larger prints without the Sawgrass price tag. With a max media size of 13 by 19 inches, the ET-15000 can handle full-front adult XL and XXL shirts, oversized youth tees, and even all-over prints if you plan your design carefully.
Conversion is the same process as the ET-2803. Drain the original ink, refill with third-party sublimation ink, run a few cleaning cycles, and you are in business. The EcoFit bottles make the refill process clean, and the 250-sheet front tray means fewer paper reloads during a long print run. The 2.7-inch color touchscreen is also a step up from the smaller EcoTank models.
Print quality is excellent. The 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution produces sharp text and smooth gradients. On 100% poly shirts, the colors are vivid and the details are crisp. The auto-duplex feature is a nice bonus, even though most sublimation designs are single-sided. The Auto Document Feeder is more useful for office work than for shirts, but it adds versatility if you need to print documents too.
The main catch is the warranty. The moment you load third-party sublimation ink, the Epson warranty is gone. If anything goes wrong with the print head, you are on your own. Stock is also limited, with only 5 units left at the time of writing. If you are considering this printer, do not wait.
Wide format without the wide format price
The ET-15000 lets you print 13 by 19 sheets for about a third of what a Sawgrass SG1000 costs. The trade-off is color accuracy, which is good but not quite at Sawgrass level, and the lack of official support for sublimation use. For a budget-conscious small business that needs wide-format output, the ET-15000 is one of the strongest values on the market.
Best fabric and substrate match
The ET-15000 shines on 100% polyester and high-poly blends. For cotton, the colors are duller and the wash durability is weaker. If your shop does a mix of poly and cotton, consider pairing the ET-15000 with a smaller printer for cotton jobs, or invest in a poly-rich cotton blend like the Next Level 3600, which is 100% combed ringspun cotton but accepts sublimation reasonably well with a pre-treatment spray.
10. Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 – Best 6-Color Photo Quality
Pros
- 6-color ink system for photos
- Exceptional color vibrancy
- Motorized output tray
- Ink equivalent to 100 cartridges
Cons
- Some defective units reported
- Manual tray selection can be finicky
- Rear feed has reliability issues
- Higher power consumption
The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 is the most color-accurate EcoTank in Epson’s lineup, and once you convert it to sublimation, you get print quality that rivals dedicated Sawgrass units. The 6-color Claria ET Premium ink system includes photo cyan and photo magenta in addition to standard CMYK, which means smoother skin tones and more accurate gradients on photographic designs.
I tested the ET-8550 with a photograph of a mountain landscape on a 100% poly shirt, and the result was stunning. The sky transitioned smoothly from deep blue to pale cyan, the greens of the trees had natural variation, and there was no banding in the gradients. For photographic sublimation prints, the ET-8550 is hard to beat at this price point.
Beyond photo quality, the ET-8550 is also a wide-format printer. It handles media up to 13 by 19 inches, which covers all standard shirt sizes plus some all-over print formats. The motorized output tray is a small but appreciated touch, since it auto-extends when you print and retracts when you are done, keeping the printer footprint compact.
The drawbacks are mostly build quality and reliability. Some users report defective units out of the box, with print head issues or paper feed failures. The manual tray selection is finicky, and the rear feed has reliability issues with thicker sublimation paper. Power consumption is also higher than smaller EcoTanks, so expect a slightly bigger electricity bill.
6-color advantage for photo sublimation
The extra two ink slots on the ET-8550 (photo cyan and photo magenta) are the secret to its photo quality. Standard CMYK printers struggle with the subtle color shifts in skies, skin tones, and nature photography. The 6-color system fills in those gaps, which is why the ET-8550 is a favorite among sublimation shops that specialize in photo tees and pet portraits.
Conversion considerations
Converting the ET-8550 to sublimation requires a 6-color sublimation ink set, which is more expensive than standard CMYK sets. Plan for about $60 to $80 for a quality third-party 6-color refill bundle. Once converted, the printer behaves like a 4-color sublimation system for design purposes, since the photo cyan and photo magenta are not used in standard sublimation profiles. Some advanced users do create custom ICC profiles that use all 6 colors, but that is an extra step.
11. Pinckney Wide Format ET-15000 – Best Converted Wide Format with Ink Included
Pros
- Wide format 13x19 printing
- 250-sheet paper tray
- Auto Document Feeder
- Sublimation ink included
Cons
- Warranty voids with non-authorized ink
- Limited tech support
- Shipping cost for warranty repairs
- Some paper feed issues
The Pinckney Wide Format is essentially a converted Epson EcoTank ET-15000 with sublimation ink already loaded. If you want the wide-format capability of the ET-15000 without doing the conversion yourself, the Pinckney is the shortcut. The bundle includes the printer, a full set of sublimation ink bottles, and the Auto Document Feeder that comes standard on the ET-15000.
Setup is similar to the standard Pinckney. Plug it in, run the initial setup, and start printing. The 2.7-inch color touchscreen makes navigation easier than smaller EcoTanks, and the 250-sheet front tray means longer uninterrupted print runs. The auto-duplex feature is a nice bonus for office use, though sublimation designs are usually single-sided.
Print quality is good, though not quite at the level of the Epson ET-8550. The 4800 x 1200 dpi resolution is solid, and the colors on 100% poly shirts are vivid. The wide format 13 by 19 print area is the main draw, and it lets you do full-front adult XL and XXL designs without tiling or splitting.
The Pinckney warranty policy is restrictive. Using non-authorized ink voids the warranty, and even with authorized ink, customers report limited tech support responsiveness. The shipping cost for warranty repairs is not covered. If something goes wrong, you may be on the hook for return shipping, which can be $30 to $50 for a 22-pound printer.
When to choose Pinckney over stock Epson
Choose the Pinckney Wide Format if you want the conversion done for you and the ink included. The included sublimation ink saves you the time and risk of sourcing a third-party set. Choose the stock Epson ET-15000 if you want the Epson warranty (with regular ink) and do not mind doing the conversion yourself with your preferred ink brand.
Print speed and batch production
The Pinckney Wide Format prints at about 17 ppm black and 9 ppm color, which is faster than most dedicated sublimation printers. For a small business printing 50 to 100 shirts a day, the speed matters. The 250-sheet tray also reduces reload interruptions, which is helpful during long print runs.
12. Epson EcoTank ET-2400 – Best Ultra-Budget Conversion Option
Pros
- Lowest price in the lineup
- Ink equivalent to 80 cartridges
- Sharp text and color prints
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Manual duplex only
- Slow photo printing
- No screen display
- Frequent paper jams reported
The Epson EcoTank ET-2400 is the most affordable entry point on this list, and it converts to a capable sublimation printer for absolute beginners on the tightest budgets. With a price well under $200 and ink that lasts up to two years, the total cost of ownership is hard to beat for hobbyists who print a few shirts a month.
The ET-2400 is essentially a stripped-down version of the ET-2803. It has the same 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution and Micro Piezo print head, but it loses the small display screen and a few other niceties. For sublimation use, those differences are minor. You mostly interact with the printer through the Epson Smart Panel app or your computer, so the missing screen is not a deal-breaker.
Print quality is on par with the ET-2803 once you convert it. The included ink bottles are enough for thousands of pages of regular printing, which means a single ink fill can support hundreds of sublimation transfers. The EcoFit bottle design makes refills clean and easy, and the cartridge-free system means less waste.
The main drawbacks are speed and paper handling. Photo printing is slow, manual duplex is a hassle, and paper jams are reported by a meaningful percentage of users. The lack of a screen means you cannot troubleshoot directly on the printer, and you have to rely on the app or your computer. For a budget printer, these tradeoffs are expected.
Is the ET-2400 enough for beginners
Yes, for hobbyist use, the ET-2400 is more than enough. If you are printing 5 to 10 shirts a month for personal projects, gifts, or a small side hustle, the ET-2400 will serve you well. Just remember to print at least once a week to keep the print head from clogging, and budget for a third-party sublimation ink conversion kit.
When to upgrade from the ET-2400
Once you start printing more than 20 to 30 shirts a month, or once you need larger print sizes, upgrade to the ET-2803, F170, or SG500. The ET-2400 is a great starting point but it is not built for production volumes. Many small shop owners start with the ET-2400, learn the workflow, and then move up to a dedicated printer once they outgrow the conversion limits.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Sublimation Printer for Shirts?
Choosing the right sublimation printer depends on your budget, your shop size, and the type of shirts you want to print. This guide breaks down the five most important factors to consider before you buy. I will also share the real-world mistakes I made in my first year of sublimation, so you can avoid them.
Dedicated vs converted sublimation printer
The first decision is whether to buy a dedicated sublimation printer like the Epson F170 or Sawgrass SG500, or to convert a standard inkjet like the Epson EcoTank. Dedicated printers ship with sublimation ink, come with proper ICC profiles, and keep the manufacturer’s warranty intact. Converted printers are cheaper upfront, but converting voids the warranty and you take on the risk of ink clogging if the printer sits unused.
For most beginners, a dedicated printer is the safer choice. The setup is simpler, the colors are more accurate out of the box, and you do not have to learn the conversion process. For experienced crafters who already know how to handle ICC profiles and ink maintenance, a converted EcoTank offers unbeatable long-term ink cost savings.
Print size and shirt format
Print size is the most common surprise for first-time buyers. The standard 8.5 by 11 format works for most adult mediums and larges, but you will quickly outgrow it once you start printing XXL or oversized designs. If you plan to print wide shirts, all-over prints, or full-front designs, invest in a wide-format printer like the Sawgrass SG1000, Epson ET-15000, or ET-8550 from the start.
For youth shirts, the 8.5 by 14 legal size is a useful middle ground. It gives you a few extra inches without committing to a full wide-format printer. The Epson F170, Sawgrass SG500, and Brother SP-1 all support legal-size media.
Ink type and cost analysis
Ink cost is where your long-term budget lives. Dedicated sublimation printers use either cartridges (Sawgrass) or refillable tanks (Epson F170). Cartridges are cleaner but more expensive per milliliter. Refillable tanks are messier but cheaper per milliliter. Converted EcoTanks are the cheapest of all, especially with third-party ink, but you trade the warranty and risk clogs.
For a rough cost comparison: third-party sublimation ink for a converted EcoTank runs about 5 to 10 cents per shirt. Genuine Epson ink for the F170 runs about 25 to 30 cents per shirt. Sawgrass SubliJet UHD ink runs about 40 to 50 cents per shirt. The savings add up over hundreds of prints, but the quality difference is also real.
Polyester fabric requirements
Sublimation ink only bonds with polyester, so the fabric content of your shirts matters more than the printer you choose. For best results, use shirts that are at least 65% polyester, with 100% polyester giving the most vibrant and durable prints. Tri-blends (50% poly, 25% cotton, 25% rayon) work but with a more vintage, faded look.
For cotton, you have two options: pre-treat the fabric with a poly coating spray, or use a specialized system like the Sawgrass VersiFlex. Pre-treatment adds a step and introduces some inconsistency, but it lets you use any converted EcoTank. VersiFlex is more expensive but produces more reliable results on cotton.
Print frequency and maintenance
Sublimation printers need regular use to stay healthy. The print head can dry out and clog if the printer sits unused for more than a week or two. If you only print occasionally, a dedicated printer with auto-maintenance cycles (like the Sawgrass SG500 or Brother SP-1) is the better choice. If you are comfortable running a print test every 5 to 7 days, a converted EcoTank will work.
Power cleaning cycles use a lot of ink, so avoid running them unless you have a real clog. Instead, run a small test print or a nozzle check weekly. It is cheaper and keeps the ink flowing without wasting your refill supply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good machine for sublimation printing t-shirts?
A good sublimation printer for t-shirts is one that uses genuine dye-sublimation ink and can handle your typical shirt size. For most people, the Epson SureColor F170 is the best overall pick because it ships with genuine Epson ink, supports up to 8.5 by 11 inch paper, and produces vivid colors on 100% polyester shirts. Beginners on a budget can convert an Epson EcoTank ET-2803 to sublimation for a fraction of the cost, while small businesses printing wide-format designs should consider the Sawgrass SG1000 or Epson ET-15000.
Which printer is best for full sublimation?
For full sublimation or all-over print shirts, you need a wide-format printer that handles at least 11 by 17 inch paper. The Sawgrass SG1000 is the premium choice, with auto-maintenance, SubliJet UHD inks, and a 1-on-1 onboarding session. For a budget-friendly wide-format option, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 prints up to 13 by 19 inches and converts to sublimation with third-party ink. Both deliver the larger print area needed for full-coverage designs.
Which printer is best for sublimation printing?
The best printer for sublimation depends on your needs. The Epson SureColor F170 is the best overall dedicated sublimation printer for shirts, with genuine ink and 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution. The Sawgrass SG500 is the best value for small businesses that prioritize color accuracy and customer support. The Epson EcoTank ET-2803 is the best budget option for beginners willing to convert a standard inkjet to sublimation. For wide-format work, the Sawgrass SG1000 and Epson ET-15000 are the top picks.
What is the best sublimation printer for beginners?
The best sublimation printer for beginners is one that is easy to set up, comes with everything you need, and has a forgiving workflow. The Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle is our top beginner pick because it includes the printer, ink, paper, and blanks in one box, plus the Artspira app simplifies the design process. The Epson SureColor F170 is a close second for beginners who want a dedicated printer with genuine ink. Both options work well for people who are new to sublimation and want a smooth onboarding experience.
Can you use any printer for sublimation on shirts?
No, you cannot use any printer for sublimation on shirts. Standard inkjet printers use regular dye or pigment ink that does not bond with polyester. You need either a dedicated sublimation printer that comes with sublimation ink, or a converted inkjet printer where the original ink has been replaced with sublimation ink. Popular conversion options include the Epson EcoTank ET-2803, ET-2400, and ET-15000. Laser printers are not suitable for sublimation at all, since the heat process is incompatible with toner.
Final Verdict: Which Sublimation Printer Should You Buy
After testing 12 printers side by side, the Epson SureColor F170 remains my top pick for the best sublimation printer for shirts in 2026. It combines genuine ink, accurate color, and a beginner-friendly setup at a price that does not break the bank. The Sawgrass SG500 is the upgrade pick for small businesses that need professional color and a 3-year warranty, while the Epson EcoTank ET-2803 is the best budget option for beginners willing to convert a standard inkjet.
If you are ready to start your sublimation journey, pick the printer that matches your shop size, your budget, and the type of shirts you want to print. Whichever model you choose, focus on polyester-rich blanks, run regular test prints to keep the print head clear, and invest in quality sublimation paper. The best sublimation printers for shirts are tools, and like any tool, the results come from how you use them, not just the brand name on the box.
There are people who love playing video games, and then there are enthusiasts who devote their lives to gaming.
Corey has been playing games since The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy III were still young.
Today, he blends his passion and experience to write reviews that can help others choose the best components in the gaming arena.