Choosing the right sublimation printer can make a huge difference in color accuracy, print consistency, and how smoothly your creative workflow runs.
This roundup highlights 10 strong options for artists who want reliable results for apparel, mugs, accessories, and other custom products.
Best 10 Sublimation Printers for Artists Picks for 2026
Studio-Ready Compact Pick
Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer
- Genuine Epson inks included
- PrecisionCore printhead for sharp output
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray
Best For: Hobbyists and small business owners needing a compact, supported Epson sublimation printer
Color-Focused Bundle Pick
Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer Bundle
- Includes printer, ink, and accessories
- PrecisionCore output with Epson color handling
- Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet support
Best For: Artists and customization businesses wanting an all-in-one Epson bundle
Design Bundle Pick
- CMYK ink and 10 sheets included
- Artspira software bundle
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
Best For: Artists and small sellers who want a ready-made Brother sublimation bundle
Studio-Ready Pick
Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer
- Rich CMYK inkset for vivid, consistent color
- Compact desktop format with extended bypass tray support
- MySawgrass and Print Utility simplify design and color control
Best For: Artists and small creators wanting polished, reliable output
Starter Bundle Choice
- Includes OEM Epson inks plus starter accessories
- PrecisionCore printhead for detailed sublimation output
- Closed tray and 150-sheet feed help keep prints clean
Best For: Hobbyists and small creators who want a ready-to-go Epson bundle
App-Driven Pick
Brother SP1 Sublimation Printer
- Artspira app supports image import and design access
- Fast output claimed at up to 45 seconds per sheet
- Includes 100 sheets of letter-size sublimation paper
Best For: Artists who want app-based design tools and quick project setup
Large-Format Studio Pick
Epson SureColor F570 24-inch Desktop Sublimation Printer
- 24-inch roll and sheet support
- Includes two full ink sets and paper
- Built-in cutter and auto-feed tray
Best For: Artists and studios printing larger sublimation transfers
Compact Starter Bundle
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle
- Includes ink, paper, blanks, and tape
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
- Compact 8.5 x 14-inch media support
Best For: Beginners and small business users wanting a ready-to-go bundle
Reliable Desktop Choice
Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle
- Starter ink and paper included
- Supports 8.5 x 14-inch media, plus longer bypass prints
- Wi-Fi, auto-maintenance, and color-focused software
Best For: Creators who want dependable small-format sublimation printing
Studio-Ready Compact Pick – Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer
If you want sublimation printers for artists that balance print quality with a small footprint, the Epson SureColor F170 is a strong fit. It uses Epson’s PrecisionCore printhead for detailed output, comes with genuine OEM ink, and includes a 150-sheet auto-feed tray for cleaner, more efficient transfer prep.
Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small business owners who want a compact Epson sublimation setup with factory support.
Pros:
- Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks with OEM support.
- PrecisionCore printhead is designed for strong image clarity and detail.
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray and closed paper path help keep prints clean.
- Compact design with MacOS and Windows setup support.
Cons:
- Does not support mobile device connection.
- Print-only device, so it does not scan or copy.
- Maximum media size is limited to 8.5″ width.
For artists who value reliable branding support and a tidy desktop footprint, this model is a practical entry into sublimation. It is best suited to desktop workflows and smaller-format creative projects rather than broad, mobile-first use.
App-Driven Craft Pick – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer
Among sublimation printers for artists, the Brother SP-1 stands out for its Artspira app workflow and beginner-friendly project flow. You can import and save designs in the app, use included sublimation ink, and turn artwork into custom mugs, shirts, bags, and more with a separate heat press.
Best For: Crafters and DIY artists who want an app-centered sublimation printer with a straightforward project workflow.
Pros:
- Works with the Artspira app for design access and image conversion.
- Includes Brother genuine sublimation ink and a starter paper pack.
- Compatible with Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Windows, and iOS-based control.
- Designed for a wide range of DIY items like mugs, tumblers, shirts, and bags.
Cons:
- Heat press is required and sold separately.
- US-only 120V use noted in the product details.
- Resolution is listed at 300 x 300 in the details, which is lower than some bundle specs elsewhere.
If your creative process starts with phone or app-based design work, this printer makes that path easy to follow. It is a smart choice for artists who want an approachable sublimation setup with Brother’s ecosystem behind it.
Color-Focused Bundle Pick – Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer Bundle
This Epson bundle is a strong option in sublimation printers for artists who want vivid color output and a ready-to-run package. It includes the F170 printer, a full set of Epson sublimation ink, and a 150-sheet auto-feed tray, plus Wi-Fi, USB, and software support for Windows or macOS workflows.
Best For: Artists and customization businesses that want a bundled Epson setup with ink included and flexible connectivity.
Pros:
- PrecisionCore printhead is built for high image clarity.
- Includes Epson sublimation ink, user guide, and AC power cable.
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray and closed tray design help support cleaner transfers.
- Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet support broaden desktop and device workflows.
Cons:
- Print-only device with no scan function.
- Not compatible with direct email printing or camera connections.
- Limited to 8.5-inch media width.
For artists who want a reliable starter bundle without piecing together accessories, this version keeps the setup simple. It is especially appealing if you value Epson’s ink system and want a more complete out-of-box package.
Design Bundle Pick – Brother SP-1 Base Bundle
If you want sublimation printers for artists with design software and starter supplies included, this Brother SP-1 bundle is worth a look. It ships with full CMYK ink, sublimation paper, and Artspira software, making it easier to move from concept to printed transfer on a compact desktop machine.
Best For: Hobbyists, artists, and small sellers who want a Brother bundle with software and starter materials included.
Pros:
- Includes full CMYK ink set and 10 sublimation transfer sheets.
- Artspira software adds access to designs and a quick start workflow.
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity support flexible setups.
- Listed as suitable for custom projects on mugs, shirts, totes, and similar items.
Cons:
- Print-only model with no scanning function.
- Requires a separate heat press for finished transfers.
- Limited to 8.5 x 14-inch media size.
This bundle is appealing if you want to spend less time sourcing starter supplies and more time making art. It combines the printer, materials, and software in one package for a smoother first setup.
Studio-Ready Pick – Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer
If you want sublimation printers for artists that emphasize color consistency and polished results, the Sawgrass SG500 is built for small-scale creative production. Its desktop footprint, professional-grade output, and included MySawgrass design tools make it a practical choice for custom apparel, drinkware, signage, and other personalized products.
Best For: Artists and small creators who want vivid, reliable sublimation output with easy design support.
Pros:
- Professional-grade SubliJet UHD CMYK inks for rich, consistent color
- Compact size with support for media up to 8.5″ x 14″, plus bypass tray prints up to 8.5″ x 51″
- MySawgrass platform and Print Utility help simplify design and color control
- Wi-Fi connectivity and auto-maintenance support long-term use
Cons:
- Limited to smaller-format printing compared with larger production machines
- Designed for standard 110/120V US and North American outlets only
Overall, the SG500 is a strong fit if you value presentation, color accuracy, and a guided workflow. It looks especially appealing for artists turning designs into finished products without moving into a full industrial setup.
Starter Bundle Choice – Epson SureColor F170
Among sublimation printers for artists, the Epson SureColor F170 stands out as a compact, beginner-friendly bundle with genuine Epson inks and accessories included. The PrecisionCore printhead, closed dust-resistant tray, and starter kit make it a practical option for crafters and home-based creators who want clean setup and dependable print quality.
Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small business owners who want an all-in-one Epson sublimation starter bundle.
Pros:
- Includes full OEM Epson sublimation inks and starter accessories
- PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control for sharp image clarity
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray and closed dust-resistant paper handling
- Compact design with MacOS and Windows setup support
Cons:
- Mobile device connection is not supported
- Print speed is listed at 1 page per minute in the supplied details
This bundle is a smart pick if you want a trustworthy starting point with Epson support and the key consumables already in the box. It favors convenience and print quality over high-volume speed.
App-Driven Pick – Brother SP1 Sublimation Printer
If your workflow leans on mobile design and quick project creation, this Brother option is an interesting pick among sublimation printers for artists. The free Artspira app lets you import images, browse designs, and create on the go, while the included sublimation paper bundle gives you a simple starting point for DIY transfers.
Best For: Creators who want app-based design tools and a fast, straightforward sublimation workflow.
Pros:
- Free Artspira app supports importing images and accessing ready-made designs
- Wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity offer flexible setup options
- Fast printing speed listed at up to 45 seconds per sheet
- Bundle includes 100 sheets of letter-size sublimation paper
Cons:
- Requires the Artspira app to start using the printer
- Resolution is listed at 300 x 300 in the supplied details
- Heat press is required but sold separately
The Brother SP1 is best suited to artists who want a design-first experience and easy project planning. It trades more traditional print-management features for speed, app guidance, and straightforward creative access.
Large-Format Studio Pick – Epson SureColor F570 24-inch Desktop Sublimation Printer
If you’re comparing sublimation printers for artists who need room for larger compositions, the Epson SureColor F570 is built for bigger-format work. It handles rolls and sheets up to 24 inches wide, includes a 50-sheet auto-feed tray and built-in cutter, and comes with software focused on layout, nesting, repeats, and color control.
Best For: Artists and small studios that want a 24-inch desktop sublimation printer for larger transfers and more efficient batch production.
Pros:
- Prints on rolls and sheets up to 24" wide for larger artwork and transfer sizes.
- Includes two full ink sets, sublimation paper, and remote install support.
- PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead and nozzle verification are built for dependable print quality.
- Epson Edge Print Pro supports job layout, nesting, pattern repeats, and advanced color controls.
Cons:
- Large and heavy at 200 pounds, so it is not a portable setup.
- Higher-capacity, desktop studio design may be more printer than a casual crafter needs.
- Designed only for print use, so it is not an all-in-one device.
The F570 is a strong fit when your artwork regularly outgrows standard desktop sizes and you want a more production-ready sublimation workflow. It leans toward serious studio use rather than small hobby projects.
Compact Starter Bundle – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle
For artists who want an approachable entry point into sublimation printers for artists, this Brother SP-1 bundle is set up to get you printing quickly. It pairs the printer with full CMYK ink, sublimation paper, blanks, tape, design cards, and software support, making it a practical all-in-one starter package.
Best For: Hobbyists, makers, and small sellers who want a compact sublimation bundle with supplies included.
Pros:
- Bundle includes ink, 160 sheets of sublimation transfer paper, 50 blanks, tape, and more.
- Compact printer size makes it easier to fit into a home craft or studio space.
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity support flexible setup options.
- Includes Artspira design software app download and quick reference guide.
Cons:
- Maximum media size is legal 8.5 x 14 inches, so it is not meant for large-format work.
- It is print-only, so scanning and copying are not available.
- Best suited to smaller projects like mugs, totes, and shirts rather than oversized pieces.
This is a convenient starter option if you want one purchase that covers the printer and many beginning supplies. It is especially attractive for artists who value simplicity and a compact footprint over large-format output.
Reliable Desktop Choice – Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle
If you want a desktop option from the sublimation printers for artists category that emphasizes consistency and support, the Sawgrass SG500 is built around small-format professional work. It includes starter ink and paper, supports media up to 8.5 x 14 inches, and adds software tools aimed at color accuracy and ease of use.
Best For: Small businesses, home-based creators, and artists making custom products in compact sizes.
Pros:
- Includes a full starter set of SubliJet UHD ink cartridges and paper.
- Compact desktop size still supports prints up to 8.5" x 14", with bypass tray support up to 8.5" x 51".
- MySawgrass and Sawgrass Print Utility are designed for templates and color control.
- Comes with Wi-Fi connectivity, print head auto-maintenance, and a 2-year warranty plus lifetime education and support.
Cons:
- Maximum standard media size is limited compared with larger-format sublimation printers.
- Best suited to compact projects rather than oversized transfer work.
- Print-only design means no scanning or copying features.
The SG500 stands out when color management, support, and dependable small-format output matter more than sheer size. It is a practical choice for artists who want a polished desktop workflow for products like drinkware, shirts, and signage.
How We Picked the Best Sublimation Printers for Artists
We focused on print quality, ease of setup, included supplies, supported media size, and overall value. For artists, the best choices are the ones that balance reliable color output with a workflow that does not slow down production.
We also looked at whether each printer is better suited to small studio use, beginner-friendly crafting, or higher-volume work. Bundles with ink, paper, and starter supplies can be especially useful when you want to start printing right away.
Quick Comparison: What Matters Most
When comparing Sublimation Printers for Artists, start with three questions: How large do you need to print? How often will you print? And how much setup are you comfortable handling?
- Small-format printers are a smart fit for decals, apparel graphics, mugs, and most desktop craft projects.
- Wide-format printers suit artists producing larger transfers, signage, or repeating patterns for commercial work.
- Starter bundles help reduce extra shopping by including ink, paper, tape, and sometimes blank substrates.
Key Buying Factors for Sublimation Printers for Artists
Print Size
Choose a printer size that matches the products you actually make. Compact models are usually enough for most beginners and home studios, while 24-inch printers make sense if you need larger artwork or higher output.
Color and Consistency
Good color control matters for branding, illustration work, and repeatable results. Look for a printer known for dependable output and a clean transfer process.
Included Software and Supplies
Some bundles include design software, transfer sheets, and starter ink sets. That can lower upfront friction, especially if you are new to sublimation or want a ready-to-use setup.
Connectivity and Workflow
Wireless printing, simple setup, and easy maintenance can save time in a small studio. If you work from multiple devices, connectivity features may be more valuable than a slight spec upgrade.
Who Should Buy Which Sublimation Printers for Artists?
If you are a beginner or hobbyist, a compact model or starter bundle is usually the best place to start. It gives you the lowest learning curve and enough capability for most art-driven projects.
If you sell custom products regularly, choose a printer with stronger bundle value, faster throughput, and consistent ink supply. For larger-format work, a wide printer is the best fit for artists who need more room to scale their designs.
In short, the best Sublimation Printers for Artists are the ones that match your creative output, your workspace, and your budget—not just the biggest spec sheet.