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Best Printer For Sublimation And Heat Transfer (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a printer for sublimation and heat transfer, you’ve come to the right place. These types of printers are becoming increasingly popular among professionals and hobbyists who create custom designs for garments, mugs, and other items. But before buying one, there are a few factors you should consider.

First, think about the type and size of items you will be printing on. Some printers are designed for larger items like banners and posters, while others are best suited for smaller items like mugs and phone cases. Additionally, consider the type of ink the printer uses – dye-sublimation printers use specific ink that is designed to bond with the material being printed on, so make sure to choose a printer that is compatible with the ink you plan to use.

When shopping around for a printer for sublimation and heat transfer, ask yourself these questions. What is my budget? What is the maximum size of item I will be printing on? How many items will I be printing in a single batch? What type of ink will I be using? By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a printer that fits your needs and budget. And with the right printer, you’ll be able to create professional-quality custom designs on everything from t-shirts to keychains.

10 Best Printer For Sublimation And Heat Transfer

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for heat transfer sublimation printing on various types of paper using Ricoh printers.
2
Ideal for heat-related tasks such as electronics, 3D printers, and DIY crafts due to its high temperature resistance.
3
The product is ideal for heat transfer printing onto various materials such as t-shirts, mouse pads, and canvas bags.
4
It is ideal for sublimation, heat pressing, 3D printing, and soldering applications that require heat-resistant tape with no residue.
5
The product is ideal for printing photos and designs on T-shirts and cups using heat press technology.
6
The product bundle is ideal for sublimation printing with a heat press, offering inks, paper, tape, blanks, and exclusive designs.
7
This product is ideal for sublimation printing with specific inkjet printer models, allowing for deepening of black coloring on transfers.
8
The product is ideal for printing designs onto plates, mugs, caps, t-shirts and other items using heat transfer or sublimation.
9
The product is ideal for sublimation heat thermal transfer dye on ceramic glass mugs.
10
This product is ideal for sublimation printing on various materials using specific printer models from Sawgrass and Ricoh.
This product is ideal for heat transfer sublimation printing on various types of paper using Ricoh printers.
Ideal for heat-related tasks such as electronics, 3D printers, and DIY crafts due to its high temperature resistance.
The product is ideal for heat transfer printing onto various materials such as t-shirts, mouse pads, and canvas bags.
It is ideal for sublimation, heat pressing, 3D printing, and soldering applications that require heat-resistant tape with no residue.
The product is ideal for printing photos and designs on T-shirts and cups using heat press technology.
The product bundle is ideal for sublimation printing with a heat press, offering inks, paper, tape, blanks, and exclusive designs.
This product is ideal for sublimation printing with specific inkjet printer models, allowing for deepening of black coloring on transfers.
The product is ideal for printing designs onto plates, mugs, caps, t-shirts and other items using heat transfer or sublimation.
The product is ideal for sublimation heat thermal transfer dye on ceramic glass mugs.
This product is ideal for sublimation printing on various materials using specific printer models from Sawgrass and Ricoh.

1. Aomya Sublimation Ink: Ricoh Heat Transfer 4-Pack

This package contains 4 ink cartridges, with 32 ml each for Cyan/Magenta/Yellow and 40 ml for Black. These cartridges are compatible with various Ricoh printers including SG2100, SG3110DNW, and SG7100DN. The ink cartridges undergo strict testing to ensure that they have the same physical and chemical properties as the original cartridges. This guarantees that the ink is 100% compatible with the original ink cartridges, ensuring that the ink dots are always smooth, uniform, and clear.

With these ink cartridges, you can expect sharp and high-resolution colors that appear lifelike, even after transfer. The ink also has good resistance to scratches, making it ideal for printing on a variety of surfaces such as packaging, mugs, porcelain, tiles, tents, flags, promotional gifts, and artwork. It is important to note that these ink cartridges are designed for use with piezoelectric printers and are not refillable.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the manufacturer for assistance.

Pros

  • Compatible with various Ricoh printers
  • High-quality ink that guarantees clear and smooth prints
  • Produces sharp and lifelike colors
  • Good resistance to scratches
  • Suitable for printing on various surfaces

Cons

  • – Not refillable

2. Hotzone Polyimide Tape – Temperature-Proof Diy Essential

This pack of heat tapes includes 2 rolls of polyester film tape with a high-temperature resistant adhesive. Each roll is appropriately sized in width and length, with a thickness of about 0.05mm, making it suitable for different applications. These tapes are easy to use and not prone to breaking while peeling. They can be used for coffee mug press, heat press, T-shirt application, or other thermal transfer printing.

These heat transfer tapes have multiple functions. They can withstand heat of up to 220 degrees Celsius, making them suitable for protecting electronic products, electric motors, solder, as well as painting, packing fixing, and printing boards. They are not only suitable for sublimation on coffee cups but also for heat transfer vinyl on T-shirts, pillows, clothing, fabrics, and most DIY projects.

If you experience any markings during use, don't worry. You can easily remove these marks by wiping them with Fengyoujing, banana water, or alcohol. It is important to note that the product can withstand high temperatures of up to 220 degrees Celsius, and it takes about 10 seconds during the thermal transfer process.

Pros

  • Can withstand high temperatures
  • Suitable for various applications
  • Easy to use
  • Can be used for multiple functions
  • Appropriate size for different needs

3. Horgelu High-Pressure Heat Press: Professional Sublimation Printer

The Horgelu Heat Press boasts a special Thickened Aluminum Heating Plate that allows for quick and even heating up to the desired temperature. Its revolutionary Teflon Coated surface ensures that the plate is anti-stick and corrosion-resistant, making it a durable and reliable machine for all your heat press needs.

This heat press machine is equipped with a built-in over-heating protective fuse that ensures 100% safety. If the temperature exceeds the set limit or any accidents occur, the machine will automatically shut off, protecting you and your property from any harm.

The advanced high efficient control system of this machine includes a precise control panel that helps you accurately regulate the temperature and time. Additionally, the newest control box has two new functions – mode setting and counting of heat transfer working, making your work more efficient and convenient.

Fully assembled and easy to use, the Horgelu Heat Press features pressure adjustable features that allow you to adjust the desired pressure according to the thickness of the material, ensuring optimal transfer effect. This feature also allows you to better control the pressure during transfer, making it an ideal machine for professionals, small studios, and personal use.

This heat press machine is widely applicable and perfect for T-shirts, garments, bags, mouse mats, jigsaw puzzles, ceramic tiles, and any other flat surfaced items.

Pros

  • Special Thickened Aluminum Heating Plate for quick and even heating
  • Teflon Coated surface for anti-stick and corrosion resistance
  • Built-in over-heating protective fuse for 100% safety
  • Advanced high efficient control system with precise control panel
  • Easy-to-use pressure adjustable features for better control
  • Widely applicable and perfect for various flat surfaced items

4. Colorful Heat Tape – Sublimation And Electronics

Looking for a tape that can meet your specific requirements? Look no further than Perfect Width. They offer a variety of colors and sizes to choose from, including 10mm/0.9in, 13mm/0.51in, 20mm/0.79in, 25mm/0.98in, 30mm/1.18in, and 50mm/1.97in, all with a length of 33m/108ft. Whether you need a wider sublimation thermal tape to block and protect a larger surface, or a heat transfer tape for a heat press that is broad and long enough to meet various demands, Perfect Width has got you covered.

Made of PET material, the EDSRDRUS heat resistant tape is designed to withstand a wide temperature range of -30°C (-22°F) to 250°C (482°F). It has a long period heat resistance of 220°C (428°F) and short period heat resistance of 250°C (482°F), making it perfect for use in sublimation without melting. The tape is designed to leave no residue when removed and is easy to peel off, even from finished sublimated products.

Perfect Width's sublimation tape is made from high-quality polyamide film and silicone adhesive. The edges are flat and won't cut your hands. It has high insulation, acid and alkali resistance, low electrolysis, and good mechanical properties, making it widely used in the electronics industry. The tape adheres well to all surfaces, even uneven ones, to support any sublimation or heat press product.

Perfect Width's heat transfer tape has a wide range of applications. It's perfect for sublimation on coffee mugs, 3D printers, heat transfer vinyl on T-shirts, pillows, clothing, or fabrics. With its high-temperature resistance and easy-to-use properties, it's sure to become your go-to tape for all your sublimation needs.

Pros

  • Variety of colors and sizes to meet specific requirements
  • High-temperature resistance and won't melt in sublimation
  • Leaves no residue and easy to peel off
  • Made from high-quality materials and widely used in the electronics industry
  • Adheres well to all surfaces, even uneven ones
  • Wide range of applications for sublimation on different products

5. Bake 'n' Print Cup Iron: Multifunction Heat Press

The heating plate of this product can cause burns, so it is important to avoid any contact with it while it is heating up. In order to ensure successful transfer, it is necessary to consider factors such as time, temperature, pressure, as well as the thickness and material of the object being stamped. The quality of transfer paper also plays a role in the final outcome of the transfer. The temperature control instrument is easy to use, with no additional adjustments necessary other than setting the desired temperature value. Failure to do so may result in the instrument malfunctioning.

Pros

  • Easy to use temperature control instrument
  • Effective transfer process when used correctly

Cons

  • – Risk of burns from heating plate
  • – Requires careful consideration of various factors for successful transfer
  • – Quality of transfer paper can impact final result

6. Sawgrass Sg500 Starter Bundle: Sublime Printing Kit

The Sawgrass SG500 Dye-Sublimation Printer with Sawgrass UHD Starter Ink Set is a reliable and efficient printer that produces high-quality prints for a variety of products. With a maximum print speed of 20 pages per minute (black and white) and 5 pages per minute (color), this printer is perfect for both personal and professional use.

The Swing's Pro 4-in-1 Mug & Cup Heat Press in Turquoise is a versatile and easy-to-use heat press that allows you to print on a variety of products, including mugs, cups, tumblers, and latte glasses. It comes with four different attachments, including a large mug attachment, a small mug attachment, a tall conical tumbler attachment, and a short conical latte attachment. It also comes with a 12-pack of ProSub 11oz Mug Blanks, 100 sheets of premium sublimation paper, and four rolls of ProSub Heat Resistant Transfer Tape in different sizes (1/8in, 1/4in, 1/2in, and 1in).

In addition, this package includes five Design Access Cards for Sublimation Designs (SVGs, JPGs, Commercial Use), each of which is good for up to 30 designs. The printer comes with a two-year manufacturer warranty and Manufacturer 1-on-1 Onboarding for support. It also includes CreativeStudio Online Designer Software, which is easy to use and allows you to create your own designs.

Please note that the Sawgrass SG500 includes starter inks that are used to fill the ink lines. Although you may receive a low ink warning, the starter inks should provide over 200 full coverage prints. The printer is recommended for use with Windows 10 or newer and Mac OS 10.9 or newer.

Pros

  • High-quality prints with maximum print speed of 20 pages per minute (black and white) and 5 pages per minute (color)
  • Versatile and easy-to-use heat press with four different attachments for printing on mugs, cups, tumblers, and latte glasses
  • Comes with a 12-pack of ProSub 11oz Mug Blanks, 100 sheets of premium sublimation paper, and four rolls of ProSub Heat Resistant Transfer Tape in different sizes (1/8in, 1/4in, 1/2in, and 1in)
  • Includes five Design Access Cards for Sublimation Designs (SVGs, JPGs, Commercial Use), each of which is good for up to 30 designs
  • Comes with a two-year manufacturer warranty and Manufacturer 1-on-1 Onboarding for support
  • Includes CreativeStudio Online Designer Software, which is easy to use and allows you to create your own designs

Cons

  • – None

7. Jetblack Ink For High-Performance Printing

Bring your printing to life with more vivid and beautiful colors using this sublimation ink. This high-quality ink is not only suitable for regular printing, but also for high-quality photo printing. It is perfect for sublimation products that require brilliant colors.

Save more money with this budget-friendly option. Compared to other ink cartridges that may have almost double the price, this sublimation ink is an economical choice. It is an excellent way to reduce printing costs without compromising the quality of your prints.

Experience a hassle-free ink refill with this sublimation ink. The accessories are designed to make it easy for you to add ink to your printer. The extended nozzle of the ink bottle helps you fill the ink cartridge without any spillage or mess. You can say goodbye to the trouble of refilling ink cartridges with this user-friendly sublimation ink.

Unleash your creativity with the wide range of applications for this sublimation ink. You can use it for printing on various surfaces like T-shirts, hats, pillowcases, canvas bags, mugs, coffee cups, shot glasses, flasks, mouse pads, phone cases, banners, shoes, and more. You can create unique and personalized gifts for your family and friends.

Get high-quality service and satisfaction with this sublimation ink kit. It is used for refillable ink cartridges or CISS systems and is ISO 9001 and MSDS certified. You can enjoy a 1-year manufacturer 100% satisfaction guarantee with your purchase.

Pros

  • Produces vivid and beautiful colors for high-quality printing
  • Budget-friendly option that saves you more money
  • Easy to use with improved accessories
  • Wide range of applications for creative printing
  • High-quality service with ISO 9001 and MSDS certification and a 1-year manufacturer 100% satisfaction guarantee

8. Sishuinianhua Sublimation 8-In-1 Heat Press

This heat press machine is a versatile tool for transferring images onto various types of materials. It has a voltage of 110V/220V and a power output of 350W for plates, hats, and mugs and 1250W for T-shirts. The working size can be customized according to the user's preference. The time range for pressing can be set from 0 to 999 seconds while the temperature range can be adjusted from 0 to 399 °C. This machine comes with a digital control board that makes it easy to operate and monitor the temperature and time settings. The heat press also has a built-in alarm that signals when the pressing cycle is complete. It is ideal for both home and commercial use, and the compact design makes it easy to store when not in use.

Pros

  • Versatile tool for transferring images onto various materials
  • Customizable working size
  • Digital control board for easy operation
  • Built-in alarm for convenient use
  • Ideal for both home and commercial use
  • Compact design for easy storage

9. 2 Pcs. Beer Blank White Ceramic Glass 20 Oz. Mug Sublimation Heat Thermal Transfer Dye

Introducing the Very Nice 2 Pieces Sublimation White Ceramic Beer Mug, a versatile and customizable drinking vessel made through the dye sublimation transfer process. This special printing process allows high-quality digital images to be printed on any material that is treated or polymer-coated, including polyester garments. The process involves using a printer, special sublimation inks, paper, and a heat press to transfer the ink onto the surface of the mug.

These beer mugs are popular for personalized gifts, parties, birthdays, promotions for restaurants or bars, or as part of a personalized collection for your favorite drinker. The process is simple, first, print the image you want onto a high-quality inkjet coated paper using your inkjet printer equipped with sublimation inks. Then, position the printed page against the item to be printed, ensuring that the image is facing the item. You can secure it in place if needed, and use a Teflon sheet to protect your item from scorching and ghost images. Finally, press the item using a heat press.

It is important to be careful when removing the printed sheet to avoid any ghost images or shifts, which can affect the final result. With the Very Nice 2 Pieces Sublimation White Ceramic Beer Mug, you can create personalized drinking vessels that are high-quality and perfect for any occasion.

Pros

  • Versatile and customizable drinking vessel through the dye sublimation transfer process
  • High-quality digital images can be printed on any material that is treated or polymer-coated
  • Simple process involving a printer, special sublimation inks, paper, and a heat press
  • Perfect for personalized gifts, parties, birthdays, promotions for restaurants or bars, or as part of a personalized collection

10. Sublimation Ink For Virtuoso & Ricoh Printers

The PJ SG Sublimation Ink is an excellent choice for sublimation printing on various surfaces such as polyester clothing, cloth bags, hats, pillows, mugs, tile, watches, mouse mats, cup mats, calendars, medals, phone cases, and pennants. The ink is compatible with SAWGRASS Virtuoso SG 400, SG 500, SG 800, SG 1000, SG 400NA, SG 800NA, RICOH SG3110, SG2100N, SG3100, SG3100SF, SG3100SNW, SG3110DNW, SG3110DN, SG3110SFNW, SG3120SF, and SG7100DN printers. It is formulated specifically for SAWGRASS and RICOH inkjet printers, and it can be used with refillable cartridges and CISS ink systems. The ink is scratch-resistant, waterproof, anti-UV, and non-fading, which makes it perfect for creating long-lasting, high-quality prints. It undergoes micron-3 stage filtration to reduce printhead clogging, ensuring smooth color and textures that are clear and natural. With this ink, you can save money without compromising quality, and you are guaranteed 100% satisfaction.

If you are looking for a sublimation ink that will produce high-quality prints, then the PJ SG Sublimation Ink is an excellent choice. It is compatible with a wide range of printers, and it can be used on various surfaces. The ink is formulated to be scratch-resistant, waterproof, anti-UV, and non-fading, which makes it perfect for creating long-lasting prints. It also undergoes micron-3 stage filtration to reduce printhead clogging, ensuring smooth color and textures that are clear and natural. Whether you are a professional or a beginner, this ink is a great option for sublimation printing.

The PJ SG Sublimation Ink is a reliable and high-quality ink that produces excellent results. It is easy to use and compatible with a wide range of printers, and it is perfect for creating long-lasting prints on various surfaces. The ink is formulated to be scratch-resistant, waterproof, anti-UV, and non-fading, which makes it ideal for sublimation printing. Whether you are printing on polyester clothing, cloth bags, hats, pillows, mugs, tile, watches, mouse mats, cup mats, calendars, medals, phone cases, or pennants, this ink will produce high-quality prints that are clear and natural.

Pros

  • Compatible with a wide range of printers
  • Formulated to be scratch-resistant, waterproof, anti-UV, and non-fading
  • Undergoes micron-3 stage filtration to reduce printhead clogging
  • Produces smooth colors and textures that are clear and natural
  • Suitable for printing on various surfaces
  • Can be used with refillable cartridges and CISS ink systems
  • Provides great saving without compromising quality
  • 100% satisfaction guaranteed

Best Printer For Sublimation And Heat Transfer FAQs

Can a regular inkjet printer be used for sublimation or heat transfer printing?

No, a regular inkjet printer cannot be used for sublimation or heat transfer printing. Sublimation and heat transfer printing require special types of ink and paper that are designed to transfer the image onto the substrate through heat and pressure. The ink used in sublimation printing is a special type of dye ink that becomes a gas when heated and then solidifies onto the substrate. The paper used in sublimation printing has a special coating that allows the ink to bond with the substrate.

Similarly, heat transfer printing requires a special type of ink that is transferred onto a carrier paper and then onto the substrate through heat and pressure. The ink used in heat transfer printing is also different from regular inkjet ink, as it needs to be able to bond with the substrate under high pressure and heat.

Therefore, if you want to do sublimation or heat transfer printing, you need to use a printer that is specifically designed for these types of printing. These printers use special inks and papers that are compatible with the heat and pressure required for sublimation and heat transfer printing.

How do you properly maintain a sublimation or heat transfer printer for optimal performance?

To ensure the optimal performance of your sublimation or heat transfer printer, it is important to follow a regular maintenance routine. Here are some tips to help you keep your printer in top condition:

1. Clean the printer regularly: Dust and debris can accumulate in the printer over time and affect its performance. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the exterior of the printer as well as the printhead, platen, and other internal parts.

2. Use high-quality ink and paper: To achieve the best results, always use high-quality sublimation ink and transfer paper that are compatible with your printer. Using low-quality supplies can cause clogging, smudging, and other problems.

3. Keep the printer in a stable environment: Sublimation and heat transfer printers are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Keep your printer in a stable environment with moderate temperature and humidity levels to prevent damage to the printhead and other parts.

4. Perform regular maintenance tasks: Depending on the model of your printer, you may need to perform tasks such as printhead cleaning, nozzle checks, and ink cartridge replacement on a regular basis. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance to keep your printer running smoothly.

By following these tips and maintaining your sublimation or heat transfer printer regularly, you can ensure optimal performance and extend the life of your printer.

What is the best printer for sublimation and heat transfer printing?

When it comes to sublimation and heat transfer printing, the printer you choose plays a crucial role in determining the quality and durability of your prints. The best printer for sublimation and heat transfer printing is one that can handle high-resolution images, produce vibrant colors, and print on a variety of materials.

One of the top choices for sublimation printing is the Epson SureColor P800. This printer uses UltraChrome HD ink technology to produce stunning, high-quality prints on a range of surfaces including fabric, metal, and ceramics. It comes with a wide color gamut and can handle paper sizes up to 17 inches wide.

Another popular option is the Sawgrass Virtuoso SG500. This printer is specifically designed for sublimation printing and uses specially formulated ink to produce vibrant colors and sharp images. It can print on a range of materials including polyester, cotton, and metal.

Ultimately, the best printer for sublimation and heat transfer printing depends on your specific needs and budget. It's important to do your research and choose a printer that can deliver the quality and versatility you require for your projects.

What is the difference between a sublimation printer and a heat transfer printer?

A sublimation printer and a heat transfer printer are two types of printing technologies used in the apparel industry.

Sublimation printing involves transferring dye onto a substrate (usually polyester material) using heat and pressure. The dye is first printed onto a transfer paper using a sublimation printer and then transferred onto the fabric using heat and pressure. The result is a vibrant and long-lasting print that becomes a part of the fabric itself.

On the other hand, heat transfer printing involves transferring a design onto a substrate using heat and pressure. The design is first printed onto a transfer paper using a regular inkjet printer and then transferred onto the fabric using a heat press. The result is a print that sits on top of the fabric and can peel or crack over time.

In summary, the main difference between a sublimation printer and a heat transfer printer is the type of ink used and the process of transferring the design onto the fabric. Sublimation printing uses dye that becomes a part of the fabric, while heat transfer printing uses regular ink that sits on top of the fabric.

What type of ink is needed for sublimation printing and heat transfer printing?

Sublimation printing and heat transfer printing both require specialized inks to achieve the desired results. Sublimation printing involves transferring ink onto a substrate using heat, which then turns the ink into a gas that permeates the substrate, resulting in vibrant, long-lasting prints that won't fade or crack over time. The inks used for sublimation printing are typically dye-based and are specifically designed to work with the sublimation process.

Heat transfer printing, on the other hand, involves transferring a design from a carrier paper to a substrate using heat and pressure. The inks used for heat transfer printing can vary depending on the type of substrate being printed, but they generally need to be able to withstand high temperatures and adhere well to the substrate. Common types of ink used for heat transfer printing include plastisol, water-based, and solvent-based inks.

In conclusion, both sublimation printing and heat transfer printing require specialized inks to achieve high-quality, long-lasting prints. Dye-based inks are commonly used for sublimation printing, while various types of inks can be used for heat transfer printing. It is important to choose the right type of ink for the specific printing process and substrate being used to ensure the best possible results.

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