10 Best Sublimation Printers for T Shirts in 2026

Choosing a sublimation printer for T shirts is mostly about matching print size, ink cost, and how much setup help you want. The right model can save time, reduce waste, and make heat-transfer printing more predictable.

Below, we focus on printers that fit beginners, small shops, and higher-volume makers, with an eye on reliability, bundle value, and overall ease of use.

Best 10 Sublimation Printer for T Shirts Picks for 2026

Compact Dye-Sublimation Pick – Epson SureColor F170 for Small-Format Transfers

If you want a sublimation printer for t shirts that is compact, dependable, and built for clean workflow, the Epson SureColor F170 is a strong small-format option. It uses genuine Epson sublimation ink, a dust-resistant closed tray, and a 150-sheet auto-feed system to keep everyday transfer printing simple for hobbyists and small businesses.

Best For: Crafters and small shops that want a compact, OEM-supported sublimation setup for shirts and other personalized items.

Pros:

• Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks in factory-sealed packaging.
• PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control for sharp image clarity.
• 150-sheet auto-feed tray and dust-resistant closed paper path help streamline printing.
• Compact 8.5″ x 11″ design with wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity.

Cons:

• Limited to 8.5″ width media, so it is not built for larger shirt graphics.
• Print-only design means no scanning or copying functions.
• Best suited to small-format sublimation rather than high-volume production.

This is a practical choice if you want a straightforward Epson sublimation system with manufacturer support and a tidy footprint. It emphasizes print quality and ease of use over broad versatility, which makes sense for shirt transfers and other small custom projects.

App-Driven Transfer Printer – Brother SP1 for DIY Sublimation

The Brother SP1 is a smart option if you want a sublimation printer for t shirts with app-based design creation and quick setup. It works with the Artspira app, includes Brother Genuine Sublimation Ink, and is designed for heat-press transfer projects on polyester-coated items like shirts, mugs, bags, and hats.

Best For: DIY users who want guided design tools and an easy way to make custom heat-transfer apparel.

Pros:

• Artspira app support lets you import, save, and create designs on the go.
• Includes Brother Genuine Sublimation Ink and a starter pack of sublimation paper.
• Built for vibrant heat-transfer projects on shirts and other polyester-coated items.
• Fast printing speeds and a 2-year limited warranty add convenience.

Cons:

• Requires the Artspira app to start using the printer.
• Heat press is required and must be purchased separately.
• Limited to US 120V use; other use may void the warranty.

For creators who want a more guided, app-centered workflow, the Brother SP1 stands out. It is aimed at DIY transfer printing rather than traditional standalone printing, so it fits best when you want quick, colorful apparel customization with a heat press.

OEM-Supported Epson Bundle – SureColor F170 with Ink Included

This Epson SureColor F170 bundle is a practical sublimation printer for t shirts if you want the same compact 8.5″ x 11″ format with included inks and support. It features Epson’s PrecisionCore printhead, a dust-resistant tray, and wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity for use with Windows, macOS, and mobile workflows through compatible Epson software.

Best For: Buyers who want an Epson F170 bundle with included ink for custom shirts and small-format transfer work.

Pros:

• Includes a full set of Epson sublimation ink, power cable, and user guide.
• PrecisionCore printhead is designed for strong image clarity.
• 150-sheet auto-feed tray and closed paper path help reduce prep and dust.
• Supports wireless, USB, and Ethernet printing.

Cons:

• Still limited to 8.5″ width media.
• Print-only design offers no scan or copy features.
• The listing emphasizes small-format transfers rather than large garment graphics.

If you are comparing F170 bundles, this version keeps the same core Epson strengths while adding bundled accessories from the seller. It is a sensible pick for shirt transfer work when you want OEM ink included and a compact desktop footprint.

Super-Tank Conversion Option – Cartridge-Free Sublimation All-in-One

If you want a sublimation printer for t shirts with a refillable tank system, this cartridge-free all-in-one is built around convenience and lower mess. It is a wireless super-tank printer with scan and copy functions, large ink bottles, and an auto-fill nozzle designed to make sublimation ink loading easier for custom transfer projects.

Best For: Users who want a refillable, all-in-one sublimation setup for shirts, mugs, bags, and other custom items.

Pros:

• Cartridge-free super-tank design reduces reliance on replacement cartridges.
• Includes high-capacity sublimation ink bottles in CMYK.
• Auto-fill nozzle is designed for easy, low-mess ink filling.
• All-in-one functions add copy and scan capability.

Cons:

• Warranty coverage is short at 30 days in the supplied details.
• Branding and conversion-style listing suggest a less established package than major OEM bundles.
• Paper size is limited to 8.5 x 11 inch media.

This model makes sense if your priority is refillable convenience over brand-name ecosystem support. For shirt printing, it offers a practical tank-based path to sublimation, especially if you also want scanning and copying in the same machine.

Pro-Grade Starter Pick – Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer

If you want a sublimation printer for t shirts that feels ready for serious use out of the box, the Epson SureColor F170 is built around print quality and convenience. It includes a full set of OEM Epson sublimation inks, starter paper, thermal tape, and a 150-sheet auto-feed tray, making it a strong choice for clean transfer work with less setup hassle.

Best For: Small shops and home users who want Epson print quality with an included starter bundle for apparel and other sublimation projects.

Pros:

• PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control for sharp image clarity
• Includes OEM Epson sublimation ink plus starter paper and thermal tape
• 150-sheet auto-feed tray and closed dust-resistant paper path
• Supports soft and rigid materials for broader project use

Cons:

• Print-only design, so there is no scanner or copier
• Limited to 8.5″ x 14″ media size
• Slower output is typical for sublimation-focused printers

The F170 is a practical option if your priority is dependable output and a bundled start for sublimation work. It is especially appealing when print consistency matters more than extra office functions.

All-in-One Value Pick – Pinckney Cartridge-Free Super-Tank Printer

The Pinckney cartridge-free super-tank model is a budget-conscious sublimation printer for t shirts if you want scanning and copying in the same unit. It comes pre-bundled with sublimation ink, features easy-fill tanks, and supports a wide range of paper sizes, which can help if you also make transfers for other project formats.

Best For: Buyers who want an all-in-one sublimation setup with easy refills and built-in scanner/copier functions.

Pros:

• Cartridge-free super-tank design with included sublimation ink
• Built-in scanner and copier for added versatility
• Easy-fill nozzle system helps reduce mess during refills
• High-resolution output up to 5760 x 1440 dpi

Cons:

• Best suited to standard-size transfer work rather than large-format printing
• Users may need to troubleshoot nozzle checks and head alignment
• Print quality is expected to look dull on paper before heat transfer

This is a flexible choice if you want one device to handle both sublimation printing and everyday document tasks. The included ink bundle and easy-fill tanks make it appealing for first-time setups.

Compact Craft Bundle – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer

The Brother SP-1 is a compact sublimation printer for t shirts and other custom items, with a bundle that includes CMYK inks, transfer sheets, and Artspira design software. Its Wi-Fi and Ethernet support, plus Windows, Mac, and app compatibility, make it a handy pick for crafters and small business users who want a streamlined workflow.

Best For: Crafters and small businesses that want a compact printer bundle with design software and broad device compatibility.

Pros:

• Includes full CMYK ink set and 10 sublimation sheets
• Artspira software bundle adds designs and creative tools
• Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity for flexible setup
• Designed for t shirts, tote bags, mugs, tumblers, and more

Cons:

• Print-only unit with no scanning or copying functions
• Starter paper pack is limited to 10 sheets
• Compact size may not suit users needing higher-volume production

The SP-1 stands out as a practical entry point if you want an easy-to-use bundle with design support included. It is especially appealing for creators who value convenience and broad compatibility over extra office features.

Professional Desktop Pick – Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer Bundle

If you want a sublimation printer for t shirts with a more professional setup, the Sawgrass SG500 is built for vibrant, high-definition results. It’s a compact desktop printer, but it still comes with Wi-Fi, auto-maintenance, and a full CMYK SubliJet UHD ink set, making it a solid fit for custom apparel and other small-batch products.

Best For: Small businesses and home-based creators who want reliable, professional-looking sublimation prints for shirts and other merch.

Pros:

• Includes a full 4-pack of 31 mL SubliJet UHD inks and TruePix paper
• Prints up to 8.5″ x 14″ directly, with bypass tray support up to 8.5″ x 51″
• Wi-Fi connectivity and print head auto-maintenance support easier day-to-day use
• MySawgrass software and Print Utility help with templates and color control

Cons:

• Maximum standard media size is limited to 8.5″ x 14″
• Designed for US/North American 110/120V outlets only

Overall, the SG500 stands out when print quality and reliability matter more than having the lowest-cost option. It’s a strong choice if you’re building a shirt business and want a compact system with bundled supplies and software support.

Best Bundle Value – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Deluxe Kit

The Brother SP-1 is a practical sublimation printer for t shirts if you want a ready-to-use bundle with plenty of extras. Along with the printer, it includes full CMYK inks, sublimation sheets, blanks, tape, and design resources, so you can start testing shirt designs without piecing together accessories separately.

Best For: Crafters, hobbyists, and small business sellers who want an all-in-one sublimation starter bundle.

Pros:

• Bundle includes inks, 310 sublimation transfer sheets, 50 blanks, and heat-resistant tape
• Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity support flexible setup options
• Artspira design app access and included design assets add convenience
• Compact printer size fits crafting and home business spaces

Cons:

• Maximum sheet size is limited to legal size, 8.5″ x 14″
• Print output is listed at 10 pages per minute for color and black and white

As a bundle, this Brother kit is more about convenience than just the printer itself. It’s especially appealing if you want supplies and creative tools in one package so you can move straight into shirt projects.

Refillable Tank Option – A4 Sublimation Printer for Clothes

This A4 sublimation printer for t shirts is aimed at users who want a refillable tank setup instead of cartridges. It’s listed as a wireless super-tank all-in-one printer with scanner and copier, and the included 70 mL CMYK sublimation ink set makes it a straightforward pick for basic shirt-transfer work and other small-format projects.

Best For: Budget-conscious users who want a refillable, all-in-one sublimation setup for basic apparel transfers.

Pros:

• Refillable ink tank design helps avoid cartridges
• Includes 70 mL black, cyan, magenta, and yellow sublimation inks
• All-in-one functionality adds scan and copy features
• Wireless and USB connectivity support simple setup

Cons:

• Maximum media size is limited to 8.5″ x 11″
• It is a generic conversion-style printer rather than a known brand model
• Warranty is listed as only 30 days in the notes

This model makes sense if you want a lower-friction way to get into sublimation without cartridges. Just keep in mind that it’s best suited to smaller print sizes and buyers who are comfortable with a more basic, conversion-style setup.

How We Picked the Best Sublimation Printer for T Shirts

We prioritized models that make sense for T shirt heat transfer work: dependable print quality, manageable operating costs, and a setup that fits real-world users. We also weighed bundle completeness, ink availability, and whether the printer is better suited to casual crafting or ongoing production.

Quick Comparison

For most buyers, the biggest differences come down to format and workflow. Compact printers like the Epson SureColor F170 are a strong fit if you want a straightforward desktop setup. Brother SP-1 options appeal to users who want included design tools and bundle value. Sawgrass SG500 is often the pick for users who want a more dedicated sublimation ecosystem. Super-tank and A4 transfer-style models may offer broader flexibility, but they can vary more in setup and long-term consistency.

Key Buying Factors for a Sublimation Printer for T Shirts

Print Size and Shirt Design Needs

Think about the largest artwork you plan to press. Smaller desktop formats are fine for logos, chest prints, and child sizes, while larger or wider designs may call for a different workflow or multiple panels.

Ink System and Ongoing Cost

A major decision is whether you want cartridges, refillable tanks, or a bundled ink package. Cartridges are simple, while tank-style systems can lower cost per print if you use the printer often. For a Sublimation Printer for T Shirts, ink consistency matters as much as price.

Software, Setup, and Support

Beginners should pay close attention to included software, starter inks, paper, and instructions. A better out-of-box experience can matter more than a small difference in specs, especially if you are new to color management and heat pressing.

Bundle Value Versus Core Printer Quality

Some listings add paper, tape, blanks, or full ink sets. Those extras can be useful, but they should not distract from the printer itself. Look for a package that supports your first several projects without forcing you into repeated accessories purchases.

Who Should Buy Which Sublimation Printer for T Shirts?

If you want the simplest path to reliable T shirt transfers, choose a compact, well-supported model with a clear starter bundle. If you are building a side business, prioritize low operating costs and easy supply replenishment. If you value a more guided creative workflow, look for bundles that include design software and transfer materials. Heavy users should focus on the printer platform that best balances speed, maintenance, and ink economy over time.