If you are looking for the best printer for dye sublimation in 2023 for your DIY projects; here I have a list of suitable products you need.
Do you want to use a sublimation printer for your DIY projects? Indeed, this is a fun activity and lets you get quick prints on anything you want. However, figuring out the best product among hundreds of available options is a pretty confusing job. Moreover, a sublimation printer is expensive; therefore, you need to consider many features to end up with a product that values your money.
To get the right option for you, make sure to define your requirements first. If it seems tough to you, no worries. In this article, I will share a list of quality sublimation printers with all their unique features. Read this list carefully to buy the best printer for dye sublimation in 2023 with all the required elements to complete your project and fits perfectly into your budget.
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Best Printer For Dye Sublimation in 2023
1. Brother MFC-J995DW INKvestmentTank Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer
Do you want to invest in a sublimation printer that provides affordable yet powerful sublimation? In that case, you need a Brother MFC-J995DW sublimation printer. You can call it the best professional dye sublimation option because of its user-friendly features and quality prints.
Specifications
- Weight: 18.1 lbs
- Dimensions: 17.0” (W) x 13.3″ (D) x 7.6″ (H)
- 2.6” Touchscreen LCD Display
- Resolution: 1200 x 600 dpi
It is a modern product with a futuristic look and functionality. This product lies in the heavier option but serves the purpose perfectly.
Furthermore, to preview the document, it has a 2.6” touchscreen display. Also, to customize and select the document, it has a menu, power, back, and cancel buttons on the front part. If you want sheetfed technology, no worries, it has an 8.5″ x 11″ flatbed scanner. The resolution of this printer is 1200 DPI, which is standard and provides extremely refined images.
To use this printer, plug it in, insert cartridges and then to send the document, choose the connectivity type, i.e., wireless or wired. You can do this by using a control panel. For further guidance, the product comes with a user guide and installation CD to keep the process easy for you. The printing speed of this tool is so high, i.e., 12 PPM. However, this is possible only if you want monochrome documents.
Pros
- Accurate and rich colored printing
- 12 PPM of monochrome documents
- No warm-up needed
Cons
- The paper tray is a little finicky
Brother MFC-J995DW sublimation printer is suitable for you if you want to do small projects like mugs or T-shirts. This product is light on your pocket yet excellent when it comes to rich colors and accuracy. Moreover, you want to maintain the aesthetics of your area without compromising on any features. In that case, this product is what you need.
2. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Wireless Color All-in-One Supertank Printer
The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is one of the best printers for dye sublimation in 2023 in terms of productivity and range of connectivity choices. Also, the PrecisionCore Technology makes it a perfect option for newbies.
Specifications
- Cartridge-Free Printing
- Weight: 27.4 pounds
- Dimension: 22.7 x 17.6 x 13 inches
- PrecisionCore Technology
Moreover, it is a portable option with a 27.4-pound weight. With this, you will get the best results because of the use of a higher-density print chip. It provides 40 million dots speed in a second with accuracy.
The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is a wireless option and is more than a printer. With this, you can enjoy the facility of a scanner, copier, fax, and Ethernet. You can connect it with the help of wireless WiFi. Also, it can work for different paper types. Moreover, to manage this device according to your needs, it provides a 2.7 inches touch screen. You can use it to customize, preview, and modify your prints.
Furthermore, it is light on the pocket and one of the cost-effective options, even though it is the least expensive printer product on this list. Simply, it saves you 90% ink consumption compared to other available options. Also, it has a supersized tank with easy-to-refill features, so you can do it by yourself without making a mess. Moreover, it lets you experience Cartridge-Free Printing. The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is a convertible option that allows you to enjoy the benefits of an inkjet and sublimation printer.
Pros
- High Capacity
- Saves 90% of the ink
- Range of connectivity choices
- Easy-to-fill tank
- Portable design
Cons
- Convert it for sublimation purposes
The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is an ordinary printer, but you can convert it for sublimation. Also, it allows you to save 90% ink and work with almost all paper types. Due to the use of a higher-density print chip, it provides the fastest yet most accurate printing experience. If you want real value for your money as a beginner, choose it.
3. Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer
Do you want to achieve accurate colors, dynamic range, and quality? Check Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer. Also, it provides the fastest printing experience compared to other market options.
Specifications
- Weight: 35.2 pounds
- Dimensions: 21.65 x 14.17 x 9.84 inches
- LED-backlit display
- Resolution: 4800 x 1200 dpi
As a beginner, this is what you need to consider. You can use both wireless and wired options to do your printing task. Also, you can use USB, Ethernet, and WiFi. Simply, it can support all options.
Furthermore, after receiving this device, it will take no longer than a few minutes to set up. After that, you can plug it in for use without delay. To handle the system, you can use the available LED display with a backlight. Also, it has some hardware keys and some indicators for better control. These keys include selection keys, menu, enter, navigation, and power button. With the help of these keys, you can easily achieve desired print.
Overall, it is an ordinary-looking device; however, in terms of productivity, it offers the best. Manufacturers designed it to work with special paper for sublimation. You can ideally use it for professional purposes as well as for personal work. As it is designed for sublimation work, you don’t have to do a lot of maintenance, which makes it a user-friendly option.
Pros
- Fast printing speed
- Easy to maintain
- Perfect for professional use
- User- friendly
Cons
- No touch screen
Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer is the Best Printer For Dye Sublimation in 2023 for professional and personal use. It is an industry-class product that is specially manufactured for sublimation; therefore, it provides desired results. However, it is a bit expensive, but if you can afford it, you must buy it to own the best.
4. Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 Wireless Color Wide-Format Printer
The Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 is a wireless option with a minimalistic design. Also, it has quite a solid body that tells about its high-quality construction.
Specifications
- Weight: 18.7 lb
- Dimensions: 18.7 x 30.9 x 16.2 inches
- 2.4-inch LCD color display
- Resolution: 5760 x 1440 optimized dpi
Although there is no touch screen, still, it has a 2.4-inch LCD color display with many buttons for navigation purposes. These buttons work smoothly and offer optimum functionality.
The setup of this device is pretty straightforward. You only have to plug it in and add already provided ink cartridges. Next, with the help of provided keys and colored screen, preview and customize the print and press the OK button. Due to high-speed technology, it takes a few minutes to complete an image. The time varies from 3 to 10 minutes based on the paper size. To add print, you can use USB or Ethernet WiFi.
Furthermore, it works perfectly for documents of different types and sizes. The resolution of this printer is 5760 x 1440 dpi, which provides extraordinary color, accuracy, and dynamic range. Due to its photo richness, it is a part of this list of the best printer for dye sublimation in 2023. With this product, you can get a print of size 13 inches wide by using 6-color Claria Photo HD Inks. You can use it in a both wireless and wired manner, according to your preference.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Minimalistic design
- Excellent Printer For Dye Sublimation
- Easy to set up
Cons
- Printing cost is high
Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 is perfect for you if you want productivity and all user-friendly features. For quality sublimation, no one can go wrong with this product. Enjoy sublimation with its big input tray and fast speed.
5. HP ENVY Photo 7855 All-in-One Photo Printer with Wireless Printing
HP ENVY Photo 7855 can be your choice if you are looking for a printer that doesn’t disturb your shelf space as well as which makes your work easy with its innovative wireless feature.
Specifications
- Weight: 16.72 pounds
- Dimensions: 17.90 x 16.10 x 7.90 Inches
- Printing technology: inkjet
- HP smart app
This printer assists you in getting a flawless print with powerful sublimation. This printer can support you in every paper size you want to print, making it ideal for all projects. It can adjust letter size to 4×5, 4×6, 5×7, and 8×10.
Its effortless connectivity allows you to pair it with your smartphone, like iOs devices and any android mobile, which you connect with a printer through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Its HP smart app assists you in the feasibility of connecting your phone to a printer and getting your flawless and quick print. You can directly insert a USB or SD card and take out your high-sublimated image by using the touch screen.
The feature that increases its demand in the market is its four-in-one quality. You can not only get a high sublimation printing through it, but also you can get benefits if you want to copy and scan your documents. Furthermore, its dual-band Wi-Fi and smart plus Bluetooth setup make it capable of fast and bright printing. Its high-quality material ensures long-term durability with you.
Pros
- Easy touch screen
- Technology supportive
- High sublimation printing
- Copy and scan documents
Cons
- Not suitable for decal paper
HP ENVY Photo 7855 can be your good-to-go choice due to its intelligent and innovative features. Its wireless connectivity with your smartphone makes the process easy. On the other hand, its smart touch screen gives you a feeling that can convince anybody to buy it. Its high dye sublimation with spotless printing makes it worthy.
6. Canon Selphy CP1300 Wireless Compact Photo Printer with AirPrint and Mopria Device Printing
You can have short product description here. It can be added as and enable/disable toggle option from which user can have control on it.
Specifications
- Weight: 1.9 lbs.
- Dimensions: 7.1″ (W) x 5.4″ (D) x 2.5″ (H)
- Tilting 3.2″ LCD Screen
- Color256 Levels Per Color
If you are looking for a compact sublimation printer to fit in a small space, then try the Canon Selphy CP1300 sublimation printer. Due to its small body, you can quickly move it around the house or office without any assistance. Also, it is made up of hard plastic to ensure durability and protection. Moreover, you can set up this device effortlessly and use it instantly after you receive it because it comes with all the required parts.
At the top part, you can see a 3.2-inch LCD for control. For additional convenience, you can tilt it up and down. Although it has no touch functioning, still a number of physical keys and tilting functionality make the process extremely smooth. You can connect it to a computer; however, there is no need for such a connection for setup. You can easily control it with the provided buttons.
This product provides rich colors and accuracy in every print. In this sublimation, you can use four colors, i.e., cyan, magenta, yellow, and the last coat, for finishing. Also, the working of this product is quite fast as it takes less than a minute to provide a 4×6 color photo. Lastly, in connectivity, you can use BlueTooth, SD card, WiFi, USB, and cloud services to transfer your desired print document.
Pros
- Compact size
- High-quality image
- All connectivity options
- Pocket friendly
Cons
- Small photo size
The Canon Selphy CP1300 sublimation printer is ideal if you want 4×6 color images. Also, its rich color and accuracy feature makes it one of the best pocket-friendly options. You can use it for personal use as well as for professional tasks. However, the main highlight of this product is its compact size. Try this to experience innovation.
7. KODAK Step Wireless Mobile Photo Mini Printer
If you want a small photo printer that you can carry with you anywhere you go, KODAK Step Wireless Mobile Photo Mini Printer is the best option for you.
Specifications
- Weight: 0.53 lb
- Dimensions: 3 x 5 x 1 inches
- Max. Speed: 1 ppm
- ZINK Zero Ink technology
It is a small wallet-size sublimation printing device that perfectly fits your pocket. Moreover, it uses advanced Zink zero ink technology, so ink toner is required to print a photo that will save you a hefty sum of money.
This device is really easy to assemble and use. You have to install the KODAK Step app on your Android or iOS, then connect your device to the KODAK printer. It lets you enhance the beauty of your picture by adjusting the color temperature or adding desired effects. Plus, in a single go, that picture will be in your hand in printed form as it is a one-step printer. Moreover, you can print up to 25 photos with its fully-charged Lithium-ion battery.
With this mini printer, you can print 2×3 inch photos that you can peel and stick on your scrapbook, invitation card, or for multiple other purposes. But if this size is so small for you, you can check any other option in the list. However, this whole printing procedure will take less than 1 minute, no matter whether you print black and white or colored photos. Moreover, it creates a protective layer on the picture to make it smudge-proof to maintain its vibrancy.
Pros
- Lightweight and pocket-sized
- No expense for ink
- Water-proof protective layer
- Easy to operate
- Long-lasting battery
Cons
- Not for commercial projects
KODAK Step Wireless Mobile Photo Mini Printer is a durable, budget-friendly, and reliable mini device that you can use to get high-quality 2 x 3 inches prints of your photos in no time. So if you are an avid traveler and want to save your memories in your scrapbook, buy this handy device.
FAQs
Do you need a special printer for dye sublimation?
Yes, if you want to do dye sublimation, you have to buy a device that supports this feature because of its different processes. Sublimation printers use disperse dyes that help them to print on transfer paper. With these printers, you can get rich colors on paper with 100% accuracy.
What equipment do you need for dye sublimation?
To do a dye sublimation, you need a printer that is specially designed for this purpose. However, you can use a convertible inkjet printer like Epson EcoTank ET-15000. In textiles, you can do this by using heat transfer paper. This way, you can print on the fabric by using heat and transfer the image from paper to a material.
What is the drawback of a dye sublimation printer?
If you compare sublimation printers with inkjet printers, there are many drawbacks to these devices. For example, you must use specially coated paper to use them. Also, only specific plastic gets the print under dye sublimation. Moreover, the color panels and thermal heat should have the same size as the image you want to print.
Can I use dye sublimation paper with an inkjet printer?
Yes, you can use sublimation paper with both laser and inkjet printers. However, you cannot use it directly on fabric. To transform the print on the fabric, you have to heat it up by using an iron or other heating source. Lastly, peel the paper to get the desired print.
Can a Cricut maker do sublimation?
Yes, you can do sublimation printing by using Cricut. However, you have to do this process on the sublimation paper. Choose your print and then print it on paper with the help of Cricut. Once you get the print, use this paper for press sublimation transfer.
The Bottom Line
If you are a beginner and looking for the best printer for dye sublimation in 2023, now you know the best choices from the market. All the above-shared printers are perfect in terms of quality, functionality, color richness, and speed. However, some printers are portable, while some printers lack these features. Also, printers are convertible, like Epson EcoTank ET-15000 provides both inkjet printing and sublimation. I have tested many of the printers and tried to convert inkjet to sublimation printer and many time I just failed but all the successful printers that are easy to use for dye sublimation printing I have listed with hierarchy according to their function and quality.
Although all products provide a quality experience, still following are my favorite three printers:
- Brother MFC-J995DW INKvestmentTank Color Inkjet All-in-One Printer is the best in terms of color richness, accuracy, and speed. Also, it maintains the aesthetics of the space with its futuristic design. Overall, this is perfect in functionality and price.
- KODAK Step Wireless Mobile Photo Mini Printer is the best portable option for you as it is a wallet-sized device. It is easiest to operate and fastest to deliver high-quality prints. Also, it has a long-lasting battery and an app that lets you edit your photos before printing.
- Epson EcoTank ET-15000 Printer is a convertible printer, and you can use it as an inkjet printer as well as a sublime printer. You can easily convert it into a printer for dye sublimation. Also, it is ideal in terms of productivity, functionality, and cost.
Define all your requirements, from space, and print size to portability, then choose the most suitable option for a premium experience.
