10 Best Sublimation Printers for Apparel Business in 2026: Top Picks for Small Shops and Growing Brands

Choosing the right sublimation printer for apparel business use can make a big difference in print quality, workflow, and startup cost. The best option depends on your production volume, desired print size, and how much setup support you want.

Below, we focus on practical picks for newcomers and growing shops, from compact desktop models to bundle kits that help you start producing sooner.

Best 10 Sublimation Printer for Apparel Business Picks for 2026

Compact Starter Choice – Epson SureColor F170 Compact Sublimation Printer

If you want a sublimation printer for apparel business work without taking over your workspace, the Epson SureColor F170 is a compact, easy-to-place option. It ships with genuine Epson sublimation ink, supports Mac and Windows, and uses a closed 150-sheet tray that helps keep paper clean for transfers.

Best For: Small apparel sellers, hobbyists, and crafters who want a compact, supported Epson setup.

Pros:

• Includes a full set of OEM Epson sublimation inks.
• PrecisionCore printhead is built for strong image clarity.
• 150-sheet auto-feed tray helps streamline transfer printing.
• Space-saving design with MacOS and Windows setup support.

Cons:

• Does not support mobile device connection.
• Only prints up to 8.5" wide media.
• Print-only device, so no scanning or copying.

Overall, this model makes sense if you want Epson’s warranty-backed reliability and a straightforward entry point into apparel sublimation. It is best when your production needs are small to moderate and your priority is clean, consistent transfer output.

App-Driven Creator Pick – Brother SP1 Sublimation Printer

The Brother SP1 is a practical sublimation printer for apparel business beginners who want an app-centered workflow. It works with the Artspira app, includes Brother genuine ink and starter paper, and is designed for creating shirts, mugs, bags, hats, and other heat-pressed projects.

Best For: Beginners and DIY sellers who want guided design tools and a simple app-based process.

Pros:

• Artspira app support makes it easy to create and save designs.
• Includes Brother genuine CMYK sublimation ink and starter paper.
• Designed for a range of apparel and gift projects.
• Wireless connectivity and a touchscreen add convenience.

Cons:

• Heat press is required and sold separately.
• US-only 120V use may limit international buyers.
• Print resolution is lower than some Epson-focused options.

For sellers who value simple setup and design assistance, the SP1 offers an approachable route into sublimation. Its strengths are convenience and project flexibility rather than high-end print specs.

Business Bundle Value – Epson SureColor F170 Bundle

This Epson SureColor F170 bundle is a strong sublimation printer for apparel business owners who want a ready-to-print package. It includes the printer, full Epson sublimation ink, and essential accessories, plus Wi-Fi, USB, and software support for Windows, macOS, and mobile printing through the Epson iPrint app.

Best For: Small businesses that want a bundled Epson setup with broad connectivity.

Pros:

• Bundle includes Epson ink, user guide, and AC power cable.
• Supports Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet connections.
• Works with Windows, macOS, and Epson iPrint on mobile devices.
• Closed 150-sheet tray helps keep transfer paper clean.

Cons:

• Still limited to 8.5"-wide media.
• Print-only unit with no scan or copy functions.
• Not compatible with direct email printing or camera connections.

If you want Epson’s compact F170 platform with a more complete starter package, this bundle is a practical pick. It is especially useful for businesses that want connectivity flexibility and fewer first-run purchases.

All-In-One Launch Bundle – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Bundle

For an apparel business that wants to start producing quickly, this Brother SP-1 bundle packages the printer with full CMYK ink, transfer sheets, and Artspira software. It is built for fabric and other sublimation blanks, making it useful for shirts, totes, mugs, tumblers, and similar custom products.

Best For: Sellers who want a fuller starter bundle with inks, paper, and design software included.

Pros:

• Includes full CMYK ink set and 10 sublimation sheets.
• Artspira software package adds design convenience.
• Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity support flexible workflows.
• Fast 10 ppm rating and 1200 x 1200 resolution listed in the notes.

Cons:

• Bundle is still limited to standard sublimation paper sizes.
• Print-only device, so no scan or copy functions.
• Best suited to fabric and sublimation-compatible products.

This bundle stands out when you want to minimize extra purchases and get moving on custom product sales. It offers a more complete launch kit than the base printer alone, which can be helpful for a new apparel operation.

Premium Desktop Dye-Sublimation Pick – Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer Bundle

If you need a sublimation printer for apparel business use that prioritizes color consistency and polished output, the Sawgrass SG500 is built for small shops and home-based sellers. It supports custom t-shirts and other products while keeping the footprint compact enough for a desktop workspace.

Best For: Small apparel businesses and home-based entrepreneurs who want professional-looking sublimation prints with a compact setup.

Pros:

• Professional-grade print quality for apparel, drinkware, signage, and promo products
• Includes SubliJet UHD CMYK inks for rich, vivid color output
• Compact design prints up to 8.5″ x 14″, with bypass tray support up to 8.5″ x 51″
• Wi-Fi connectivity and auto-maintenance support busy workflows

Cons:

• Standard media size is limited compared with larger-format systems
• Best suited to small to medium projects rather than high-volume wide prints

Overall, the SG500 is a strong fit if your apparel business values dependable color, easy software tools, and a space-saving layout. It is designed to grow with a small operation while keeping the printing process straightforward.

OEM Ink Value Bundle – Epson SureColor F170 Starter Kit

The Epson SureColor F170 is a practical sublimation printer for apparel business owners who want a compact machine with OEM ink and a ready-to-go starter bundle. It is aimed at small operations that need clean, consistent transfers for apparel and other sublimation blanks.

Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small business owners who want an Epson-branded sublimation setup with included supplies.

Pros:

• Includes 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 tray help streamline prep
• Bundle includes paper, thermal tape, starter kit, and power cable

Cons:

• Mobile device connection is not supported
• Designed for small-scale use rather than high-speed production

For sellers who want a clean, supported entry into sublimation, the F170 is a solid choice. The included OEM ink and accessories reduce setup friction, making it easier to start producing apparel transfers with confidence.

All-in-One Startup Bundle – Sublimation Starter Kit 15×15 Combo

If you’re starting a sublimation printer for apparel business operations from scratch, this bundle is built around convenience. It combines a printer, 15″x15″ heat press, and multiple attachments so you can move from setup to selling custom shirts, mugs, and tumblers more quickly.

Best For: Startup businesses and Etsy sellers who want an all-in-one package for apparel and drinkware products.

Pros:

• Includes printer, 15″x15″ heat press, and 8-in-1 attachments
• Designed for mugs, tumblers, hats, plates, and T-shirts
• Chipless ink system with pre-filled sublimation ink means no cartridge switching
• Beginner-friendly setup guidance and troubleshooting videos included

Cons:

• Bundle-focused setup may be more than experienced users need
• Heat press size and included accessories may not suit larger-scale production

This is a strong starter option if you want a single purchase that covers both printing and pressing. It is especially appealing for new sellers who want a guided, ready-to-use path into custom apparel and related products.

Premium 24-Inch Production Pick – Epson SureColor F570 Bundle

If you need a sublimation printer for apparel business use that can handle larger production runs and wider media, the Epson SureColor F570 bundle is built for that role. Its 24-inch format, PrecisionCore printhead, and included full ink set make it a strong fit for shops that want room to scale into apparel, mugs, and other coated blanks.

Best For: Apparel businesses that want a wider-format sublimation setup for higher-volume production and larger transfers.

Pros:

• 24-inch desktop printer supports rolls and sheets up to 24″ wide.
• Includes a 50-sheet auto-feed tray and built-in cutter for faster workflow.
• PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead with Precision Droplet Control for sharp output.
• Bundle includes one full ink set, user guide, and free remote install.

Cons:

• Print-only design, so it does not scan or copy.
• At 151 pounds, it is a heavy machine for a desktop setup.
• Uses a larger footprint than compact entry-level sublimation printers.

Overall, the F570 is the most production-oriented option in this group, especially if you need wider media support and professional software tools. It is a practical choice for businesses that value efficiency, reliable color workflow, and room to grow.

Compact Business Starter – Sawgrass SG500 Bundle

The Sawgrass SG500 is a compact sublimation printer for apparel business owners who want professional results without jumping to a large-format machine. It prints up to 8.5″ x 14″, with a bypass tray that can extend to 8.5″ x 51″ for longer projects, making it a flexible fit for small shops and home-based sellers.

Best For: Small businesses and home-based entrepreneurs who want a desktop sublimation setup with strong color tools.

Pros:

• Compact desktop footprint with professional-grade print quality.
• Includes a full starter set of 20ml SubliJet UHD CMYK inks.
• MySawgrass software and Sawgrass Print Utility support design and color control.
• Wi-Fi connectivity and auto-maintenance features help simplify daily use.

Cons:

• Maximum standard media size is 8.5″ x 14″, so it is not a wide-format printer.
• Designed for print only, with no scanning or copying functions.
• Best suited to smaller projects unless you rely on the bypass tray.

For sellers focused on custom shirts, drinkware, signage, and promo items, the SG500 offers a balanced mix of convenience and professional output. It is a smart desktop option when space is limited but print quality still matters.

All-in-One Bundle Value – Brother SP-1 Starter Kit

The Brother SP-1 is a practical sublimation printer for apparel business owners who want a bundled setup with supplies included. With CMYK inks, sublimation paper, blanks, tape, and design resources in the box, it reduces the hassle of sourcing everything separately when you are starting out or testing new product ideas.

Best For: Beginners and small business sellers who want a starter bundle with paper, blanks, and design extras included.

Pros:

• Bundle includes full ink set, 160 transfer sheets, 50 blanks, and heat-resistant tape.
• Compact printer size fits small workspaces.
• Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity support flexible setup options.
• Includes Artspira design app access, 100 sublimation designs, and quick reference guide.

Cons:

• Print resolution is 600 x 600 dpi, which is lower than some alternatives.
• Maximum media size is legal/8.5 x 14 inches, so it is not a wide-format unit.
• Print-only device with no scanning or copying features.

If you want a starter bundle that covers the essentials for making apparel and personalized blanks, the SP-1 package is easy to work with. It is especially appealing when you value convenience and want to begin producing right away.

How We Picked the Best Sublimation Printer for Apparel Business

We focused on printers and bundles that are relevant to apparel decorating workflows, prioritizing color consistency, ease of setup, included supplies, print size, and overall value. We also favored options that fit real small-business use, not just hobby printing.

Quick Comparison

For a Sublimation Printer for Apparel Business use, the main difference between these options is scale. Compact models like the Epson SureColor F170, Brother SP-1, and Sawgrass SG500 are better for shirts, logos, labels, and small-run transfers. Larger systems such as the Epson SureColor F570 are better if you need wider prints and more flexibility for bigger graphics.

Bundles can be a smart choice when you want to reduce sourcing hassle. They often include ink, paper, tape, and starter accessories, which can lower the friction of getting your first jobs out the door.

Key Buying Factors for a Sublimation Printer for Apparel Business

Print Size and Garment Type

Think about the largest transfer you plan to make. Smaller desktop printers work well for chest graphics, pocket prints, and youth apparel. If you expect full-front designs or larger artwork, a wider-format printer will save time and layout compromises.

Included Consumables

Ink and paper costs add up quickly. Starter bundles are useful if you want to test demand or launch with fewer separate purchases. Just make sure the included supplies match your production needs and are not so limited that you immediately need replacements.

Workflow and Ease of Use

Some printers are better suited to beginners because they offer guided setup, bundled software, or remote installation support. That can be valuable if you are building your first sublimation workflow and want fewer technical delays.

Business Volume

If you expect occasional custom orders, a compact printer may be enough. If you plan to fulfill frequent apparel orders, choose a model that balances speed, reliability, and ongoing consumable availability.

Who Should Buy Which Sublimation Printer for Apparel Business?

Choose a compact desktop model if you are starting a side hustle, selling on a small made-to-order basis, or focusing on smaller apparel graphics. Pick a bundle if you want the fastest path to production with fewer extra purchases. Go with a wider-format option if your apparel business needs larger transfers, more layout freedom, or room to expand into bigger product lines.

For most buyers, the best Sublimation Printer for Apparel Business use is the one that matches your print size, budget, and order volume today while leaving room to grow tomorrow.