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 major difference in print quality, production speed, and long-term operating costs.

Whether you’re launching a small brand or scaling a busy shop, the best options balance reliable output, easy setup, and the right print width for your workflow.

Best 10 Sublimation Printer for Apparel Business Picks for 2026

Editorial Pick – Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer Bundle

If you want a sublimation printer for apparel business use that feels ready for work out of the box, the Epson SureColor F170 bundle is a strong place to start. It includes genuine Epson inks, paper, thermal tape, and starter blanks, so you can begin test prints and production without piecing together extras immediately.

Best For: Small business owners and crafters who want a compact Epson setup with included consumables and a clean, professional workflow.

Pros:

• Comes with a full set of OEM Epson sublimation inks plus starter accessories.
• 150-sheet auto-feed tray and dust-resistant closed tray help support cleaner, more efficient printing.
• PrecisionCore printhead and Precision Droplet Control are designed for sharp image clarity.
• Compact design with MacOS and Windows setup support.

Cons:

• Mobile device connection is not supported.
• It is print-only, so it does not add scanning or other multifunction features.
• Included media is limited to 8.5″ x 11″ and 8.5″ x 14″ paper sizes in the bundle.

Overall, this bundle makes sense if you want a straightforward Epson sublimation printer package with genuine supplies and a compact footprint for apparel and other transfer products.

App Design Helper – Brother SP1 Sublimation Printer

The Brother SP1 is a practical sublimation printer for apparel business beginners who want an app-driven setup. It works with the Artspira app, where you can import up to 20 images, access over 100 sublimation designs, and move from design to heat pressing with a simple workflow.

Best For: New sellers and DIY users who want guided design tools and a compact Brother sublimation setup for custom apparel and gifts.

Pros:

• Artspira support makes it easier to create, save, and import designs.
• Includes Brother Genuine sublimation ink and a starter paper pack.
• Designed for fast custom projects like shirts, mugs, tumblers, bags, and hats.
• Brother notes vibrant results that hold up through wash and wear cycles on polyester-coated items.

Cons:

• Heat press is required and sold separately.
• Artspira must be downloaded before use.
• US-only 120-volt use may limit where it can be sold or used.

If you value guided creativity more than advanced printer controls, the SP1 is a business-friendly entry point for small custom apparel and accessory runs.

Compact Studio Choice – Epson SureColor F170 Basic Bundle

This Epson SureColor F170 version is a compact sublimation printer for apparel business workflows where you already have some supplies and want the core machine plus genuine ink. It keeps the same small-footprint design and high-resolution Epson printing focus, making it a solid fit for a home studio or tight workspace.

Best For: Buyers who want the F170 printer with OEM ink but do not need the extra starter accessories included in larger bundles.

Pros:

• Includes genuine Epson sublimation ink with the printer.
• Compact design with a 150-sheet auto-feed tray.
• PrecisionCore printhead and 5760 x 1440 optimized resolution support detailed output.
• Built for MacOS and Windows setup with wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity.

Cons:

• Does not include the extra starter kit items found in the larger F170 bundle.
• Mobile device connection is not supported.
• Print-only design means no scanning or multifunction capability.

For sellers who already have papers and accessories, this version focuses on the printer itself while still giving you Epson’s compact, professional sublimation platform.

Launch Bundle – 15×15 Sublimation Starter Kit with Heat Press

For anyone starting a sublimation printer for apparel business sales, this all-in-one bundle is built to reduce setup friction. It combines a printer, a 15″ x 15″ heat press, and 8-in-1 attachments, so you can move from unboxing to making mugs, tumblers, and shirts with fewer separate purchases.

Best For: Startup sellers and Etsy-style shops that want a bundled printer-and-press setup for a wide range of custom items.

Pros:

• Includes both the printer and a 15″ x 15″ heat press in one package.
• 8-in-1 attachments cover mugs, 30oz tumblers, hats, plates, and shirts.
• Chipless ink system with pre-filled sublimation ink reduces cartridge switching.
• Setup and troubleshooting videos are included for beginners.

Cons:

• Bundle-based specs are less focused on a single printer model alone.
• Heat press adds size and workspace requirements.
• Best suited to beginners who want an all-in-one kit rather than a standalone printer upgrade.

This is the most convenient option if you want the tools to start producing and selling right away instead of assembling each part of the workflow separately.

Pro Pick – Epson SureColor F570 24" Desktop Sublimation Printer

If you need a sublimation printer for apparel business use that can handle wider projects, the Epson SureColor F570 is built for 24-inch media and comes ready for a serious setup. It supports rolls and sheets, includes a 50-sheet auto-feed tray and built-in cutter, and is aimed at dye-sublimation printing on fabric and other coated materials.

Best For: Apparel shops that want a wider-format sublimation printer with professional workflow features and included setup support.

Pros:

• 24″ media support makes it a strong fit for larger apparel graphics and production runs.
• Includes two full ink sets, sublimation paper, and free remote install support.
• PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead and Nozzle Verification Technology focus on reliability and clarity.
• Epson Edge Print Pro adds layout, nesting, repeats, and advanced color controls.

Cons:

• Large footprint and 200-pound weight make it less convenient for tight spaces.
• Print-only design means you’ll need separate tools for cutting or finishing beyond the built-in cutter.

For an apparel business that wants a wider-format sublimation printer with more production-oriented media handling, this F570 bundle is one of the most complete options here. It’s better suited to shops that value setup help, software, and throughput-friendly features over a compact desktop footprint.

Starter Kit – Budget Sublimation Heat Transfer Bundle

This sublimation printer for apparel business use is positioned as a starter bundle for makers who want to begin producing printed merchandise without a large upfront commitment. The package includes a new printer, 100 sublimation paper sheets, a printhead cleaning kit, and heat transfer tape, and it’s described as suitable for light-colored polyester fabrics and polyester-coated items.

Best For: Beginners testing sublimation on shirts, mugs, bags, and other small personalized products.

Pros:

• Starter package includes printer, sublimation paper, cleaning kit, and heat transfer tape.
• Works with a range of promo items like T-shirts, mugs, mouse pads, and phone cases.
• Low-commitment entry point for learning sublimation and testing product ideas.

Cons:

• OEM inks are not included in the package.
• Best suited to light-colored polyester or polyester-coated items with limited cotton content.

This bundle makes the most sense if your main goal is to get started quickly and keep costs down. It is less of a production workstation and more of a practical entry kit for testing designs before scaling up.

Value Bundle – Epson SureColor F570 Printer, Inks & Paper

For an apparel business that wants a sublimation printer for apparel business production with more of the essentials included, this Epson SureColor F570 bundle adds genuine OEM ink and sublimation paper to the printer package. It supports 24-inch rolls and sheets, includes a 50-sheet auto-feed tray and built-in cutter, and is designed for dye-sublimation use on fabric and other compatible materials.

Best For: Shops that want the F570 platform with inks and paper included for a smoother launch.

Pros:

• Includes genuine OEM ink and sublimation paper with the printer.
• 24″ media support and built-in cutter help with wider apparel jobs.
• PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead and Nozzle Verification Technology support dependable output.
• Epson Edge Print Pro offers layout, nesting, repeats, and color controls.

Cons:

• Large desktop machine at 151 pounds, so placement matters.
• Print-only setup may not suit users looking for an all-in-one device.

This version is a good fit if you want the same production-minded F570 platform but prefer a bundle that includes ink and paper right away. It is a strong middle ground for shops that want a cleaner start without piecing together supplies separately.

All-in-One Starter Bundle – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle

If you’re looking for a sublimation printer for apparel business use that helps you start producing right away, this Brother SP-1 bundle is built for convenience. It pairs the printer with full CMYK inks, sublimation paper, blanks, tape, design cards, and app access, so you can move from setup to first projects without hunting for extras.

Best For: Beginners, hobbyists, and small apparel sellers who want an all-in-one starter package.

Pros:

• Includes a full CMYK ink set with 47ml bottles.
• Bundled with 160 sublimation transfer sheets and 50 blanks.
• Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity support flexible setup.
• Comes with Artspira app access and quick reference guidance.

Cons:

• Print-only device, so it does not scan or copy.
• Maximum media size is limited to legal 8.5″ x 14″.
• 600 x 600 resolution is solid, but not the highest in this group.

This bundle is strongest for buyers who value a ready-made launch kit over piecing together supplies separately. For apparel work, the included inks, paper, blanks, and design resources make it easy to start testing products and fulfilling small orders quickly.

Compact Pro Pick – Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer Bundle

The Sawgrass SG500 is a strong sublimation printer for apparel business owners who want a compact machine with professional-grade output. This bundle includes 31 mL inks and paper, and the printer is positioned for vibrant results on t-shirts, drinkware, signage, and promotional products.

Best For: Small businesses and home-based sellers that want higher-end color quality in a desktop footprint.

Pros:

• Professional-grade print quality for apparel and other sublimation items.
• Includes SubliJet UHD CMYK inks for rich, consistent color.
• Supports media up to 8.5″ x 14″, with bypass tray use up to 8.5″ x 51″.
• Comes with MySawgrass tools and Sawgrass Print Utility for workflow control.

Cons:

• Built around 8.5″ x 14″ media, so it is not a large-format option.
• Designed for standard 110/120V US and North American outlets only.
• Max output speed is modest at 10 color pages per minute.

For sellers who care most about consistent color and polished results, the SG500 is a dependable choice. It is especially appealing if you want a compact setup that still feels business-ready and supported by purpose-built software.

Ready-to-Press Bundle – Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer Kit

The Epson SureColor F170 bundle is a practical sublimation printer for apparel business users who want a verified, ready-to-use setup. It comes from an authorized Epson dealer with a factory-sealed unit, full CMYK ink set, maintenance tank, and a starter assortment of blanks, so you can begin testing products quickly.

Best For: Beginners and small business owners who want an Epson-backed starter package with blanks included.

Pros:

• Authorized Epson dealer bundle with a 1-year manufacturer warranty.
• Includes full CMYK inks, maintenance tank, paper, tape, and blanks.
• 1200 x 600 DPI output supports detailed sublimation work.
• 150-sheet auto-feed tray and USB/wireless connectivity add convenience.

Cons:

• Not compatible with mobile devices.
• Wireless use requires internet access.
• Starter bundle includes mixed blanks, not apparel blanks only.

This kit stands out because it reduces setup friction without skipping the essentials. If you want a dependable Epson option with enough supplies to start producing samples and small orders, it is an easy bundle to evaluate.

How We Picked the Best Sublimation Printer for Apparel Business

We focused on models and bundles that make sense for apparel production: dependable color output, practical print sizes, starter materials included, and a setup path that suits small businesses. We also favored printers with a clear ownership advantage, such as strong brand support, common consumables, and bundles that reduce first-run friction.

Quick Comparison

In this group, compact desktop models are best for beginners, small batches, and limited workspace, while wider-format printers are better for shop owners handling larger graphics or more varied apparel sizes. Bundle kits can help if you want to start producing quickly, but standalone printers are often the better long-term choice if you already have presses and supplies.

Key Buying Factors for a Sublimation Printer for Apparel Business

Print Size and Format

Think beyond today’s orders. An 8.5" x 11" printer is fine for shirts with smaller graphics, labels, and test runs, but a 24" model gives you more flexibility for oversized prints, adult apparel, and efficient gang sheets.

Running Costs

Ink cost, paper cost, and maintenance matter as much as the purchase price. A lower upfront price can become expensive if ink usage is high or supplies are hard to source consistently.

Workflow and Ease of Setup

If you are new to sublimation, look for a printer bundle with starter ink, paper, and support materials. For established shops, a more streamlined standalone printer may be the smarter fit.

Output Consistency

For an apparel business, consistent color and reliable feeding are essential. Choose a model known for stable performance, especially if you will print the same designs repeatedly for customer orders.

Who Should Buy Which Sublimation Printer for Apparel Business?

Beginners and part-time sellers should lean toward compact entry-level printers or all-in-one bundles that reduce startup complexity. Growing apparel brands and higher-volume shops should consider wider-format printers for better layout efficiency and more production flexibility. If you already have pressing equipment, skip the bundled extras and prioritize the printer itself, ink access, and long-term operating value.

In short, the best Sublimation Printer for Apparel Business use is the one that matches your space, order volume, and product mix today while still leaving room to grow tomorrow.