Finding the best sublimation printer bundles means balancing print quality, ease of use, and included accessories. The Makerflo Epson SureColor F170 Bundle stands out as the overall best for its user-friendly setup and complete starter kit, ideal for beginners and small businesses. The Sawgrass SG500 Bundle is favored by those needing professional-grade performance with anti-clog technology, while the Brother SP-1 Deluxe Bundle offers a more extensive supply of transfer sheets for high-volume printing. Buyers face tradeoffs like price versus versatility, with some options offering more accessories but higher costs. Continue reading to see how these bundles compare and which one suits your needs best.
Key Takeaways
- The top bundles combine ease of setup with comprehensive starter kits, making them ideal for beginners.
- Professional models like the Sawgrass SG500 provide advanced features but come at a higher price point.
- Bundles with additional accessories such as heat presses and extra transfer sheets deliver better value for high-volume users.
- Print quality and reliability are consistent across brands like Epson and Sawgrass, but maintenance features differ.
- Price varies significantly, with budget options suitable for hobbyists and premium bundles for professional use.
More Details on Our Top Picks
makerflo Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer Automatic Tumbler Press Bundle, CMYK Ink, Sublimation Paper, Heat Tape, 10 Tumblers & Design Pack – Complete Kit for Beginners & Small Business
This bundle stands out for its professional-quality prints thanks to the Epson SureColor F170’s Precision Core microTFP printhead, which delivers vibrant colors and crisp details. Compared with the Sawgrass SG500, the F170 offers a more durable output suitable for small-scale production, but it involves a higher initial investment and is less suited for large-volume printing. The included automatic tumbler heat press simplifies the sublimation process, making it perfect for beginners, though the setup is a bit more complex than simpler printers like the Epson ET-2803. The full CMYK ink set and ready-to-use supplies mean less hassle for new users. However, the printer’s non-return policy once ink is loaded could be a drawback for cautious buyers. This pick makes the most sense for entrepreneurs starting a small business who need high-definition, durable prints and are comfortable with a slightly more involved setup process.
Pros:- High-definition, vibrant color output with crisp details
- Complete bundle including tumblers, heat press, and supplies
- Compatible with Mac & Windows, with full support from MakerFlo & Epson
Cons:- Once ink is loaded, the printer is non-returnable, which can be risky for beginners
- Higher initial cost compared to entry-level printers like the Epson ET-2803
Best for: Small business owners and hobbyists seeking professional-quality sublimation results with minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those who prioritize low upfront cost and simple setup, as this bundle requires some initial learning and investment.
- Printer Type:Dye Sublimation
- Print Resolution:5760 x 1440 dpi
- Maximum Media Size:8.5 x 14 inches
- Connectivity:USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi
- Item Dimensions:12″L x 12″W x 8″H
- Printer Output Type:Color
Bottom line: Ideal for small business owners who want durable, high-quality sublimation prints and are prepared for a slightly higher investment.
Epson EcoTank ET-2803 Wireless Color All-in-One Cartridge-Free Supertank Printer with Scan, Copy and AirPrint Support
This eco-friendly all-in-one offers excellent value with its high-capacity refillable ink tanks, which dramatically reduce ongoing costs compared to traditional cartridge printers like the Brother SP-1. Unlike the Brother SP-1, which is designed solely for sublimation and requires additional setup for printing, the ET-2803 excels in general home and office tasks, offering versatile scanning and copying functions. While the ET-2803’s print quality is good for everyday documents and light photo printing, it doesn’t match the vibrancy or resolution of the Sawgrass SG500 for sublimation-specific projects. Its Wi-Fi and AirPrint support make it easy to print from multiple devices, but it’s less suited for high-volume sublimation or detailed craft projects. This makes it perfect for families or small offices that need a reliable, cost-effective printer for occasional sublimation alongside regular printing needs.
Pros:- Cost-effective with high-capacity refillable ink tanks
- All-in-one functionality including scan and copy
- Wireless connectivity with AirPrint support
Cons:- Less suitable for high-volume or detailed sublimation projects
- Print resolution not as high as dedicated sublimation printers like the Sawgrass SG500
Best for: Home users and small offices wanting a versatile, cost-efficient printer that handles sublimation lightly and general printing.
Not ideal for: Serious crafters or entrepreneurs requiring high-res, vibrant sublimation outputs, as the print quality and media handling are more general-purpose.
- Printer Type:All-in-One Inkjet
- Print Resolution:5760 x 1440 dpi
- Maximum Media Size:8.5 x 14 inches
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, AirPrint
- Item Dimensions:22.8″D x 14.8″W x 10″H
- Warranty:1-year limited
Bottom line: Best for households or small offices seeking an affordable, multi-purpose printer that can handle light sublimation tasks.
Sublimation Starter Kit – 15×15 Heat Press & Printer Bundle 8in1 Professional Combo for Mug Tumbler T-Shirt Business
This all-in-one sublimation kit makes starting a small business simple with its 15″x15″ heat press, Epson WF-2860 printer, and multiple attachments. Compared with the Sawgrass SG500, this bundle offers a larger heat press and a full set of blanks, making it ideal for entrepreneurs who want to produce a variety of products like mugs, tumblers, and T-shirts quickly. The upgraded chipless ink system and pre-filled sublimation ink eliminate cartridge switching, streamlining the process for beginners. However, the Epson WF-2860’s print resolution and color vibrancy are not quite on par with the Sawgrass SG500, which may affect detailed or high-end sublimation projects. The included guides and videos support ease of setup, but the overall quality may be less consistent for larger-scale or professional-grade production. This kit is perfect for hobbyists or small startups aiming to diversify their product range without complex equipment.
Pros:- Includes large 15×15 heat press and 8-in-1 attachments
- Pre-filled, chipless sublimation ink for easy use
- Complete kit with blanks, transfer paper, and guides
Cons:- Print quality and vibrancy are lower compared to premium options like the Sawgrass SG500
- Limited media size for large or high-detail projects
Best for: Beginners and small business owners wanting an all-in-one sublimation setup with versatile product options.
Not ideal for: Experienced sublimation professionals or those requiring maximum color fidelity for high-volume production, as the printer’s capabilities are more beginner-focused.
- Heat Press Size:15″x15″
- Printer Model:Epson WF-2860
- Print Resolution:5760 x 1440 dpi
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, USB
- Attachments Included:Mugs, tumblers, hats, plates
- Additional Supplies:Blank items, sublimation paper
Bottom line: Ideal for beginners and small startups looking for a comprehensive, easy-to-use sublimation kit to diversify their product offerings.
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle with Full Ink Set, 160 Sublimation Transfer Sheets, 50 Blanks, Tape and More
This Brother SP-1 bundle offers a compact, reliable sublimation solution with a full set of inks, transfer sheets, blanks, and accessories, perfect for hobbyists or small-scale entrepreneurs. Compared to the Epson F170, the Brother SP-1 is more affordable and easier to set up, making it ideal for beginners testing the waters. However, its print resolution and color vibrancy are slightly lower, which can impact detailed or vibrant projects. The included software and design assets are beginner-friendly, but the small footprint limits the size of sublimation projects—best for small items like mugs or keychains. The bundle’s comprehensive supplies make it a great starter kit, though it may require upgrades for higher-volume production or more complex designs. It’s a good choice for casual creators or those starting small with limited space.
Pros:- Compact, space-saving design
- Full ink set plus transfer sheets and blanks included
- Easy setup with included design resources
Cons:- Lower resolution and vibrancy compared to premium sublimation printers
- Limited print size, less suitable for large projects or detailed graphics
Best for: Hobbyists and small-scale crafters seeking an affordable, all-in-one sublimation starter kit with minimal setup.
Not ideal for: Professionals or high-volume sellers needing maximum print quality and larger formats, as the printer’s capabilities are more limited.
- Printer Type:Dye Sublimation
- Print Resolution:600 x 600 dpi
- Maximum Media Size:8.5″ x 14″
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, USB
- Included Supplies:Full ink set, transfer sheets, blanks
- Item Dimensions:17″D x 15.75″W x 8.5″H
Bottom line: Great for hobbyists or beginners wanting an all-in-one, easy-to-use sublimation starter pack for small products.
Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer Bundle with Anti-Clog Technology | Only Printer Designed Exclusively for Sublimation | Includes 31mL SubliJet UHD Inks & TruePix Paper | Wi-Fi
The Sawgrass SG500 is a dedicated sublimation printer that excels in producing vibrant, professional-grade images thanks to its optimized SubliJet UHD inks and TruePix paper. It surpasses the Epson F170 in color richness, resolution, and consistency, making it ideal for small businesses that prioritize high-end results. While the SG500’s compact size and Wi-Fi connectivity are convenient, its higher price point and limited media size (8.5″ x 14″) may be a barrier for hobbyists or those with larger format needs. Its auto-maintenance feature reduces downtime, and the software offers excellent color control, making it suitable for entrepreneurs who want reliable, high-quality output for a range of products. This pick is best for those serious about branding and detailed sublimation projects.
Pros:- Exceptional color vibrancy and detail with SubliJet UHD inks
- Auto-maintenance for reduced downtime
- Wi-Fi connectivity with user-friendly software
Cons:- Limited media size (8.5″ x 14″) not suitable for larger projects
- Higher cost compared to multi-purpose printers like the Epson ET-2803
Best for: Small business owners and professionals demanding top-tier sublimation quality with reliable, consistent results.
Not ideal for: Casual hobbyists or those needing larger print formats, as the SG500 is designed for smaller, high-quality projects.
- Printer Type:Dye Sublimation
- Print Resolution:1200 x 1200 dpi
- Maximum Media Size:8.5 x 14 inches
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, USB
- Ink Set:SubliJet UHD
- Item Dimensions:17.25″D x 15.75″W x 8.5″H
Bottom line: Best for entrepreneurs and professionals who require high-end, vibrant sublimation prints with reliable performance for small-scale production.
Sawgrass SG1000 Sublimation Printer Bundle | Professional Dye-Sublimation Printer with 31mL SubliJet UHD Inks & TruePix Paper | Prints Up to 11”x17” | Wi-Fi | Auto-Maintenance | Business-Ready
The Sawgrass SG1000 stands out for its ability to handle larger formats up to 11″x17″, making it a versatile choice compared to the smaller SG500. Its automatic maintenance feature reduces downtime and clogging issues, which is a big plus for busy production schedules. While the included SubliJet UHD inks produce vivid, durable colors, the higher price tag and larger footprint mean it’s better suited for businesses expanding their product range rather than casual hobbyists. Compared to the Epson F170, the SG1000 offers more media flexibility and better workflow tools, but it requires a dedicated space and a more substantial initial investment. This model is ideal for entrepreneurs looking to scale their sublimation operations with professional quality and reliability.
Pros:- Handles larger media up to 11″x17″ for expanded product options
- Auto-maintenance reduces clogging and downtime
- Includes professional-grade SubliJet UHD inks for vivid, durable colors
Cons:- Higher price point may be prohibitive for beginners
- Larger size requires dedicated workspace and setup complexity
Best for: Ambitious entrepreneurs and growing small businesses that need larger print sizes and scalable performance.
Not ideal for: Hobbyists or small-scale crafters with limited space or budget, as it’s bulkier and more expensive than entry-level options.
- Maximum media size:11″x17″
- Print resolution:4800×1200 dpi
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi
- Print speed:10 color pages per minute
- Warranty:2-year limited
- Media capacity:100 sheets
Bottom line: This pick makes the most sense for small business owners aiming for professional quality and larger format printing.
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Deluxe Bundle with Full Ink Set, 460 Sublimation Transfer Sheets, 50 Blanks, Tape and More
The Brother SP-1 offers a compact, user-friendly solution with a full set of inks and a generous supply of sublimation paper, making it an excellent choice for those just starting out or running small-scale operations. Its 8.5″x11″ print size is ideal for personal projects and small batch productions, especially compared to the bulkier Sawgrass SG1000. The included software and design resources help simplify the creative process, but its slower print speed of just 10 pages per minute may be a drawback for larger orders. While it doesn’t support large media like the Epson F170’s optional attachments, its affordability and smaller footprint make it accessible for hobbyists stepping into sublimation or small business owners testing their market. It’s perfect for hobbyists or microbusinesses focused on quality over volume.
Pros:- Compact size fits small spaces and home setups
- Includes full ink set and large supply of sublimation sheets
- User-friendly interface and design software included
Cons:- Slower print speed limits efficiency for bulk orders
- Maximum media size of 8.5″x11″ restricts larger projects
Best for: Hobbyists, artists, and small-business owners seeking an affordable, easy-to-use sublimation setup.
Not ideal for: High-volume production or those needing large media handling, as its size and speed limit throughput.
- Maximum media size:8.5″x11″
- Print resolution:5760×1440 dpi
- Connectivity:Wireless, USB, Ethernet
- Print speed:10 pages per minute
- Warranty:Limited
- Paper capacity:150 sheets
Bottom line: This bundle is tailored for hobbyists and small-scale creators who prioritize ease and affordability.
Epson F170 Sublimation Printer Bundle with Craft Express Combo Heat Press & Elite Sublimation Oven
The Epson F170 excels for beginners due to its straightforward setup, reliable Epson PrecisionCore technology, and excellent print quality. Its 5760×1440 dpi resolution produces sharp, vibrant images on sublimation-compatible media. The included Craft Express heat press and sublimation oven expand the creative possibilities beyond just printing, allowing for a comprehensive small business setup. While it’s less suitable for high-volume production due to slower print speed—just 1 page per minute—it compensates with ease of use and versatility. Compared to the Sawgrass SG1000, the Epson F170 bundle is more approachable for hobbyists and newcomers without sacrificing quality, but it is less scalable for larger production runs. This makes it a well-rounded option for those starting out or needing a multi-purpose setup.
Pros:- High-resolution 5760×1440 dpi for detailed, vibrant prints
- Includes heat press and sublimation oven for a full craft setup
- Easy to set up and use, ideal for beginners
Cons:- Slow print speed limits efficiency for bulk orders
- Limited media size of 11″x17″ restricts larger projects
Best for: Beginners and small business owners seeking a simple, all-in-one sublimation solution with additional craft capabilities.
Not ideal for: High-volume or large-format production users, as its media size and print speed are limited compared to larger professional printers.
- Maximum media size:11″x17″
- Print resolution:5760×1440 dpi
- Connectivity:Ethernet, Wi-Fi
- Print speed:1 page per minute
- Included accessories:Heat press, oven
- Warranty:Limited
Bottom line: This bundle is best suited for beginners and small-scale crafters wanting an all-in-one setup with room to grow.
How We Picked
In evaluating these sublimation printer bundles, I focused on performance, ease of use, included accessories, build quality, and overall value. I prioritized bundles that offered complete kits with necessary consumables like inks, transfer sheets, and accessories, ensuring users could start printing immediately. Reliability and brand reputation also played key roles, as these influence longevity and print consistency. Bundles were ranked based on how well they balanced these factors for different user needs, from beginners to professionals.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Sublimation Printer Bundles
Choosing the right sublimation printer bundle involves understanding several key factors beyond just the initial price. It’s important to consider the printer’s print size, ink system, and compatibility with various substrates. Additionally, evaluating included accessories and ongoing maintenance needs can save money and frustration over time. A well-rounded bundle can boost productivity, especially for small business owners or hobbyists planning to scale up. Being aware of these factors helps you avoid common pitfalls like underestimating ink costs or selecting a bundle that lacks essential tools.Print Size and Resolution
Consider the maximum printable area and resolution of the printer. Larger print sizes, such as 11″x17″, open more creative and commercial opportunities but often come with higher costs. Resolution impacts the sharpness of your designs; look for bundles that specify at least 1200 dpi for vibrant, detailed images. Matching print size capabilities with your specific projects ensures you won’t outgrow your equipment prematurely.
Included Accessories and Consumables
Many bundles come with heat presses, transfer sheets, and extra inks, which can save money initially but may not always match your specific needs. Evaluate whether the included heat press suits your projects—size, type, and ease of use matter. Also, check if the ink system is refillable or cartridge-based, as refillable systems tend to be more economical long-term. A bundle with the right accessories for your scale and type of work offers better value and less hassle.
Print Quality and Reliability
Consistent, high-quality output depends on the printer’s technology and ink system. Brands like Sawgrass and Epson are known for durability and color accuracy. However, some printers may require more frequent maintenance or experience clogging, especially at high volumes. Think about your expected workload and whether the bundle offers features like auto-maintenance or anti-clog tech to reduce downtime and ensure consistent results.
Ease of Use and Support
Beginners benefit from bundles that include comprehensive instructions, user-friendly interfaces, and solid customer support. Bundles with pre-installed inks and straightforward setup procedures minimize frustration. For more advanced users, flexibility and expandability might be more important, so look for options that allow upgrades or have a strong online community. Good support can make a significant difference when troubleshooting or learning new techniques.
Price and Long-Term Cost
Initial affordability is tempting, but consider ongoing costs like ink refills, transfer sheets, and maintenance supplies. Premium bundles often include larger ink bottles and more transfer sheets, reducing per-project costs. Cheaper bundles might save money upfront but could lead to higher expenses over time or lower print quality. Think about your budget not just for the purchase but for sustained use, especially if you plan to produce regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use third-party inks with these bundles?
While some sublimation printers are compatible with third-party inks, it’s generally recommended to use the inks provided or recommended by the manufacturer. Using non-approved inks can void warranties and may cause clogs or color inconsistencies. For small-scale or hobby use, third-party inks might be acceptable, but for professional or long-term use, sticking to original supplies ensures better reliability and consistent results.
Are all bundles suitable for T-shirt printing?
Most bundles are versatile enough for T-shirt printing, especially those with a 15″ or larger print capacity. However, the included heat press size and type matter significantly; a smaller heat press may limit your options. Check if the bundle comes with a heat press that can handle the size of your designs. For frequent T-shirt printing, a larger, adjustable heat press with good pressure control is recommended.
How important is auto-maintenance in sublimation printers?
Auto-maintenance features greatly reduce downtime by automatically cleaning print heads and preventing clogs, which are common issues in sublimation printing. This is especially valuable for high-volume operations or users who lack technical expertise. While printers with auto-maintenance tend to cost more upfront, they save time and maintenance costs over the long run, making them a smart investment for busy users.
What’s the best way to evaluate a bundle’s value?
Assess the total package, including the printer, heat press, ink supplies, transfer sheets, and any additional tools. Consider not just the initial price but also ongoing costs like ink refills and replacement parts. Bundles offering larger ink bottles or more transfer sheets can lower per-project costs, providing better value over time. Comparing these factors helps determine which bundle offers the best balance of affordability and functionality.
Should I prioritize the print size over other features?
Print size is important if you plan to produce larger items like banners or large-format apparel. However, it shouldn’t come at the expense of resolution, ink quality, or ease of use. For most small business or hobbyist needs, a 11″x17″ printer provides ample flexibility without sacrificing print quality or increasing complexity. Weigh your project scope carefully to select a bundle that matches your specific size and quality requirements.
Conclusion
For newcomers or hobbyists, the Makerflo Epson SureColor F170 Bundle offers a complete, user-friendly setup that’s easy to get started with. Small business owners seeking high-volume output should consider the Sawgrass SG500 Bundle for its professional features and reliable performance. Those willing to invest more for maximum productivity might prefer the Sawgrass SG1000 Bundle or the Epson F170 Bundle with Craft Express Combo. Budget-conscious buyers will find value in the Brother SP-1 Deluxe Bundle with its extensive supply of transfer sheets and accessories. Tailoring your choice to your specific needs and volume expectations ensures you select the best sublimation printer bundle for 2026.
