Choosing the right sublimation printer for a small business can make custom apparel, mugs, tumblers, and promotional products easier to produce consistently. The best option depends on your print volume, workspace, preferred blanks, and how much equipment you want included.
We compared compact Epson and Brother models, Sawgrass systems, and starter bundles to help you find a practical setup for launching or growing a sublimation business in 2026.
Best 10 Sublimation Printer for Small Business Picks for 2026
Best Compact Epson Pick
- Genuine Epson ink included
- PrecisionCore printhead
- 150-sheet enclosed tray
Best For: Small businesses wanting a compact, supported Epson setup
Best Connected Epson Bundle
SureColor F170 Business Package
- Full Epson ink set included
- 150-sheet covered tray
- Wireless and mobile printing
Best For: Small customization businesses using computers and mobile devices
Best Complete Brother Bundle
- Full 47 ml CMYK ink set
- 10 transfer sheets included
- Artspira with 100 designs
Best For: New creators wanting supplies and design tools together
Best Professional-Grade Pick
Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer
- 1200 x 1200 dpi color printing
- CMYK ink and paper bundle included
- Bypass tray supports prints up to 8.5 x 51 inches
Best For: Small businesses seeking vibrant, high-resolution transfers and business-oriented software
Best Starter Bundle
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Kit
- Includes CMYK inks, paper, blanks, and heat tape
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
- Artspira software and design resources included
Best For: Beginners who want supplies for launching and testing a small sublimation business
Best For Simple Wireless Projects
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer
- Prints a sheet in up to 45 seconds
- 100 sheets of letter-size paper included
- Artspira app supports designs and mobile workflow
Best For: Home-based creators making letter-size projects with wireless devices
Best Budget-Friendly Pick
Pinckney Cartridge-Free Sublimation Printer
- All-in-one printer, scanner, and copier
- Includes high-capacity sublimation ink
- Supports Wi-Fi and varied paper sizes
Best For: Beginners and small shops needing versatile equipment
Best Dedicated Printer
Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer
- Includes genuine Epson ink and starter supplies
- 150-sheet dust-resistant auto-feed tray
- PrecisionCore printhead with droplet control
Best For: Small businesses wanting a compact dedicated workflow
Best Complete Starter Bundle
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Kit
- Includes printer, 7-in-1 press, blanks, and supplies
- Works with mugs, tumblers, apparel, and more
- Supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Windows, Mac, and app use
Best For: New entrepreneurs starting a varied sublimation business
Best Compact Epson Pick – SureColor F170 OEM Bundle
For shoppers seeking a sublimation printer for small business, the Epson SureColor F170 offers a compact, 8.5-inch format with genuine Epson ink included. Its PrecisionCore printhead, 150-sheet enclosed tray, and Windows/macOS setup make it a practical choice for producing transfers for apparel, mugs, mousepads, and other compatible items.
Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small businesses that prioritize Epson support, compact sizing, and straightforward computer-based printing.
Pros:
- Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks, user guide, and power cable.
- PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control and up to 5760 x 1440 optimized dpi.
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray with a dust-resistant enclosed paper compartment.
- Supports wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity.
Cons:
- Maximum media width is 8.5 inches.
- Mobile-device connection is not supported according to the supplied notes.
- Designed for simplex printing only.
This F170 bundle is a strong fit when reliable OEM supplies and a small footprint matter more than oversized media support. Confirm that its 8.5-inch format matches your product workflow before buying.
Best App-Friendly Starter – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer
The Brother SP-1 is an approachable sublimation printer for small business owners who want to create designs through a mobile-friendly workflow. Its Artspira app provides more than 100 sublimation designs, while Wi-Fi connectivity and included starter ink and paper help get projects such as shirts, mugs, bags, and tumblers underway.
Best For: Beginners and crafters who want guided design tools, Wi-Fi printing, and a ready-to-start Brother package.
Pros:
- Works with the Artspira app, including access to more than 100 sublimation designs.
- Includes Brother genuine black, cyan, magenta, and yellow ink plus a sublimation paper starter pack.
- Supports Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet connectivity.
- Designed for colorful projects on items such as shirts, bags, hats, mugs, and tumblers.
Cons:
- A heat press is required and sold separately.
- Maximum media size is listed as 8.5 x 11 inches.
- Intended for sale and use in the United States at 120 volts; other use may affect the warranty.
The SP-1 makes sense for a new customization business that values software-assisted creation and simple wireless access. Budget separately for a heat press and verify the voltage requirement before ordering.
Best Connected Epson Bundle – SureColor F170 Business Package
This Epson SureColor F170 bundle is a practical sublimation printer for small business workflows that need consistent color and flexible connectivity. It includes Epson sublimation ink, a 150-sheet enclosed tray, and support for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS printing through the listed Epson software and app options.
Best For: Customization businesses and promotional-product creators needing a compact Epson printer with wireless and USB connectivity.
Pros:
- PrecisionCore printhead supports detailed output at up to 5760 x 1440 optimized dpi.
- Includes a full set of Epson sublimation ink, user guide, and AC power cable.
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray is enclosed to help reduce dust and paper preparation.
- Auto-stop ink bottles are designed for cleaner, easier refilling.
Cons:
- Maximum media width is 8.5 inches.
- Does not support direct email printing or camera connections.
- The supplied listing specifies a one-year warranty, so coverage should be confirmed before purchase.
Compared with a bare printer purchase, this bundle emphasizes a complete Epson-focused setup and broader device compatibility. It is a good option for compact transfer production, provided the 8.5-inch limit fits your products.
Best Complete Brother Bundle – SP-1 Starter Package
For a small business that wants more than the printer alone, this Brother SP-1 bundle combines the machine with a full 47 ml CMYK ink set, 10 sublimation transfer sheets, and Artspira design software. It supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet and is positioned for colorful designs on shirts, tote bags, mugs, tumblers, coasters, and similar products.
Best For: New entrepreneurs and creators who want a bundled Brother setup with supplies and design software included.
Pros:
- Includes 47 ml each of black, cyan, magenta, and yellow sublimation ink.
- Includes 10 sheets of 8.5 x 11-inch Brother sublimation paper.
- Artspira app includes 100 sublimation designs and supports Windows, Mac, and app-based use.
- Supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity and lists a one/five/25 Brother warranty.
Cons:
- The included paper quantity is limited to 10 sheets.
- A heat press and compatible blanks are not listed as included.
- Maximum paper sizes are listed as 8.5 x 11 and 8.5 x 14 inches, so larger designs are not supported.
This package is appealing when you want initial supplies and design resources in one purchase rather than assembling a starter setup separately. Its legal-size support adds flexibility, but ongoing ink, paper, blanks, and heat-press costs still need to be planned.
Best Professional-Grade Pick – Sawgrass SG500 Sublimation Printer
If you need a sublimation printer for small business use that prioritizes color quality and dependable workflow tools, the Sawgrass SG500 is a strong desktop option. It prints at up to 1200 x 1200 dpi, supports Wi-Fi, and handles media up to 8.5 x 14 inches, with a bypass tray for longer prints up to 8.5 x 51 inches.
Best For: Small businesses and home-based entrepreneurs producing vibrant apparel, drinkware, signage, and promotional products.
Pros:
- Includes a full CMYK SubliJet UHD ink set and paper bundle.
- Offers high-resolution 1200 x 1200 dpi color printing.
- Compact design with Wi-Fi, auto-maintenance, and support for longer bypass-tray media.
- Includes MySawgrass design tools and Sawgrass Print Utility for color control.
Cons:
- Maximum standard media size is 8.5 x 14 inches.
- The bypass tray is needed for prints longer than the standard media size.
- Designed for standard 110/120V US and North American outlets.
The SG500 is the most business-focused choice in this group, combining a compact footprint with strong resolution, included software, and room to handle larger-format transfers through its bypass tray.
Best Starter Bundle – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Kit
The Brother SP-1 Starter Kit is a practical sublimation printer for small business beginners who want supplies included from the start. Along with the printer and full CMYK ink set, the bundle provides transfer paper, blanks, heat-resistant tape, design software, and connectivity through Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
Best For: New entrepreneurs and hobbyists who want an all-in-one package for testing apparel, mugs, tumblers, coasters, and other personalized products.
Pros:
- Includes 47 ml each of black, cyan, magenta, and yellow sublimation inks.
- Comes with 160 total sublimation sheets, 50 blanks, and four rolls of heat-resistant tape.
- Includes Artspira software, 100 designs, and additional design resources.
- Supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections and works with Windows, Mac, and the app.
Cons:
- Resolution is listed at 600 x 600 dpi, below the Sawgrass SG500’s listed resolution.
- The bundle does not replace the need for a heat press.
- The included blanks and consumables may be less useful once production volume increases.
For buyers building their first sublimation setup, this package reduces the number of separate purchases required. Its included blanks and supplies make it especially convenient for sample-making and early product testing.
Best For Simple Wireless Projects – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer
This Brother SP-1 is a straightforward sublimation printer for small business or home projects, with wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity. It prints a sheet in as little as 45 seconds according to the supplied notes and includes 100 sheets of letter-size sublimation paper, while the Artspira app provides designs and mobile-oriented workflow features.
Best For: Creators who want an accessible printer for letter-size apparel and craft projects using a phone, tablet, or computer.
Pros:
- Prints full-color designs at speeds of up to 45 seconds per sheet.
- Includes 100 sheets of letter-size sublimation paper.
- Artspira offers more than 100 sublimation designs and image-creation features.
- Provides Ethernet, USB, and Wi-Fi connectivity for flexible setup.
Cons:
- Supports a maximum media size of 8.5 x 11 inches.
- A heat press is required and must be purchased separately.
- The supplied specifications list 300 x 300 dpi for resolution in one field, so buyers should review the complete specifications before purchase.
This model is appealing when a simple, connected workflow matters more than larger media handling. The included paper and Artspira access make it ready for straightforward custom projects, though its letter-size limit is worth noting.
Best Budget-Friendly Pick – Pinckney Cartridge-Free Sublimation Printer
If you need a sublimation printer for small business use that also handles everyday scanning and copying, this Pinckney bundle offers a practical all-in-one setup. Its high-capacity refillable tanks, included sublimation ink, wireless connectivity, and broad paper-size support suit crafters and small shops producing heat-transfer projects.
Best For: Beginners and small businesses wanting an all-in-one sublimation printer with scanning and copying.
Pros:
- Includes high-capacity sublimation ink bottles and cartridge-free tanks.
- Combines printing, scanning, and copying in one device.
- Supports Wi-Fi, USB, and multiple paper sizes, including long media up to 47.2 inches.
- Offers up to 5760 x 1440 dpi resolution and a one-year limited warranty.
Cons:
- Its listed color and black-and-white speeds are relatively modest at 5 and 10 pages per minute.
- It uses simplex printing rather than automatic duplexing.
- Prints can look dull on transfer paper before heat pressing, and nozzle checks or alignment may be needed for quality issues.
The Pinckney is a flexible entry-level choice for a home-based shop or side business. Choose it if an integrated scanner and copier matter as much as sublimation printing, but be prepared for routine nozzle maintenance and slower output.
Best Dedicated Printer – Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer
The Epson SureColor F170 is a dedicated sublimation printer for small business owners who prioritize consistent transfer quality and a streamlined workflow. This bundle includes OEM ink, paper, thermal tape, and starter materials, while its closed 150-sheet tray helps keep media protected between jobs.
Best For: Crafters and small businesses seeking a compact, dedicated Epson sublimation system with reliable media handling.
Pros:
- Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks and a starter kit.
- PrecisionCore printhead technology provides Precision Droplet Control for detailed images.
- Closed 150-sheet auto-feed tray helps reduce paper preparation and dust exposure.
- Supports wireless, USB, and Ethernet connections and includes a full manufacturer warranty.
Cons:
- Does not support connection to mobile devices.
- Print-only design lacks scanning and copying functions.
- Maximum media width is 8.5 inches, limiting larger-format projects.
The F170 is a strong fit when you want an established, dedicated sublimation workflow rather than a multifunction printer. Its included supplies and protected paper tray make it especially convenient for regular small-batch production, although mobile printing and larger media are not supported.
Best Complete Starter Bundle – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Kit
For a sublimation printer for small business use that comes with equipment to start producing immediately, the Brother SP-1 bundle is unusually comprehensive. Along with the printer and CMYK ink set, it includes a 7-in-1 mug and tumbler press, blanks, transfer paper, heat-resistant tape, designs, and software.
Best For: New entrepreneurs who want a broad, ready-to-use setup for mugs, tumblers, apparel, and other small sublimation products.
Pros:
- Includes a 7-in-1 heat press with attachments for tumblers, mugs, cups, and shot glasses.
- Provides sublimation ink, 310 sheets of transfer paper, 71 blanks, and heat-resistant tape.
- Offers Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity plus Windows, Mac, and app compatibility.
- Includes Artspira software, designs, and commercial-use design cards for getting started.
Cons:
- The bundled printer has a 100-sheet capacity and simplex printing only.
- Its 600 x 600 dpi resolution is lower than the Pinckney model’s listed resolution.
- The large bundle may include supplies beyond what an established shop needs.
The Brother SP-1 bundle stands out for entrepreneurs building a product-based business from the ground up. It reduces the need to source a separate press and starter materials, making it convenient for diversified products, though buyers with existing equipment may prefer a printer-only package.
How We Picked the Best Sublimation Printer for Small Business
We focused on printers and bundles that are suitable for small-business workflows rather than occasional crafting alone. Our comparison considered print quality, supported media sizes, ink setup, wireless connectivity, operating convenience, included supplies, and the overall value of each package.
Bundles can be useful for beginners because they may include transfer paper, heat-resistant tape, blanks, or pressing equipment. However, included accessories are not always the same quality as separately purchased tools, so we also considered whether each printer makes sense as a standalone investment.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | What to Prioritize | Products to Consider |
|---|---|---|
| New businesses | Simple setup and included supplies | Brother SP-1 and Epson F170 bundles |
| Limited workspace | Compact footprint and low-maintenance operation | Epson SureColor F170 |
| Wireless workflows | Reliable Wi-Fi and easy device access | Brother and Sawgrass models |
| Drinkware production | Compatible transfer sizes plus a capable heat press | Starter bundles with mug or tumbler presses |
| Growing order volume | Efficient ink management and dependable support | Dedicated Epson, Brother, or Sawgrass systems |
Key Buying Factors for a Sublimation Printer for Small Business
Print Size and Product Range
Check the maximum sheet size before buying. Compact 8.5-by-11-inch printers are practical for shirts, mugs, small signs, and many personalized gifts, while larger formats provide more flexibility for oversized apparel and décor.
Ink Costs and Availability
Use genuine, compatible sublimation ink and confirm replacement costs before committing. A low purchase price can become expensive if cartridges are difficult to source or the printer consumes ink quickly. Cartridge-free or refillable systems may reduce waste, but they require careful filling and maintenance.
Software and Connectivity
Wireless printing, dependable drivers, and straightforward color-management tools can save time when several orders are moving through production. If you design on a phone or tablet, check whether the included software supports your devices and preferred workflow.
Included Equipment
Starter bundles can lower the cost of entry, but evaluate every accessory separately. Confirm the press size, temperature controls, included blank quality, paper count, and whether the package contains essential items such as heat-resistant tape.
Support and Maintenance
Small businesses benefit from clear setup instructions, accessible replacement supplies, and responsive manufacturer support. Regular nozzle checks, correct paper storage, and routine cleaning are important for consistent color and fewer rejected products.
Who Should Buy Which Sublimation Printer for Small Business?
Choose an Epson SureColor F170 if you want a compact, dedicated printer from an established manufacturer and primarily produce smaller-format transfers. Choose a Brother SP-1 if wireless convenience, approachable setup, and optional starter packages are priorities.
Choose a Sawgrass SG500 if you value a purpose-built sublimation ecosystem and supported design tools. Choose a complete bundle if you are starting from scratch and need blanks or pressing equipment immediately, but compare the bundle price with buying each component independently.
For any Sublimation Printer for Small Business, match the printer to your expected monthly volume and products first. Buying a reliable printer with manageable ink costs is usually more valuable than choosing the package with the largest accessory count.