Choosing the best sublimation printer for tumblers depends on more than print quality. Your ideal setup should match your tumbler size, expected project volume, available workspace, and whether you need a complete starter bundle or only the printer.
We compare 10 options from Brother, Epson, Sawgrass, and other manufacturers, including bundles with sublimation ink, transfer paper, blanks, heat presses, and accessories. Use the guide below to narrow the list by cost, convenience, and long-term flexibility.
Best 10 Sublimation Printer for Tumblers Picks for 2026
Best Complete Starter Bundle
- Full CMYK ink set included
- Paper, blanks, and tape included
- Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and app support
Best For: Beginners wanting supplies and design resources in one package
Best for Print Precision
- PrecisionCore printhead technology
- 150-sheet enclosed auto-feed tray
- High-capacity auto-stop ink bottles
Best For: Small businesses focused on clear, repeatable sublimation output
Best Authorized F170 Kit
Epson F170 with Starter Supplies
- Genuine Epson ink included
- Paper, blanks, and thermal tape included
- Authorized-partner packaging and warranty
Best For: Buyers wanting an Epson F170 with essential starter materials
Best Professional Desktop Pick
- 1200 x 1200 dpi color output
- Includes SubliJet UHD CMYK inks
- Wi-Fi and bypass printing support
Best For: Small businesses and serious home crafters
Best All-Inclusive Starter Kit
- Includes printer, CMYK ink, and 50 blanks
- Supplies include 310 transfer sheets and tape
- Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Artspira compatibility
Best For: Beginners and small crafting businesses
Best Complete Tumbler Setup
- Includes automatic tumbler heat press
- Comes with 10 sublimation tumblers
- Features 1200 x 600 dpi output and 150-sheet tray
Best For: New tumbler businesses wanting an all-in-one setup
Best Value Tank System
Pinckney Cartridge-Free Sublimation Printer
- High-capacity cartridge-free ink tanks
- Wireless print, scan, and copy functions
- Supports multiple paper sizes, including long media
Best For: Crafters wanting an ink-tank sublimation setup with office-friendly extras
Best Tumbler Starter Bundle
- Includes a 7-in-1 tumbler, mug, and cup press
- Comes with CMYK inks, paper, blanks, and tape
- Supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Windows, Mac, and app use
Best For: Beginners building a ready-to-use tumbler and drinkware workspace
Best Multi-Press Package
Brother SP-1 8-in-1 Swing-Away Kit
- Includes a 15-by-15-inch swing-away heat press
- Adds tumbler, mug, plate, and hat attachments
- Includes inks, paper, blanks, tape, and design resources
Best For: Makers expanding from tumblers into varied sublimation projects
Best Complete Starter Bundle – Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle
If you want a sublimation printer for tumblers that gets you started with fewer separate purchases, the Brother SP-1 bundle is a practical option. It includes the printer, a full CMYK ink set, transfer paper, blanks, heat-resistant tape, and design resources for creating projects such as metal tumblers, mugs, shirts, and totes.
Best For: Beginners and crafters who want an all-in-one sublimation setup with supplies and design assets included.
Pros:
- Includes full 47 ml cyan, magenta, yellow, and black ink bottles.
- Supplies include 160 sheets of sublimation paper, 50 blanks, and four rolls of heat-resistant tape.
- Offers Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity, plus Windows, Mac, and app compatibility.
- Includes Artspira software, 100 sublimation designs, and 500 design cards.
Cons:
- The bundle is comparatively bulky for a basic printer purchase because it includes numerous extras.
- A separate heat press is still needed to transfer designs onto tumblers and other blanks.
Its 8.5-by-11-inch and 8.5-by-14-inch paper support, 600-by-600 dpi resolution, and included blanks make this a convenient entry point for testing different sublimation projects. Choose it if bundled supplies matter more than building a setup piece by piece.
Best for Print Precision – Epson SureColor F170 Bundle
The Epson SureColor F170 is a strong candidate if you want a sublimation printer for tumblers with an emphasis on detailed, consistent output. Its PrecisionCore printhead, Precision Droplet Control, 5760-by-1440 optimized dpi resolution, and high-capacity ink bottles are suited to repeat printing for personalized gifts and small business work.
Best For: Crafters and small businesses prioritizing print clarity, efficient paper handling, and economical ink refills.
Pros:
- PrecisionCore printhead and Precision Droplet Control are designed for clear image output.
- A 150-sheet enclosed auto-feed tray helps streamline transfer printing.
- Auto-stop ink bottles support cleaner, more economical refilling.
- Supports wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity with Windows and macOS workflows.
Cons:
- The bundle includes ink, a guide, and power cable but does not list blanks or heat-resistant tape.
- It is limited to media up to 8.5 inches wide.
- Direct email printing and camera connections are not supported.
For tumbler transfers, the printer provides a capable foundation, but you will need compatible sublimation paper, blanks, and a heat press separately. Its closed tray and refill system make it especially appealing for organized, repeat-use production.
Best for App-Based Crafting – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer
The Brother SP-1 is a straightforward choice for shoppers seeking a sublimation printer for tumblers with a connected design workflow. Through the Artspira app, you can import images, access more than 100 sublimation designs, print from a Wi-Fi-enabled setup, and then use a heat press to finish tumbler, mug, apparel, or bag projects.
Best For: DIY crafters who prefer designing and managing projects through a compatible app.
Pros:
- Artspira supports importing and saving up to 20 printing images.
- Includes access to more than 100 sublimation designs and image-conversion features.
- Comes with Brother genuine CMYK sublimation ink and a starter pack of sublimation paper.
- Wi-Fi connectivity supports a convenient connected crafting workflow.
Cons:
- A heat press is required and must be purchased separately.
- The listed 8.5-by-11-inch maximum media size may limit larger transfer layouts.
- The product is intended for sale and use in the United States at 120 volts.
This model focuses on accessible project creation rather than a large collection of included supplies. It makes sense for users already working with Artspira or those who want an app-assisted route to personalized tumblers and other heat-transfer items.
Best Authorized F170 Kit – Epson F170 with Starter Supplies
This Epson SureColor F170 package is a well-equipped option for a sublimation printer for tumblers, pairing the printer and OEM ink with paper, thermal tape, and starter blanks. It is supplied through an Epson authorized partner and includes factory-sealed packaging, Epson documentation, and the manufacturer warranty.
Best For: Hobbyists and small business owners who want an authorized F170 package with essential transfer supplies included.
Pros:
- Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks with auto-stop bottles.
- Starter kit includes 8.5-by-11-inch and 8.5-by-14-inch paper, blanks, and brown thermal tape.
- PrecisionCore printhead technology is designed for detailed image output.
- Provides a 150-sheet enclosed auto-feed tray and Windows/macOS support.
Cons:
- Mobile-device connections are not supported.
- The printer supports media up to 8.5 inches wide.
- A separate heat press is required for transferring designs to tumblers.
Compared with a printer-only package, this kit reduces the number of initial supply purchases while retaining the F170’s compact design and closed paper tray. It is a sensible choice when authorized-product confidence and a more complete setup are priorities.
Best Professional Desktop Pick – Sawgrass SG500
The Sawgrass SG500 is a strong choice for anyone seeking a sublimation printer for tumblers alongside other personalized products. It combines 1200 x 1200 dpi color output, Wi-Fi connectivity, and included SubliJet UHD CMYK inks in a compact desktop design.
Best For: Small businesses, home-based entrepreneurs, and crafters who want consistent color quality and room to grow.
Pros:
- Professional-grade color printing with included CMYK SubliJet UHD inks
- Supports media up to 8.5 x 14 inches, with bypass printing up to 8.5 x 51 inches
- Includes MySawgrass design tools and Sawgrass Print Utility
- Offers Wi-Fi connectivity and automatic print-head maintenance
Cons:
- Designed for standard 110/120V US and North American outlets
- Its standard media size may require the bypass tray for longer projects
The SG500 is a polished, business-ready option when print quality, software support, and reliability matter more than receiving a large starter supply of blanks and accessories.
Best All-Inclusive Starter Kit – Brother SP-1 Deluxe Bundle
The Brother SP-1 Deluxe Bundle is a practical entry point for shoppers comparing a sublimation printer for tumblers with a ready-made crafting package. Along with the dye-sublimation printer and CMYK ink set, it includes paper, blanks, heat-resistant tape, tools, and design resources.
Best For: Beginners, hobbyists, and small businesses that want supplies for personalized tumblers and other projects in one package.
Pros:
- Includes 47 ml each of black, cyan, magenta, and yellow ink
- Comes with 310 sublimation sheets, 50 blanks, tape, and a seven-piece tool set
- Supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity and works with Windows, Mac, and the Artspira app
- Designed for tumblers, mugs, apparel, totes, coasters, and other substrates
Cons:
- Its listed color resolution is 300 dpi
- The bundle has a one-year Brother warranty
For newcomers, the SP-1 stands out because it reduces the need to source essential consumables separately. It is especially appealing when the included blanks and design materials are as important as the printer itself.
Best Complete Tumbler Setup – Epson SureColor F170 Bundle
The Epson SureColor F170 Bundle is built for shoppers who want a sublimation printer for tumblers plus the equipment needed to press them. This package pairs the F170 with an automatic tumbler heat press, 10 sublimation tumblers, paper, tape, and design resources.
Best For: Beginners and small-business owners who want a coordinated tumbler workstation with printer and pressing equipment included.
Pros:
- Includes a full CMYK ink set with 140 ml bottles and a one-year manufacturer warranty
- Bundles an automatic tumbler heat press and 10 sublimation tumblers
- Prints at up to 1200 x 600 dpi using Epson PrecisionCore technology
- Provides USB and wireless connectivity with a 150-sheet auto-feed tray
Cons:
- Wireless printing is for Mac and Windows and is not compatible with mobile devices
- Internet access is required according to the supplied notes
This is the most turnkey option of the three for tumbler-focused work. The included press and blanks can simplify setup, while the F170’s large ink bottles and 150-sheet tray suit recurring projects.
Best Value Tank System – Pinckney Cartridge-Free Sublimation Printer
If you want a practical sublimation printer for tumblers and other heat-transfer projects, this Pinckney bundle offers a cartridge-free tank design with sublimation ink included. Its wireless all-in-one setup also adds scanning and copying for general home or craft-room use.
Best For: Crafters who want an ink-tank sublimation printer with scanning, copying, and broad paper-size support.
Pros:
- Includes high-capacity sublimation ink tanks with 127mL of black ink and 85mL each of cyan, magenta, and yellow.
- Auto-fill nozzles are designed to simplify refilling without syringes or squeezing.
- Wireless all-in-one functionality includes printing, scanning, and copying.
- Supports several paper sizes, including letter, legal, A4, and long media up to 8.5 by 47.2 inches.
Cons:
- It is a converted ET-2800 or ET-2803, so buyers should follow the included setup and maintenance guidance carefully.
- The listed color print speed is 5 pages per minute.
- Printed sublimation transfers may look dull on paper before heat pressing.
With its generous included ink supply and straightforward refill system, this model is appealing for regular crafting. It is especially useful if you also need scanner and copier functions, though it is better suited to measured project work than high-volume production.
Best Tumbler Starter Bundle – Brother SP-1 7-in-1 Press Kit
For shoppers seeking a sublimation printer for tumblers with supplies ready to use, this Brother SP-1 bundle combines the printer with a 7-in-1 tumbler, mug, and cup heat press. It also includes inks, transfer paper, blanks, tape, designs, and software to help start a project or small craft business.
Best For: Beginners and small-business crafters who want a printer, tumbler press, and starter materials in one package.
Pros:
- Includes a 7-in-1 press with attachments for tumblers, mugs, cups, shot glasses, and other vessels.
- Provides a full 47mL-per-color CMYK ink set and 160 sublimation transfer sheets.
- Includes multiple sublimation blanks, including six 20-ounce tumblers, three wine tumblers, and 12 mugs.
- Offers Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity plus Windows, Mac, and app compatibility.
Cons:
- The bundle is larger and more specialized than a printer-only purchase.
- The SP-1 prints at 600 by 600 dpi, rather than the higher resolution listed for some tank-style alternatives.
- The included press attachments may require storage space as your setup grows.
This is a strong all-in-one entry point for tumbler customization because the press and consumables are included rather than purchased separately. The bundle makes the most sense when you plan to produce several types of drinkware, not just occasional flat transfers.
Best Multi-Press Package – Brother SP-1 8-in-1 Swing-Away Kit
This Brother SP-1 package is a versatile choice for anyone comparing a sublimation printer for tumblers with a broader heat-press workstation. Alongside the printer, it includes a 15-by-15-inch swing-away press with attachments for tumblers, mugs, plates, hats, and other project types.
Best For: Crafters and small businesses that need one starter bundle for drinkware, apparel, plates, and other sublimation projects.
Pros:
- Includes an 8-in-1 swing-away press with tall and short conical tumbler attachments.
- Provides hat, plate, large mug, and small mug attachments for broader project coverage.
- Includes CMYK inks, 160 transfer sheets, sublimation blanks, heat-resistant tape, and design resources.
- Supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity and works with Windows, Mac, and the Artspira app.
Cons:
- The 15-by-15-inch swing-away press requires more workspace than a compact press.
- The printer is listed at 600 by 600 dpi and has a print-only configuration.
- With multiple attachments and supplies, the package may be more than occasional users need.
The 8-in-1 layout makes this the more flexible Brother bundle for makers who expect to expand beyond tumblers. Choose it when attachment variety and a full-size swing-away press matter more than keeping the equipment footprint small.
How We Picked the Best Sublimation Printer for Tumblers
We focused on printer bundles that can support personalized drinkware and related heat-transfer projects. Our comparison considers the printer’s sublimation compatibility, included ink and paper, starter materials, bundle value, press options, ease of setup, and room to grow. Because many listings combine the same base printer with different accessories, we also separate core printer capability from extras that may or may not suit your workflow.
Before buying, verify the exact contents, ink capacity, paper size, warranty terms, and operating-system requirements on the current listing. Bundles can change, and some accessories are more useful for mugs or flat items than for tumblers.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | Look For |
|---|---|
| First-time crafters | Printer bundles with ink, transfer paper, blanks, and tape |
| Dedicated tumbler projects | A compatible tumbler heat press or reliable wrap-and-oven workflow |
| Higher-volume work | Consistent ink availability, efficient software, and a sturdy press |
| Flexible crafting | Wide media support and accessories for mugs, cups, shirts, and flat goods |
| Lower ongoing cost | Reasonable replacement ink prices and efficient cartridge or tank design |
Key Buying Factors for a Sublimation Printer for Tumblers
Printer and Ink System
Use a printer designed or configured for dye-sublimation rather than a standard inkjet with ordinary ink. Compare replacement ink cost, included ink volume, color availability, and whether the system uses cartridges or refillable tanks. A lower upfront price may be less attractive if consumables are expensive or difficult to find.
Print Size and Workflow
Check the maximum paper size and software controls. Most tumbler designs require careful sizing, mirroring, color management, and seamless alignment. A printer that handles common transfer-sheet sizes can be practical for everyday projects, while larger formats may help with oversized wraps.
Heat-Press Compatibility
The printer creates the transfer, but the press determines how consistently the design bonds to the tumbler. A bundle with a tumbler press can simplify startup, although a multi-function press may be better if you also plan to make mugs, cups, apparel, or flat signs. Confirm that the included press fits your tumbler diameter and preferred materials.
Included Supplies and Support
Starter paper, blanks, heat-resistant tape, and sample ink reduce the number of separate purchases. Still, prioritize dependable technical support, clear instructions, and a warranty over a large accessory count. Consumables should be easy to reorder after the included supplies run out.
Who Should Buy Which Sublimation Printer for Tumblers?
Choose a basic printer bundle if you already own a press or want to select your own tumbler equipment. Choose a full starter kit if you are new to sublimation and value convenience over customizing every component. Choose a printer-and-press bundle if you want one coordinated setup and plan to make tumblers immediately. Choose a multi-purpose press bundle if your projects will include mugs, cups, shirts, and other blanks. For frequent orders, prioritize ink availability, repeatable color results, workflow speed, and durable pressing equipment rather than the largest pile of included accessories.