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A Complete Guide on The Best Sublimation Printer for Business
Choosing the appropriate sublimation printer might be all it takes to keep you relevant in this changing world of creating and printing. From small business owner needing to expand your product line, to a seasoned pro wanting new equipment you too can benefit from purchasing the right printer for increased creativity and productivity. We will be covering the best Sublimation Printers for all your business needs to help you choose wisely.
Introduction
One of the most revolutionary innovations in crafting is sublimation printing. This versatile technique has changed how to print on an array of materials for the better! Whether you are printing photographs onto t-shirts, or want to print on mugs, mouse pads or phone cases sublimation printers have no shortage of ways in which their creativity can be channelled.
However, with so many options on the market, choosing the right one can take time and effort.
This guide aims to simplify your decision-making process by highlighting the best sublimation printers suited for different business needs and budgets.
Understanding Sublimation Printing
Before discussing the specifics of various printers, it's essential to understand sublimation printing and why it's a preferred method for many crafters. Sublimation printing is a process in which special sublimation ink is heated to a gaseous state, allowing it to penetrate and bond with the fibers of a substrate, such as polyester fabric or coated ceramics. This results in vibrant, durable prints resistant to fading and peeling.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Sublimation Printer
When selecting a sublimation printer, several factors should be considered:
- Print Quality: Look for printers that offer high resolution and color accuracy.
- Size and Capacity: Consider the maximum print size and the volume of printing the machine can handle.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly interfaces and easy setup can save time and reduce frustration.
- Cost: Factor in initial investment and ongoing expenses, such as ink and maintenance.
- Support and Warranty: Reliable customer support and a good warranty can provide peace of mind.
Best Sublimation Printers for Small Businesses
Epson SureColor F170
The Epson SureColor F170 is an excellent choice for small businesses new to sublimation printing. Priced under $500, it offers a compact design, easy installation, and full support from Epson. Its max printing width of 8.5 inches makes it ideal for standard-sized prints, though it may be limiting for larger designs. Its max print resolution of 1200 x 600 dpi ensures high-quality output, making it a reliable and affordable option for small-scale operations.
Brother Sublimation Printer
The Brother Sublimation Printer stands out for its ability to print directly from mobile devices, a unique feature that can be highly convenient for on-the-go business owners. It comes with a dedicated app that simplifies the design and printing process. While it's priced slightly higher at $399.99, the convenience of mobile printing can justify the cost for many small businesses.
Budget-Friendly Options
Epson EcoTank ET-2400
The Epson EcoTank ET-2400 offers a cost-effective entry into sublimation printing for those on a tight budget. Though initially an inkjet printer, it can be converted for sublimation use. Priced under $200, it's the most affordable option on our list. However, converting an inkjet printer comes with risks, such as voiding the warranty and potential issues with ink clogging. Despite these risks, the low initial cost makes it a viable option for budget-conscious crafters.
Printers for Growing Businesses
Epson SureColor F570
As your business grows, so do your printing needs. The Epson SureColor F570 is designed for larger projects, with a max print width of 24 inches. It offers the flexibility to print on both sheets and rolls of sublimation paper, making it ideal for garments and other large items. Priced around $2600, it's a significant investment but provides the capability to handle more substantial and diverse printing tasks.
Commercial-Grade Options
Epson SureColor F6470H
For businesses looking to scale up to commercial production, the Epson SureColor F6470H is a top-of-the-line option. With a max print width of 44 inches and the ability to print on rolls, it's perfect for high-volume operations. This printer also offers advanced color options, including fluorescent inks, which can create eye-catching designs. Priced just under $9000, it's best suited for established businesses ready to invest in high-capacity printing.
How to Choose the Right Sublimation Printer for Your Business
Selecting the right sublimation printer depends on your specific needs and business goals. Here are some questions to guide your decision:
- How much space do you have for the printer?
- What's your budget for both the initial purchase and ongoing maintenance?
- What types of products do you plan to print?
- How important is print speed to your operation?
Considering these factors, you can narrow your options and choose a printer that aligns with your business needs.
Conclusion
Investing in the right sublimation printer can transform your business, allowing you to create high-quality, custom products that stand out in the market. Whether you're just starting or looking to expand your existing operations, there's a sublimation printer that fits your needs and budget. With this guide's insights, you can make an informed decision and take your business to the next level.
FAQs
What's the difference between autofill and syringe inks?
Autofill inks are designed to fit directly into your printer's ink tank, making the refilling process clean and straightforward. Syringe-fill inks require you to manually transfer the ink using a syringe, which can be messier and more complicated.
Are all Epson printers suitable for sublimation?
Not all Epson printers are suitable for sublimation. The best options are accurate sublimation printers like the Epson SureColor series. Like those from the EcoTank line, converted inkjet printers can also work but come with risks.
Does Cricut do sublimation?
Cricut doesn't manufacture sublimation printers, but you can use Cricut heat presses to transfer sublimation prints onto various materials.
What should I consider when choosing a sublimation printer?
Key considerations include:
- Print quality.
- Size and capacity.
- Ease of use.
- Cost.
- The level of customer support and warranty.
Can I use any ink for sublimation printing?
Sublimation printing requires special inks to bond with the substrate at high temperatures.
Is sublimation printing expensive?
Although a sublimation printer's initial cost can be high, its long-term costs are manageable, especially if you choose a printer with affordable ink options and low maintenance requirements.
