Are you on the lookout for the best wide format or large format sublimation printer? Selecting the right model can be a major factor for success in your sublimation projects, and that is where I step in to help. Deciding on the best wide format sublimation printer for your project can be daunting. Whether you prioritize speed, resolution, or cost-efficiency, our analysis of the top models in 2025 strips away the complexity. Discover my top picks, including budget-friendly options and premium machines, to ensure your next purchase is the perfect fit for your printing needs. Welcome to the world of large format sublimation printing!
Overview of Best Wide Format Sublimation Printers
In the quest for the perfect print, we’ve charted a course through the expansive offerings of wide format sublimation printers. In my opinion, the best wide format sublimation printer for home use for crafters and hobbyists is the Epson ET-15000 found here. Read on for a more detailed analysis.
I started with a summary of the top choices in the table above. Its now time for a deeper dive into each of these choices. Each of these printers has been selected for its unique strengths, ensuring that whatever your needs, there’s a printer that fits the bill perfectly.
Before we get started, you might be wondering – why should you trust my review? I manage a website with over 150 blog posts dedicated to sublimation printing. I thoroughly research each product and share in-depth reviews based on tests performed, ensuring you get reliable information and high-quality recommendations.
Epson EcoTank ET-15000 – The Best Printer for Conversion
The first pick on my list is the Epson ET-15000, which can be found here. While not a dedicated sublimation printer, this EcoTank model can be converted to sublimation for your large format sublimation needs.
Let’s begin by discussing a test performed with the Epson ET-15000. After unboxing, it’s necessary to replace the original ink with sublimation ink; in this case, Cosmos sublimation ink was used. Following an initial test print, you can set up the drivers by visiting Epson.com/support/et15000. For the first test, the print size was 8.5 x 11. Although the print appeared slightly dull on paper, there’s no need for concern. The fabric was then pressed at 400 degrees for 45 seconds, yielding vibrant colors. Butcher paper was used, and the fabric was pre-pressed to eliminate moisture. The final prints turned out excellent!
Another test involved a pillowcase made of 95% polyester fabric. The test used a large format print size of 13 x 19, along with butcher paper and heat tape. The fabric was pressed at 400 degrees for 40 seconds (be sure to follow the specific transfer instructions). Once again, the results were really appealing!
Let’s explore the advantages of this printer. It’s an excellent option for large format printing at a reasonable price, capable of borderless prints up to 13″ x 19″. The print quality is high as mentioned in the test above, and there are many success stories with sublimation. One notable feature is the high-capacity ink bottles, which can last up to two years, resulting in significant cost savings. Additionally, it offers a substantial sheet capacity of 250 sheets.
However, there are some downsides. This model isn’t a dedicated sublimation printer and requires conversion. Therefore, you run into risks of color issues, ink compatibility and other problems related to using a converted printer. It is also more expensive than some smaller format EcoTank models such as the ET-2800 that can be converted for sublimation.
How does the ET 15000 stand out against competitors? Just like the Epson XP-15000, the ET 15000 also needs to be converted to sublimation. However, the XP-15000 is reported to have expensive ink replacement costs, while the ET 15000 is easier to use. The Epson XP-15000 does offer high quality photographs, and comes at a lower initial price point. When stacked up against the SG1000, the main difference is that the SG1000 is a high-speed dedicated sublimation printer.
Overall, the ET-15000 is a great option for those who are looking for high quality results and are willing to go through the process of converting a regular printer to sublimation.
Now its time for my quantitative analysis:
- Affordability: 4.3/5
- Print Quality: 4.5/5
- Large format capabilities: 4.7/5
Sawgrass SG1000 – The Premium Pick
Next up on the list of large format printers for sublimation is the Sawgrass SG1000, which can be found here.
The Sawgrass SG1000 offers a truly turnkey solution for those ready to invest in premium quality printing.
The test performed on the SG1000 utilized a print size of 13 x 19 inches with the optional bypass tray (without the tray, the maximum print size is 11 x 17; with the tray, it extends to 13 x 51). This was tested on a white polyester shirt, and I was really impressed by the print results. The shirt was pressed at 400 degrees for 66 seconds, producing beautiful prints similar to what you’d expect from an SG500.
Now, let’s dive into the benefits of the SG1000. This printer is perfect for those needing large format printing, offering an expansive printable area. It has numerous success stories, consistently delivering vibrant and high-quality prints. The setup process is simple and user-friendly, and the printer boasts high-speed printing capabilities.
On the downside, the SG1000 comes with a high price tag, both for the printer and the ink. While the CreativeStudio software is included, accessing all its features may require a subscription. Another significant drawback is the cost of the ink, which can become substantial over time. This is an important consideration when planning your sublimation printing budget.
The SG1000 is an enhanced version of the older SG800 model, featuring wireless printing, a capability not available in the previous model.
Let us now compare the SG1000 with its other wide format competitors. The SG1000 has a higher print speed than the ET-15000, and does not need to be converted to sublimation unlike the other two models in this article, which helps avoids risks and issues of conversion. Given that, the SG1000 comes at a much higher price point. With the bypass tray, you can print on a much larger area than the ET 15000 or XP 15000 models.
The SG1000 is a great choice for those searching for a dedicated sublimation printer for larger sized items such as apparel. It is suited for commercial use, and a good choice for growing businesses and those with several large sublimation projects who can afford a higher investment. For such customers, the high investment is well worth the results!
Quantitative analysis:
- Affordability: 3.2/5
- Vibrant results: 4.8/5
- Speed: 4.7/5
Epson SureColor F570 – Sublimation Printer for Commercial Use
The next printer we will take a look at is the Epson SureColor F570, which you can find here.
The F570’s wide-format capability supports prints up to 24 inches, making it suitable for larger projects like banners and oversized designs. The printer’s PrecisionCore technology ensures sharp, vibrant colors with exceptional detail, while the built-in roll feeder simplifies handling continuous media.
Let me share details of a test I observed involving the Epson SureColor F570. Upon unboxing, the printer comes neatly packaged with comprehensive manuals, CMYK sublimation ink bottles, setup software, a disk, and rolls of sublimation paper. Its wide-format printing capability extends to 24 inches, while its flexibility accommodates smaller custom sizes, making it a versatile choice for varied projects. For best results, Epson-brand ink is recommended, and it’s important generally not to fill the tanks beyond approximately 75% to avoid potential issues.
The test involved creating a design on hats using polyester thread. The transfer process, conducted at 400°F for about 50 seconds, yielded impressive outcomes. While the colors on the sublimation paper appeared muted initially, they transformed into vibrant, sharp details once transferred to the hat, demonstrating the F570’s precision and reliability for sublimation work.
When comparing the SureColor F570 to its competitors, this model is by far the most expensive model on the list, making it more suited for commercial rather than individual needs. It offers the widest format printing capability compared to others on the list, and unlike the ET 15000, is a dedicated printer and does not need to be converted for sublimation. The SureColor F570 does offer a lower ongoing ink cost compared to the SG1000.
The main cons of the model are its high cost, potential learning curve and less compact size.
Overall, the Epson SureColor 570 is a great purpose-built sublimation printer for businesses that are able to afford the high investment, offering beautiful results for sublimation purposes.
Quantitative Rating:
- Affordability: 3.5/5
- Print Quality: 4.7/5
- Wide-format Capability: 5/5
Overall Conclusion – The Ultimate Wide Format Pick
Now that we’ve completed our deep dive, you might be wondering: “Which wide format printer do I go for?” In my reviews I highlight the importance of considering your personal preferences and needs. If you are looking for a professional grade dedicated sublimation printer, you should go for the Sawgrass SG1000, which you can find here. If you are looking for a printer for commercial use with great wide-format capabilities, I recommend the Epson SureColor F570, which you can find here. Overall, in my opinion, the best pick for home use and hobbyists is the EcoTank ET-15000, given the combination of affordability and high quality prints, efficiency of ink and success stories with sublimation. You can find the ET-15000 here.
Choosing the Right Wide Format Sublimation Printer
Choosing the right wide format sublimation printer is akin to selecting the perfect brush for a masterpiece—crucial and highly personal. It’s about matching the tool to the artist’s vision and the canvas’s demands. Whether you’re printing on mugs or personalizing awards, the diversity of media compatibility, print head technology, printer size, connectivity, and warranty are all critical factors to weigh in. You’ll want a printer that provides reliable dye sub printing, versatile media support, and a workflow that’s as seamless as your creativity. Consider features such as precision droplet control, extraordinary color saturation and genuine ink system to ensure optimal print quality.
When selecting a printer, consider the type of projects you’ll be undertaking, the frequency of your printing, the precision required, and, of course, the space you have available. Will you be working with textiles, ceramics, or perhaps metal? Does your business model rely on quick turnarounds and added efficiency, or do your designs demand the highest resolution for extraordinary detail? These are the contours of your decision-making map, and as we explore further, we’ll delve into the details that will help you chart a course to the wide format sublimation printer that’s right for you.
Importance of Printing Speed
When it comes to productivity in wide-format sublimation printing, speed is not just a number; it’s a game-changer. In industries where time is of the essence, such as sports uniforms or event banners, a delay in production can mean missed opportunities and dissatisfied customers.
Assess your own production needs and consider how much of an impact speed will have on your business’s efficiency and success.
Understanding Printing Resolution
Resolution in printing is similar to the resolution in a fine gemstone—the higher it is, the more exquisite the detail. In the world of wide format sublimation printers, the term ‘high resolution’ is not taken lightly. With top printers boasting up to 4800 x 1200 dpi, the detail in your prints can be so fine that it rivals the brushstrokes of classical paintings.
However, it’s important to note that while high resolution is desirable, it can sometimes lead to challenges with color accuracy, particularly in darker shades. This is where the balance between resolution and color fidelity becomes a dance of precision. As you consider your options, remember that resolution isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the harmony between each dot, each color, and the final image’s integrity.
Evaluating Sheet Capacity
The sheet capacity of your wide format sublimation printer is much like the size of your canvas—it dictates the scale of your creative ambitions.
For those with a more modest footprint or less demanding needs, a printer with a 50-sheet auto-feed tray might be more than sufficient. It’s all about aligning your printer’s media handling capabilities with the size of your projects and the heat press you’ll be using. This synergy maximizes your workshop space and the potential of your printer’s features, ensuring no opportunity for grandeur is missed.
The Role of Warranty
A warranty on a wide format sublimation printer is not just a piece of paper; it’s a promise—a commitment to reliability and performance. As these printers can be a significant investment, particularly for a small business, the warranty period serves as a safety net, ensuring that you’re protected against unforeseen issues. With typical warranty periods ranging from 1 to 2 years, it’s a considerable factor to weigh in when making your choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wide Format Sublimation Printers
As we’ve journeyed through the world of wide format sublimation printers, it’s natural to have questions bubble up to the surface.
Is there a beginner-friendly wide format sublimation printer that won’t break the bank? How large can these printers actually print, and do I really need a wide format printer for my sublimation projects? These questions and more are on the minds of many who are navigating this market. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your printing capabilities, the answers to these questions can be the final pieces to your printing puzzle.
Final Thoughts on Selecting the Best Wide Format Sublimation Printer
As we wrap up our comprehensive look at wide format sublimation printers, it’s clear that the right choice hinges on a blend of budgetary considerations and specific printing needs.
It’s about striking the right balance between the bells and whistles and the core necessities of your projects. Whether you’re just dipping your toes into the waters of sublimation printing or you’re ready to dive into the deep end, reflecting on how each printer aligns with your business goals and creative aspirations is key. Remember, the best printer for you is one that not only fits within your budget but also grows with you as your needs evolve.
Summary
In summary, the journey through the world of wide format sublimation printers leads us to a destination where creativity meets technology. From the high quality Epson EcoTank ET-15000 to the budget-friendly Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000, each printer offers a unique set of features that cater to different demands and preferences. The Sawgrass SG1000 stands as a beacon for those seeking premium options.
As you stand at the crossroads of decision-making, equipped with insights on print quality, speed, resolution, and supported functions, remember that your choice of printer is more than just a technical selection—it’s an investment in your creative potential. With the right wide format sublimation printer, the only limit to what you can achieve is the breadth of your imagination. Embrace the possibilities, and let your creative endeavors soar to new heights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best image format for sublimation printing?
The best image format for sublimation printing is. Ai files at 300 DPI or transparent. png files. Photos taken from a cell phone at 72dpi will also produce high-quality results. The CustomCat app will also accept vector formats.
What printer is best for sublimation?
The best sublimation printer for creating custom products at home is the Brother SP-1. It’s a great choice for overall quality and performance.
Which Epson EcoTank is wide format?
The Epson EcoTank ET 15000 is wide format, offering a maximum print size of 13 x 19, can be converted at home for sublimation and produces great results.
What wide format printers can be used for sublimation?
You can use large format printers like the Sawgrass SG1000 or the Epson SureColor F570 for sublimation printing. These printers are specifically designed for sublimation and can handle wide format printing.
What’s the best wide format sublimation printer for someone on a tight budget?
Check out the Epson ET 15000 – it’s a possible option for those on a budget, nevertheless not a very low-priced option! Give it a go!
