10 Best Epson Sublimation Printer 2026 in the United States

The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 is a versatile all-in-one printer that excels in producing high-quality images, making it a strong choice for anyone looking to create vibrant photos and graphics. One of its significant advantages is the cartridge-free ink system, which uses high-capacity ink bottles. This not only reduces waste but also offers significant cost savings; printing a 4 x 6 photo can cost as little as 4 cents, a fraction of the cost compared to traditional cartridges. With a maximum print resolution that delivers sharp and colorful images, this model can handle borderless prints up to 13 x 19 inches, catering to those wanting to create larger formats or specialty media projects. Additionally, the inclusion of a 4.3-inch color touchscreen and wireless connectivity enhances user experience, enabling easy operation and remote printing from mobile devices.

However, the ET-8550 does come with some drawbacks. Weighing 24.5 pounds, it is relatively bulky and may require a dedicated space in your home or office. While its print speed is decent, at 12 pages per minute for color, it may not satisfy users who need rapid, high-volume printing. Moreover, the printer's reliance on genuine Epson ink is essential for maintaining warranty and performance, which can limit flexibility in using third-party supplies. Lastly, while the printer offers a lot in terms of features, those seeking a basic or compact printer might find this model to be more than they need, both in terms of features and price.

The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550 is an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts and small businesses focused on high-quality photo printing, thanks to its cost-effective ink system and impressive print capabilities. Its size and speed may not suit everyone.

The Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer is designed for small-scale customization businesses or hobbyists who want vibrant, high-quality prints on sublimation-compatible materials. It offers excellent print resolution (up to 5760 x 1440 dpi), delivering sharp and colorful images thanks to Epson's PrecisionCore printhead and genuine dye-sublimation ink, known for strong color saturation and contrast. The printer supports a 150-sheet auto-feed tray enclosed in a dust-resistant compartment, helping keep prints clean and reducing prep time.

Connectivity options include USB, wireless, and Ethernet, making it easy to connect with laptops, PCs, tablets, or smartphones. Its compact footprint (about 14 by 15 inches and under 8 inches tall) fits comfortably in smaller workspaces. The ink bottles are high-capacity and designed for mess-free refills, which helps reduce running costs.

The print speed is quite slow at 1 page per minute for both color and monochrome, making it better suited for lower volume or detailed work rather than fast batch printing. The maximum media size is 8.5 inches wide, limiting larger projects. This printer only prints on one side and does not support duplex printing. Once the ink is loaded, the product cannot be returned due to potential ink leakage concerns. The Epson SureColor F170 excels in producing high-quality sublimation prints with reliable ink technology and user-friendly features but may not be the best choice if speed or large media size is a priority.

The Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 is an all-in-one sublimation printer that offers several strengths. It boasts high print resolution and speed, capable of producing a 4 x 6-inch photo in just 15 seconds. The Claria ET Premium 6-color inks provide vibrant colors and sharp text, making it ideal for lab-quality photos, graphics, and creative projects. With cartridge-free printing, it significantly reduces the cost per print, saving up to 80% on ink compared to traditional cartridges. The printer includes enough ink to last up to 2 years, which is quite impressive for heavy users. Its ability to handle a variety of media, including borderless pictures up to 8.5 x 11 inches, cardstock, CDs, and DVDs, adds versatility.

Additional conveniences such as auto 2-sided printing, wireless connectivity, and a user-friendly 4.3-inch color touchscreen contribute to ease of use. The Epson Smart Panel app enhances functionality, allowing setup and monitoring directly from mobile devices. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The printer’s size and footprint are relatively large, which might be a concern for those with limited space. The 10-sheet output capacity is quite low, which could be inconvenient for high-volume printing tasks. Additionally, while the high initial cost of the printer might be offset by long-term ink savings, it could be a barrier for some users.

In summary, the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8500 is well-suited for users who prioritize high-quality photo printing, cost efficiency, and media versatility but should be mindful of its size and output limitations.