10 Best Sublimation Inks 2026 in the United States

The Sawgrass SubliJet UHD Sublimation Ink Cartridge in black is a solid choice if you own a Sawgrass SG500 or SG1000 printer, as it’s specifically designed for these models, ensuring smooth compatibility. This ink uses a gel-based formula that helps reduce clogging and keeps ink flow steady, which means fewer interruptions during printing. Its black color is deep and vivid, delivering sharp text and detailed images with good fade resistance, which is important for keeping your prints looking fresh over time. Because it is water-based and solvent-free, this ink is safer to handle and is made in small batches in the USA with quality control, so you can expect consistent color quality. It works well on polyester fabrics and hard surfaces like mugs and tumblers, covering a range of sublimation projects.

The product details don’t specify drying time, which can be important if you need to handle prints quickly after production. While the ink is described as long-lasting and high-viscosity, it’s specifically optimized for Sawgrass printers, so it may not perform as well in other machines. If you’re using a Sawgrass SG500 or SG1000 printer and want reliable, high-quality black sublimation ink that produces vibrant, durable prints on various substrates, this cartridge is a fitting option.

The Hiipoo Sublimation Ink 522 is an excellent choice for those using specific inkjet printers like the ET-2720, ET-2760, and others listed in the product brief. One of its standout features is the high color quality, producing bright and vivid prints that are fast-drying, waterproof, and resistant to fading. This ink is especially beneficial for creative projects such as customizing mugs, t-shirts, pillows, and phone cases.

The ink is designed to be ICC-free, which simplifies the printing process without compromising on quality. The syringe-free refilling system is another user-friendly feature, making it easy to refill without mess or spills. This can greatly save time and reduce cleaning efforts. Compatibility is broad but limited to specific models, so it’s important to check if your printer is supported. Durability seems strong, with the ink holding up well over time and through various uses.

On the downside, it’s worth noting that the ink works best with fabrics containing less than 30% cotton, limiting its use on certain materials. If you are looking for high-quality sublimation ink that is easy to use and offers excellent color and durability for a variety of creative projects, Hiipoo Sublimation Ink 522 is a strong contender.

Hiipoo Sublimation Ink is a versatile choice for anyone looking to create vibrant designs on various fabrics and materials, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts and small businesses. With wide compatibility across many printer models, including popular Epson and WorkForce options, this ink can easily be used for on-demand printing projects, from T-shirts to mugs. The color quality is noted to be bright, vivid, and long-lasting, which is a significant advantage for those who want their prints to stand out.

One of the standout features is the ink's durability; it resists fading and offers a smooth application, minimizing issues like print-head clogs. Furthermore, Hiipoo has ensured that this ink meets high-quality standards with certifications like ISO-9001, giving customers confidence in its reliability.

There are a couple of drawbacks to consider. The ink is specifically designed for fabrics with less than 30% cotton, which limits its use on certain materials. Additionally, while the packaging includes 200ml of black ink, some users may find the quantity limiting if they plan to undertake large projects. Lastly, while it is praised for its ease of use, beginners might need a little guidance to get started with sublimation printing effectively.