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.

These sublimation ink cartridges are designed specifically for Sawgrass SG500 and SG1000 printers, making them a good fit if you own either model. The upgraded 3.0.9 chips help ensure smooth printer recognition and compatibility even after firmware updates, reducing common frustration with ink cartridges. The high-viscosity gel ink is a standout feature, offering bright, sharp colors without the unwanted grid lines sometimes seen in sublimation prints. This means your prints will look vibrant and professional. Each cartridge holds 35 ml of ink, which is a reasonably generous amount, allowing for extended print runs that can save money in the long run. The ink is water-based, which generally dries fairly quickly and helps prevent smudging, though exact drying times can depend on your printing conditions. Users also get the benefit of responsive customer service, with assistance available if firmware updates cause any issues.

On the downside, this ink is limited to just the two Sawgrass printer models mentioned, so it won’t work with other brands or older printers. While the gel ink improves color quality, some users might find it requires occasional cleaning to avoid clogging if the printer is idle for long periods. This set is a solid choice if you want cost-effective, vibrant sublimation ink that works hassle-free with SG500 or SG1000 printers and comes with good support, but it’s not a universal solution for every sublimation printer.

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.