10 Best Sublimation Printers for Tumblers in 2026: Top Picks for Custom Drinkware

Choosing the best sublimation printer for tumblers means balancing print quality, paper size, ink costs, and the supplies needed to transfer designs cleanly onto curved drinkware.

This roundup compares 10 Epson and Brother options, from compact standalone printers to bundles that include blanks, transfer paper, tape, and pressing accessories.

Best 10 Sublimation Printer for Tumblers Picks for 2026

Best Compact Premium Pick – Epson SureColor F170

The Epson SureColor F170 is a strong choice if you want a reliable sublimation printer for tumblers and other small-format projects. It includes genuine Epson sublimation ink, supports paper sizes up to 8.5 x 14 inches, and offers wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity. A separate tumbler heat press is still required.

Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small businesses seeking a compact Epson printer with OEM ink and manufacturer support.

Pros:

• Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks.
• PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control for detailed output.
• Closed 150-sheet auto-feed tray helps reduce dust and paper preparation.
• Compact design with Windows and macOS support.

Cons:

• Maximum media width is 8.5 inches, which may limit larger tumbler-wrap designs.
• Mobile-device connections are not supported.
• A heat press is needed to transfer designs onto tumblers.

Choose the F170 when print quality, genuine supplies, and straightforward desktop operation matter more than mobile printing. Its compact format suits many tumbler workflows, provided your designs fit the supported media size.

Best App-Driven Option – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer

The Brother SP-1 is a convenient sublimation printer for tumblers when you prefer designing from a phone or tablet. Its Artspira app includes sublimation designs and image tools, while Wi-Fi connectivity and included starter supplies help you begin making custom projects. A heat press must be purchased separately.

Best For: Mobile-first crafters creating tumblers, mugs, shirts, bags, and other polyester-coated or sublimation-ready items.

Pros:

• Works with the Artspira app for importing, saving, and creating designs.
• Includes Brother genuine CMYK sublimation ink and a starter paper pack.
• Wi-Fi connectivity supports a phone- or tablet-centered workflow.
• Brother says finished projects are designed for durable, washable results on suitable materials.

Cons:

• A heat press is required and sold separately.
• The listed workflow is app-focused; the desktop version was noted as coming soon.
• Intended for sale and use in the United States at 120 volts.

The SP-1 makes sense for creators who value accessible design tools and mobile convenience. It is especially appealing for small custom batches, but confirm your preferred device workflow and plan for a separate tumbler press.

Best Budget Ink-Tank Alternative – Epson EcoTank ET-2803

The Epson EcoTank ET-2803 can suit shoppers considering a sublimation printer for tumblers, but it is supplied as a standard color inkjet rather than a dedicated dye-sublimation printer. Its refillable tanks, wireless printing, and all-in-one scanning and copying make it a versatile home-office machine; verify sublimation compatibility and use the appropriate ink before committing to transfers.

Best For: Buyers who need an everyday wireless printer and are specifically evaluating an ink-tank platform for compatible sublimation use.

Pros:

• Cartridge-free refillable ink-tank design.
• Wireless printing with AirPrint, voice-activated printing, and the Epson Smart Panel app.
• Includes printing, scanning, and copying in one compact unit.
• Included ink is rated for substantial page coverage under Epson’s stated usage assumptions.

Cons:

• Supplied notes identify it as an inkjet, not a dedicated dye-sublimation printer.
• Included ink is standard EcoTank ink rather than sublimation ink.
• A heat press and suitable sublimation supplies are not included.

The ET-2803 is best treated as a versatile ink-tank printer rather than a ready-to-use tumbler-sublimation system. It may be worth considering for mixed home-office needs, but dedicated sublimation buyers should account for compatibility, ink, and transfer equipment.

Best All-Inclusive Starter Bundle – Brother SP-1 Starter Kit

The Brother SP-1 Starter Kit is a practical sublimation printer for tumblers if you want supplies included with the printer. Along with the SP-1 and full CMYK ink set, the bundle provides transfer sheets, blanks, heat-resistant tape, design resources, and Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity for Windows, Mac, and app-based workflows.

Best For: New crafters and small businesses wanting a broad starter package for tumblers, mugs, apparel, coasters, and related projects.

Pros:

• Includes the Brother SP-1 with a full set of CMYK sublimation inks.
• Provides 160 sublimation transfer sheets, including 150 ProSub and 10 Brother sheets.
• Includes 50 sublimation blanks, heat-resistant tape, designs, and software resources.
• Supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections plus Windows, Mac, and app compatibility.

Cons:

• A heat press is not listed among the included supplies.
• The 8.5 x 11-inch and 8.5 x 14-inch media formats may not suit every large wrap design.
• The bundle includes many supplies, but individual blank types should be checked for your tumbler workflow.

This bundle offers more immediate project value than a printer-only package because it combines the machine with consumables, blanks, tape, and design resources. It is a convenient starting point, provided you already have or plan to buy a suitable heat press.

Best Compact Professional Pick – Epson SureColor F170 with Ink

For shoppers seeking a practical sublimation printer for tumblers and other personalized projects, the Epson SureColor F170 offers a compact desktop setup with genuine Epson ink, a closed 150-sheet auto-feed tray, and PrecisionCore printhead technology. It supports color sublimation transfers up to A4 size and is designed for Windows and Mac computers.

Best For: Home studios and small businesses that want a ready-to-use Epson sublimation printer with professional-oriented color control and simple paper handling.

Pros:

• Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks, power cable, user guide, and maintenance tank.
• PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead provides precise droplet control for detailed, vibrant color output.
• Closed 150-sheet auto-feed tray helps reduce paper preparation and dust exposure.
• Compact desktop design with a 1-year warranty and USB connectivity.

Cons:

• Maximum media size is A4, which may limit larger transfer layouts.
• Supplied details list USB connectivity, so shoppers seeking wireless printing should verify the exact configuration.
• Designed for printing transfers; a separate heat press is needed to apply designs to tumblers.

The F170 is a focused choice for creators who value genuine ink, consistent print quality, and a relatively compact footprint. Its A4 format suits many tumbler designs, although larger projects may require a different printer format.

Best Starter Bundle – Brother SP-1 Deluxe Sublimation Kit

The Brother SP-1 Deluxe Bundle is a convenient option for anyone comparing a sublimation printer for tumblers with a broader crafting starter package. Along with the dye-sublimation printer and CMYK ink set, it includes transfer paper, blanks, heat-resistant tape, a tool set, designs, and access to Artspira software.

Best For: Beginners, hobbyists, and small businesses that want printer supplies and starter materials bundled together for personalized projects.

Pros:

• Includes full CMYK ink, 310 total sublimation paper sheets, 50 blanks, and heat-resistant tape.
• Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity support flexible computer and network setups.
• Compatible with Windows, Mac, and the Artspira design software app.
• Listed uses include metal tumblers, mugs, shirts, totes, coasters, and other personalized products.

Cons:

• The bundle includes many consumables and accessories, so it may be more than buyers who already own supplies need.
• Maximum listed media size is Legal, and the supplied resolution detail is 300 dpi.
• A separate heat press is still required to transfer designs onto tumblers.

What distinguishes this SP-1 package is its all-in-one character. It can reduce the number of separate purchases for a new sublimation setup, while Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and app compatibility add flexibility for design and printing workflows.

Best Connected Epson Option – SureColor F170 Wireless Printer

This SureColor F170 is worth considering when you want a connected sublimation printer for tumblers with a compact 8.5-inch format. It includes genuine Epson sublimation ink, a 150-sheet auto-feed tray, and wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity for printing from compatible computers and supported mobile devices.

Best For: Customization businesses and home creators who want flexible connectivity, Epson ink, and a small-format printer for personalized gifts and transfer projects.

Pros:

• Includes a full set of Epson sublimation ink, user guide, and AC power cable.
• PrecisionCore printhead and Precision Droplet Control are designed for sharp image clarity.
• 150-sheet dust-resistant closed tray supports cleaner, more efficient transfer printing.
• Supports wireless, USB, and Ethernet connections, plus Epson printing software and iPrint compatibility.

Cons:

• The maximum listed media width is 8.5 inches, limiting larger designs.
• It is a print-only device and does not apply transfers to tumblers by itself.
• Supplied specifications list a 1-year warranty and simplex printing.

This version of the F170 stands out for connectivity: it can fit workflows that move between computers, networks, and supported mobile devices. Its 8.5-inch format is well suited to many tumbler transfer layouts, but buyers needing oversized designs should check the required dimensions first.

Best with Extra Features – Brother SP-1 Deluxe Sublimation Kit

If you want a sublimation printer for tumblers that also covers the basics for broader crafting, the Brother SP-1 Deluxe Starter Bundle is a practical entry point. It includes the printer, a full CMYK ink set, transfer paper, blanks, heat-resistant tape, and design resources, so you can begin creating projects with fewer additional purchases.

Best For: Hobbyists and small-business crafters who want a printer-centered starter package with tumbler blanks and supplies included.

Pros:

• Includes the Brother SP-1 printer with full 47 ml cyan, magenta, yellow, and black ink bottles.
• Provides two 20-ounce tumblers, two wine tumblers, mugs, and additional sublimation blanks.
• Includes 160 sheets of sublimation paper, four tape rolls, design resources, and Artspira software.
• Supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity and Windows, Mac, and app compatibility.

Cons:

• The bundle does not include a tumbler heat press.
• Its 50-sheet capacity is smaller than some higher-capacity options.

The SP-1 Deluxe bundle is especially appealing when you need a ready-to-start package rather than a printer alone. It offers useful tumbler and mug blanks, but you will still need a compatible heat press to complete transfers.

Best Heavy-Duty Pick – Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer

The Epson SureColor F170 is a compact sublimation printer for tumblers and other coated blanks, with a focus on Epson hardware, OEM ink, and controlled paper handling. Its 150-sheet enclosed auto-feed tray and PrecisionCore printhead make it a suitable choice for crafters who want a more streamlined setup.

Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small-business owners who prioritize OEM supplies, an enclosed paper tray, and a compact Windows or macOS workflow.

Pros:

• Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks with auto-stop bottles for cleaner refills.
• PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control is designed for clear image output.
• 150-sheet dust-resistant auto-feed tray can reduce frequent paper loading.
• Includes 8.5-by-11-inch and 8.5-by-14-inch paper, thermal tape, and a starter kit.

Cons:

• Mobile-device connections are not supported.
• The listed color and black-and-white speeds are one page per minute.
• The printer supports media up to 8.5 inches wide, which may limit larger layouts.

The F170 is a sensible fit if dependable Epson components and a closed paper tray matter more than included tumbler quantities or a bundled heat press. Remember that you will need a separate press and compatible blanks for tumbler production.

Best All-in-One Tumbler Setup – Brother SP-1 with 7-in-1 Tumbler Press

For buyers building a complete tumbler workflow, this Brother SP-1 package combines a sublimation printer for tumblers with a 7-in-1 turquoise tumbler, cup, and mug heat press. It also includes ink, paper, tape, numerous blanks, and attachments for several vessel shapes and sizes.

Best For: New crafters and small businesses that want one bundle covering printing, pressing, tumbler blanks, mugs, and multiple heat-press attachments.

Pros:

• Pairs the Brother SP-1 printer with a 7-in-1 heat press and seven attachment configurations.
• Includes six 20-ounce tumblers, three wine tumblers, 12 mugs, and a 50-piece blank set.
• Provides a full 47 ml CMYK ink set, 160 sheets of transfer paper, and four tape rolls.
• Offers Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity plus Windows, Mac, and app compatibility.

Cons:

• The large bundle may require more workspace than a printer-only setup.
• The included press and attachments add cost compared with a basic printer bundle.

This is the most complete option of the three for making tumbler and drinkware projects immediately. Its included press reduces the need to shop for separate equipment, while the extra blanks and attachments support a wider range of products.

How We Picked the Best Sublimation Printer for Tumblers

We focused on printers and bundles suited to personalized tumblers, mugs, and other hard-surface products. The comparison considers sublimation compatibility, included ink, maximum paper format, wireless connectivity, setup requirements, and the practical value of bundled supplies. We also separated true dye-sublimation printers from standard inkjet models that may require conversion or third-party materials.

Because the products vary considerably in packaging, check the exact listing before buying. Some versions include only the printer and ink, while others add transfer sheets, blanks, heat-resistant tape, maintenance supplies, or a press.

Quick Comparison

• Best for compact workspaces: Epson SureColor F170 models offer a purpose-built sublimation workflow in an 8.5-by-11-inch format.
• Best for beginners wanting supplies: Brother SP-1 starter and deluxe bundles include transfer materials and blanks to help you begin quickly.
• Best for larger starter packages: Bundles with 310 sheets or added pressing equipment provide more initial production capacity.
• Best for general home printing: The Epson EcoTank ET-2803 is a versatile all-in-one, but confirm sublimation compatibility before using it for this application.

Key Buying Factors for a Sublimation Printer for Tumblers

Purpose-Built Versus Converted Printers

A dedicated sublimation printer is generally the simplest choice because its ink system and software are designed for sublimation transfers. A standard EcoTank-style printer may be attractive for its multifunction features, but conversion can affect warranty coverage, color management, and setup complexity.

Paper Size and Tumbler Design Dimensions

Most tumbler artwork requires a long, narrow transfer rather than a conventional letter-sized page. An 8.5-by-11-inch printer can work for many smaller designs, but verify whether your target tumbler requires a larger or longer transfer. You may need to tile artwork for oversized drinkware.

Ink, Maintenance, and Operating Cost

Compare the included ink volume and replacement pricing, not just the printer’s purchase price. Sublimation systems also need appropriate transfer paper, heat-resistant tape, protective paper, and regular maintenance. A maintenance tank or replacement supplies can be valuable for frequent users.

Bundle Contents and Pressing Equipment

A bundle can reduce setup friction, but only if its included blanks and accessories match your projects. Count the transfer sheets, inspect the blank sizes, and confirm whether a tumbler press is included. A printer alone cannot complete the process; you also need a compatible heat source and a reliable way to secure the transfer.

Who Should Buy Which Sublimation Printer for Tumblers?

Choose an Epson SureColor F170 if you want a compact, dedicated machine from an established printer brand and prefer to purchase blanks and pressing equipment separately. Choose a Brother SP-1 bundle if you are new to sublimation and want transfer paper, blanks, or additional accessories included in one package.

Pick a deluxe bundle when you expect to make multiple products and want more consumables on hand. A starter bundle may be the better value for occasional crafting or testing a small business idea. Consider a general-purpose Epson EcoTank only if versatility matters more than a straightforward sublimation setup and you understand the compatibility requirements.