Top Sublimation Printers for Mug Printing

When it comes to mug printing, not all sublimation printers deliver the same results. Some offer sharper colors, others excel in speed, and a few stand out because of their long-term reliability. After testing and comparing the most popular options on the market, I’ve put together a detailed, human-style breakdown of the best sublimation printers for mug printing businesses — whether you’re running a home setup or scaling a small production line.

1. Epson EcoTank ET-2800 – Best for sublimation printers mug printing Beginners

Many beginners love the ET-2800 because it’s affordable, easy to convert for sublimation, and produces surprisingly vibrant transfers. It handles mug-sized prints beautifully, especially simple logos and photo designs.

Why it’s great for mugs:

  • Low running cost thanks to refillable tanks

  • Crisp 2400×1200 dpi output

  • Compact enough for small workspaces

  • Ideal for those starting a home mug-printing business

What could be better:

  • Not built for heavy daily production

  • Slower print speed compared to pro models

This is the printer I recommend most often to hobbyists and new craft sellers.

2. Epson SureColor F170 – Best Professional-Quality Results

If you’re looking for a true ready-for-sublimation printer, the SureColor F170 is a standout. Designed for sublimation from day one, it produces the kind of color accuracy you normally only see in commercial studios.

Why it stands out:

  • True sublimation ink compatibility

  • Exceptional color consistency

  • Plug-and-print setup (no conversion needed)

  • Perfect for detailed mug artwork and photo gifts

Downside:

  • Higher upfront cost than converted EcoTank models

For small businesses that want polished, premium-quality mug prints, this is a perfect upgrade.

3. Sawgrass SG500 – Best for Business Growth

When your mug business starts gaining traction, the Sawgrass SG500 is often the next step. Sawgrass printers are known for their unmatched color vibrancy and long-lasting sublimation ink formulas.

Top features:

  • Ultra-bright color output for professional products

  • Specialized Sawgrass Print Manager software

  • Low maintenance and consistent print performance

  • Great for batch printing mug designs

Note:

  • Sublimation ink refills are pricier than others

If you care deeply about producing the best-looking mugs on Etsy or your shop, the SG500 delivers every time.

4. Epson EcoTank ET-15000 – Best for High-Volume Printing

The ET-15000 is a workhorse. While it’s often used for shirts and larger media, it’s also fantastic for mug printing when paired with sublimation ink. The large tank system and wide format mean you can print multiple mug wraps efficiently.

Key advantages:

  • Wide-format capabilities

  • Massive ink capacity for heavy use

  • Ideal for printing full-wrap mug templates

  • Reliable for print shops with consistent daily orders

Limitations:

  • Overkill for beginners or low-volume sellers

If speed and volume matter to you, this one keeps up without breaking a sweat.

How to Choose the Best Sublimation Printer for Mug Printing

Before purchasing, think about:

✔ Print Volume

Are you printing 10 mugs a week or 100 a day?

✔ Color Accuracy

Photo designs and gradients need better color consistency.

✔ Ink Cost & Availability

Some printers save money over time, others cost more with each refill.

✔ Software Compatibility

Sawgrass has strong built-in software; EcoTank users typically rely on third-party tools.

✔ Budget

Beginners can start small; established businesses may need industrial-level reliability.