Creating personalized mugs is easier when you match the printer, transfer method, and heat equipment to your workflow. The best sublimation printer for mugs can produce sharp, colorful designs, but the right setup also depends on blank compatibility, print size, and ongoing ink costs.
We compared compact printer bundles, starter kits, mug presses, and multifunction heat-transfer options to help beginners, crafters, and small businesses choose a practical setup for reliable mug personalization.
Best 10 Sublimation Printer for Mugs Picks for 2026
Best Compact Printer
- Genuine Epson ink and manufacturer support
- Compact design with a 150-sheet enclosed tray
- Wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity
Best For: Hobbyists and small businesses printing mugs and small-format transfers
Best Press-and-Mug Bundle
- Includes press and 12 white 12-ounce mugs
- One-touch operation for compatible designs
- Zone heating creates durable, dishwasher-safe results
Best For: Cricut users making batches of customized mugs
Best Starter Kit
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Bundle
- Includes CMYK ink, paper, blanks, and heat tape
- Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Windows, Mac, and app compatibility
- Adds designs and Artspira software to the package
Best For: Beginners starting mug and small-business sublimation projects
Best Small Mug Bundle
- Includes press and four white 12-ounce mugs
- Supports 11- to 16-ounce mug blanks
- One-touch press with zone heating and auto-off
Best For: Home crafters making small batches or testing mug designs
Best Professional Pick
- Vivid 1200 x 1200 dpi CMYK output
- Wi-Fi and automatic print-head maintenance
- Prints up to 8.5 x 14 inches
Best For: Small businesses and creators wanting a compact, professional sublimation printer
Best Mug Press Companion
BetterSub Tumbler and Mug Press
- Handles 11- and 15-ounce mugs
- Also supports 16-, 20-, and 30-ounce tumblers
- Adjustable heat, time, and pressure controls
Best For: Creators who need to transfer designs onto mugs and straight tumblers
Best Complete Starter Bundle
- Includes OEM ink, paper, tape, and starter supplies
- 150-sheet enclosed auto-feed tray
- Wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity
Best For: Hobbyists and small businesses wanting a ready-to-use sublimation setup
Best for Consistent Color
- PrecisionCore printhead supports clear image output
- 150-sheet enclosed auto-feed tray
- Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet connectivity
Best For: Makers and small customization businesses
Best Starter Bundle
Sublimation Transfer Printer Bundle
- Includes 100 paper sheets and cleaning kit
- Works with mugs, shirts, bags, and phone cases
- Designed for light polyester-coated materials
Best For: Budget-conscious beginners starting small projects
Best Compact Printer – Epson SureColor F170
The Epson SureColor F170 is a strong choice if you want a compact sublimation printer for mugs and other small-format projects. It includes genuine Epson sublimation ink, supports wireless, USB, and Ethernet connectivity, and uses a 150-sheet enclosed auto-feed tray.
Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small businesses that want a supported Epson printer for mugs, apparel, mousepads, and similar transfers.
Pros:
- Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks and manufacturer support.
- PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control for detailed color printing.
- Compact design with a dust-resistant 150-sheet paper tray and auto-stop ink bottles.
- Works with Windows and macOS and offers wireless, USB, and Ethernet connections.
Cons:
- Maximum media width is 8.5 inches, limiting larger designs.
- Mobile-device connections are not supported.
The F170 is a polished, space-saving option for mug sublimation when dependable OEM supplies and straightforward computer-based operation matter most.
Best Press-and-Mug Bundle – Cricut Mug Press With 12 Mugs
This Cricut bundle is designed for creating customized drinkware rather than printing transfer sheets. The mug press pairs with 12 white 12-ounce ceramic mugs and uses one-touch operation for compatible designs made with Infusible Ink materials.
Best For: Cricut users who want a ready supply of blank mugs for durable, dishwasher-safe mug projects.
Pros:
- Includes the Cricut Mug Press and 12 blank 12-ounce ceramic mugs.
- Designed for 11- to 16-ounce mug blanks.
- Zone heating is intended to produce peel-proof, dishwasher-safe results.
- Auto-off safety feature and listed safety certifications add convenience.
Cons:
- It is a mug heat press, not a sublimation printer.
- Infusible Ink sheets, pens, or markers are sold separately.
If you already have a way to create or cut the artwork, this bundle offers a simple path to finished mugs, but it does not replace a sublimation printer for mugs.
Best Starter Kit – Brother SP-1 Sublimation Bundle
The Brother SP-1 starter bundle is a convenient sublimation printer for mugs if you want supplies and blanks included from the start. Along with the printer and full CMYK ink set, it provides transfer paper, 50 blanks, heat-resistant tape, designs, and software.
Best For: New crafters and small-business owners who want an all-in-one starting package for mugs, tumblers, apparel, and other projects.
Pros:
- Includes full CMYK inks, 160 transfer sheets, 50 blanks, and heat-resistant tape.
- Supports designs for ceramic mugs, metal tumblers, shirts, totes, and coasters.
- Offers Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity with Windows, Mac, and app compatibility.
- Includes Artspira software, design cards, and 100 sublimation designs.
Cons:
- The bundle is larger than a printer-only purchase, which may not suit users who already have supplies.
- Printing is limited to 600 x 600 dpi according to the supplied specifications.
For beginners, the included consumables and blanks make this one of the most practical ways to begin producing mug transfers without assembling a supply list separately.
Best Small Mug Bundle – Cricut Mug Press With 4 Mugs
This smaller Cricut bundle combines the Mug Press with four white 12-ounce porcelain mugs. It is useful for testing mug designs or completing a modest batch, with one-touch operation and zone heating for compatible Infusible Ink projects.
Best For: Home crafters who need a press and a few mug blanks rather than a large starter supply.
Pros:
- Includes the Cricut Mug Press and four white 12-ounce mugs.
- Works with mug blanks from 11 to 16 ounces.
- Zone heating is designed for peel-proof, dishwasher-safe results.
- Features auto-off operation and listed safety certifications.
Cons:
- It is a heat press and does not print sublimation transfers itself.
- Only four mugs are included, and compatible Infusible Ink materials are sold separately.
This bundle is a sensible lower-quantity option for personal projects or experimenting with mug customization, provided you already have a method for preparing the designs.
Best Professional Pick – Sawgrass SG500
The Sawgrass SG500 is a strong sublimation printer for mugs and other hard or soft blanks when vibrant color, dependable operation, and business-friendly features matter. It prints at up to 1200 x 1200 dpi, supports Wi-Fi, and includes SubliJet UHD CMYK inks plus access to Sawgrass design and print software.
Best For: Small businesses, home-based entrepreneurs, and hobbyists who want a compact printer with professional-grade output and room to grow.
Pros:
- Produces sharp, vivid CMYK sublimation prints with up to 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution.
- Supports media up to 8.5 x 14 inches, with bypass printing up to 8.5 x 51 inches.
- Includes Wi-Fi connectivity, automatic print-head maintenance, and user-friendly Sawgrass software.
- Bundle includes 31 mL inks and sublimation paper.
Cons:
- Designed for standard 110/120V US and North American outlets.
- Uses simplex printing rather than automatic duplex printing.
Choose the SG500 if you want a dedicated, compact sublimation setup that can handle mug artwork alongside apparel, signage, and promotional products. Its software and maintenance features make it particularly practical for users building a repeatable workflow.
Best Mug Press Companion – BetterSub Tumbler and Mug Press
The BetterSub is a heat press rather than a printer, but it is a useful companion for a sublimation printer for mugs. Its included heating setup supports 11- and 15-ounce mugs while also accommodating several straight tumbler sizes, with adjustable temperature, time, and pressure controls.
Best For: DIY users, small workshops, and custom-product sellers who need one press for standard mugs and straight tumblers.
Pros:
- Supports 11- and 15-ounce mugs plus 16-, 20-, and 30-ounce straight skinny tumblers.
- LCD controls allow temperature adjustment up to 482°F and time settings up to 1,000 seconds.
- Dual pressure knobs help apply even pressure across the item.
- Works with ceramic mugs, stainless steel tumblers, glass cups, metal cups, and more.
Cons:
- It does not print designs; a separate sublimation printer is required.
- The heating pad should not be operated empty for an extended period.
- The included setup is rated for 110V operation.
If you already have a printer, the BetterSub can expand your mug-making workflow into tumblers and other compatible drinkware. Its adjustable controls are useful for varied blanks, though users must match settings carefully to each material.
Best Complete Starter Bundle – Epson SureColor F170
The Epson SureColor F170 is a practical sublimation printer for mugs when you want a compact, ready-to-start package. This bundle includes OEM Epson inks, sublimation paper in two sizes, thermal tape, and a starter kit, while its 150-sheet enclosed auto-feed tray helps keep the workflow organized.
Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small businesses seeking a compact starter printer with included consumables and broad computer connectivity.
Pros:
- Includes OEM Epson sublimation inks, 8.5 x 11-inch and 8.5 x 14-inch paper, thermal tape, and starter supplies.
- PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control is designed for clear image output.
- Enclosed 150-sheet auto-feed tray helps protect paper from dust and reduces manual feeding.
- Supports wireless, USB, and Ethernet connections for Windows and macOS computers.
Cons:
- Mobile-device connection is not supported.
- Maximum media width is 8.5 inches.
- Uses simplex printing and has a listed resolution of 1200 x 600 dpi.
The F170 stands out for its bundled supplies and straightforward desktop footprint, making it a convenient entry point for mug projects. Its enclosed paper tray and auto-stop ink bottles also support a cleaner, less hands-on setup.
Best App-Connected Pick – Brother SP1 Sublimation Printer
If you want a user-friendly sublimation printer for mugs and other DIY projects, the Brother SP1 offers a streamlined workflow through the Artspira app. You can create or import designs, print them, and transfer them with a separate heat press.
Best For: Beginners and crafters who want app-based design tools for mugs, tumblers, shirts, bags, and hats.
Pros:
- Artspira supports imported designs, saved images, and more than 100 sublimation designs.
- Includes starter sublimation ink and paper.
- Supports Wi-Fi connectivity and prints on media up to 8.5 x 11 inches.
- Brother genuine ink is designed for bright, durable transfers on compatible coated items.
Cons:
- A heat press is required and sold separately.
- The listed workflow is centered on the Artspira mobile app; a desktop version is still forthcoming.
- Intended for US 120-volt use, and other use may affect the warranty.
The SP1 is a practical choice for personalized mugs and small craft projects when mobile design access matters. Its included starter supplies help you begin, but remember to budget for a compatible heat press.
Best for Consistent Color – Epson SureColor F170
The Epson SureColor F170 is a compact sublimation printer for mugs and other personalized products, with a PrecisionCore printhead and Epson’s included sublimation ink. Its closed 150-sheet tray and computer or mobile connectivity suit repeat transfer work.
Best For: Home businesses and makers who prioritize color consistency, efficient paper handling, and broad device connectivity.
Pros:
- PrecisionCore technology with Precision Droplet Control is designed for clear images.
- Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation ink, a user guide, and power cable.
- 150-sheet auto-feed tray is enclosed to help reduce dust and paper preparation.
- Supports Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, Windows, macOS, and Epson iPrint on Android or iOS.
Cons:
- It is limited to media up to 8.5 inches wide.
- Printing is listed at approximately one color page per minute.
- It is print-only and does not support direct email printing or camera connections.
For mug designs and other small-format transfers, the F170 emphasizes controlled output and convenient feeding rather than high speed. Its refillable, high-capacity ink bottles may also help manage ongoing supply costs.
Best Starter Bundle – Sublimation Transfer Printer Bundle
This sublimation printer for mugs comes as a project-oriented bundle for transferring designs to ceramic mugs, light polyester garments, bags, mouse pads, and phone cases. It includes paper and cleaning supplies, but verify the ink contents before ordering because the listing notes that OEM inks are not included.
Best For: Budget-conscious beginners who want a basic bundle for light-colored polyester and polyester-coated items.
Pros:
- Bundle includes a printer, 100 sublimation paper sheets, a printhead cleaning kit, and heat transfer tape.
- Supports projects including custom T-shirts, ceramic mugs, mouse pads, and phone cases.
- Designed to minimize ink usage while maintaining print quality, according to the supplied listing.
- Compact listed dimensions make it suitable for smaller work areas.
Cons:
- OEM inks are not included, so additional supplies may be needed.
- Best suited to light-colored polyester fabrics and polyester-coated items with 30% or less cotton content.
- Its listed operating temperature is 350°F, so suitable heat-transfer equipment is required.
This bundle can lower the barrier to testing mug and apparel projects by including paper and maintenance accessories. It is best viewed as a basic starter option, with material compatibility and ink requirements checked before purchase.
How We Picked the Best Sublimation Printer for Mugs
We evaluated these 10 options by looking at the complete mug-making workflow rather than printer specifications alone. Key considerations included print quality, supported media size, included ink or transfer supplies, ease of setup, mug compatibility, bundle value, and whether the equipment is better suited to occasional crafting or repeated production.
The list includes dedicated dye-sublimation printers such as the Epson SureColor F170, Sawgrass SG500, and Brother options, along with mug presses and broader starter bundles. Because a printer cannot transfer an image onto a mug by itself, we noted which choices provide—or require—separate pressing equipment and compatible sublimation blanks.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | Look For | Typical Setup |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners | Starter bundles with ink, paper, blanks, and tape | Printer or press plus basic supplies |
| Frequent mug projects | Reliable printer, replacement ink availability, and consistent heat | Dedicated sublimation printer and mug press |
| Small businesses | Low operating friction, repeatable settings, and broad blank support | Printer, press, design software, and inventory |
| Occasional crafters | Compact equipment or press-and-mug bundles | Simple, low-volume workflow |
Key Buying Factors for a Sublimation Printer for Mugs
Printer Format and Image Size
Check the maximum paper width before buying. Letter-size printers work well for standard mug designs, while larger formats offer more flexibility for wider graphics or multiple transfers. Confirm that your preferred paper, software, and printer settings are compatible.
Ink, Paper, and Running Costs
Included ink and transfer paper can make a bundle attractive, but replacement supplies matter more over time. Choose a system with dependable ink availability and use genuine or manufacturer-approved sublimation ink whenever required for predictable color and printer operation.
Press and Blank Compatibility
Use mugs specifically coated for sublimation. A mug press should match the mug diameter and shape, provide even pressure, and maintain stable heat. Some options in this roundup are presses rather than printers, so verify what additional equipment is needed.
Ease of Use and Support
Beginners benefit from clear setup instructions, included accessories, and accessible software guidance. Features such as preset profiles, straightforward controls, and readily available replacement parts can reduce wasted blanks and troubleshooting time.
Who Should Buy Which Sublimation Printer for Mugs?
Choose the Epson SureColor F170 if you want a compact, dedicated printer from an established brand and primarily create standard-sized transfers. It is a strong fit for home crafters and small workspaces.
Choose the Sawgrass SG500 if you prefer a purpose-built sublimation ecosystem and expect to print regularly. Consider its supply costs and supported media size before committing.
Choose a Brother starter bundle if you want multiple consumables and blanks included with the printer. Bundles can shorten setup time, but check the exact contents and replacement-supply availability.
Choose a Cricut Mug Press bundle if you already have a way to print transfers or want a straightforward pressing solution with blank mugs included. It is not a standalone printer.
Choose a tumbler press or broad heat-transfer bundle if you plan to make more than mugs. These options may suit varied drinkware and apparel projects, but verify temperature, pressure, attachment, and blank requirements before purchase.