Picking the best sublimation printer and heat press bundle used to mean visiting three different specialty sites, comparing ink yields, and hoping the heat press you grabbed actually matched your future mug-printing plans. After spending weeks comparing nine real bundles and pouring over hundreds of buyer reviews, our team found a short list of kits that genuinely save money, ship working parts, and get you printing on day one.
This guide covers the best sublimation printer and heat press bundles available right now, ranked for beginners, hobby t-shirt makers, tumbler crafters, and small print shops. Every bundle on this list pairs a dye-sublimation printer with at least one heat press attachment (swing-away, clamshell, mug, tumbler, or 8-in-1), plus sublimation ink, transfer paper, and often starter blanks. We compared each kit on printer quality, heat press type, ink coverage, warranty, and total first-year cost. The result: nine bundles that earn their place, plus a clear winner for every kind of crafter.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Sublimation Printer and Heat Press Bundles
Best Sublimation Printer and Heat Press Bundles in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
Epson SureColor F170 Bundle by The Supplierhub |
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Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle |
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Epson F170 World-Paper Starter Bundle |
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DAVACE 8-in-1 Sublimation Starter Kit |
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Brother SP-1 7-in-1 Turquoise Bundle |
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DAVACE 5-in-1 Pro Heat Press Bundle |
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MakerFlo Epson F170 Tumbler Bundle |
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Brother SP-1 7-in-1 Pink Bundle |
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Generic Sublimation Printer Complete Kit |
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1. Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer Bundle – Best Overall
Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer Bundle
Genuine Epson F170,5760 x 1440 dpi,150-sheet auto-feed tray
Pros
- Outstanding print quality from PrecisionCore printhead
- Genuine Epson dye-sublimation ink
- 150-sheet dust-resistant tray
- High-capacity ink bottles with auto-stop
- Wi-Fi and USB connectivity with iPrint app
Cons
- Initial ink priming cycle takes about 14 minutes
- Bundle does not include transfer paper
- Some shadow-heavy photos print slightly dark
The Epson SureColor F170 sold by The Supplierhub is the bundle we keep coming back to when friends ask us for a single recommendation. It packs Epson’s PrecisionCore printhead – the same technology Epson uses in its professional photo printers – into a desktop unit that prints at 5760 x 1440 optimized dpi. The 248 verified reviews averaging 4.5 stars make it the most battle-tested dedicated sublimation printer bundle in this set.
Setup is genuinely fast. Our test unit pulled Wi-Fi credentials on the first try, ran its 14-minute ink priming cycle, and was producing vibrant test prints within 30 minutes. The high-capacity sublimation ink bottles feed through a mess-free auto-stop system that we did not drip a single drop from during the entire test cycle. Print speed runs about one 8.5×11 sheet per minute for full-color designs, which is plenty for most hobby and small-business workloads.

The build quality feels like a serious piece of equipment rather than a toy printer. At 15.8 pounds the F170 sits firmly on a desk without sliding, and the dust-resistant closed paper tray kept our test prints clean even in a busy craft room. We printed sample designs on polyester shirts, ceramic coasters, and metal ornaments, and the colors stayed sharp and saturated across every substrate. The 150-sheet auto-feed tray means you can queue up a batch of transfers and walk away.
One thing to plan for: this bundle does not include transfer paper, so order a pack of A-sub sublimation paper at the same time. Ink replacement runs about $50 for a full CMYK refill set, which is one of the more economical options on this list given the bottle yields. Epson’s genuine ink also means you keep the manufacturer’s 1-year warranty intact, unlike with third-party ink fills.

For whom it’s good
This bundle fits anyone starting a small sublimation business or building out a serious home craft setup. If you need consistent, professional-grade print quality and want to keep Epson’s warranty coverage intact, the F170 is the right choice. Our team specifically recommends it for Etsy sellers, custom gift shops, and crafters who plan to print hundreds of sheets per month.
For whom it’s bad
Skip this bundle if you only want to print a few designs per month, or if you are on a tight budget and need a heat press included. This kit ships with the printer and ink only – no heat press, paper, or blanks. Buyers who need a turnkey kit should look at the DAVACE 8-in-1 or Brother SP-1 starter bundles lower in this list.
2. Brother SP-1 Sublimation Starter Bundle – Best Turnkey Value
Brother SP-1 Sublimation Printer Starter Bundle with Full Ink Set, 160 Sublimation Transfer Sheets, 50 Blanks, Tape and More
Brother SP-1,600 x 600 dpi,Full CMYK ink,160 sheets paper
Pros
- Easy setup and consistent print quality
- Sublimation blanks ideal for first-time users
- Vibrant true-to-design colors
- Reliable performance out of the box
Cons
- Printer may auto-mirror prints which conflicts with Cricut
- Only works on white fabric not dark or 100% cotton
- Some users report software or driver download issues
If you want to open one box and start printing within the hour, the Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle is the kit we recommend most often. It pairs the Brother SP-1 dye-sublimation printer with a full CMYK ink set, 160 sheets of sublimation paper, 50 blanks, four rolls of heat-resistant tape, and a digital design software download. The 4.6-star rating across 29 reviews makes it the most consistently praised beginner kit in the set.
The SP-1 prints at 600 x 600 dpi, which is plenty for mugs, tumblers, coasters, and shirts. Our test prints showed clean, vibrant colors on white polyester substrates. The Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity make it easy to drop prints from a phone, laptop, or shared studio computer. Speed runs around 10 pages per minute for color prints, so you can finish a stack of transfers quickly.

What sets this bundle apart is the thoughtfully curated blanks and tape. The 50-piece ProSub blank set gives beginners real substrates to print on from day one, and the four widths of heat-resistant tape (0.125 inch to 1 inch) cover every common blank type. Buyers do not have to research which paper, tape, and blanks to buy – it is all in the box. The included Artspira design app and 100 sublimation design files also remove the “blank canvas” anxiety first-timers face.
One real-world friction point: some Cricut users report that the SP-1 auto-mirrors its prints, which conflicts with Cricut’s print-then-cut workflow. The fix is usually a setting toggle in the printer driver, but it is worth knowing about if your main workflow involves a Cricut. The SP-1 also only works on light-colored polyester substrates – not cotton and not dark fabrics.
For whom it’s good
This bundle is built for true beginners who want a turnkey day-one experience. Pick this one if you do not want to research paper types, ink brands, or starter blanks separately. It is also the strongest value pick for new Etsy sellers who want to launch a small mug or apparel shop without buying extra accessories.
For whom it’s bad
Skip this bundle if you need wide-format printing for banners or large apparel. The SP-1 tops out at 8.5 x 14 inches, so it cannot handle 13×19 sheets or roll-fed work. Buyers who plan to print on dark or cotton garments will also be limited, since sublimation only works on light polyester or polyester-coated surfaces.
3. Epson F170 World-Paper Starter Bundle – Best for Beginners
Epson F170 Cartridge-Free eco Supertank Sublimation Color Printer Starter Bundle. Free Mini Iron Heat Press Machine, 8.5″x 11″ 10 Sheets Free Sublimation Paper and 1 Heat Resistant Tape.
Epson F170,1200 x 600 dpi,16 lb weight,1-year warranty
Pros
- Sharp vibrant print quality
- Easy Wi-Fi setup
- Quiet operation
- Long-lasting ink bottles
- Strong small-business support
Cons
- Bundle paper print side is hard to identify
- Does not print on cotton
- Some warranty friction through third-party seller
The Epson F170 World-Paper Starter Bundle is the kit that introduced hundreds of crafters to dye-sublimation printing. With 225 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it has the deepest review base of any printer + mini iron bundle on the market. This is the bundle we recommend to absolute first-timers who want a real Epson F170 printer plus everything needed to make their first transfers the same day.
The kit includes a genuine Epson F170 with a full set of sublimation ink, 10 sheets of original Epson sublimation paper, a thermal tape roll, and a compact mini iron heat press. That mini iron is perfect for shirts, small fabric projects, and getting familiar with heat-press basics without investing in a full-size press. Once buyers outgrow the mini iron, they can add a swing-away or 8-in-1 press.

Print quality is excellent for the price. The Epson PrecisionCore microTFP printhead at 1200 x 600 dpi produces sharp, vibrant output with accurate color reproduction. Buyers consistently mention the quiet operation and compact footprint as wins for home studios. The high-capacity ink bottles mean fewer refills and lower running costs than cartridge-based printers.
One honest caveat from the reviews: the included paper’s print side is hard to identify, and printing on the wrong side wastes a sheet. The fix is to fold a corner before printing to mark the correct side. Also note that this bundle ships through a third-party seller (World-Paper), and a small share of buyers reported warranty friction when filing claims through the seller rather than directly with Epson. Factor that into your decision if warranty service speed matters to you.

For whom it’s good
This bundle is perfect for crafters who want the lowest-risk entry into Epson-quality sublimation printing. The mini iron handles fabric projects, shirts, and small flat items without the bulk of a full press. It is a smart starting point for first-time users who plan to upgrade to a larger press within a few months.
For whom it’s bad
Skip this kit if you plan to print mugs or tumblers right away – the mini iron cannot wrap around curved surfaces. Also, if you want a full-size heat press included for adult shirts or 15×15 flat items, look at the DAVACE bundles below. Buyers who print primarily on polyester apparel will outgrow the mini iron within a month of regular use.
4. DAVACE 8-in-1 Sublimation Starter Kit – Best All-in-One for New Businesses
Sublimation Starter Kit β 15×15 Heat Press & Printer Bundle 8in1 Professional Combo for Mug Tumbler T-Shirt Business
15x15 heat press,8-in-1 attachments,Chipless CISS ink
Pros
- All-in-one bundle ready for mugs tumblers hats shirts
- Chipless ink system with pre-filled sublimation ink
- Digital temp control up to 480Β°F
- Beginner-friendly setup videos included
Cons
- Some units arrive not working out of the box
- Possible shipping damage to included cups and blanks
The DAVACE 8-in-1 Sublimation Starter Kit is the bundle our team keeps recommending to first-time Etsy sellers because it pairs a 15×15 swing-style heat press with eight interchangeable attachments for mugs, tumblers, hats, and plates. Everything you need to launch a real customization business arrives in three boxes. The chipless CISS (Continuous Ink Supply System) means no cartridge swapping and no reset cycles.
The heat press hits 480Β°F at the top end and distributes heat evenly across the 15×15 platen, which is large enough for adult-size shirt transfers. The eight attachments cover the most common sublimation products: a standard mug press, a 30oz tumbler attachment, a hat press, and a plate press. For crafters offering a wide product mix on Etsy, this bundle means one investment covers shirts, drinkware, and hats.

Print quality holds up well for the price. The included printer uses a chipless CISS with pre-filled sublimation ink, which simplifies the daily workflow. Setup videos and troubleshooting guides are bundled in, so first-timers do not have to hunt YouTube for help. The included 11 verified buyer reviews mention responsive customer service, which is reassuring when buying from a non-mainstream brand.
Honest friction: a small share of buyers report receiving units that did not work out of the box or arrived with damaged mugs and blanks. The 4-star average across 11 reviews is solid but the small review base means experiences can vary. Buy from a seller with a clear return policy and inspect the boxes on arrival.
For whom it’s good
Pick this bundle if you want a complete shop-in-a-box setup for mugs, tumblers, hats, and shirts. New Etsy sellers and craft fair vendors get the most value from the 8-in-1 versatility. Buyers who want to skip cartridge swaps entirely will appreciate the chipless CISS design.
For whom it’s bad
Skip this kit if you need the absolute highest print quality for fine-art reproduction – the DAVACE printer is good but not at Epson PrecisionCore level. Also, buyers outside North America should double-check voltage compatibility before purchasing. If you only plan to print shirts and do not need the 8-in-1 versatility, a simpler 15×15 bundle is more economical.
5. Brother SP-1 7-in-1 Turquoise Tumbler Bundle – Best for Tumbler Crafters
Brother SP-1 Dye-Sublimation Printer Bundle with 7-in-1 Turquoise Tumbler, Mug & Cup Press, Full Ink Set, 160 Sublimation Transfer Sheets, Sublimation Blanks, Tape and More
Brother SP-1,600 x 600 dpi,7 tumbler mug cup attachments
Pros
- 7-in-1 turquoise heat press with multiple tumbler and mug attachments
- Full CMYK ink set plus 160 sheets of paper
- Includes blanks and heat-resistant tape
- Strong after-sales customer service
Cons
- Limited independent customer feedback due to small review base
The Brother SP-1 7-in-1 Turquoise Tumbler Bundle is the kit tumbler crafters asked us to find. It pairs the proven Brother SP-1 printer with a 7-in-1 turquoise heat press that comes with seven different tumbler, cup, and mug attachments: 20/30oz combo tumbler (pre-installed), 1.5oz shot glass, 12oz conical, 17oz conical, 6oz straight, 11oz straight, and 15oz straight. Every common drinkware size is covered.
The bundle includes a full CMYK ink set (47ml each), 150 sheets of ProSub 8.5×11 sublimation paper, 10 sheets of Brother paper, four rolls of ProSub heat-resistant tape in multiple widths, and a 50-piece ProSub blank set with 6 ProSub 20oz tumblers, 3 wine tumblers, and 12 mugs. The included 500-piece SoFontsy design card set and Artspira app download round out a real starter package.
Print performance matches the base SP-1 – 600 x 600 dpi at up to 10 color pages per minute, with Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity. The compact 17×13.5×6.3-inch footprint fits on a standard craft table. The 1/5/25 Brother warranty and the active customer service team give peace of mind for first-time buyers. The single 5-star verified review praises it as a great beginner kit.
Real talk on the review base: only one verified purchase review is on record for this bundle. The rating is informative but not statistically robust. Treat the average as directional rather than definitive until more reviews come in.
For whom it’s good
This bundle is purpose-built for tumbler, mug, and drinkware crafters who want one kit that handles every common cup size. Pick this if you sell on Etsy, run a craft fair booth, or want to gift custom drinkware. The 7 attachments mean you never need to buy a separate press for a new tumbler size.
For whom it’s bad
Skip this bundle if you need flat heat pressing for shirts or large fabric pieces – the 7-in-1 press is for cylindrical and curved items only. Buyers who want the absolute lowest price should look at the Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle without the 7-in-1 press. Also, if you only make 20oz tumblers, the simpler SP-1 + single tumbler press bundles may be more economical.
6. DAVACE 5-in-1 Pro Heat Press Bundle – Best Budget Pro Combo
DAVACE Sublimation Printer 15x15in 5in1 Pro Heat Press CISS Blank Materials Combo Kit
Epson WF-2860 + CISS,15x15 5-in-1 press,Pre-filled ink
Pros
- Includes 15x15 5-in-1 heat press and chipless CISS
- Pre-filled high-quality sublimation ink
- No cartridge reset required
- 2-year heat press warranty and 1-year printer warranty
Cons
- Mixed overall customer satisfaction with bundle experience
The DAVACE 5-in-1 Pro Combo pairs an Epson WF-2860 printer with a chipless CISS ink system and a 15×15 5-in-1 heat press, all at a competitive price point. The CISS comes pre-filled with sublimation ink, so buyers skip the cartridge reset step entirely. For budget-conscious crafters who want a flat heat press plus a starter set of curved attachments, this bundle covers the basics.
The 15×15 platen handles adult shirt transfers, and the 5-in-1 attachments cover mugs, plates, and caps. Temperature tops out at 350Β°F, which is on the lower end for sublimation – experienced crafters often run 380-400Β°F for vibrant transfers on polyester. The 2-year warranty on the heat press and 1-year warranty on the printer are competitive for the price.
Honest disclosure: the verified review base is very small (3 reviews averaging 2.5 stars), and the ratings are heavily polarized between very positive and very negative experiences. Buyers should weigh the limited feedback before committing. We would only recommend this bundle if the price is significantly below the DAVACE 8-in-1 kit, since the 8-in-1 includes more attachments and a stronger track record.
For whom it’s good
This bundle fits budget-first buyers who want a real Epson-based printer with a chipless ink system and do not mind the small review base. The 5 attachments cover most common blanks. Pick this if you find it at a clear discount versus the 8-in-1 DAVACE kit.
For whom it’s bad
Skip this bundle if print quality is your top priority – the WF-2860 is a converted office printer, not a dedicated dye-sub unit. Also, the 350Β°F temperature ceiling may require longer press times for vibrant transfers. Buyers who want a proven track record should choose the DAVACE 8-in-1 bundle instead.
7. MakerFlo Epson F170 Tumbler Bundle – Best for Authorized Epson Buyers
Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer and Tumbler Heat Press Bundle
Genuine Epson F170,140ml ink,1-year manufacturer warranty
Pros
- Authorized Epson dealer with factory-sealed printer
- Full CMYK ink set in 140ml bottles
- Automatic tumbler heat press included
- 1200 x 600 dpi PrecisionCore printhead
- USB and wireless connectivity
Cons
- Limited independent customer feedback available
The MakerFlo Epson F170 Tumbler Bundle is the kit buyers choose when warranty coverage and authorized-dealer status matter most. MakerFlo is an authorized Epson partner, so the F170 arrives in Epson’s factory-sealed packaging with the full 1-year manufacturer warranty intact. The bundle includes the F170 printer, 140ml CMYK ink bottles, a maintenance tank, an automatic tumbler heat press, 10 sublimation tumblers, paper, heat-resistant tape, and a Creative Fabrica design pack.
The F170 itself uses Epson’s PrecisionCore microTFP printhead at 1200 x 600 dpi, with a 150-sheet auto-feed tray and wireless or USB connectivity. The automatic tumbler press takes the manual hand-rolling step out of the tumbler workflow – you load the tumbler, close the press, and the machine rotates it for even pressure. For small businesses printing dozens of tumblers per day, that automation pays off quickly.
Honest note: only 2 verified reviews averaging 3 stars are on record for this specific bundle. The reviews that exist are positive, but the small base means experiences could vary. The bundle’s structural design – authorized dealer, manufacturer warranty, automatic press – is compelling even with limited public feedback. We recommend this kit for buyers who value authorized-dealer protection above review-count depth.
For whom it’s good
Pick this bundle if buying from an authorized Epson dealer matters for your warranty coverage. It is also the right kit for tumbler-focused small businesses that want an automatic press instead of a manual rotating tumbler attachment. The 140ml ink bottles last longer than smaller refill sets.
For whom it’s bad
Skip this bundle if you need flat heat pressing for shirts – the included press is tumbler-specific. Buyers who want the absolute lowest price will find better deals on third-party Epson F170 bundles. Also, the small review base means less public feedback to draw confidence from before buying.
8. Brother SP-1 7-in-1 Pink Tumbler Bundle – Best Pink Press Variant
Brother SP-1 Dye-Sublimation Printer Bundle with 7-in-1 Pink Tumbler, Mug & Cup Press, Full Ink Set, 160 Sublimation Transfer Sheets, Sublimation Blanks, Tape and More
Brother SP-1,600 x 600 dpi,Pink 7-in-1 press attachments
Pros
- Comprehensive 7-in-1 pink heat press with tumbler cup mug attachments
- Full CMYK ink set plus 160 sheets paper
- Includes blanks and heat-resistant tape
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
Cons
- Mixed customer feedback with notable share of low ratings
The Brother SP-1 7-in-1 Pink Tumbler Bundle mirrors the turquoise variant but ships with a pink 7-in-1 heat press for crafters who want a specific color match in their studio or shop. The kit includes the same seven attachments (20/30oz combo, 1.5oz shot glass, 12oz conical, 17oz conical, 6oz straight, 11oz straight, and 15oz straight), full CMYK ink, 160 sheets of paper, blanks, and heat-resistant tape.
Print performance is identical to the turquoise variant – 600 x 600 dpi at up to 10 color pages per minute, with the same Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity. The Brother SP-1 printer handles mugs, tumblers, coasters, and light polyester substrates well. Buyers get the same 1/5/25 Brother warranty and Artspira app access as the other SP-1 bundles.
Real talk on the reviews: the 3 verified reviews average 3.4 stars, with a notable share of low ratings in the spread. Buyers should compare carefully with the basic SP-1 Starter Bundle (4.6 stars across 29 reviews) if they do not specifically need the pink heat press. The color is the main differentiator – if pink matters for branding or studio aesthetics, this bundle delivers; otherwise the higher-rated turquoise or basic SP-1 bundles offer better value.
For whom it’s good
Pick this bundle if you specifically want a pink 7-in-1 press for studio aesthetics, branding, or as a gift. Craft fair vendors with a pink-themed booth will appreciate the visual cohesion. The included blanks and paper make it a true starter kit.
For whom it’s bad
Skip this bundle if the pink color does not matter – the turquoise variant and the basic SP-1 Starter Bundle have stronger review profiles. Buyers who only print 20oz tumblers do not need all 7 attachments and can save with a single-press kit. The lower average rating versus the basic SP-1 suggests occasional quality control variance.
9. Generic Sublimation Printer Complete Kit – Lowest-Cost Entry Point
Sublimation Printer Bundle Complete Kit with Sublimation Ink and Paper for Heat Transfers on Shirts Mugs T-Shirts and More
Dye-sub printer,Premium ink,High-absorption paper
Pros
- Includes printer ink and paper in one bundle
- Premium sublimation ink for true-to-life colors
- High-absorption paper for crisp smudge-resistant transfers
- Easy setup with Windows and Mac compatibility
Cons
- Short 30-day warranty coverage
- Very small review sample of 3 ratings
The Generic Sublimation Printer Complete Kit is the lowest-cost entry point on this list. It bundles a dye-sublimation printer with premium sublimation ink and high-absorption sublimation paper in one box. For crafters who want to test sublimation printing without a major investment, this kit lets you print your first transfers on day one.
The printer runs at 1440 x 720 maximum resolution with 24-bit color depth. USB connectivity keeps the setup simple – no Wi-Fi configuration or driver headaches. The included paper is formulated to hold ink evenly, so transfers come out crisp without smudging. Windows and Mac systems are both supported out of the box.
Honest caveats: the 30-day warranty is the shortest on this list, and only 3 verified reviews are on record. The small review base means long-term reliability is hard to judge from public feedback. Buyers who want long-term warranty coverage and a proven printer should consider the Epson F170 or Brother SP-1 bundles instead.
For whom it’s good
Pick this bundle if you want to test sublimation printing at the lowest possible price. Casual hobbyists and gift-makers who only print a few items per month will find the kit sufficient. It is also a reasonable choice as a secondary backup printer in a busy studio.
For whom it’s bad
Skip this bundle if you plan to print daily for a business – the 30-day warranty and small review base do not inspire confidence for heavy commercial use. Buyers who need Wi-Fi connectivity will be limited by the USB-only design. Also, this kit does not include a heat press, so factor that into the total setup cost.
How to Choose the Right Sublimation Printer and Heat Press Bundle
Picking the best sublimation printer and heat press bundle comes down to four questions: what will you print, how much will you print, what is your real budget including ink and paper, and how much room do you have. Our team breaks down each factor below so you can match a bundle to your real workflow instead of buying what looks cheapest.
Heat press types explained
The heat press is the second half of every bundle and the part most beginners underestimate. A flat press is the most versatile starting point – it handles shirts, fabric panels, coasters, and most flat blanks. A clamshell press opens upward like a clamshell and is faster for high-volume shirt work, but pressure distribution is less even than a swing-away. A swing-away press swings the top platen to the side, giving full access to the lower platen for thicker items like puzzles or thick fabric panels.
For curved items, you need a dedicated mug press, tumbler press, or 8-in-1 combination press with interchangeable attachments. The Brother SP-1 7-in-1 bundles above include seven tumbler and mug attachments – 20oz, 30oz, 17oz, 12oz, 11oz, 6oz straight, and 1.5oz shot glass – which covers every common drinkware size. A Cricut EasyPress works for small flat items but cannot wrap tumblers or apply consistent pressure on thicker blanks.
Pricing tiers: beginner, hobbyist, commercial
Beginner bundles in the $300-$600 range (like the Generic Complete Kit or Epson F170 World-Paper Starter) include the basics: a printer, ink, paper, and either a mini iron or a small press. They are perfect for learning the craft without committing to a large press. Hobbyist bundles in the $500-$1,000 range (like the Brother SP-1 Starter or MakerFlo F170 Tumbler) add quality heat presses, more blanks, and better warranty support. Commercial bundles above $1,000 typically include wide-format printers like the Epson F570 Pro and larger presses.
Budget realistically. Forum users on r/Sublimation consistently warn beginners that a real starter setup – including paper, ink refills, and blanks – typically runs $500-$1,500 in the first year. The bundle price is just the entry ticket. Plan for ongoing consumables.
What’s actually in a typical bundle
A complete bundle should include the printer, a heat press or press attachment, sublimation ink (CMYK bottles or cartridges), transfer paper, heat-resistant tape, and often starter blanks. Some bundles add design software downloads, blank sets, or commercial-use design files. The Epson F170 World-Paper Starter Bundle and Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle are the most complete kits in our list – both ship with everything you need to print on day one.
Bundles that only include the printer and ink (like the Epson SureColor F170 by The Supplierhub) require you to source a heat press and paper separately. That tradeoff often makes sense for serious buyers who want a specific press (like a Hotronix or HPN swing-away) that no bundle includes anyway.
Total cost of ownership: ink and paper over 12 months
The bundle price is just the start. Real cost-of-ownership comes from ink and paper refills. Epson F170 ink bottles run about $50-$70 per CMYK refill set and yield roughly 4,000-6,000 prints depending on coverage. Sawgrass SubliJet-UHD cartridges cost more per milliliter but are designed specifically for Sawgrass printers. Brother SP-1 ink runs about $40-$60 per refill set.
Sublimation paper runs about $0.10-$0.20 per 8.5×11 sheet in bulk. A typical hobby user printing 50 sheets per month spends roughly $100-$150 per year on paper. Commercial users printing 500+ sheets per month can easily spend $1,000+ per year on consumables. Bundle savings of 10-20% versus separate purchases are real, but consumables are the long-term cost driver.
Purpose-built vs converted printers
Purpose-built dye-sub printers (Epson SureColor F170, F570 Pro, Sawgrass SG500, SG1000, Brother SP-1) ship from the factory with sublimation ink and firmware. They keep manufacturer warranties intact, deliver consistent color profiles, and avoid the printhead-clogging risks of conversion. Converted EcoTank printers (Epson ET-2800, ET-15000) cost less upfront but require third-party ink filling, often void the warranty, and need careful maintenance to avoid clogging. Our team recommends purpose-built units for most buyers, especially anyone running a business.
Epson vs Sawgrass vs Brother at a glance
Epson SureColor printers (F170, F570) deliver the highest print quality in the group with genuine Epson dye-sub ink and PrecisionCore printheads. Sawgrass SG500 and SG1000 printers use SubliJet-UHD ink, which is more expensive but produces excellent color and includes Sawgrass’s color management software. Brother SP-1 printers are the most beginner-friendly with the simplest setup, the most complete starter bundles, and the lowest entry price of the three major brands.
For pure print quality, Epson and Sawgrass lead. For turnkey beginner experience, Brother leads. For commercial wide-format work, the Epson F570 Pro is the standout. Match the brand to your actual workflow rather than chasing the highest spec sheet.
Common mistakes to avoid
First, do not buy a bundle with a heat press that is too small for your planned projects – beginners often buy a 9×12 press and need a 15×15 within months. Second, do not skip transfer paper and ink refills in your budget – they are the ongoing cost that catches newbies off guard. Third, do not ignore warranty coverage – third-party sellers can be slower to honor claims than authorized dealers like MakerFlo or HeatPressNation.
Fourth, do not buy a converted EcoTank printer if you plan to run a business – the print quality and warranty tradeoffs are not worth the upfront savings for commercial use. Fifth, always test your heat press temperature with a thermometer strip before pressing real blanks – bundles often ship with factory calibrations that drift by 10-20Β°F. If you are also shopping for cutting tools to pair with your new bundle, our 12 Best Cricut Accessories Bundles guide covers the matching accessories that finish a complete craft workstation.
Bundles also pair well with other hobby setups – if you want to round out your home craft room with a fun group activity for craft nights, see our picks for the 15 Best Backyard Game Bundles to entertain guests while transfers press. For crafters planning to launch a custom gift business around the holidays, our 13 Best Chess Gift Bundles guide breaks down another high-margin personalization niche using similar heat-press techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which heat press is best for sublimation?
The best heat press for sublimation depends on what you print. For shirts and flat blanks, a 15×15 swing-away press gives even pressure and full platen access. For mugs and tumblers, a dedicated mug or tumbler press (or an 8-in-1 combination press like the DAVACE kit) handles curved surfaces. For high-volume t-shirt work, a clamshell press is faster. Auto-opening presses add consistency but cost more. The HTVRONT auto heat press and PowerPress swing-away are solid standalone options, but bundles like the Brother SP-1 7-in-1 include 7 attachments in one kit.
What is the best sublimation printer and heat press bundle?
Our top pick is the Epson SureColor F170 Bundle by The Supplierhub for printer quality (EDITOR’S CHOICE), the Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle for best turnkey value, and the DAVACE 8-in-1 Sublimation Starter Kit for the most complete shop-in-a-box experience. The best bundle for you depends on your use case: beginners should pick the Brother SP-1 Starter or Epson F170 World-Paper Starter, small businesses should pick the DAVACE 8-in-1 or MakerFlo F170 Tumbler Bundle, and tumbler specialists should pick the Brother SP-1 7-in-1 bundles.
What are the available sublimation printer and heat press bundles?
Common bundle configurations include: (1) Printer-only bundles like the Epson SureColor F170 by The Supplierhub, which require you to add a heat press and paper separately; (2) Printer + mini iron starter bundles like the Epson F170 World-Paper Starter, ideal for first-timers; (3) Printer + flat heat press bundles like the Brother SP-1 Starter for shirt and fabric work; (4) Printer + 8-in-1 multi-attachment bundles like the DAVACE kits for full shop versatility; (5) Printer + automatic tumbler press bundles like the MakerFlo F170 Tumbler for drinkware specialists.
Which printer is best for sublimation and heat transfer?
For dye-sublimation heat transfer printing, the top dedicated printers are the Epson SureColor F170 (5760 x 1440 optimized dpi, 150-sheet tray), Epson SureColor F570 Pro (24-inch wide format), Sawgrass SG500 (8.5×14 desktop), and Sawgrass SG1000 (13×19 wide format). For hobby and small business use, the Brother SP-1 is the most beginner-friendly. Purpose-built printers deliver better color and warranty coverage than converted EcoTank printers, which cost less but require third-party ink and void most warranties.
What is the best heat press for sublimation for beginners?
For beginners, the best heat press is one that comes in a complete bundle so you do not have to research compatibility separately. The Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle includes a quality press with full ink and paper. The Epson F170 World-Paper Starter ships with a mini iron for first projects, with room to upgrade to a full press. The DAVACE 8-in-1 kit includes a 15×15 press plus 8 attachments so beginners can experiment across mugs, tumblers, hats, plates, and shirts from day one. Avoid Cricut EasyPress for serious sublimation – it works for small flat items but cannot match a real platen press on shirts.
Which is better for sublimation, Epson or Sawgrass?
Epson and Sawgrass both produce excellent dye-sublimation printers, but they target slightly different users. Epson SureColor F170 and F570 Pro use genuine Epson dye-sub ink with PrecisionCore printheads, delivering the highest print quality and the most economical ink cost. Sawgrass SG500 and SG1000 printers use SubliJet-UHD ink, which is more expensive per milliliter but includes Sawgrass’s color management software for easier profile matching. Epson is the better value for most hobby and small business users. Sawgrass is preferred by print shops that want vendor-managed color profiles and dedicated Sawgrass support.
Which heat press is the best in 2026?
In 2026, the best heat presses for sublimation are the HTVRONT auto heat press (auto-opening, consistent pressure), PowerPress industrial swing-away (heavy-duty, even pressure for shirts), Hotronix Fusion (commercial-grade, IQ controller), and the 8-in-1 combination presses like the DAVACE kit that ships in a complete bundle. For tumblers specifically, the MakerFlo automatic tumbler press and Brother SP-1 7-in-1 attachments handle every common drinkware size. The right choice depends on your primary product – shirts call for a flat 15×15 press, drinkware calls for a dedicated tumbler or 7-in-1 setup, and mixed product shops benefit from an 8-in-1.
Final Verdict on the Best Sublimation Printer and Heat Press Bundles
After testing nine bundles across hundreds of verified reviews, our team keeps coming back to three core recommendations for the best sublimation printer and heat press bundles. The Epson SureColor F170 Bundle by The Supplierhub earns our EDITOR’S CHOICE badge for its combination of proven Epson print quality, 248 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, and the lowest long-term ink cost. For beginners who want a turnkey experience, the Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle is the cleanest entry point with a 4.6-star rating and a complete day-one kit. For crafters who want a true shop-in-a-box, the DAVACE 8-in-1 Sublimation Starter Kit covers shirts, mugs, tumblers, hats, and plates in one bundle.
Match the bundle to your real workflow, not the price tag. Shirt and fabric specialists should pick the Brother SP-1 Starter or Epson F170 World-Paper Starter. Tumbler and drinkware specialists should pick the Brother SP-1 7-in-1 bundles or the MakerFlo F170 Tumbler Bundle. Small business owners who want every blank type covered should pick the DAVACE 8-in-1. Budget testers can start with the Generic Sublimation Complete Kit, but plan to upgrade once you outgrow the 30-day warranty.
Whichever bundle you choose, build your first-year budget to include $100-$300 of consumables beyond the bundle price. That ongoing investment in ink and paper is what separates a starter kit from a real working setup. Print a few test designs, calibrate your heat press temperature with thermometer strips, and start small. The bundles on this list all have the hardware to take you from first transfer to full Etsy shop – the rest is practice and product photography.








