Best UK Deals on Sublimation Printers: 2025 Guide

Whether you're starting a custom t-shirt business, printing on mugs, or looking to expand your creative side hustle, a sublimation printer is one of the smartest investments you can make. But with so many options on the market, how do you find the right one—without overpaying or ending up with something that doesn't quite do the job?

This guide cuts through the noise and highlights the best deals on sublimation printers in the UK right now. We’ve also included what to look for when shopping and how to get started with sublimation printing.

What Is a Sublimation Printer?

A sublimation printer uses a special heat-based process to transfer dye onto materials like fabric, ceramic, or metal. Instead of applying ink on top of a surface (like standard printers), sublimation ink becomes a gas when heated and embeds directly into the material. This produces high-quality, fade-resistant prints that are ideal for everything from t-shirts to phone cases.

You’ll need two main components: a compatible printer and sublimation ink. While some printers are designed specifically for this process, others can be converted—usually at a lower cost.

Best Sublimation Printer Deals in the UK (2025)

Here are the top options for anyone looking to get into sublimation printing in the UK, from budget-friendly setups to professional-grade equipment.

Epson EcoTank ET-2850 (Converted)

• Price: £230–£280

• Best for: Beginners and casual users

The EcoTank ET-2850 is one of the most popular choices among DIY creators and small Etsy sellers. It’s not a sublimation printer by default, but it's widely available as a converted model in the UK—often bundled with sublimation ink and paper. The refillable tank system makes it affordable in the long run, and print quality is solid for most beginner-to-intermediate projects.

Look for deals on Amazon, eBay, or from UK suppliers who specialize in converted printers. Just make sure it hasn’t been used with regular ink, as this can affect future print quality.

Sawgrass SG500

• Price: £480–£550

• Best for: Small businesses and pros

The SG500 is a dedicated sublimation printer built specifically for high-quality results. It's user-friendly, fast, and comes with Sawgrass CreativeStudio software for designing products. It also supports a wide range of blanks, including fabrics, ceramics, and coated metals.

UK retailers like Xpres or Sublimation Supplies often offer bundle deals that include ink cartridges, paper, and blank items to get started. While it's a more expensive option, the ease of use and reliability make it a top pick for professionals.

Epson SureColor SC-F100

• Price: £420–£480

• Best for: Entry-level professionals

The SC-F100 is Epson’s first true sublimation ink printer designed for desktop use. It prints up to A4 size and is ideal for mugs, t-shirts, and smaller items. It uses Epson’s own sublimation ink system, so there's no need to convert anything. It’s more expensive than a converted EcoTank but offers higher consistency and support.

It’s often available through official Epson partners or specialist suppliers in the UK. Some even offer interest-free financing or discounts for business accounts.

HP Smart Tank Plus 555 (Converted)

• Price: £200–£250

• Best for: Crafters and hobbyists

This isn’t a sublimation printer out of the box, but many users convert it successfully using third-party sublimation ink. The Smart Tank series has refillable ink tanks like Epson’s EcoTank, which makes it cost-effective. It’s a great choice if you're on a budget and just want to experiment with sublimation before scaling up.

To convert it, you’ll need to buy sublimation ink separately—usually around £40 for a full set. Make sure to avoid mixing ink types and only use new, unused printers.

Where to Find the Best Deals in the UK

Here are a few trusted places to find sublimation printers in the UK:

• Amazon UK – Offers quick shipping and frequent discounts

• eBay – Good for secondhand or converted printers

• Xpres – An industry leader in printing supplies, based in the UK

• Nova Chrome UK – Great bundles with blanks and accessories

• Subliblanks.co.uk – Stock includes printers, ink, and everything in between

Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions or bundle deals that include ink, heat-resistant tape, paper, or blank products.

What to Look For When Buying

If you're new to sublimation printing, don’t just go for the cheapest option. Here’s what matters:

• Ink compatibility – Not all printers can be used with sublimation ink.

• Refill system – Tank systems are easier and cheaper to refill than cartridges.

• Print size – A4 is standard, but A3 is better if you want to do full-shirt prints.

• Warranty – Converting a printer may void the manufacturer’s warranty.

• Software – Some printers come with design software, which is helpful for beginners.

Quick Tips for Getting Started

• Always use blanks made for sublimation printing.

• Print in reverse (mirror image) before transferring.

• Use a heat press, not an iron, for best results.

• Test your colors—what you see on screen doesn’t always match what prints.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right sublimation printer in the UK depends on your goals. If you’re just starting out, a converted Epson EcoTank or HP Smart Tank is a budget-friendly way in. But if you’re planning to sell products or want pro-level prints, the Sawgrass SG500 or Epson SC-F100 are well worth the investment.

No matter your budget, there’s a sublimation ink printer that fits. Shop smart, compare bundle deals, and make sure to get quality blanks to pair with your setup. Once you’re up and running, the possibilities are endless—from personalised gifts to print-on-demand products.