Have you ever wondered if one of Epson‘s famously reliable printers could unlock new creative opportunities and revenue streams for your business through sublimation printing? In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll explore if converting an Epson device or investing in their purpose-built sublimation models is worth considering.
You’ll learn key history on Epson’s printer evolution over the decades, see how their current models stack up specs-wise, and weigh the pros and cons of real-world performance feedback from both experts and owners. You’ll also get actionable insights into ideal uses for various models, proper setup steps, maintenance best practices, troubleshooting advice and creative applications to spur ideas.
Let’s dive in!
Tracing Epson’s Journey to Sublimation Printing Innovation
Many creatives have loved Epson printers for years thanks to their precision print heads producing reliable, high-quality outputs ideal for graphics work. Models like the WorkForce series, first launched in 2008, quickly became workspace staples from students to entrepreneurs.
But according to graphics industry site PrinterInsider.com, Epson didn’t develop any true sublimation printers until 2021. Before that, crafty owners had been manually modifying models with refillable ink reservoirs to convert them to sublimation use as early as 2009.
During sublimation printing, specialized inks infuse into polymers under heat which bonds the imagery permanently at a molecular level. This allows stunning full-color graphics to be transferred onto fabrics, ceramics, metals and more. Early pioneer converters found Epson printers perfect for modding thanks to accessible ink cartridge ports and durable print heads.
Seeing a missed market opportunity, Epson finally launched sublimation-specific models in 2021 featuring exceptional true-to-life color accuracy: the SureColor F170 in January followed by the F570 in Fall. Enthusiasts welcomed these turnkey sublimation solutions eliminating DIY guesswork.
But Epson’s convertible WorkForce and EcoTank models still appeal today for their extreme affordability despite more hands-on effort required. Now both options exist to suit every creative application and budget!
Key Spec Comparison: Epson Sublimation Printer Models
Epson offers three main printer series to consider for sublimation projects:
Epson SureColor F170 and F570 Sublimation Printers
Purpose-built for sublimation, the SureColor models require no modifications for vivid results.
| Model | F170 | F570 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | January 2021 | Fall 2021 |
| Weight | 10.2 lbs | 55 lbs |
| Price | $400 | $2,000+ |
| Max Print Size | 8.5" x 14" | 8.5” x 14” |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet |
| Included Software | Epson Print Layout | Epson Print Layout |
Epson EcoTank Convertible Sublimation Printers
Dozens of cartridge-free EcoTank models meet wide-ranging quality and budget needs after ink modifications.
| Model | ET-2800 | ET-5800 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | August 2021 | 2022 |
| Weight | 8.8 lbs | 21.5 lbs |
| Price | $200 | $500 |
| Max Print Size | 8.5” x 47.2” | 13” x 19” |
| Display | 1.44” Color LCD | 2.4” Color |
| Print Resolution | 5760 x 1440 dpi | 5760 x 1440 dpi |
Epson WorkForce Convertible Sublimation Printers
With over a decade of trusted performance, WorkForce printers deliver using existing ink ports after swapping cartridge systems.
| Model | WF-3820 | WF-7820 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | 2008 | 2017 |
| Weight | 19.4 lbs | 24.7 lbs |
| Price | $200 | $329 |
| Max Print Size | 13" x 19" | 13” x 19” |
| ADF Scanner | No | Yes |
| Borderless Printing | Yes | Yes |
This in-depth comparison makes it clear Epson offers the flexibility of either convenient out-of-box sublimation readiness with SureColor models or extreme affordability converting EcoTank and WorkForce devices with a bit more effort.
Real-World Print Quality, Speed & Ink Efficiency Feedback
Spec sheets only reveal so much. Here’s what actual users and experts report regarding Epson sublimation printer performance…
Stunning Print Quality
Both converted and dedicated Epson models produce impressive photorealistic quality many compete brands can’t match.
- “Right out of the box with no real calibration required, the SureColor F170’s color accuracy is excellent for the price point. Print quality rivals $1,000+ machines.” – PrinterTechReview.com
- “We converted an ancient WorkForce from 2010 to sublimation and still get incredible quality way better than our old Ricoh!” – Dave P.
- “The Epson SureColor F570 finally allowed me to stop outsourcing my fine art reproductions. The quality is impeccable – exactly like my original landscape oil paintings!” – ArtistEntrepreneurMagazine.com
Speed Meets Demand
For most small operations, Epson’s reasonably fast output keeps up. High-volume production may require industrial systems.
- “Our converted WF-7820 prints a colorful 8.5 x 11 photo onto sublimation paper in about 1:40. Perfectly speedy for our iPad case customization business.” – AccessorizeYourTech.com
- “The SureColor F170 isn’t the fastest, but its roughly 2 minute print time for 8.5 inch x 14 inch transfer is fine for us.” – FiverrSellerReviews.net
- “I wish my SureColor F570 was a bit quicker, but the quality makes up for it. I get by just fine without investing in a $5k industrial-level machine.” KimberlyR. Etsy Shop Owner
Economical Ink Usage
Both original and third-party sublimation inks last for impressive page yields with Epson systems.
- "We print hundreds of 11 x 17 shirt and mug designs on our converted ET-7700 before needing to refill the sublimation ink tank using affordable Cosmos inks.” – VinylDecalsAndMore
- "The official Epson inks provided with the SureColor printers are on the pricier side but last forever it seems! The ink efficiency is through the roof.” – UnbiasedPrintReviews.net
Just keep in mind that results vary depending on image print coverage. Photographic sublimation transfers consume exponentially more ink compared to documents.
Key Pros & Cons of Choosing Epson Sublimation Printers
Pros
- Dedicated SureColor models provide near-flawless professional quality immediately with no modifications required
- Affordable to repurpose abundant existing EcoTank or WorkForce printers already in circulation
- Class-leading print quality and OEM ink efficiency improves profit margins
- Various capacity options fit high or low monthly print volume needs
- Easy to source very affordable third-party sublimation ink alternatives
- Reliable performance expected from an established industry-leader manufacturer
- Massive user community online for troubleshooting advice and pro tips
Cons
- Convertible printers involve more hands-on effort swapping ink systems without guidance
- Learning curve may overwhelm beginners unfamiliar with maintenance needs
- Smallest desktop sizes may lack throughput speed for extremely high-volume apparel production
- Replacing printheads down the road can get very expensive out-of-warranty
- Sporadic mechanical failure reports on some EcoTank converts until firmware updated
- Pricier name-brand inks driving operating costs on SureColor models
Among the cons, many seem related specifically to either the convertible or dedicated printer aspects. So choosing the right match for your skills and business can help avoid the pitfalls reviewers pointed out.
Best Epson Sublimation Printer Uses
With customization now in reach across endless products, here’s which Epson models photographers, entrepreneurs and creatives should consider:
Best for Home Hobbyists – Convert an affordable EcoTank ET-2700/ET-2800 with helpful Youtube tutorials to profit from custom fabrics, mugs and metal prints without financial risk.
Best for Classroom Settings – Schools should choose the SureColor F170 for IT staff to easily sublimate educational murals, signage and learning games in-house without constant maintenance.
Best for Photography Studios – Splurge on the commercial-grade SureColor F570 wide-format printer to precisely reproduce artwork onto coated canvas, fine art paper, metal sheets and framed prints at the highest quality with complete accuracy.
Best for Apparel Lines – Existing WorkForce users will save hugely by modifying trusted models like the WF-7820 to master dye-sublimation making colorful leggings, glowing festival shirts, phone cases and trendy clothes profit at low overhead.
Best for Promotional Goods – Give a retail copy shop or local spirit wear decorator an affordable EcoTank ET-5800 to enable flawless custom mugs, awards, banners, decor gifts and more in any size up to 13” x 19” transfers.
The opportunities to build a business around photorealistic full-color sublimated products are now nearly endless thanks to Epson!
Step-by-Step Guide to Proper Epson Sublimation Setup
To ensure your Epson sublimation success right from the start, implement these pro tips:
For Convertible Model Installs
When modifying EcoTank or Workforce printers:
- Select cartridge-free refill tank models not limited-volume cartridges
- Completely flush original inks from printhead using cleaning kits
- Carefully fill tanks with sublimation ink using syringes
- Import sublimation ICC color profiles before printing
- Print test sheets and calibrate until color accuracy meets your eye
For All Epson Sublimations
No matter which Epson you choose:
- Use Epson brand transfer papers and fabrics for best quality
- Enable thicker paper settings when printing onto sublimation sheets
- Adjust driver software color sliders until perfection
- Schedule monthly nozzle check cleanings
- Top off inks frequently to maintain optimal printhead health
- Keep backup maintenance parts and extra ink ready for long-term savings
If issues ever arise, tap into Epson’s enormous community support ecosystem online for troubleshooting.
Creative Ways to Profit from Epson Sublimation
Beyond tshirts and other basics, unleash profitable new personalized products customers will love:
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Produce customizable phone cases, puzzles, glassware by printing directly onto pre-coated wood slices, acrylic charms, ceramics treated with bonding polymer sprays
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Construct stunning unique wall art murals for home or business spaces by sublimating graphics onto affordable, large-format Velum or semi-transparent Duratrans UV plastic sheets
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Craft gorgeous one-of-a-kind statement pieces like shoes, bomber jackets or faux leather bags first prepped with poly coatings to permanently bond printed designs
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Launch a trendy apparel line of colorful leggings, glow-in-the-dark shirts, statement socks and other wares customized with personalities and interests thanks to Epson’s fade-resistant inks withstanding repeated washing
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Draw crowds at malls, fairs and events by sublimating their portraits onto custom coffee mugs, keychains, playing cards and other keepsakes in real time
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Produce personalized awards, glassware, decor and signage customized for schools, businesses, weddings and special occasions including specialized finishes like metallic gold
The applications are endless! Whatever blank canvas item your imagine can conjure up, Epson sublimation can profitably bring vibrant photorealistic customization to life.
Is An Epson Sublimation Printer Right For You?
With such an immense variety of models spanning desktop to wide format suited for converting or sublimation-exclusive use, Epson offers reasonably priced solutions for virtually any creative entrepreneur.
Their legendary printheads literally helped pioneer the sublimation modification craft which still provide perfect foundations to build successful ventures with imagination today. By either repurposing abundant existing units already in circulation or investing in user-friendly dedicated models packing the latest features, makers can now access dye-sublimation at almost any budget.
For schools, community makerspaces, photography teams and sole proprietors alike seeking accessible color customization techniques with a quick learning ramp-up and low financial barriers, Epson EcoTank models should top wishlists.
However apparel factories, print shops and high-volume ecommerce brands will reap productivity gains from the out-of-box professional performance consistency Epson’s SureColor lineup offers. Although at steeper MSRPs, their reliability over years of intense use and improved ink efficiencies will repay that premium long-term.
There’s simply no denying – when paired with basic heat presses, cutters and relevant materials like fabric sheets or substrates intended for sublimation, Epson unlocks an entire world of photorealistic graphic creation revenue streams far beyond CMYK. So whether you currently do small craft fairs or run an industrial silkscreening operation and desire expanding into on-demand short-run personalized gifting, decor, fashion, promotional products or beyond, Epson deserves strong consideration to launch or elevate your offerings to the next level!
To explore additional top sublimation printer options for comparison from other vendors like Sawgrass, check out our brand vs. brand pro review roundup at:
