Choosing Your First Sublimation Printer: A Beginner’s Comparison

Starting your sublimation journey and stuck on which printer to choose? You’re not alone. Whether you’re launching a small t-shirt business from your garage or adding mugs and tote bags to your school’s fundraising efforts, picking the best sublimation printer for beginners is a crucial first step. In this guide, we compare three popular entry-level options — a Converted Epson, the Epson F100, and the Brother SP1 — to help you decide which one suits your needs and budget best.

We’ll cover what sublimation is, how these printers differ, and which one gives you the most bang for your Rand.

What Is Sublimation Printing — And Why Does Your Printer Matter?

Sublimation is a printing method that uses heat to transfer dye onto polyester-coated surfaces like mugs, t-shirts, keyrings, and more. It’s perfect for personalised gifts and branded merchandise. But to do sublimation, you need a compatible printer — and not all printers can be converted or used for sublimation out the box.

Some printers are DIY-convertible (like the Epson EcoTank series), while others are purpose-built for sublimation (like the Epson F100 and Brother SP1). The difference affects everything from print quality to maintenance and warranty.

Meet the Contenders: Converted vs. Purpose-Built Printers

Converted Printers: Budget-Friendly But DIY

A Converted Epson Printer is the darling of DIY crafters thanks to its affordability and decent print quality. Many South Africans convert them for sublimation by replacing the original inks with sublimation dye ink. However, this voids the warranty and may lead to clogged nozzles if not maintained properly.

Still, if you’re just testing the waters with mugs or keyrings and don’t want to break the bank, this is a great entry point. Check out the Converted Sublimation Starter Kit on our Sublimation Printer Starter Kit (Converted).

Epson F100: Professional Results, No Hassle

Built from the ground up for sublimation, the Epson F100 delivers vibrant, reliable results — every time. With factory-installed dye-sublimation inks and full Epson warranty support, it’s a plug-and-play solution for entrepreneurs and schools alike.

It’s a bit more expensive than a converted printer, but the print quality, speed, and peace of mind often justify the cost. See the official specs on Epson’s official F100 page or explore local pricing on our Epson SureColor F100 A4 Professional Sublimation Printer.

Brother SP1: The New Kid on the Block

The Brother SP1 is a relatively new contender but is quickly gaining popularity for its ease of use and consistent performance. It’s a direct competitor to the F100, offering similar results with a sleek design and intuitive interface.

Brother’s support team in South Africa is also growing, making this a solid alternative if you want a simple setup with great reliability. Learn more on the Brother’s official SP1 page or visit our Brother SP1 Desktop Sublimation Printer (Artspira Series) for local pricing.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing

Your Budget

If you’re just experimenting, a converted printer will save you hundreds of Rands. But if you’re serious about launching a side hustle or small business, the F100 or SP1 may offer better long-term value.

Print Volume

Printing daily? You’ll want a purpose-built sublimation printer to avoid downtime and clogs. Printing now and then? A converted printer might do the job — just keep it active.

Support & Warranty

Purpose-built models come with official support and warranties. DIY conversions are at your own risk. For peace of mind, the Epson F100 and Brother SP1 are safer bets.

So, Which Sublimation Printer Should You Start With?

Here’s our take:

• On a tight budget? Go for a Converted Epson — just know it’s DIY and comes with some trade-offs.
• Want reliability and professional results? The Epson F100 is a solid, worry-free investment.
• Prefer an intuitive, beginner-friendly setup? The Brother SP1 is a modern and user-focused option.

Still unsure? Browse our full range of sublimation printers on Sublimation Printers and speak to our team for personalized advice.

Final Thoughts

Choosing your first sublimation printer doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s about finding the right balance between budget, ease of use, and long-term value. Whether you’re crafting from home or building a brand, there’s an option that suits your goals.

Need help picking your perfect match? Visit our Sublimation Printers or chat to us — we’re here to help you print your vision into reality.