Mastering The Art Of Grabbing The Best 11×17 Sublimation Printer In 2023

Are you intrigued about the world of sublimation printing? Well, you have come to the right place! We’re going to go deep into this fascinating domain of brilliant hues and long-lasting impressions, all due to an industry game-changer – the 11×17 sublimation printer. 

This is not just a machine; it is a wonder tool, a portal to limitless creation. This beauty is causing a stir among DIY makers as well as professional organizations. But what makes it so unique, you ask? Hold on tight, because we’re going to discover the magic of sublimation printing and the marvels of the 11×17 sublimation printer. Let’s get this show started, shall we?

The 11×17 Sublimation Printer

Alright, let’s talk about the star of the show, the 11×17 sublimation printer. Imagine having a tool that could take your ideas and designs, and bring them to life with vibrant, lasting colors. That’s exactly what this printer does.

You see, the 11×17 sublimation printer is not like your regular printer. it is a creative powerhouse. The reason it is called an 11×17 is because of the size of the prints it can produce – up to 11 inches by 17 inches, a generous canvas for your creativity.

Sublimation is a process where special inks are heated until they turn into a gas, which then bonds with the material, such as the 11×17 sublimation paper, to produce prints that are not just stunningly vibrant but also incredibly durable.

And let me tell you, when it comes to the best 11×17 sublimation printer, there’s quite a bit of debate. Some swear by Epson, some favor Brother, and then there are those who won’t hear a word against their beloved tabloid printers. But do not worry, we’re here to help you navigate through all that and find the perfect fit for you. 

Comparison Chart

Printer	Weight	Print Speed	Specialty	Price
Epson EcoTank ET-15000	24.3 lbs	17.5 ppm black, 9 ppm color	Cartridge-free printing	Check on Amazon
Epson Workforce WF-7720	40.8 lbs	18 ppm black, 10 ppm color	Wide-format printing up to 13″ x 19″	Check on Amazon
Sawgrass UHD Virtuoso SG-1000	37 lbs	240 prints per hour	Designed specifically for sublimation printing	Check on Amazon
Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820	43.9 lbs	25 ppm black, 12 ppm color	High-volume printing and duplex scanning	Check on Amazon
Epson ET-8550	19.8 lbs	16 ppm black, 12 ppm color	High-quality photo printing	Check on Amazon
Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000	18.7 lbs	9.2 ppm black, 9 ppm color	Borderless prints up to 13″ x 19″	Check on Amazon
HP OfficeJet Pro 7740	42.9 lbs	22 ppm black, 18 ppm color	Wide-format printing up to 11″ x 17″	Check on Amazon

Best 11×17 Sublimation Printer

Epson EcoTank ET-15000

Special Features

• Refillable Ink Tanks: Engineered for efficiency, this printer comes with large, refillable ink tanks, promising a cost-effective printing experience.
• High Print Yield: When it comes to productivity, this printer stands out with its ability to print up to 4,500 black and 7,500 color pages before needing a refill.
• Wide-Format Printing: Beyond quantity, this printer delivers on size as well, offering wide-format printing up to 13×19 inches.

Product Description

When it comes to 11×17 sublimation printing, the Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is in a league of its own. This printer’s biggest strength is its ability to handle a wide variety of paper sizes and types. Epson advises using only Epson Genuine Cartridges in the ET-15000 to maintain its longevity and optimal performance.

This printer features a rear feed that can accommodate 250 sheets of paper and can print on paper sizes up to 13″ x 19″. It prints on both sides of paper automatically and can handle media sizes up to 11″ x 17″ with no visible borders. Its low price and wireless connectivity make it ideal for use with a variety of mobile devices.

The Epson EcoTank ET-15000 is an economical, versatile printer that can be used for a wide range of projects.

Pros:

• Refillable ink tanks lead to fewer refills and less waste.
• High print yield of up to 4,500 black and 7,500 color pages.
• Wide-format printing up to 13×19 inches.
• Lower long-term printing costs due to EcoTank technology.
• Good connectivity options including Ethernet and Wi-Fi Direct.

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost than some other models.
• Print speed is not as fast as some competitive models.
• The initial setup can be a bit complex for some users.

Our Opinion

The Epson EcoTank ET-15000, a standout in the 11×17 sublimation printer realm, couples green practices with expansive printing up to 13×19 inches. Despite its higher upfront cost and slower print speeds, its cost-effective, waste-reducing refillable ink tanks make it an environmentally conscious and economically wise choice.

Special For

Special for its eco-friendly refillable ink tank system, offering cost-effective, high-volume printing.

Epson Workforce WF-7720

Special Features

• All-in-One Functionality: A testament to versatility, this model houses the functionalities of printing, scanning, copying, and faxing in one comprehensive unit.
• Dual Trays: With its dual trays, changing paper sizes becomes a thing of the past, allowing for a more streamlined printing process.
• Wireless Printing: Embracing modern technology, this printer offers the convenience of wireless printing from compatible devices.

Product Description:

The Epson WorkForce WF-7720 is an 11-by-17-inch multifunction printer that can also copy, scan, and fax. This device uses Genuine Epson inks and PrecisionCore technology to produce exceptional prints. 

It prints in a variety of sizes, including big format prints and architectural designs, and can even do borderless images up to 13″ x 19″. It can handle up to 500 sheets of paper at once thanks to its two paper trays and a rear feed for speciality media. 

This multifunctional device can do more than just print; it can also copy, scan, and fax, and it has an automatic document feeder that can hold up to 35 pages. The 4.3-inch color touchscreen is easy to use and provides excellent visibility. 

It’s also a wireless king, allowing you to print right from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Large scans are no problem for it either; the largest size it can scan is an 11″ x 17″. As a comprehensive printing solution, it improves efficiency beyond that of a simple printer.

Pros:

• All-in-one functionality: print, scan, copy, and fax.
• Supports wireless printing from smartphones and tablets.
• Dual trays for easy paper handling.
• Excellent print quality, especially for business graphics.
• Auto-duplexing capabilities.

Cons:

• High running costs over time due to lack of capacity for reducing ink consumption.
• The printer is relatively large, which may not suit small spaces.
• Some users have reported slow print speeds for color documents.

Our Opinion

The all-in-one functionality of the Epson Workforce WF-7720, encompassing print, scan, copy, and fax, adds immense value. The wireless printing capabilities make it an ideal 11×17 printer scanner for contemporary, tech-savvy users. The dual trays further enhance paper handling ease. However, its relatively large size may not suit small spaces such as choosing printer for small businesses, and the running costs may stack up over time.

Special For

Stands out with its versatile wide-format printing and scanning capabilities, perfect for diverse workloads.

Sawgrass UHD Virtuoso SG-1000

Special Features

• Sublimation Printing: Tailored for creative endeavors, this printer specializes in sublimation printing, perfect for crafting personalized items.
• Ultra HD Resolution: Quality is not compromised, thanks to its Ultra HD resolution that ensures vibrant and detailed prints.
• A3 Size Printing: Ready for bigger challenges, this printer supports prints up to A3 size, providing a wider canvas for your creative projects.

Product Description:

The groundbreaking Sawgrass UHD Virtuoso SG1000 is the first complete desktop solution created for the purpose of sublimation printing. This printer is flexible, supporting paper sizes between 3″ and 51″ through a bypass tray, and easily printing on media as large as 11″ x 17″. It works well for expanding companies.

Despite being an improved iteration of the SG800, it is fully compatible with all SG800 peripherals, protecting your initial investment. The printer also conducts automatic maintenance, so it may be used without any problem and will last for a long time.

One of the best things about this tool is how adaptable it is. It’s useful for embellishing many different polyester textiles and polymer-coated rigid media. Printing on nontraditional media including aluminum panels, hardboard, cups, and acrylic opens us a wealth of design options.

The SG1000 bundle includes more than just the printer. You will get access to the CreativeStudio Online Designer Software and receive a beginning ink set along with 100 sheets of excellent 11″ x 17″ sublimation paper. The firm also offers personalized training to get you up and running.

Pros:

• Specializes in sublimation printing for high-quality, personalized items.
• Ultra HD resolution ensures vibrant, detailed prints.
• Supports large format prints up to A3 size.
• Comes with design software for creating custom prints.
• Reliable and consistent performance.

Cons:

• High upfront cost.
• Limited to sublimation printing – not as versatile as other models.
• Requires specific sublimation ink cartridges, which can be expensive.

Our Opinion

In the world of sublimation printing, the Sawgrass UHD Virtuoso SG-1000 stands out. It has an advantage because of its Ultra HD resolution for vivid, detailed prints and A3 size handling. Yet it is a fairly specialist product, with limited applications. Some may be put off by the costly initial investment and the high expense of sublimation ink cartridges.

Special For

Specialized in producing high-definition sublimation prints, making it an excellent choice for custom merchandise creators.

Epson Workforce Pro WF- 7820

Special Features

• Fast Printing: When time is of the essence, this model shines, capable of printing at speeds of up to 25 pages per minute.
• Wireless and Mobile Printing: Designed with convenience in mind, it supports wireless and mobile printing.
• Eco-Friendly: it is not just about functionality; this model is also environmentally conscious, using up to 50% less power.

Product Description:

Enter the realm of high-speed, wide-format printing with the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820. Capable of printing up to 13″ x 19″, this machine harnesses PrecisionCore Heat-Free Technology for efficient prints at 25 black/12 color ISO ppm, delivering professional-quality results. Thanks to DURABrite Ultra instant-dry pigment inks, precision is never compromised.

The WF-7820 excels in managing heavy workloads, with its innovative heat-free technology reducing downtime and boosting reliability. As an all-rounder, this printer offers auto 2-sided print, copy, scan, and fax, complemented by a 50-sheet Automatic Document Feeder, handling your tasks with ease.

Enhanced efficiency is key with this model. It sports a generous 250-sheet paper capacity and a user-friendly 4.3″ color touchscreen, aiding in smooth operation. You’ll appreciate the Epson Smart Panel App, further improving connectivity and productivity from your mobile device.

Wireless setup is seamless with the WF-7820, thanks to compatibility with Bluetooth Low Energy and built-in Wi-Fi Direct. Its superior connectivity also includes Ethernet networking, while Epson ScanSmart supports easy scanning and editing. Note: Epson Genuine Cartridges are recommended for maintaining optimal print quality and longevity. The Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820 isn’t just a printer, but a comprehensive productivity tool.

Pros:

• Fast print speeds, especially for black-and-white documents.
• Eco-friendly design uses up to 50% less power compared to color lasers.
• High-capacity 500-sheet paper trays.
• Excellent connectivity options, including NFC.
• Versatile all-in-one capabilities with a small footprint.

Cons:

• Slightly higher-than-average cost per print.
• The printer is relatively bulky.
• Some users find the touchscreen interface less intuitive.

Our Opinion

Fast print speeds make the Epson Workforce Pro WF-7820 ideal for high-volume printing requirements, and its environmentally friendly design is in line with current sustainability trends. The addition of NFC connection enhances user experience. On the other hand, its bulkiness may not be to everyone’s taste and the cost per print can be more than typical.

Special For

Known for its high-speed wide-format printing and high-volume reliability, perfect for demanding work environments.

Epson ET-8550

Special Features

• Six-Color Claria ET Premium Inks: It uses six color Claria ET Premium inks for a wide color gamut and stunning photo prints.
• Variety of Media Handling: Capable of handling a variety of media, including cardstock, CDs/DVDs, and panoramic photos up to 47.2 inches, offering great versatility.
• EcoTank Technology: The EcoTank technology offers cartridge-free printing with easy-to-fill ink tanks, reducing waste and saving money.

Product Description:

Get ready for a cartridge-free, high-quality picture printing revolution with the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550. The Claria ET Premium 6-color inks and Epson’s high-precision printhead combine to provide very quick print times without sacrificing colour accuracy or text clarity. In only 15 seconds, this printer can generate a 4×6″ picture.

In addition to borderless images up to 13″ x 19″, paper, and CDs/DVDs, this 11×17 printer scanner can handle all of these and more. It’s great for a wide variety of artistic endeavors because of its automatic 2-sided printing features and support for specialty media up to 1.3 mm in thickness.

The ET-8550 is a great buy since it lets you print photos at home for next-to-nothing. Compared to standard ink cartridges, it allows you to print 4×6″ images for just roughly 4 cents apiece. You may save up to $2,000 each set thanks to its inexpensive replacement ink bottles.

The ET-8550 is a top candidate for the best 11×17 printer for architects and creatives since it comes with enough ink to print for up to two years. The high-yield ink bottles are an eco-friendly option since they eliminate cartridge waste. Each bundle of 100 replacement ink bottles is sufficient to refill about 100 cartridges.

The ET-8550 excels in its ability to connect to other devices. With the Epson Smart Panel app, users of iOS and Android smartphones can print, scan, and do much more. The 4.3-inch colour display and hands-free printing capabilities are just the icing on the cake.

Genuine Epson ink is your assurance of trouble-free printing and the highest possible print quality. The ET-8550’s unique EcoFit ink bottle design makes it simple to replace any of the individual ink cartridges. You may have faith in Epson’s product protection since it is backed by a 2-year limited guarantee upon registration. If you’re looking to make an investment in quality, savings, and sustainability, go no further than the Epson EcoTank Photo ET-8550.

Pros:

• Six-color Claria ET Premium inks for a wide color gamut.
• Supports various media types, including cardstock and panoramic photos.
• EcoTank technology for cartridge-free printing.
• Wide-format printing up to 13×19 inches.
• Reliable wireless and wired connectivity options.

Cons:

• High initial purchase price.
• Some users find the setup process challenging.
• Consumes more desk space due to wide-format capabilities.

Our Opinion

With its six-color Claria ET Premium inks and flexible media handling, the Epson ET-8550 stands out as one of the top 11×17 sublimation printers for individuals that need a variety of medium printing. An added benefit is EcoTank technology. Despite this, some people could be worried about its larger size and higher buying price owing to wide-format capabilities.

Special For

Stands out with its 6-color Claria ET Premium inks for lab-quality photos and creative projects.

Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000

Special Features

• High-Quality Photo Printing: Designed for photographers, it uses a 6-color Claria Photo HD ink set for superior photo printing.
• Wireless and Mobile Printing: This printer keeps up with the times, supporting both wireless and mobile printing.
• Compact Design: Despite its wide-format printing capability, it features a compact design, making it a perfect fit even in smaller workspaces.

Product Description:

Epson’s wide-format Expression Photo HD XP-15000 is capable of producing stunning prints with a broad color gamut and fine detail. Six-color Claria Photo HD ink is used, with red and gray added to expand the color range and improve the quality of black-and-white prints, respectively.

The XP-15000 sets a high bar in versatility by offering the ability to print borderless prints up to 13″ x 19″. This quality makes it a strong candidate as the best 11×17 printer for architects, photographers, and other professionals seeking superior image quality.

Epson’s design for the XP-15000 keeps user convenience at its core. This is reflected in features such as its 50-sheet rear tray, designed for handling specialty media, and its compact, space-efficient design which is 30% smaller than its predecessor.

Finally, the XP-15000 ensures its users enjoy a seamless printing experience by implementing innovative features like Dash Replenishment for timely ink reordering, as well as an ample 200-sheet front tray for increased productivity. With the Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000, high-quality, wide-format printing becomes a breeze.

Pros:

• Excellent photo print quality due to the six-color Claria Photo HD ink set.
• Supports wireless and mobile printing.
• Compact design suitable for smaller workspaces.
• Can handle a variety of specialty media.
• Front and rear paper-feeding options.

Cons:

• Higher-than-average ink costs.
• Not the fastest printer for document printing.
• The absence of an automatic document feeder (ADF).

Our Opinion

Photographers use the Epson Expression Picture HD XP-15000 because it has excellent picture print quality. Those with limited space will greatly appreciate its compact form. Nevertheless, some users may be disappointed by the high ink prices and the absence of an automated document feeder (ADF).

Special For

Known for its professional ultra HD photo quality and wide color gamut for enhanced black and white prints.

HP OfficeJet Pro 7740

Special Features

• All-in-One Functionality: This model combines printing, scanning, copying, and faxing into one efficient package.
• Automatic Document Feeder: It features a 35-page automatic document feeder for quick and easy scanning and copying.
• Wireless Printing and Touchscreen: Balancing functionality and ease of use, it supports wireless printing and includes a color touchscreen for intuitive operation.

Product Description:

The HP OfficeJet Pro 7740 is an all-in-one, wide-format printer that effortlessly juggles copying, scanning, faxing, and printing tasks up to 11×17 inches. As a versatile 11×17 printer scanner, it’s the perfect ally for professionals requiring high-grade documents and marketing materials.

The HP OfficeJet Pro 7740 offers more than just expansive print dimensions. It supports wireless printing and double-sided duplex printing, assuring professional-standard outputs. Its color touchscreen interface facilitates swift management of various tasks, including printing, scanning, copying, and faxing.

Complementing its capabilities, the printer leverages the HP Smart app. With this, users can set up the printer, scan from smartphones, order toner, and even print from cloud platforms like iCloud, Dropbox, and Google Drive, thus making printer accessibility a breeze.

While providing high performance, the printer also focuses on cost efficiency. It achieves print speeds of up to 22 pages per minute in black and lowers printing costs by up to 50% compared to color lasers. Accommodating high-volume printing needs, it comes equipped with two 250-sheet paper trays, totaling a 500-sheet input capacity.

The printer utilizes Original HP 952 & HP 952XL ink cartridges, contributing to the consistent quality of print outputs. However, it’s noteworthy that it works solely with cartridges featuring original HP chips or circuitry, thereby advocating for the use of genuine HP cartridges for optimal performance.

Furthermore, it provides a one-year limited hardware warranty along with 24/7 web support. In essence, the HP OfficeJet Pro 7740 emerges as an economical, yet powerful all-in-one solution for those seeking a wide-format printer that can handle a diverse range of tasks.

Pros:

• Efficient all-in-one functionality.
• Features a 35-page automatic document feeder.
• Supports wireless printing and includes a color touchscreen.
• Can print on media sizes up to 11×17 inches.
• Excellent print quality for both text and graphics.

Cons:

• Bulky design takes up a lot of space.
• Printing in high-quality mode can be slow. 
• Slightly higher running costs than some other comparable models.

Our Opinion

The HP OfficeJet Pro 7740 is an all-rounder, combining print, scan, copy, and fax into a single device. The addition of a 35-page automatic document feeder is a time-saver, especially for businesses. Despite its positives, the printer’s large size may not be ideal for small spaces, and slower print times in high-quality mode could be a setback.

Special For

Special for its high-quality wide-format printing, duplex printing and high-volume office printing capabilities.

Factors to Choose the Best Sublimation Printer 11×17

Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and dig into the nitty-gritty of choosing the best 11×17 sublimation printer. Just like any significant purchase, there’s a lot to consider, and it is all about finding the perfect balance that suits your needs.

Print Quality

When it comes to sublimation printers, you want vibrant, true-to-life colors. After all, the whole point of this process is to create prints that pop! So, take a close look at the output – does it make you say “wow”?

Speed

If you are running a business, time is money. A printer that delivers high-quality prints but takes forever to do so might not be the best fit for you.

Size of the Printer

An 11×17 printer is designed to handle larger prints, but it also needs more room. So, measure your available space before you decide.

Cost

Sure, you might find the best 11×17 sublimation printer, but does it fit your budget? Remember, cost is not just about the initial price tag; consider ink cartridges, maintenance, and even that 11×17 sublimation paper you will be using.

Brand Reputation 

Companies like Epson and Brother didn’t earn their stripes overnight. They’ve proven themselves in terms of reliability, durability, and customer service. So, if you are torn between an Epson sublimation printer 11×17 and a no-name brand, it might be worth considering the track record.

So, there you have it, friend. Picking out the best sublimation printer is not just about going for the shiniest model, it is about finding the one that fits you like a glove.

Setting Up Your 11×17 Sublimation Printer

Unboxing your new 11×17 sublimation printer is thrilling. Let’s prepare it for its first task:

Gently unpack your printer and position it in a spacious, well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight or heat.

Connect it to power. If provided, use the USB cable to connect to your computer. For wireless printers, ensure connection to the same network as your computer.

Fill it with the appropriate dye-sublimation ink, aligning the colors – cyan, magenta, yellow, and black – with the correct slots.

Load the special 11×17 sublimation paper, ensuring the printing side (usually glossier or marked) faces the correct direction.

Install the printer driver from the manufacturer’s website to ensure correct communication with your computer.

Initiate your first print. Remember, initial prints are for testing and adjusting settings to achieve perfection. Enjoy the process!

Operating Your 11×17 Sublimation Printer

To make the most of your new 11×17 sublimation printer, follow these steps:

• Power up your printer. This might involve a short initialization period.

• Create or select your design using a graphic design program. Save it in high-resolution for the best print quality.

• Prepare to print by opening your design file, clicking ‘File’, then ‘Print’. Confirm that your sublimation printer is selected and adjust print settings as needed.

• Ensure the material you intend to print on is compatible with sublimation printing.

• Load your 11×17 sublimation paper into the printer, correctly positioning the glossy side for printing.

• Click ‘Print’. The printer will produce a mirror image of your design.

• Set your heat press to the required temperature and time (per manufacturer’s instructions). Place your design face down on your material and close the heat press.

• Once the timer ends, carefully open the press, remove the paper, and admire your vibrant print!

Tips for Perfect Printing With Your 11×17 Sublimation Printer

• Always Use High-Quality Images: To get the best prints, make sure your designs are high resolution. Low-quality images can result in blurry or pixelated prints.

• Correct Paper Orientation: Ensure the sublimation paper is loaded correctly into the printer. The side to be printed on is usually slightly shinier or could have a watermark.

• Manage Color Profiles: Make use of color management profiles in your software for accurate color reproduction. This might require some tinkering and testing.

• Regular Maintenance: Keep your printer clean and carry out regular maintenance as per the manufacturer’s instructions. This extends the printer’s lifespan and ensures consistent print quality.

• Use Suitable Materials: Remember, sublimation works best with polyester or special sublimation blanks. Using unsuitable materials can lead to poor results.

• Pre-press Your Substrate: Pre-pressing your substrate removes moisture and wrinkles, providing a better surface for sublimation.

• Correct Heat Press Settings: Set the correct temperature and time on your heat press according to the type of material you are using. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

• Let it Cool: After pressing, allow your product to cool before handling to prevent smudging or distortion.

• Test and Tweak: Always do a test print before a big job. It helps you adjust settings and prevent wastage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Print 11×17 on the printer?

Yes, if your printer is designed to handle 11×17 paper, you can print this size. Ensure that your printer specifications mention the ability to print 11×17 before attempting to print this size.

How to Print 11×17 Paper?

To print 11×17 paper, make sure you have loaded the 11×17 paper correctly into your printer. Then, select ‘Print’ from the file menu in your application, choose your printer, and ensure the paper size is set to 11×17 in the print settings before hitting ‘Print.’

What Size Does Epson F170 Print?

The Epson SureColor F170 Dye-Sublimation Printer can handle media up to 8.5″ x 14″ (legal size). It does not support 11×17 printing.

Can a Canon Printer Print 11×17 Paper?

Yes, certain Canon printer models can print 11×17 paper. These are usually specified as wide-format or tabloid printers. Always check the printer specifications to ensure it can handle 11×17 paper.

Can I Print 11×17 on Epson Printer?

Yes, some Epson printers can print 11×17 paper. These are usually the wide-format models. Always check the specific printer model’s capabilities before attempting to print 11×17.

Conclusion

Well, folks, we’ve journeyed through the ins and outs of the 11×17 Sublimation Printer world, and I hope you have found this exploration as fascinating as I have. 

At the end of the day, your perfect printer depends on your specific needs, and with the range we’ve discussed, there’s bound to be a fit for everyone. Remember, it is all about understanding what you want from your printer, and then diving into this world of technological wonders. 

Happy printing, and here’s to finding the 11×17 sublimation printer that will be the best fit for your creative projects!