Sublimation printing allows users to transfer designs and graphics onto mugs, apparel, decor items and more using heat to infuse special inks into the material. The Epson SureColor F170 is a new sublimation printer that harnesses PrecisionCore technology for high quality prints. In this 2500+ word review, we’ll cover the key features, pricing, performance and recommendations for the F170 printer.
A Background on Sublimation Printing
Sublimation printing utilizes specialized inks that turn into a gas when heated, allowing the ink to infuse into polymeric coatings on items like mugs, apparel, phone cases and more. The process binds the ink directly to the material, resulting in permanent prints that won’t crack or fade.
Common uses for sublimation printing include:
- T-shirts, hats, shoes and apparel
- Phone cases and tech accessories
- Coffee mugs, water bottles, flasks
- Decor items like coasters, cutting boards, mirrors
- Signs, banners and trade show graphics
The sublimation process requires three core components – a sublimation-ready item with a polymer coating, specialty sublimation inks, and a commercial heat press or printer capable of reaching 400°F temperatures.
Epson has offered sublimation printers under their WorkForce, EcoTank and SureColor lineups over the years. The SureColor F170 marks their latest generation targeting home crafters and small businesses.
Key Features of the Epson SureColor F170
The SureColor F170 comes equipped with a series of advanced features to deliver professional-grade sublimation prints, including:
PrecisionCore MicroTFP Print Head
Epson’s proprietary PrecisionCore printhead allows for exceptional print resolution up to 1200 x 600 dpi using Micro Piezo technology.
Compact, Desktop Design
Despite its pro-level prints, the SureColor F170 maintains a compact 13.7” x 14.8” footprint – easily fitting onto desktops and workstations.
Intuitive 2.4” LCD Control Panel
The responsive control screen allows for precision adjustments, paper loading, print previews and more.
Low Power Consumption
Operating at just 13W and with sleep and standby modes using 0.7W or less, the F170 excels at efficiency.
Generous Max Paper Size
With support for media up to 8.5" x 47.2", the F170 readily handles common sublimation paper sizes.
Limited 1-Year Warranty
Epson provides a 1 year exchange warranty covering defects and performance issues.
Release Date and Pricing
Epson launched their desktop sublimation printer lineup in 2021, with the SureColor F170 debuting in January 2021. The MSRP pricing for the F170 comes to $399, covering the base printer unit exclusively.
Sublimation ink bottles must be purchased separately, ranging from $30 to $40 depending on color and volume. Some retailers offer the printer and starter ink bundles for a discounted package price.
For comparison, Epson‘s higher-end SureColor F570 runs over $2000 retail and delivers larger production volumes yet at a steeper price point.
Reviewing the Print Performance
Across Epson’s wide assortment of printers, their models have earned a reputation for delivering exceptional print quality and reliable performance. The brand new SureColor F170 gives hobbyists and small business owners access to that same professional-grade printing in a compact, desktop-friendly format.
In the past, Epson’s printers gained a notorious reputation for being complex to operate and maintain. The SureColor F170 marks a sizable step forward in usability. From initial set up to paper loading to ink swapping, the entire workflow has been streamlined for simplicity.
The F170 does trade off a bit of print speed to save on size and affordability when compared to pricier production models. However it still delivers projects faster than outsourcing to a print shop.
For home crafters and solopreneurs, the F170 presents an appealing blend of professional quality results, simplified functionality and approachable affordability.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Before committing to purchase the SureColor F170, let’s examine some of the key advantages and potential limitations shoppers should consider:
Pros
- Widely available at major electronics retailers
- Easy setup with guide paper and LCD menus
- Compatible with Windows and macOS devices
- Competitively priced under $400
- Remarkable 1200 x 600 dpi maximum prints
- Better sustainability with lower power needs
Cons
- Learning curve for first-time sublimation users
- Just a 1 year exchange warranty
- Replacement ink cartridges add up over time
- Slower than production-level printers
- Lacks built-in cutter/trimming features
For crafters already familiar with sublimation techniques or those with simpler product lines, the F170‘s pros should readily outweigh its limitations. For high production studios, the cons may steer you toward more heavy duty printer models.
Recommendations and Best Uses
With bright, saturated prints at up to 1200×600 DPI, the Epson Surecolor F170 Sublimation Printer delivers incredible prints for everything from apparel to merchandise and home goods. If you‘re a home crafter or solopreneur producing less than 50-100 prints weekly, the quality, simplicity and affordability combination of the F170 offers tremendous value.
Ideal Buyers: Home crafters, online boutiques, Etsy sellers, multi-product studios, artists and graphic designers
Great For: Signs, invitations, apparel lines, merchandise, decor items, prototyping designs
Not Recommended For: High production studios exceeding 100+ items weekly, commercial garment printers, photographic studios
For hobbyists and multi-product creators, the Epson SureColor F170 Sublimation Printer earns our hearty recommendation thanks to its versatile everyday printing at an easy to acquire price point.
